There are quite a few things going on in my writing life, my professional life, and my personal life at the moment. A lot is going on in the world, too, and it’s difficult sometimes to get a grasp on it all and to figure out where to put my energy, and when.
Thanks to my publisher, Buddhapuss Ink, the Bookbub promotion of (em>Message From a Blue Jay was a huge success. Nearly 27,000 readers downloaded the e-book during a three-day free promotion. Although it might seem counter-intuitive to “give the book away,” it is actually wonderful to know that the book is now available to a much larger audience. It is also great to get feedback from a wide variety of readers. Message From a Blue Jay hit #2 among all free e-books during the promotion, and #1 in several categories of Memoir/Biography. Since the promotion, sales have increased and we’ve started receiving reviews from new readers. Message From a Blue Jay isn’t for everyone, of course — it’s a collection of personal essays and a somewhat literary read, so if downloaders were expecting a fast-paced narrative or a “never-ending thrill ride,” this might not have been the book for them. Still the majority of readers have liked it and said some lovely things about it.
In the meantime, I’m working on the final essay in a new, shorter e-book that my publisher is considering for later in the year, so I’ll keep you posted if that new publication comes to fruition. I’ve also been asked to teach two classes at Lasell College this fall: a literature course in Memoir and The Personal Essay and a section of Introductory College Writing. In the meantime, I’ve been working day and night as a subcontractor on a large editing project for the Department of Education.
Oh, and we’re moving! Next Thursday will mark the end of ten years in our current home, “The House on Amity Street” featured at the end of Message From a Blue Jay. It is with mixed emotions that we will leave this place and start a new chapter.
And the world. The terrible tragedy in Charleston that makes my heart want to cry is just one of the recent news items that makes it difficult to believe in–and hope for–a better future. But if we don’t, what is left? I am not sure.
That’s all I have time for right now, but hopefully, when life calms down, I can get back to blogging more regularly.
