Book Readings: Lost Art?

So there is a great essay in the New York Times about the purpose of the book reading. Well first the author starts out by saying that because there are so many book readings in NYC, most New Yorkers begin to take them for granted. She wonders how many folks really even pay attention during readings. And if not, are they there just to see what the writer looks like in person? The idea of a reading, she comments is funny, having an adult read to a group of adults. But of course she does put some of the blame on writers who don't do much to make the reading interesting.

This I can agree with. I have been to a good share of readings and it really does make a difference when the author is charismatic. But should we expect that of writers, who spend the majority of their time, writing alone?

The piece was interesting, check it out, while it is still free on NYT (you have seven days).