not a birthday, but a beginning

Since most of my stories were written more than decade ago, finally holding a hard copy in my hands doesn’t exactly feel like a victory. I’m proud of my books, and I think they’re getting better as I learn more about self-publishing and finding the right illustrator. And I will be having cake today! But I’m not making a big fuss about this “book birthday.” It’s just the beginning, really, because now I have to send out review copies and I’m trying my hand at a Mailchimp newsletter—all while finishing my novel and collaborating with illustrators on three more books! And there are all the challenges that come with self-publishing—no reviews in major outlets, limited acquisition by libraries, the struggle to get the word out. But for now I’m going to enjoy this part of the journey. My stories went from my imagination to my hard drive, and now they’re out there in the world. Enjoy!