A Book is Born

I tore open the packaging of my first copy of A Book is Born when I found it on my steps. I wondered how it would feel when I saw it. I had assumed this would be a different experience for me. I was not the sole author of this book. It had been created by Nancy Cleary with contributions by myself and my amazing colleagues in the mom-writers publishing co-operative. It was Ms. Cleary's vision of her "baby" that helped make this book a reality. I read it from cover to cover. I was interrupted briefly by my 7 year old daughter who asked what I was doing. I showed her the book, my name, the dedication with her name on it. I briefly explained about how I was a part of the team of women writer's who helped write this book and what it was about. She smiled, jumped up and down, and ran in the room to tell her best friend about what I was holding and how cool a book it was.

As I finished reading A Book is Born I realized that I had the same sense of pride being a small part of this as I did with my own book. I had imagined that because so many of us participated in writing this book and it was Nancy's creation I would feel a bit more distance. I must confess I felt some of the same butterflies opening this book that I did with my own. My colleagues words combined with Nancy's information/resources/experience on the journey of a writer erased any emotional distance (imagined or real) that I might have had.

I realized my pride was on multiple levels. I was so proud to be a part of a book that offers so much to help other writers dream of being an author become a reality. It tells my story and the story of many, many others. I am incredibly proud and lucky to be a part of this group of bright and talented women. What a force this group has become! Their passion and wisdom jumped out at me as I read their words. It feels wonderful to be a part of this project. My daughter sometimes asks me if I am a social worker or a writer. Today I told her I was very proud to be a writer!