I sold my book on proposal in 2019. Back then, I was working as a full-time nanny in Seattle, working on the proposal for two hours before the 8am start of my workday and on weekends. I didn’t think it would sell, but an editor from Grove Press bought it, and off I went.
Except…the process took a really long time. Like, really long. It’s been almost six years since I sold it, and throughout the revision process I often thought the book wouldn’t make it to publication. There were many moments of mental and physical strife. I moved to Czechia for a Fulbright. Covid happened. I moved back to Seattle and began nannying again. I started freelancing. I had spinal surgery. I accepted a spot at a creative writing PhD program and moved to Florida. During my first two years of coursework I revised the book THREE times, usually waking at 5am and writing until I had to teach or go to class.
I didn’t give up. I didn’t quit.
And now the book is headed to copy (next week!). I am on the very last rou…
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