Guess What?

Here's the difference between writing under the influence of a muse and writing on your own: a week ago I had an epiphany about how to start my book, and today it is completed. I had just started out on my walk, and I just knew how to start the story and what voice I could use to get the story told, while not limiting myself unduly. I didn't turn around and go home to type -- I finished the walk -- but the whole walk was a total blur, because inside my head I was already writing!

Now, I have to admit, the story itself was written already, but I completely changed the point of view, cut some characters, and had the main character's growth arc strengthened in one week. This book is meant for the middle grade market, which is ages 9 -12; think Charlotte's Web and Beverly Cleary books and Little House on the Prarie. This baby topped out at nearly 37,000 words; 18 chapters; 183 pages in New Roman Times size 14. It's cute, it's funny, it's adventurous, and it's sweet... without being too much of any of those things. I am so proud! :)

The copies I have printed out are for my early readers, the ones I've asked to give me honest opinions and suggestions and questions about the story. They will let me know if something doesn't work, or needs more explanation, or doesn't need to be in at all... and then I'll fix the little things and send that puppy in to an agent!!

While I'm waiting for feedback, I'm researching agents and doing rough drafts of my query letter. (The query letter is like a blind date: you want to look your best, but not look like you're trying too hard... and you are checking THEM out as much as hoping they want you!) The challenge is to present your book, your personality, your expertise and marketing knowledge in one page. Cover the theme, the main plot, and who the story is hoping to reach in the market. Compare yourself and this book to other authors and books now on the market, but differentiate yourself so you stand out. Not too much, though; fit it, without fading into the slush pile.

No problem, right? LOL

I have three other projects to begin now that this one is at this stage of the game, so I'll still be a busy, busy MamaBear, but the momentum of accomplishing this has given me wind beneath my wings, I'll tell ya!

Now I'm going to go sit quietly and envision the character I wrote on backpacks, lunchboxes, sheets and tee shirts. I'm going to picture my agent calling me and begging me to sign. I'm going to picture the hoards of schoolchildren, parents, and teachers worldwide who all wait in lines to get the next copy of my book as soon as it comes out... :)