Even as I type this, I’m not sure if I’m making it all up. This little writer is going to be a published author!

You see, I accidentally wrote a book and someone has decided they like it enough to sell it to real people. My book. My bunch of words compiled into sentences and paragraphs.

Getting a bruise from pinching myself.
(My reaction on my FB author page.)

How, h-h-how?

I wish I could eloquently tell you how I “made this happen,” and give you tips and tricks so that you, too, can find a publisher. But I must come clean. The way I came in contact with Renaissance Press was by walking around lost at Ottawa PopExpo last November, trying to find my friends. Did I mention I was dressed as a fashionsta dalek at the time? After the lovely Caroline Frechette shouted, “I like your costume,” we struck up a conversation. The next thing I knew, I was invited to contact them in the new year.

So I did. Another invitation came for me to submit my full manuscript. So I did!

On June 1, I was making some earrings and a necklace for my craft biz Cait Cards, when I got the email of a publishing offer. I think I ran around my house like bees were chasing me. I decided to keep the earrings and necklace for myself. They were like a milestone symbol to me. I wore them when I signed the contract yesterday. I might have also been holding a cupcake at the time. Because cupcakes.

To say I’m excited is a grand understatement. I’m also a wee bit terrified, but for all the right reasons. This is happening. I’m gonna hold my book in my mortal hands. How cool is that?

So, what words of wisdom can I provide?

These come to mind.

• Believe in yourself and your craft.
• Write without limiting your particular brand of uniqueness.
• Have a crazy amount of fun during the creative process.
• Get that draft out without being a perfectionist.
• Ask several people to read your work.
• Be open to advice from other writers, whether in person, online, or through articles.
• Get as many hugs as you can, because you’ll have days when you think you have no talent.
• Know that criticism can sting at first, but it can also make your manuscript better.
• Don’t be afraid to submit. Press the Send button!
• Rejections happen to everyone, even super famous people.
• If you feel knocked down, get back up and stay the course.
• Medicate yourself with desserts. (OK, maybe this is only me.) 😉

But above all, never let anyone convince you that you’re not a real writer. If your heart and soul and passion go into words, then you’re a writer. Keep it up and don’t give up.

I believe in you!

Stay tooned!

Will let you know as things progress. Thanks for reading! Cheers!

/cg

Cait Gordon has been a senior technical writer for high tech and government organizations. Her first novel is going to be published by Renaissance Press. (The second book has begun and a third will happen, too!)