Day got off to a dodgy start! Had to get up early (6.10) which was bad enough! Got to the school (Benito Juarez High) on time, only to find out that they wanted me to do four events back to back!! My publicist had heard about this last week, and had asked the people involved to re-schedule, since that was WAY too much to ask of me -- but obviously our request was ignored!!! I was furious, especially as I still have a cold. I hate it when people try to take advantage and over-work me. A those who've met me on this tour will, I hope, agree, I always try to give good value, and push myself hard. But for some, that isn't enough and they want even more. In the end I spoke at the first 2 events, then just signed at the second two. The staff at the school were lovely, and had gione to a lot of effort to make me feel welcome. It's just a pity they hadn't realised that they were looking for more than I could give them.. I think I'll have to start issuing guidelines for future events, to prevent situations like this from happening again. Anyway, half the kids got to hear me speak, and they all got their books signed if they had one, so overall it still went pretty well, I think. My head was pounding long before the end (my cold is making a comeback!), but it'll take more than a blocked nose and headache to stop Shan in his tracks!!! Paid a quick, fun visit to Ruiz school next. Answered questions, had lunch, and signed lots of books, all in the space of just over half an hour!! This was a last-minute, add-in event, which I'm glad I was able to squeeze in. I'm just sorrry we didn't have a bit more time, to do a full event, From there it was on to Pickard School. The kids were lively and a bit fidgety, but they gave me a nice welcome and weren't afraid to get involved!! Now I'm having a short rest, before heading out for my Halloween booksigning party in Downers Grove. More on that in my next report!!!!