I had the pleasure of attending Grady Hendrix’s event yesterday(04.05.25) at Waterstones Nottingham. That show was to promote his newest book, Witchcraft for Wayward Girls, which was published on January 14, 2025.
Didnt know what to expect. On my arrival, I asked a worker in Waterstones how this would look, and it was not just simple Q&A and signing books. He did an hour-long ‘show’ about witches and where they originated, with many examples in books and beliefs from 1400 till now. He showed many examples from England and how people here dealt with witches, which gave me a lot of personal touch and more depth to his story. It was brilliant. Fresh, fun, intriguing, and informative.
Who would think this 150 cm tall guy has so much in him! Around 150 people inside had so much fun and laughed so hard. He owned the scene. After this, he started signing books, and there was a time when you could ask some questions and have a little chat. He took his time with everyone. It did not feel rushed. He took his time to make everyone feel content and happy with it. Many people adored him so much, and when I asked them what their favourite Grady book was, the answer was: ALL OF THEM.
When my turn came to have my books signed, I asked him: Do you ever get scared by what you are writing? Do you ever have this in your head when you think this is so creepy! And his answer was: No, the more scary it gets, the more excited I am because that means I am getting better.
Fair enough. He signed my books and asked how to pronounce my name. I told him it was Polish, and he got excited. He told me his book How to Sell a Haunted House (which I really enjoyed) got translated into Polish and published there. When I asked if he was going there to promote his work, he answered NO. Not because he didn’t want to go but because no one had invited him. If anyone would, he would definitely go! Meeting him and seeing how he performs in front of the people was lovely. Even though I did not enjoy Witchcraft of the Wayward Girls, it was worth going. If you ever have the occasion to go, DO IT.