🌅 Rejection and book production
I heard back from the big publisher.
I haven’t really known what to do with the book side of this project. A month or two ago I gained some traction with a prominent Christian publisher who really liked the manuscript of Good Night God and wanted me to submit a proposal to their board. I always held it open-handed because nothing was in writing, but the potential to publish that route meant the self-publish route was on hold.
I’ve learned a few things in this process, like how children’s book publishers usually pair authors with illustrators to double the market reach. And how some publishers have a book format they require. And a lot depends on how big your “platform” is, AKA how famous/popular you already are (which is why famous people write so many books, apparently).
So, naturally, a couple days ago I heard back and the answer was “no, thanks.” Disappointing, yes. But still a relief because now I know how to proceed.
Resuming self-publishing.
The good news is the book has been ready to print for a few weeks now, so all I had to do was forward it to the manufacturer. Learning to navigate alibaba.com has been fascinating. I didn’t realize when you open a job for a specific vendor, anybody else can swarm to get your business, so I ended up fielding a couple dozen conversations to find the best fit.
October ➡️ November
Because of the delay in hearing back from the big publisher, it set me back a few weeks. Now the target is delivery in November instead of October. I really want these books to be available by Thanksgiving since they’re so gratitude-centric. Thanks for understanding.
How can you help?
Stay tuned for promotional materials and opportunities to share the project.
Share this newsletter with a friend.
If you know of any Churches, programs, or youth ministries that may be interested in this project, would you be able to connect me?
If you know any podcasts or editorials that may be interested in a conversation about BA, would you be able to connect me?
In fact, you could even send them my calendar to schedule a meeting.
Prayer
For sufficient funding to finish this project.
For continued clarity of process, and supply chain in getting this project across the finish line.
For the right relationships to come about to get these resources where they need to be.
In some way or another, the Lord will provide.
(Prayers from last time)
Praise for discernment regarding the publishing relationship