Book Signing at Sayfani Coffee House – 2nd Dream Come True
This weekend, I had the honor of hosting my second book signing, and once again, it felt like stepping into a dream I’ve carried since childhood. The event took place at Sayfani Coffee House in Schaumburg, IL — a Yemeni coffee shop that feels like it was carved out of a storybook.
The ambience there is something I struggle to put into words: Arab mystique, soft royalty, warm lighting, and the scent of cardamom and roasted beans drifting through the air. The owners and staff were unbelievably gracious, welcoming my family, friends, and every guest with the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s home, not a business.
And the coffee… smooth, deep, comforting. The food… perfect. It was the ideal setting for a celebration of story, community, and connection.
A Room Full of Love — Old Friends, New Faces, and Beautiful Strangers
People came from every corner of my life — family, old friends, new friends, and even strangers who had never met me but felt drawn to the book. I was overwhelmed in the best way. There were moments I had to pause, breathe, and just take it all in.
One woman from the community told me she saw my ad online and hurried to buy the book on Amazon so she’d have it in time for the signing. She was excited to meet a local author and even more excited to dive into the story. Her enthusiasm reminded me why I wrote this book in the first place — to reach people I’ve never met, to connect through shared humanity.
And then came one of the most touching surprises of the day: My childhood friend Evelyn — who appears in the book — arrived with her 87‑year‑old father. I hadn’t seen him in years. He told me he doesn’t usually read physical books… but he read mine in three days. Then he proceeded to ask me thoughtful, detailed questions about the story.
It was one of those full‑circle moments that hits you right in the heart.
These Signings Are the Bow on Top of a Dream
I always dreamed of doing book signings. I imagined the table, the pen, the conversations, the feeling of handing someone a story I poured myself into. And now… it’s happening. Not once, but twice. And each time feels like a gift.
These events are more than signings — they’re celebrations of resilience, community, and the power of storytelling. They remind me that dreams don’t arrive all at once; they unfold, layer by layer, moment by moment.
More Good News: My Book Is Now in the Schaumburg Township Library
As if the day wasn’t magical enough, I received the incredible news that the Schaumburg Township Library has officially purchased my book for their shelves. To know that my story will live in a public library — accessible to anyone who wanders through the stacks — is a milestone I will never forget.
Next Goal: Barnes & Noble
With two successful signings behind me, I’m ready for the next challenge: getting a book signing at Barnes & Noble. It’s a big step, but so was everything else I’ve done this year. And if these signings have taught me anything, it’s that momentum builds when you keep showing up.
