Releasing a Book Into the World
I come back to this quote often. It feels extra appropriate with Blue Birds launching tomorrow.
Once a book is published, it no longer belongs to me. My creative task is done. The work now belongs to the creative mind of my readers. I had my turn to make of it what I could; now it is their turn. I have no more right to tell readers how they should respond to what I have written than they had to tell me how to write it. It’s a wonderful feeling when readers hear what I thought I was trying to say, but there is no law that they must. Frankly, it is even more thrilling for a reader to find something in my writing that I hadn’t until that moment known was there. But this happens because of who the reader is, not simply because of who I am or what I have done.
-Katherine Paterson, A Sense of Wonder: On Reading and Writing Books for Children
That’s so true. But of course after the creative part is done, there’s the marketing jobs. You did a good job getting the word out.
I enjoyed Katherine Paterson’s book very much…have to admit, I can’t wait to experience that feeling!
I, too, love that book but pondering what she would say in the age of Goodreads/ Amazon customer reviews, etc.
At our recent SCBWI Miami conference, a Goodreads “dust-up” was referred to. I was clueless but gather it harks back to Those things readers find in your book that you didn’t put there. And don’t agree with! But perhaps shouldn’t disagree with so publicly…
;)
Natalie, thank you.
Faith, you’ll get there! I know it.
Augusta, it’s messy out there with instant access to information and the ability to broadcast your opinions. Best to stay far, far away.
Great quote, Caroline! And it must really hit home with you now.
You’ve done a fine job of marketing your book. And it’s not necessary to join every form of social media in order to have a web presence. You’re not on Twitter, right?
Joanne, thank you, as always. I’m not on Twitter (and have no desire to learn one more thing/loose more work time).
Love this.
What a beautiful outlook on the writing process. (Hugs)Indigo
Great quote — I love that last line.
Wonderful quote.
Beautiful quote!
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Well said. I half way through MAY B. and loving it!
What an amazing quote. Love Katherine Paterson.
Congratulations and blessings on the eve of your 2nd book release!! Hooray for BLUE BIRDS!
Thank you, Amy! I’m feeling very grateful tonight.
Thanks for these words, Caroline!!! Can’t wait to see Blue Birds flying the skies!!
Thank you, Paul. You’re up next!
It is so admirable and inspirational that you never become defensive about your writing. It must be so difficult yet so liberating. I hope one day to follow your example. Lee
Lee, you are a doll. Thank you so much. I’m far from perfect, but I try to focus on what matters. See you tomorrow night?
Congratulations! Looking forward to reading BLUE BIRDS. And still love the quote!
Thank you, Joanne. Isn’t Katherine Paterson so inspiring?
Love that quote! And, happy book birthday to you and Blue Birds!
Thank you so much, Rebecca!