When I started the process of writing Sugarbeet Falls I kind of just wanted to see if I could actually write an entire book. When I finished, I was thrilled. My dad and my mother-in-law both read it and were impressed (if perhaps a bit biased). After that I decided to try to find an agent, then it wasn’t fun for a while. The query process was long and arduous, and literally no agent would even read the book. I would honestly have preferred negative feedback to just hearing nothing at all. Almost 10 years later I decided to bite the bullet and self-publish. While I am not yet sure of the ultimate intelligence of that decision, there are some aspects that are super-fun!
Holding my actual book in my hands and seeing it on shelves is amazing, and knowing that a few libraries have already put the Dewey decimal system numbers on it is exciting, but my favorite part so far is signing books and meeting people. I have been practicing my signature since jr. high, but that was mostly because I was planning on playing for the Lakers. When that didn’t happen I sort of gave up the practice. Now having people ask me to sign their books and talk about my creative process is giving me a joyful experience different from any others I’ve had. Other than my children, who can probably thank their mother for most of their best traits, this book is something I created and actually take some pride in.
So if you don’t think my ink would ruin an otherwise enjoyable book. I’d love to sign one for you. Here’s the link.
Thanks!