It’s here! 2013 has arrived – finally. It seemed to take its time, but only because I’ve been so eagerly anticipating it. It is 01/01/2013 and for the first time I can say that my book releases this year. Whew! That sounds so nice.
Never having published a book before, I have tried to soak up each step of the publishing process as it happens. One of the biggest lessons: bringing a book into the world takes time. Way back in 2011 when I began sharing my good news with friends and family, after “congratulations,” the most common response I heard: “When will it be out?” At the time I didn’t know for sure, but I guessed 2013. The response was silence…and then; “Why does it take so long?”
At the time I didn’t know the answer, but now I understand that there were so many reasons why. To name a few: editing, illustrations, copyediting, layout and design, printing, sales and marketing. There are so many people and steps involved in one project – all devoted to making quality books and getting them into the hands of children.
Had the process gone any more quickly, I’m not sure I would have felt completely ready. This long lead time has allowed me to come up to speed on what it means to market a book, how to network, develop presentations, approach booksellers, and the dreaded, but ultimately benign, social networking, all while continuing to write. I am extremely fortunate to belong to two smart, savvy debut children’s author groups – The Lucky 13s and The Class of 2k13. I needed this time to absorb even a part of what these talented, kind, and generous fellow debut authors have to offer. Most important to me is the kinship I feel through our common experience – we are all in this debut year together and I am so grateful that I haven’t had to muddle through this process alone.
Yes, I have thought it would be nice to melt away time and arrive at this date sooner. Thank goodness time held its ground! And now that 2013 is here, I am done wishing time away. I intend to savor every new, fun, scary, shocking, thrilling moment of this debut year. After all, it’s only once in an author’s life that she can say, “my first book arrives this year.”
Happy New Year everyone, and Happy Debut Year, all of you wonderfully talented fellow 2013 debut children’s authors!
01/01/2013