FABQs
Frequently Asked Book Questions
I am bringing a memoir into the world and over the past several months I’ve written about the process, the high and lows, what I’ve learned, what I’m scared and excited about. I think it’s time to pause and answer some questions. If you have more, find me in the comments.
Why am I writing a book?
Because I have a story to tell and enough determination and competency with writing to actually do it. It’s also a challenge, a new endeavor, and I tend to seek those out.
What is it about?
Broadly speaking, it’s the story of 10 years with recurrent cancer, told through the prism of my dream to fly. I explore a number of themes that have been occupying space in mind - cancer survivorship and identity, the difference between being cured and finding healing, the importance of facing your own mortality, sitting with disappointment and loss, and becoming more resilient. I hope the reader walks away from the book feeling empowered and hopeful, reminded that life is short and so whatever ‘flying’ is for you, find a way to do it now.
Where are you in the process?
I finished the first draft in late February, found an editor by mid-March, and handed her a second draft. It’s late April now and I have her assessment and recommendations, along with a highly annotated draft. Next week I’m meeting with her to discuss the feedback, ask questions, and learn from someone who knows way more about book writing and editing than I do.
When will the book be released?
This really depends on me, since I’m self publishing. I have some creative and structural decisions to make, which will impact the level of effort and timeline for revisions. My hope is to have digital, print, and maybe also audiobook versions released by late summer or early fall this year.
Can I read an advance copy?
Can you commit to a timeline and answer a survey afterwards? Will you also post a detailed review online? Well then the answer is…maybe. I haven’t decided exactly how I will leverage advance reader copies (ARCs) as part of a promo strategy, but I can promise you this: if you’re a subscriber, you will see the cover design before anyone else, you’ll have the opportunity to read excerpts or content that didn’t make it to the final draft, and you might even be named in the acknowledgements.
What’s your goal?
To break even, hopefully. But if not, whatevs. Ultimately, I want to write more books, so I’m starting with one. We’ll see where this goes, my expectations are measured, but it’s been great fun, so I want to keep going!
How can I help support your book project?
Buy it when it’s released and tell all of your friends, family, coworkers, fellow congregants, and health care providers to also buy it. If you’re not subscribed to Unflappable, you should be. And if you’re in Pacific Northwest, or eager to travel out this way, come to one of my book launch events!