Grateful!
Hello Friends,
This month’s communique could almost write itself. When I reflect on the next to the last month of the year, the word GRATEFUL comes to mind.
I'm grateful that you have accompanied me on this author journey. I’m grateful that the little ballerina in me got to attend a book talk with a REAL ballerina (Misty Copeland, principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre) a few weeks ago at the Enoch Pratt Free Library. I'm grateful that my debut novel is out in the world and it’s available in a library system where I’ve checked books out for five decades. I'm grateful for new author friends, Aunt Georgia Lee, W. L. Tracy, and Heidi M. Harrison, who freely share information about writer and publishing resources. I think I mentioned it last month, Heidi was gracious enough to feature THIS: A Simple, Complex Love Story on her “First Chapters Podcast.” Take a listen.
Speaking of Aunt Georgia Lee, I had so much fun on her podcast, “Sippin’ Tea with Aunt Georgia Lee.” I’ll certainly let you know when the episode is available.
Happy Veterans Day to all who have served.
National Novel Writing Month
It’s also National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and I'm trying to take Ajay Ohri's words to heart in getting the second novel done.
1. Write 50 words. That’s a paragraph.
2. Write 400 words. That’s a page.
3. Write 300 pages. That’s a manuscript.
4. Write every day. That’s a habit.
5. Edit and rewrite. That’s how you get better.
6. Spread your writing for people to comment. That’s called feedback.
7. Don’t worry about rejection or publication. That’s a writer.
8. When not writing, read. Read from writers better than you. Read and perceive.
— Ajay Ohri
Book Update
I’m hopeful you’ll consider reading my next book - Jasmine and T continue the exploration of love, friendships, and life. Learn more about their next chapter and a friend who needs their help in bonus chapters of THIS and a sneak peak of Book #2.
Finally, I’m grateful for your reviews - they encourage me and motivate me to improve my craft. I would love to know what you’re grateful for. I welcome your emails and DMs.
Until next time, happy reading!
Naomi
