As writer Alexis M. Smith stood on the podium, in the bookstore where her career really began, the audience could see a wave of emotions swell over her, nearly bringing her to tears. 
     On Monday, Jan. 9, Smith returned to Powell's bookstore on Burnside to read excerpts from her recently published novel “Glacier,” a book that parallels her own experiences of moving from Alaska, to Seattle and then finally to Portland.  Smith worked at Powell's after graduating from college, and it was her manager who read her prototype and found her a publisher. It was obvious from the heartfelt introduction by her old co-worker and friend, and her wavering voice, that being back in Powell's was emotional for her.

     The novel itself is a day in the life of a book surgeon who works in an old janitor’s closet, but includes multiple snapshots into the protagonist's childhood.  It takes place in the heart of Portland, and one develops a sense of pride while reading about the same shops on Hawthorne that we visit religiously.

     While at first glance, the front flap of the book gives off a seemingly mundane plot line, when one actually reads the novel, she finds herself entranced by the little experiences in the protagonist’s day.  Suddenly stirring tea how like her mother would becomes extraordinary by Smith's writing.  Instead of telling the reader how the protagonist feels, Smith guides to the reader to feel the same way. 

     After reading her first selection, Smith grew more comfortable with the audience.  In the question and answer portion of the evening, every audience member daring enough to ask a question received a thrift store copy of one of her favorite novels, symbolic to her own story.  It was a touching personal addition, unique to the author readings I have attended.

     As all Portlanders can attest to, any person who spends enough time here will find themselves fitting into their own unique niche, and Smith has certainly found hers.  Both her book and personality are one of a kind, and I give both a five star rating.