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Monday, March 2, 2009

My First Sale - A DANDELION DAY


IT’S OFFICIAL!!! My first book has sold. Two-book deal to Anne Horch at FaithWords (Hachette Book Group). I don’t know whether to jump up and down or hide under the sofa. On the one hand, this is what I’ve been panting after for most of this millennium. That’s when I gave myself permission to strap on a seatbelt and park myself in front of the computer . . . for better or for worse.

On the other hand, I’m trembling to think that the story which grabbed me by the throat and begged to be written will be “out there” for all the world to read. What if people don’t like it? What if I’m run out of town on a rail? What if I don’t earn out my advance?

Big Breath. God has brought me this far. He is capable of going before me and preparing the way. One step at a time. If I didn’t believe that, I wouldn’t be sharing this wonderful news today. I’m grateful and humbled at his goodness.

I’m also indebted to my agent and many, many others who’ve encouraged and prodded me along on this journey.

Now, for the book. A Dandelion Day is a novel about a girl growing up in Texas in the 1950s, struggling with her faith and identity in light of her mother’s mental illness and the family dynamics that result from her mother’s suicide.

It will come out in the Spring of 2010 from FaithWords. My editor has started working on it, so I’ll be working on edits soon. The second book, which is coming along nicely, doesn’t have a firm title yet.

I’ll let you know how it all goes.

Signing my first contract.

14 comments:

Carole said...

Congratulations on your contract, Carla! Your editor knows what will sell and I'm sure people will like your book. The family drama is my favorite type, and I look forward to its publication.

Anne Mateer said...

I love that you took a picture signing the contract! Congrats again. I'm so happy for you!

Erica Vetsch said...

YAY! I'm so happy for you, Carla. And what a great picture!

Mary Connealy said...

Happy for you. Excited for you. Proud of you.

YAY!!!!!!

Myra Johnson said...

Couldn't happen to a nicer crit partner and friend! So, so happy for you, and welcome aboard this crazy ride!

carla stewart said...

Carole, thanks for your comments. If you like family drama, you'll find a lot of it in A Dandelion Day. A touch of whimsy, too.

carla stewart said...

D'Ann, I take pictures to commemorate everything! Thanks for you congrats. You're so sweet.

carla stewart said...

Erica, thanks for your kind words. I actually hate having MY picture made--I'd rather be behind the lens. Your support means so much to me.

carla stewart said...

Mary, you're a doll! I wish I had the gift of humor like you do. Let's face it, we all want to be Mary!

carla stewart said...

Myra, I'm so glad you were contracted before me. NOW, you can teach me everything I need to know. You're the best critter in the biz!

Camille Eide said...

I appreciate what you said about remembering that it's God who brought you this far... sort of reminds me of Peter stepping out of the boat, then forgetting who called him to walk on water. I know you'll keep your eyes on Jesus, and I'll be right behind you cheering you on. You won't miss me---I'll be the one thrashing around in the water like a maniac.

I'm so happy for you, Carla! Congratulations!!

carla stewart said...

Camille, I got goosebumps when I read what you said because this morning that was what I prayed--Lord, let me step out on the water and keep my eyes on you. And don't worry, there will be times when we both need a life raft.

Thanks for the congrats and your support. Love you.

Unknown said...

Congrats to my sister!! I always knew it was just a matter of time before you published - you are truly talented. That's a great picture of you - glad you captured the moment! Love you,

carla stewart said...

Thank you, Donna. Wow! I'm glad you commented on here. Someone told me you have only ONE first book and to commemorate each moment--so, we took a picture.

Love you.