Courage through collaboration
The solitary figure hunched over a keyboard remains an enduring image of authors in books and films.
However, as a new writer, I quickly discovered how surprisingly collaborative the literary process is.
Alpha readers: The first to provide feedback on a finished draft.
I am forever grateful to dear friend Jenna Carricut for slogging through the clumsy initial draft of my first novel and still encouraging me to keep going. ;P
Beta readers: Those providing feedback on a more polished draft.
I have a huge list of fellow writers and friends who’ve read and critiqued my work over the years. Without them, I’d never have grown or gained confidence.
Writing groups: Fellow writers who band together to critique, encourage, promote, and share resources.
I’ve connected with many talented and generous writers through workshops, conferences, and conventions. Without my writing groups, my stories would have languished on my hard drive forever.
With Nancy Knight and Heidi Kasa
Paying it forwards and back: Offering support is as critical as receiving it.
Many friends have entrusted me with helping to shape their work in small ways through brainstorming and critique. One I’m especially proud of is Britta Jensen’s new release Orphan Pods, a deeply moving story of resilience and found family.
The wider (wild) world of publishing:
As traditional publishers consolidate into increasingly massive corporate entities that focus on the bottom line over nurturing the creators who feed into it, authors are banding together to collaborate, share resources, and get their work into the world without gatekeepers, developing a healthy and growing indie book industry. Collaboration has given me the courage to dip my toes in.
Deepest gratitude to my merry band of literary rebels, collaborators, and friends: Amanda, Annie, Britta, Carrie, Heidi, Jenna, Kat, Luke (and all my VP peeps), Nancy, Roanna (and all the TWG writers), Tricia, Whitley, and so many others.