MY FIRST BOOK LAUNCH
While preparing this blog caption I remembered back, to when I was a child. I remembered when my first story came into fruition. Although I didn’t have any siblings, I kept myself busy by playing with my array of dolls, making my dolls clothes and writing short stories. I enjoyed writing, because I had to use my imagination. Since I was an only child I had a lot of time to think and analyze things. I put a lot of thought into my writing. Even so, after writing and reading my short stories, I would either fold the papers and stick them in my desk drawer, or toss them in the garbage. I never shared them with anyone.
As an adult, I continue to use my imagination while writing. It’s relaxing for me to write and act out each character’s emotions.
About three years ago, I wrote an inspirational novel entitled, Behind My Smile, about three long time girlfriends. I thought long and hard about how much I wanted to inspire my readers. I wanted to give someone hope about a hopeless situation. I wanted to let my readers know that they were not alone facing challenging issues.
The Journey to get published- One day a lady and I were casually talking about things we like to do. I mentioned that I had a 500 page manuscript that I had a desire to get in book form, and published. She informed me that she knew a book publisher. That was a streak of hope going in the right direction. The news excited me. We exchanged contact information and the next day I contacted the publisher. Fortunately, the publisher lived in the same city I lived in. Shortly after, we set up a meeting with the editor. It was an exciting experience for me to go through the publishing process. I felt very much involved during the process. I described how I wanted my book cover to look. The publisher was able to locate a picture that was very close to my description and perfect for my cover. I proof read my final copy about three times. The process took about three months to complete, which included getting the book registered with Amazon and Kindle. When I finally received that long awaited phone call from the publisher that my books had arrived, I was so excited. The next day, I held my book in my hand. I was so proud. I was excited to see my name on the cover, and my words on the inside of the book.
About a month later, I had my first book signing. My publisher was kind enough to suggest a nice location in the area to have my book signing. The room was beautifully decorated, and light food and drinks were served. Family, friends and church members attended. I felt very special when my girlfriend of twenty years and her husband, traveled from Georgia to celebrate with me. I read a few excerpts from my book and offered a Q&A after.
I feel so good when I tell readers about my book. I get a lot of admiration about being an author. People feel that writing a book is a big accomplishment and they are always eager to have me sign my book for them.
I encourage anyone who feels the motivation to write a story to just do it!
Blessings to your future endeavors!
Leslie R. Weeks has been a regular writer for company newsletters and was chosen to write a movie critique column. She has written several published honeymoon excursion articles and has also written book critique articles for a Christian-based magazine.
Though born and raised in New York, Weeks currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and children. Her favorite pastimes include traveling and baking from scratch. She gives all honor and praise to the God of the Bible. Follow Leslies on Twitter @LeeLeeJTM
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