Last night I had one of those writey experiences that can make you feel like a complete loser, if you didn't know that it happened to other writers all the time So, in case this ever happens to you, don't feel bad, because it happened to me.

I have a story that's appeared in a crime writing anthology, and part of the publicity push involves numerous readings here in Chicago. Last night another contributor and I were to read at a major chain bookstore in the city.

My usual mainstays of friends and family who usually make it to such events were indisposed, so I knew there was a chance that it would be sparsely attended.

So I'm telling people that it was an 'intimate' affair. Other than an employee of the bookstore, there was one taker in the audience--the other contributor thought we were reading at another bookstore, so he wasn't there either.

So? I talked about my story and read it, to the two people. It was uncomfortable. I read fast and wished it was over earlier. I've suffered worse embarrassments, though, usually several a week. Yes, while it would have been great to have a big crowd, I didn't mind, other than the fact that I wished somebody other than me had to introduce, perform and then wrap up the reading.

I didn't mind for two major reasons. One, I could soothe myself knowing that hockey was back in town for the first time after the strike, and that playoff baseball was also going on. But more importantly, I knew that a friend of mine had the exact thing happen to me--and he is a much, much bigger deal than I am, with a very big book under his belt. Oh, also, a much shorter reading without all those pesky questions and people wanting me to sign the book meant I got to go home and watch baseball.

And it didn't hurt that my beloved team won, too.

So I say it was a good night. I'm lucky enough to have participated in some wonderful, very crowded readings so I know it wasn't just me. But if you find yourself in this situation, pat yourself on the back for being brave and being a good sport, and know that it's still pretty cool to be asked to read your book in public (not to mention just being published in a book), even if only one very nice person sits and listens.

And have a good baseball team to cheer for.