If you’re reading this and have been pregnant for nine long months, or if you’ve been close to someone during that-seemingly-endless amount of time waiting for a baby, then you know how pregnant mamas look forward to their delivery date.
Many people compare publishing a book to having a baby. So, when I contacted Rebecca Kurta, Elliott Kurta‘s mom (my frequent middle grade guest blogger) about giving a copy of Half-Truths to Elliott, she made the baby comparison. When I explained that although I’m close, my book is still not ready to be delivered, she wanted to know what else was left for me to do.
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| Thanks to Lori Steel, who suggested printing out a close-to-final draft so it looks and feels like a book. |
I told her there are just a few “simple” things that happen next.
- I’ve hired Deborah Halverson, a free-lance editor (who came highly recommended from Harold Underdown) to comb through the manuscript and find any issues with the plot, the character’s voice, deep point-of-view, tension, stakes, etc.
- Once Deborah returns the manuscript, she and I will talk.
- I’ll incorporate her feedback. I will get my baby as spotless as possible.
- I’ll hire a copy editor to make sure it’s formatted perfectly.
- THEN…I’ll start submitting to agents. Over the years I’ve assembled a list. Now will be the time to perfect my query letter and polish my synopsis.
- THEN…I’ll get busy with my next project and try not to obsessively check my email for agent responses. I have 3 picture books that I’m working on as well as an idea for a nonfiction graphic novel.
- And THEN…I hope my agent-to-be finds a publishing house who will embrace Half-Truths.
- And THEN…I tell y’all about it!
After I sent the manuscript to Deborah this week, I felt empty. The next day I felt relieved as I realized just how much Half-Truths has consumed my thinking for umpteen years!
Yesterday I celebrated this step of my writing journey by delivering the manuscript to two teen beta readers.
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| I gave one copy to my granddaughter Caitlin K., |
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| and another to Elliott. |
On my way out the door, Rebecca said, “You’re almost in labor!” Thanks, Rebecca, for that reminder to celebrate every stage of my writing journey.
And today, I’m sharing this milestone with you, my faithful blog readers.
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Congratulations to Lisa Fowler who won EQUAL from the “Pick-Your-Own-Book” post.
Remember! Look for more Middle Grade posts on Greg Pattridge’s MMGM blog on Monday!
You are moving forward and that is all that matters. I've always found feedback from young readers to be helpful and direct. Thanks for being a part of MMGM this week.
Congratulations, Carol, it's a tremendous achievement! Sending the book to beta readers is both terrifying and thrilling! Wishing you all the best for a speedy delivery!! :)
Yay!! Congrats! This is a big step!
Thanks, Valerina!
Thank you, Greg. I appreciate your support!
Thank you, Beth. It's a long haul for sure! I'm glad my post inspired you.
I have entered, Natalie, and will continue to do so. Congratulations on your step in this journey!
Congratulations, Carol. I'm so happy for you. Writing a book is a huge accomplishment! I look forward to reading it one day. Please be sure to let us know when your “book baby” is born.
Thanks, Esther. I sure will!
Oh, Carol! What a special milestone you have taken! I sincerely pray that the process will be a winner for you and that you can “wean this baby” to continue on other avenues. Blessings always!