Current mood:

happy

Wil Wheaton
OK, let's dispense with my griping first. I don't particularly enjoy book readings, unless that's what I came for. Wil primarily read several sections from his books, both Dancing and I'm a Geek. I feel that he missed a good opportunity to just talk among what may be his peers, television (and novelist) celebrity aside.

Done.

His stage presence was absolutely wonderful, and it was quite an experience to hear him actually present the information from his books. The audience was, for the most part, receptive (there were a few others that didn't particularly appreciate the format) and laughed at the right places. You could see that we got a little bored when he was quiet, but when he was enthusiastic his energy for his subject easily transferred over to us.

He didn't seem to present a huge amount of ego in the book line -- I think he honestly appreciated being recognized as a writer vs. a fan idol (though there were a few droolers -- you know who you are, Amaunet). All in all, if he ever speaks publicly vs. reads publicly, I highly highly encourage you to go. When he did do outtakes, you could see the Mark Minasi-like potential.

One other note -- he said up front that he was willing to commit this speech under the "Creative Commons" license. So as soon as it is seeded, you can listen in. I'll post when I get the address. It's worth it if you're interested in the slightest.