I wrote a book…
Now what?
People have been asking me what I’m going to do now that my first picture book is out. Work on my next one? Sure am. But actually, I’ve already written another one. And another one. And another one. Just ask my poor agent who keeps getting new things from me. I know I should let her deal with the old things, but this one is all new and shiny!
I could be editing my new middle grade book. I love this one. It’s about a lake monster who wants to go to the Labor Day Parade. Seriously. But I’m finding it hard to concentrate.
Because TODAY is the launch party for Sadie Does Not Like Sorries! (Shhh..I’m writing this yesterday, so it’s tomorrow, but I’m posting this on launch party day so…it’s TODAY!)
Instead of editing, here’s a list of what I’m doing:
Worrying about if anyone shows up and if the tattoos are going to stick to kids’ arms and if I bought too big or too small of a cake and what if it rains.
Watching old episodes of Young Sheldon. Isn’t he the cutest little thing?
Writing Substack articles.
Checking my email. And Twitter. And Instagram. And email. And Facebook. And email.
Vacuuming. Now you know this is drastic. If I’m resorting to housecleaning, I’ve got a real problem.
Checking my box of supplies, again, to make sure I have everything set to go to the launch party.
Why, yes, I am fun to live with. You don’t need to check with my husband. Sheesh.
Back to the original question, what does someone do after they write a book. I do a lot of things. I have to market the book which includes a social media campaign, author visits, Substack articles, and press releases. I have to write the next book, or books, because you never know what the market is looking for at any given time. I have to take classes to get better at writing, marketing, and life in general (because, hey, why not).
Number one, though, is I have to enjoy it. This is a dream come true and I don’t want to nervous away the feeling of accomplishment. Excuse me while I go buy a celebratory croissant and latte.
Until next time, Susan
What’s for dinner: Oh heck…I forgot to plan for that. I know I have ground turkey in the freezer so I’ll figure out something.
What I’m reading: Camp Zero by Michelle Min Sterling. I don’t know how to classify this book - it has elements of suspense, and dystopia, with a twisty ending that I didn’t expect. It’s a page turner and I did enjoy it. Barely Floating by Lilliam Rivera is a fun middle grade book about synchronized swimming.
Hoping everything goes well and that you have a wonderful time at the launch! Maybe you will find it hard to believe, but I can relate to the obsessive worrying about small details leading up to events that I am responsible for. Of course, sometimes the things I have worried about happening actually do happen, and adjustments are made (or not) and I have survived to worry about the next event. Anyway, keep on keeping on, and enjoy the journey as much as you can! Following your dream to the point where it is actually coming true is wonderful and amazing and Wendy and I are so happy for you!