Recently two or three people have suggested that I write a book about my cancer journey. I love this idea--I've always told myself I'd write a book one day (or perhaps even more than one). I've written short stories, poems, even a play, but never anything longer than a couple dozen pages. I've been keeping a diary off and on for years so I guess you could say I am my own favorite subject. (Does that mean I am vain? Or just boring?) But who would care? And who could I convince to publish a book about me?
Seriously, what would my hook be? All I've done is not die. I haven't taken up a raw food diet. I haven't had a religious awakening. I haven't become a crusader for cancer research. It is true that this journey has changed me and has opened my eyes to the joys of life and shown me how supremely lucky I am, but again, no hook. One of the friends who was suggesting the idea said that my hook was that I was a mom throughout my journey. I don't know; I don't think that's much of a hook.
Anyhow, I'm interested enough in the idea that I think about it a lot; perhaps I should do some research and see how likely it would be that anyone would be interested in publishing my story. I mean sure, it seems bloggers get book deals all the time, but those are usually cookbooks. ;) If any of you, my faithful readers, have any connections, let me know! How I'd love to write my story and share it with an even wider audience.
4 comments:
Join a writers/critique group. I helped form one several years ago and thanks to them I wrote a novel (still just sitting there waiting for another full edit) and they have been so helpful with my current nonfiction project. You could look on Craigslist, or if your community has a local writer's association. Surround yourself with other writers and they will help you with this journey. And who cares who'll read it. I think it will be such a cathartic experience and a wonderful thing for your son and your loved ones to read. When you kick cancer, it will be such a wonderful thing to look back on and see how far you've come!
EV: Thanks for your comment. I understand that saying that writing a book would be a good experience for me and that's why the readers would not matter. :) While that may be true, I have used this blog for the purposes of catharsis, documentation for my son, family, and friends. I like the idea of writing a book for SALE, baby. :D I'd attempt to write a book as a way of supporting my motherhood habit. ;) Not for me as in good for the soul but for me as in good for the bank account. Therefore, readership and marketability would be rather important.
Aha...I can see that! :) I am working toward the same goal. I guess your best bet is to look at what's out there already and how yours will be different. Such as, is your treatment different or unconventional? Is your attitude or insight different than the others. I think just the fact that you're a mom struggling with cancer is a story in itself. I can't imagine what that must be like--which is reason enough for me to pick up your book!
Oh--good point! I could easily search on an online bookseller and see what is already out there! Thanks for the tip. :D
And good luck with your book!
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