Adrienne Kress in British Columbia (Vancouver Island)

The week I spent on Vancouver Island was fraught with some of the most insane weather ever. The island was blasted with torrential downpours, flooding, earthquakes and fires. Fortunately, I was being chauffeured around by a superhero, so I was well taken care of. I am referring, of course, to Lee Losell – mild-mannered librarian who organizes book tours for authors, but who, in a former life, fought forest fires in the farthest reaches of the island! This man had to drive me through storms and navigate the Malahat. Not only that, he had to listen to me do the same presentation 17 times over in the course of 5 days. Truly, Superman has nothing on this guy. Tall buildings in a single bound? Try dealing with an author who’s not a morning person.

To say I found this experience exhausting is an understatement. But to say it wasn’t worthwhile for this reason would be a lie. Because, no matter what happened on the way, I could always be assured that once I arrived at my destination and got time to hang out with the kids, to read to them, to answer their always astute questions, it was all so absolutely rewarding. The enthusiasm I was met with was overwhelming, and the follow-up emails in my inbox brought tears to my eyes.

So, to the kids of Vancouver Island, a serious thank you. You all totally rock.

Some further observations on Island life:

• Darth Vader evidently retired to Victoria and plays violin on the street corner.
• The trees are insanely tall.
• The schools there have way better views than the ones in Toronto (sorry, but it’s just true).
• Munro’s Bookstore is fantastic!
• When the fire alarm goes off in your hotel at 1:00 a.m., you really do have to get up and go downstairs.
• Although it's not as if I was all that physical doing my presentation, my body totally broke down. I don't know how teachers stand on their feet for so many hours a day. I bow down to you.
• I am truly lucky to have had such a crazy, painful, fabulous opportunity.