Road to Publication: Back on the Horse

My first post for this blog was Never Give Up! I was excited to talk about my “road to publication,” that after much writing, revising, submitting and rejection, I’d finally landed my first book contract. My advice to fellow writers—or anyone with a dream—was to never give up, never stop trying to achieve your goals, never let go of your dreams.

Now, it’s time to take my own advice.

I recently received a letter from my publisher saying they’re going out of business, so my book contract is null and void—my book will not be published.

As you might imagine, this was devastating news. I’d finally reached my goal to be a published writer. I was finally going to see my dream come true. Then, poof, it was all snatched from me in a matter of seconds.

I was deflated. I cried. I had no energy or desire to write.

And then I slowly began to climb back onto that horse.

I rose out of my puddle of dejection and gave myself a good shake. If one publisher had liked the story, then maybe another would.

I put my foot in one stirrup, and pulled myself up. I’d look over the manuscript again (it had been awhile since I’d read it) with an eye toward improvements.

I swung my other leg over the horse and settled on its back. I’d start researching agents and publishers who were interested in young adult historical fiction.

I grabbed the horse’s reins. I had two other completed novels for middle grade readers. I’d take a fresh look at those, incorporate changes I’d been considering, and start submitting those as well.

I’m now charging forward, remembering why I started writing fiction in the first place—because I love it. I have a revamped website, a positive and hopeful attitude, strategies in place and advice to follow: Never Give Up!

How have you overcome rejection and disappointment while pursuing your dream?