Okay, it's time again to prepare for the trade show circuit. Often that means a few down hours in hotels and airports. I've learned to relish that time -- as much as my prep time for the down time, if you know what I mean.

You see, I love books and airport/hotel time equals reading time! The other thing I like is to browse bookstores. I am often fascinated at how publishers utilize color, titles, and trim size to get their books noticed. It's interesting to see what draws my attention.

I liken the jacket covers on books to visiting retailers during my recent trip to the Carolinas. Sometimes you may find a great story on a page-worn manuscript -- or get caught up in the public excitement of a best seller.

The great thing is, all books have a story to tell.

Take a look below at a sample of what I found along the North Carolina Coast: