Journey to Publishing – Part 2
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There’s no turning back now. My novel has its ISBN number and is being typeset as I type this. The cover is done, pre-order sales are coming in and I’m talking about The Second First Lady more and more, because it’s real and coming to life.
One moment I’m excited. The next moment I’m petrified. What people will think of me and say about the book? Is it good enough? Will anyone besides my family and friends buy it? Will they read and enjoy the story? I certainly pray so.
That’s the weird thing about writers who struggle to finally produce a project they’ve carried around for a long time. We say we want it, but fear creeps in when it finally happens. I guess it’s because writing is so personal. And once you’re published, you’ve opened yourself to those who will criticize your work. Whether or not the critiques are valid, they can still sting.
But I say it’s still worth it. Your story comes from somewhere deep inside and it matters to you, and potentially hundreds or thousands of readers out there. Learning to accept and grow from the criticism is part of the writing process. Even before the book is bound, I already know many things I could’ve done better. I’ve learned to care more deeply about crafting a story. Most writers might know how to create a good story, but it takes time and research to carefully craft one.
That’s why going to writing conferences and meeting other writers is so important. In the coming weeks I’ll blog about other Christian authors and seek their insights on getting started in Christian publishing.
My co-publisher Barry Beckham, of The Beckham Publications Group, has worked with newbies like myself for decades. He can help you avoid mistakes that first-timers often make and he always has sound advice in his newsletter, Better English 101 Writing.
So take the bitter pills of criticism and write an even better book next time. Like I tell my students, writing is a process.
But whatever you do, don’t stop writing.
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