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Recap#1 from the Bookends signing from Bebereader. To be continued. Stay tuned tomorrow for a recap from archiesfan4life..
Hordes of fans waiting to have their copy of “Chords of Strength” signed by singer/songwriter turned author, David Archuleta were already gathered in a line that wrapped around the block outside of Bookends in Ridgewood, NJ when I arrived there on Tuesday. Even the short rain shower would not diminish the joy that was in the air. Although Bookends is known for their author signings, they had to be overwhelmed at the sight of roughly 1,500 archangels lining the quiet tree-lined streets outside their store.
May I repeat that this is not your typical fandom and on Tuesday at Bookends this again rung true. At the first sight of David in the room where he was signing books, there was a frenzy of fans, shouting a variety of things like “I can‘t see him, where is he?”, “There he is!”, “I love you, David”, “OMG It’s him!” and a variety of other incomprehensible screams and sounds. Some fans got together to sing “Crush” to him, while others broke down in tears at the mere sight of him.
The first time I met David was at a VIP last fall. I was so overwhelmed that I was unable to be in the moment because the moment was so surreal. This time was a lot different. I had a very positive experience and I have “Chords of Strength” in part, to thank.
When it was finally my turn at Bookends:
Me: Hi David, congratulations on your book! (offering my hand)
David: Oh Hiiii, thank you! (He took my hand and held it gently for a few seconds ***SPARKS*** His hand was so warm and soft and….large!)
Me: I help run a fansite for you with three other people. It’s called “The Voice” (I pointed to “The Voice” button on my collar). Actually, these books are for the others who run the site along with me. He looked at the button and said….
David: OH, I know that one!
Me: (Big smile) David, you are The Voice! A voice like your’s comes along once in a lifetime! Your fans love you with a passion!
David: (Giggles, signs books, looks slightly embarrassed) Ohhhh Thank you!
For some reason, the security guard chimed in out of nowhere:
Security guard: Yes they do, look at them! (pointing to the waiting crowd)
And then my husband offered:
Husband: David’s the best!
David quickly finished signing all of my books and stacked them up in a pile as my husband scooped them up while congratulating him and asking how his hand was holding up from signing so much.
David: (looks at hand, giggles and shakes husband‘s hand) Oh…it’s doing okay.
I met several fans whose names finally came to life on Tuesday. To my surprise, some even claimed they knew me! It warmed my heart when they said how much they appreciate this site. There is always an immediate rapport when you meet another David fan, a kinship or natural connection that starts online and continues when you meet in person. I was lucky to spend the hours waiting and the time immediately following the signing with Zoe and ArchiesFan4Life, with whom I became instant friends. Since they planned to arrive earlier in the day than I, they kindly offered to buy my books for me in case they sold out before I arrived. A favor that meant the world to me. Thank you again!
Outside the store, another type of frenzy took place as fans renewed friendships with enthusiastic hugs.
David’s optimistic outlook on life as shown in “Chords of Strength” contributed to my second encounter with him going so well. His ability to live in the moment is something that I aspire to each day. I didn’t have the longest nor the most profound conversation with David but I succeeded in telling him what I didn’t get a chance to at our first meeting; that his voice is beyond amazing. In addition, I finally got to deliver the message that his fans deeply love him.
The Voice David Archuleta 