Friday, June 14, 2019

What happens when an idea (a Manuscript) you have been slaving over shows up published by someone else?

You have a cry.  You heave a sigh. Then you get back to work. 

There are only so many "ideas" out in the world.  It's YOUR voice that makes an idea special.  So trust your creative heartbeat, your spirit, your soul and write.

This week, this very thing happened to me.  I noticed a post about a PB just out. It seemed very similar to a manuscript I have been slaving on for years, trying to get the right voice.  Turns out, it wasn't my story to tell.  But it's a good story, so I am thrilled it out there for kids to read.

Am I bummed I couldn't get mine right?
Yes.

Am I bummed I couldn't get mine published?
Yes.

Am I now thrilled that my new manuscript is alive?
Totally.

I feel refreshed with the "concept" told from a different perspective.  I LOVE the new voice.  It is fresh and fun and totally spot on and me.

So, onward people.  Create to create.  Some things will fly, others will float but most will fall, and that's OK.  Create to create and enjoy the process, that is its own reward!




8 comments:

  1. I love this, Laura! It's so difficult when that happens, but you have a great attitude!

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  2. Such good reminders of what we think we know, until we fall, and need to hear it again. THANK YOU!!

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  3. Hi again Laura, that previous comment was from me - Marian Grudko -thanks again

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  4. You are not alone. I moved on from my manuscript to another several years ago when an agent told me there are too many pbs about chickens. Obviously that was not true. I shouldn’t have given up.

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    1. As long as you LOVE your character and the voice, never give up. Take a break, fine, but never give up!

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  5. Huh, I just wonder if there's isn't room in the world for more than one picture book on the topic? Your point of view is fresh and new. And as I understand it takes two years to publish a picture book. It's not like your book will come out immediately after the other one. Just wondering out loud. And wishing you the best of luck with your writing.

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    1. The funny thing is, I love my new MS more. I agree, that should it happen again, in the future (she laughs), I would be fine sending it out, especially if I LOVED the piece.

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