Ruby Soames's Blog - Posts Tagged "writing-competitions"
Finally a finalist!
So in two days, Wednesday 30th May, I go to London for the People's Book Prize Award Ceremony. The founder is Beryl Bainbridge, the Patron Frederick Forsyth. The competition is about giving books from independent or small publishers a chance to showcase their work. It's democratic in that readers get to chose and vote for the book they want to win. My novel 'Seven Days to Tell You' is one of the sixteen finalists for best book 2012.
I'm expected at 3.30pm for a video interview before we all get ready for the black-tie gala dinner. I've been sent the instructions for when to stand up, sit down and which camera to look into and an acceptance speech has to be prepared beforehand that can't be longer than one minute.
I have watched so many award ceremonies but I've never been to one. And never in my wildest imaginings did I think I could possibly have a trophy on my mantelpiece.
I'm nervous, yes. Why am I nervous?
First, I'm shy. And when I'm shy I speak very fast and talk nonsense. Only two days ago I ran into my boss who terrifies me and I said, 'Goodnight' - it was eleven o'clock in the morning. People like me shouldn't ever be put in front of cameras or in the CIA.
Then, I've put on a lot of weight recently and although I gave up chocolates for New Year I still can't get into the dress I want to wear. My editor consoled me by saying that diets are 'SO 2011' and that now girls buy these corset/panties that pull everything in so tight you go straight down to a size 6. But where does all the fat go? To my earlobes? My toes? Could I get into my shoes or would that risk a nose bleed while I'm looking at Camera B? Any tips for directing it to my chest?
And the acceptance speech.
It never occurred to me - and it seems obvious now - that every nominee has to write a speech regardless. And have I? No. I just don't dare because it feels (a) kind of presumptuous, and (b) tempting fate (c) What do I say? (d) how bad will I feel when I see it in my purse on my way home after losing?
I'm afraid of the unknown. It's so hard to predict how one will react to losing...or winning? When another name is announced, will I be able to smile graciously and congratulate the best author? Or will I let out a blood-curdling scream, rip off my bodice and thump them? But if I were to win, would I be able to keep it together and thank all those kind readers who voted for me - or would I do a Kate Winslet and go on and on and on through mascara-colored tears thanking everyone I'd ever met or read about in history.
Lastly, need I say more than 'six-inch wedge Louboutins' to strike anxiety into the heart of anyone walking across an empty stage?
In 48 hours, we will find out.
So, If you'd like a thank you, please vote for 'Seven Days to Tell You' if you haven't already. Those who voted in the first round are already counted, but if you haven't - find out how far Ruby Soames goes to make a complete tit of herself on Wednesday night! I promise to put up the video for comedy moments!
http://www.peoplesbookprize.com/final...
So in advance and from the heart, thank you readers!
I'm expected at 3.30pm for a video interview before we all get ready for the black-tie gala dinner. I've been sent the instructions for when to stand up, sit down and which camera to look into and an acceptance speech has to be prepared beforehand that can't be longer than one minute.
I have watched so many award ceremonies but I've never been to one. And never in my wildest imaginings did I think I could possibly have a trophy on my mantelpiece.
I'm nervous, yes. Why am I nervous?
First, I'm shy. And when I'm shy I speak very fast and talk nonsense. Only two days ago I ran into my boss who terrifies me and I said, 'Goodnight' - it was eleven o'clock in the morning. People like me shouldn't ever be put in front of cameras or in the CIA.
Then, I've put on a lot of weight recently and although I gave up chocolates for New Year I still can't get into the dress I want to wear. My editor consoled me by saying that diets are 'SO 2011' and that now girls buy these corset/panties that pull everything in so tight you go straight down to a size 6. But where does all the fat go? To my earlobes? My toes? Could I get into my shoes or would that risk a nose bleed while I'm looking at Camera B? Any tips for directing it to my chest?
And the acceptance speech.
It never occurred to me - and it seems obvious now - that every nominee has to write a speech regardless. And have I? No. I just don't dare because it feels (a) kind of presumptuous, and (b) tempting fate (c) What do I say? (d) how bad will I feel when I see it in my purse on my way home after losing?
I'm afraid of the unknown. It's so hard to predict how one will react to losing...or winning? When another name is announced, will I be able to smile graciously and congratulate the best author? Or will I let out a blood-curdling scream, rip off my bodice and thump them? But if I were to win, would I be able to keep it together and thank all those kind readers who voted for me - or would I do a Kate Winslet and go on and on and on through mascara-colored tears thanking everyone I'd ever met or read about in history.
Lastly, need I say more than 'six-inch wedge Louboutins' to strike anxiety into the heart of anyone walking across an empty stage?
In 48 hours, we will find out.
So, If you'd like a thank you, please vote for 'Seven Days to Tell You' if you haven't already. Those who voted in the first round are already counted, but if you haven't - find out how far Ruby Soames goes to make a complete tit of herself on Wednesday night! I promise to put up the video for comedy moments!
http://www.peoplesbookprize.com/final...
So in advance and from the heart, thank you readers!
