Everyone’s book writing journey is different. I found it to be incredibly rewarding, but I’m not going to lie, there were times of frustration, too. When I first started writing my manuscript, I promised myself that I would just take it one chapter at a time. Spending energy worrying about future steps in the process only inhibited my creativity.
With each chapter I asked myself if I was being totally honest. Was I rounding any corners? Did I soften any blemishes? I challenged myself to be raw and real and not worry about how it might sound to others. I think the world is ready for more honesty and less pretending to be perfect. Hence, the result of All But Six is unique; possibly a slice-of-life you might not be familiar with. It’s definitely not PC.
Once I completed the manuscript I set out to find a good editor. One that could read my words without interjecting their own biases and judgement of the content. I was lucky to find the perfect person for the job. Turns out he could relate to my story and his feedback and recommendations were communicated in a way that allowed me to feel confident in my edits. I can’t tell you how invaluable it is to find the right editor who gels with you.
After doing a story edit, line edit and proofreading I searched for someone who could bring my cover to life. I was so lucky to find an amazing illustrator who listened really well and delivered exactly what I needed. He wasn’t just an artist, in my case he made my “book dream” come true. I believe that art pulls the story together in a way that wraps up the message for the reader and leaves a lasting memory long after they finish the story.
Next, I found my book interior designer. He happened to be an avid reader and shared my appreciation of the old-school way of building a book. I didn’t want something too masculine or feminine—he created a beautiful neutral design.
Finally, I hired my web designer to pull it all together so I could continue to share the rest of the story, which I will be doing via this blog.
I didn’t plan it, but it turns out I had an all-male team, and they really came through for me. There were bumps along the way as I made decisions and selections, but in the end I reached the finish line with a book that I hope my father is proud of. It took longer than I had expected, but I believe everything happens when it’s supposed to.
Make sure you have a really strong “why” for taking this journey. It’s not an easy one. It’s an investment of your time, energy, heart, soul and money. You’ll need that impetus when things get tough. My “why” is wanting my father’s life, and those like him, to matter. You don’t have to be rich and famous to change the world—start with the people around you.
Someday your child might write a book about you. What will they say? Make it good!
