Early last fall, Sheree Nielsen, friend and author of Folly Beach Dances, called me about collaborating on a writing project. She had an idea for a picture book about a one-eyed cat named Midnight, based loosely on her own cat by the same name.
I’m a sucker for an animal story, and needed no convincing to jump into the world of children’s book writing.
Sheree and I got together over coffee, tea, and chocolate; spending hours brainstorming, creating and revising. Finally, like birthing a baby, the time came to push our little manuscript out into the world.
After studying the market and sending our story, we found an editor gracious enough to give us concrete feedback and suggestions. This meant more coffee, tea, and chocolate; and, of course, more rewriting. The story left our hands again, and several weeks ago we were thrilled when Amphorae Publishing Group, a well-respected local press, offered us a contract.
Once all the details had been ironed out and confirmed, a formal announcement came from Amphorae on September 8. The book is scheduled for release in 2017.
We are so excited to see our story, tentatively titled Midnight, the One-Eyed Cat; with its uplifting messages about friendship, courage, and self-confidence, brought to life. Thank you, Amphorae!
25 Responses
Fantastic and congratulations
Snorts,
Lily & Edward
Thanks Lily and Edward! Now when will you be writing your book?
Congratulations. That is wonderful news. You and Sheree obviously make a great team.
Thanks, Sioux! We’re pretty excited, even though it’s a long wait before seeing the story in print.
Such good news! Congratulations!
Thanks, Sarah! We’re excited and completely thrilled.
Exciting! Congratulations!!!
hugs
Mr Bailey, Hazel & Mabel
Thanks! Your support means so much.
Very exciting, Pat! I’m so happy for you!
Lisa, we’re thrilled and a little bit nervous.
So happy for you and Sheree both, Pat. Very well deserved. And I love your new website 🙂
Thanks, Teri! I’m still learning WordPress. It’s a struggle for a tech-know-not like me.
Thanks for such a patient, flexible and creative friend and co-author.
Sheree, you had a wonderful idea for this story. I think we may need to celebrate over more coffee, tea, and chocolate!
Sounds like a plan!
That is so cool!
Many congrats Pat, you deserve it after your hard work.
Lynne x
Thanks, Lynne! It’s certainly been a journey. I really appreciate your support.
How exciting is that! I love those ladies at that press. They are doing great, great things. 🙂 Can’t wait to buy a copy of this book for Katie.
Thanks, Margo. I really respect Amphorae Publishing. They do a wonderful job.
YAY – Congratulations! Can’t wait to see it!
Thank so much, Lynn. I was excited to read your post about identifying what you love to write. Looking forward to hearing more!
So happy for you, Pat. I know the book will be great!
Thanks, Donna! I’m pretty excited, but we’ve still got a long while before this baby gets “birthed”.
Congratulations to both of you! This is heart pounding exciting, isn’t it?
Hi Linda! Thanks so much. Yes, we’re very excited. Now for the long wait.