Getting Closer, But Not There Yet
Since spring, I’ve been re-working a picture book manuscript called OVER IN THE WETLANDS. My agent and I are probably on round six at this point.
Each time I return the story to Agent Michelle, she sends back ideas to strengthen my work and always includes some variation of “your work is getting closer, but it’s not there yet.” It would be maddening if her comment weren’t right on target.
I am so fortunate to have someone working with me who only wants my best out there in the world. My writing reflects on both of us. She’s asked me to try directions I never would have imagined, and they’re working. My most recent breakthrough came in the middle of the night (thanks to a certain puppy), and Michelle agrees I’m onto something good.
This weekend I sent WETLANDS back to Michelle. I’m hoping we’ve reached the end of our revision rounds. But if it ends up in my mailbox with “close but not there yet” attached, I’ll trust her judgement and get back to work.
Don’t forget: Today is the last day to enter to win a copy of Michaela MacColl’s PRISONERS IN THE PALACE.
Don’t forget: Today is the last day to enter to win a copy of Michaela MacColl’s PRISONERS IN THE PALACE.
Good luck, Caroline! You have a great partnership!!!
Best of luck with that. But you know, you are very fortunate to have her to work with. In time, I will. That time just hasn’t arrived yet. LOL
That is what will make our market a success – authors and agents and editors working together. Even those with great gifts need guidance. I look forward to having that kind of relationship with an agent someday.
That’s great to have such a trusting working relationship, that you trust her edits and that she believes in you. I hope this last revision will be the one!
I’m still noodling with revisions on a ms because I don’t feel like it’s quite ready to give to my agent. So, in a way, consider me jealous that you’re at the back-and-forth point! Hang in there–you’ll get it just right with all that hard work. – Stasia
Having that kind of trusting partnership is priceless. Here’s hoping this revision did the trick!
Here’s hoping this time is the time!
Picture books are sooooo difficult. People always think they’re so simple because they’re short but I don’t think anyone can really appreciate the complications until they’ve tried. It takes a certain touch. I hope this times the winner!
Wow, I don’t have the stamina for writing picture books, but I know you do. Fingers crossed that this revision will be the ONE!
I do hope it happens for you because (among other more obvious reasons, lol) I think kids need to know more about the wetlands, so go YOU!
Sounds like you’ve got a terrific relationship with your agent! :)
Good luck!
Good for you for sticking with it, Caroline! And yes, what a blessing to have a great agent. That’s priceless to have her professional opinion on your work. :)
Amy
It’s wonderful to have someone to push you to put forth the best story possible. *fingers crossed for this revision*
It’s exciting (and frustrating) when revisions get so close…but aren’t quite there. Sounds like you have the right attitude. Best of luck!
That is great she’s such a cheerleader! Sounds like you have a great relationship.