When I found out my book was picked up by Schwartz and Wade, keeping me in the Random House Children’s Books family, I was grateful.
When I learned my new editor, Emily Seife, was still as interested in MAY B. as she had been when it went to auction, I was thrilled.
When I learned my publication date had switched from September 2011 to spring 2012, I was heartbroken.
Back when I started blogging about my publication journey, I promised I’d share with you all I would experience along the way. I’ve had a few surprises thrown at me these past few months, but I am ultimately happy with the way things have turned out. My former editor, Nicole Geiger, told me she hoped this experience was just a small bump on my road to publication. I have to say, Nicole’s wish, in large part due to the great work she did with me, has come true. The transition has been smooth. Emily and I jumped right in and got working. All is well.
But I’ve struggled coming to terms with my new release date.
Since March I’d been working with the other members of the Class of 2k11, planning our blog, website, theme, and bookmarks; creating a marketing strategy; organizing a June trip to Book Expo America; writing letters and website copy for conference events; chatting with committee members — the list goes on.
Since March I’d been talking with and learning from the Elevensies, soaking in the experiences of the authors who were a few months ahead of me publication-wise, asking questions in a safe environment, and enjoying the friendships I’ve formed there.
After telling my family my book had been pushed back one season, the next people I talked with were my author friends. Their support has been amazing. Both groups have welcomed me to continue with them, and I will, in a limited capacity.
Because the Elevensies is about support, I can stick around, even with a new release date. Sure, it will look strange if you were to scan through members to see a different year next to my name. But it’s not too unusual. Bumps seem to happen to a couple of members every year.
With the Class of 2k11, things are more complicated. I will continue with the conversations I’ve enjoyed these past ten months. I’ll keep up with my blog obligations. I’m fortunate to have my name on current swag and in the trailer. But because of the promotional aspect of things, it’s best for me to move on. As the All-Wise Carrie Harris told me, she would hate for me to miss out on the year-long promotion a group like this brings. Sticking around officially with 2k11 wouldn’t be fair to my book in the long run.
So, while continuing the conversations with my 2011 debut friends, I’ve officially moved forward, joining the Apocalypsies and the Class of 2k12.
As, disappointed as I first was, I’m excited now. My book can only get better as Emily and I work together. In the grand scheme of things, one season is nothing, as far as publication goes.
And the thing I keep coming back to again and again: I’m not just preparing for one book, I’m launching my career.
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You have the right attitude. I’m sure your book will be amazing no matter when it comes out.
I love your very last comment! It’s so true! And I have a fun announcement on my blog today. Looks like I’ll be joining you in 2k12. đŸ™‚
Your attitude is wonderful. I am a firm believer in things happening for a reason. There’s one here, and someday you’ll look back and see what that was.
Best of luck!!
That’s such a great way to look at it. And you’ll have the advice and help of being promoted with the two groups.
I’m so glad to hear that your book was picked up, even though the release date has been bumped.
Sorry about the bump, but your attitude is so great. All the best to you, Caroline!
Launching your career! Absolutely, that is the right attitude to have.
I’m so excited for you, knowing all the hard work you’ve put into May.B. and I know it will be an amazing success.
Who knows, maybe this bump is actually a bump UP for some reason or other.
I know it had to be hard to have this happen to May B, but your perspective on it is so inspiring. I think great things are in store for you, for May, and for the career launching. And you’re right — Carrie Harris is a very wise woman đŸ™‚
And you are building a fan base (I’m one) : ) who will be chomping at the bit to buy their copies of MayB when we can. I was praying for you this morning- for encouragement and for God’s help to be patient for your release date, Hang in there! : )
As I’ve said before, you’ll always be an Elevensie to me, Caroline. And now you’ll have Elevensies AND Apocalypsies pulling for you (along with countless other friends and fans). Can’t wait to read May B!
Hey Caroline- being bumped sounds disappointing, but you’ve got the right attitude. And I agree with Sonia- two groups to support you is a great thing!
Caroline, this is the right attitude — and this career launch will be an excellent one. MAY B. is the perfect book to start with.
Rooting for you, always!
Caroline, I’ve been so impressed with your positive attitude. You hung in there with all the ups and downs.
You’re right, you are launching a career. And I have faith that it will evolve beautifully for you.
And all those people who were excited to read May B. in 2011 will be that much more excited in 2012!
And you’ll always be an Elevensie and a 2k11’er – we just get to share the love with the groups in 2012 now.
Believe it or not, this can be a good thing. Sept (and Oct) are the motnhs when all the HUGE fall (read: hopeful future Christmas purchases) are published. The publishing lists are crazy-full that time of year, and it’s easy to get brushed aside. Especially if you’re not a gifty kind of book.
Spring however is when schools and libraries are putting together summer reading lists. It’s when people are shopping for books to bring along to the beach. Personally, I’d say it’s probably a better time of year for a children’s chapter book. Not to mention it gives plenty of time for editing, copyediting, proofreading, all of which are done better when not rushed. Good luck and I think it’s a good thing!
Caroline, so glad to hear you’re excited about it now. Yes, it was a bump in the road, but, hey, at least you’re on the road! A lot of us are still back at the bus stop, waiting.
I have the feeling the time will go faster than you think, and before you know it, Spring 2012 will be here. Enjoy the ride.
As always, your perspective is so wise.
Great post and thanks for sharing!
I’m sorry you got bumped but I think you’re handling it the right way. The benefit of having been part of the elevensies, and now part of the class of 2k12 is that you have the opportunity to connect with even more fellow authors, which is awesome.
Spring 2012 will be here before you know it. đŸ™‚
I’m sorry you got bumped…but it could have been worse! I’m sure it’s been a bit of a roller coaster! ***hugs*** and congrats on the book deal!!!!!!
Dare to Follow Your Heart
What a road! I’m so glad your book found a great home though, and can’t wait to read it in 2012!
You’ve had such an amazing attitude through all of this. And Apocalypsies? How can you not love that name? Although…Elevensies…every time I hear it I think of Hobbits, which is nice.
Wow, I hadn’t thought through how the bump would effect your participation in the Elevensies, Caroline. I can imagine how hard that must be … but I’m proud of you for choosing to have a great attitude about it and for looking at the big picture. Hang in there! đŸ™‚
Amy