Confessions of a Non Editor
Confession: I was truly ignorant in regards to the process of writing/preparing a novel for publication. Having just finished the developmental editing phase of publication, I can say without a doubt: I was right. Enter: My Editor. Btw, my editor is fabulous. Besides the considerable amount of “trimming” needed, I was finally given a little direction on major edits. And I loved it! The developmental editing experience was not just essential to get Diamonds in Auschwitz ready for true book form, but it was an amazing lesson.
When Winning Feels Like Losing
I know I have to earn the Dream. I realized that I wanted to skip past all my dues, all the hard work, all the reputation- and network-building. I grieved The Dream. I’ve come to terms with it. The goal of Diamonds in Auschwitz is: 1. Telling the story, because I believe it’s an important one to be told. The Dream is still alive, it’s just in the future, but a bit closer.
Part-Time Lover… I mean Writer
If the words I put on a page are not published, is it a book? Am I a writer? My writing aspirations are still a somewhat guarded secret among my friends, acquaintances and day-job co-workers. I only have a file on my computer, a dent in the seat of my office chair, and keyboard keys with the S, D and E worn out to show for my efforts. A professional writer entails having been paid for such efforts. It’s also a badge of honor, in my opinion. Without a book on the shelves of Barnes and Noble, I don’t see that I’ve earned that honor. I shy away from announcing that “I am Writer! Hear Me (or my pen) Roar!” because I’m terrified of failure. “I’m a Writer.”