I’ve been thinking a lot lately about writing a book, something I’ve always wanted to do, but have never really tried to do. Something I don’t begin to know how to do. I know it won’t be easy, and I also know there’s a lot of crap out there—I want this to be good. Really, really good. Anyone can write a book. But it takes a special person to write a kick-ass book. Right?
The book I fantasize about writing is probably much bigger than I and too much to undertake, at least at this point in my life. The book I would actually write is likely a collection of shorter essays (not as daunting, perhaps more doable) and geared towards young adults. I would like to draw from my own experiences, predominantly my dad’s coming out and the aftermath for me.
My dad came out of the closet not long after my 15th birthday. It was sudden and unexpected. Shortly thereafter he moved out and my two younger brothers and I continued to live with our mom.
Shortly after dad’s revelation I went to Waldenbooks at Lakeside Mall (this was before the days of Barnes & Noble, before the Internet, etc.) and asked the saleswoman for help. I told her I needed to find books on “having a gay parent.” She sort of giggled and hesitated, looking at me like I was crazy. Then she led me to the children’s section in the back and handed me a copy of “Heather Has Two Mommies,” by Leslea Newman. I’m not knocking Leslea Newman or anything, but that book (in case you didn’t know) is geared towards 2-5 year olds and is about 30 pages long.
I need to do some research, but I’m not sure there’s been a whole lot written since then for kids, and perhaps even less for tweens/teens. I also think it’s completely different to be born as the child of a gay couple than it is to be born to a more (for lack of a better word) traditional couple that later disintegrates because one or both decide to come out. Does that make any sense?
How do I get started? If you were going to read a book like this, what would you be interested in hearing? Am I supposed to query publishing companies first to find out if there would be any potential interest in the project, or do I wait until I actually have something substantial before I shop around? I am utterly clueless.
I just keep thinking that surely the world needs a Judy Blume-esque book about having a parent come out of the closet (though I don’t presume to equate myself with someone as amazing as Judy Blume!). In this age there are more and more topics kids need to become familiar & more comfortable with.
This is a BRILLIANT idea! go for it! I'd definitely read it, even though the subject matter doesn't pertain to me. I think what people would like to hear depends on their age. For me it would be opinions and stories from every side, the parents and kids. Although for younger teens, I'm thinking Judy Blume and how her books only represented the view point of the child, which is why they were so phenomenally successful with their target audience. So I suppose it depends on how you angle it.
However, I bet there are at least a few books out there for the adults in this scenario, and you are in the unique position to comment as the child, it depends on your recall I suppose.
Sorry to look at it from so many angles but it's an inspired idea.
I was only visiting to say a huge thanks for following my blog, it really made my day to see you up there – cheers! x
I think that is a great idea. I would tell your story, either in 1st or 3rd person. Make it like a young adult chapter book. Write it, then look for publishers. I am also in the process of trying to write something. But, sitting down and doing it is not keeping my attention enough. Missed you!!
I have absolutely no practical advice for you, but I do think you should GO FOR IT! Seriously, woman!
You may want to poke around and see if there are any writing clubs around? I know of one near me, where writers meet to read their stuff and get feedback/advice etc.
I think it's a fantastic idea! Go for it. I'll send you more detailed thoughts in an email when I get some time to put them together. In the meantime, start researching books on this topic targeting the audience you want to target. You can do this by searching your local bookstores, library or online. You'll want to read as many as you can to get an idea for what's already been done and what you can do differently/better. Take lots of notes because you'll need that info for your book proposal. š
Definitely go for it! Everyone says "write what you know" and pulling from your own experience coule really help someone else going through a similar situation. I love that you have something you want to do and I love that it could also potentially help others! You're already an inspiration!
Can not wait to read it!
Try looking for a book festival. I know that Baton Rouge has one every year (I think it may be associated with LSU, but I'm not sure) and they offer seminars on publishing.
I think that's an excellent idea, Erin. Go for it!
I'd be most interested, I think, in simply hearing your story and the story's background and what happened next… that kind of thing.
I have every confidence that you'll rock it.
HA! It's always the opposite for me. For some reason I always befriend the tall girls and end up looking like shrimp girl. It's truly sad. So see, we should totally be friends! š
Okay, I just totally meant for this comment to go on your picture post above, not this one. D'oh!
I'll be back to make an appropriate comment on this one…
Wow, that must have been quite a thing for you to have to deal with at that age! I think the fact that you are thinking along the lines of helping other teens out with the topic is totally awesome.
I'm sure something like that is needed. Have you looked in the bookstore lately to see what is out there? I would start there first.
But yes, A JB-type book on the topic would be perfect, I'm sure. You go for it Erin!
Ok….funny you post this because I have a high school friend who writes…and she has a blog. I will send her a message on FB and see if I can get you two connected. She is pretty cool.
Love ya
LE
I say write the book, but write it for yourself. When you are writing, don't think about selling this thing, or marketing it, or anything like that. First, just write the book YOU want to write. You can always revise it for the market.