My friend Leslie continues to be amazed at how writers help one another. And when I think about it, it is truly a lovely thing. People I've never met have been so kind to me. I am taking the time now to especially thank Judy Larsen who has talked me down off the ledge a few times. One of the Ballantine Babes, Judy's book All the Numbers was a Target "breakout book" and stayed on their shelves for a year! I'm going to go out on a limb and say this was due not only to the fact that it's a great book but because Judy worked hard herself to get the word out. She's still working hard, finishing her 2nd novel and promoting her 1st one...yet she's willing to take the time to help other writers sort through the maze of the publishing world. A gem.I will try to pay it forward.
9 comments:
This is so heartening to read Carleen. It is evident to anyone who reads here that you are generous and giving with a warm heart and soul.
Books sell quite often because of word of mouth...we listen to what others are reading, what others have found moving and when authors are promoting one another that is a love of the word, love of community, love of art that is shared.
Kudos to Judy Merrill Larsen for all she has done for you (and her book!) and kudos to you for the pay it forward love!
Carleen, you already DO pay it forward, it's obviously just your nature.
I guess I must be kinda nice too, because I was "selling" OMH to people at my signing on Saturday. ;)
Someone remarked, "She's promoting another author's book!" as if they'd never heard of such a thing. We know better; Judy's proof, and there are others, too.
Ballantine Babes rule!
Sherry, Word of mouth is the BEST way for books to sell. Look at Water for Elephants and The Memory Keeper's Daughter.
Therese, Thank you so much for talking up OMH!!! That is very cool and embodies just what I'm talking about--kindness to someone you've never even met! Can't wait to meet you and Judy at VABook!Cheers to February 12!
I didn't know All The Numbers was a Target Breakout book, but it certainly deserved all its success. It's a WONDERFUL novel. I'm so happy to have both you and Judy as part of my writer's community.
I didn't know that either! Yet another book I can't wait to read. When are we getting Judy to visit Denver?? :) And I agree you're already paying it forward and will do that naturally as the years go by, impacting more writers than you realize. Also want to ask if your ears were ringing Tuesday morning when I was talking you up to a lady who stopped by my table at the career fair. She was very interested in your current and past titles and said she'd touch base so I can email her more information. I'll be sure to keep you posted! K.
Judy is such a generous person. All the Numbers is a great story and the second blogger book I picked up and read in just a couple of sittings last year. I can't wait to read Judy's second book.
This is off topic . . . I've been wondering, Carleen, since I'm not familiar with Nina Simone's music, whether you think I would enjoy your book more if I got a Nina Simone album before I read it?
this is a lovely reminder that we have a choice in how we walk this path, and how we regard one another. thank you, and judy.
Well, gosh, thanks so much Carleen! I was out of town and missed this when it posted. I'm so glad I've been able to talk you down. Don't worry, I have no doubt I'll be calling on you for the same thing one of these days!
Writers Rule!!
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