This year has proven its fair share of surprises. When celebrating the new year in typical fashion of goodwill and optimism for what a fresh beginning may bring, it is safe to assume many would not imagine what this year had in store. Yet despite the turn of events, there is still cause to find some joy and welcome change.
This past month, though still faced with some uncertainty, has been filled with new developments. For one, I was finally able to hold my book launch! If you have been following me for some time, you would know that I finally self published my debut novel The Point in February. My original intentions were to have a book launch sooner but due to scheduling conflicts it had to be pushed back and then the pandemic happened. However after resolving that either my book launch would just happen whenever some sense of normalcy returned in terms of the usual gatherings of bookstores or else waiting until my next book release, an opportunity presented itself and I was able to hold my book launch virtually.
The book launch was short, sweet and, given our current conditions, just right. The community bookstore Word Up, a lovely independent bookstore if ever one wants to support and check out, allowed me to host a Zoom session for the launch. I started the Zoom session with some light music from a playlist I originally made for the live book launch which consisted of light jazz, bossa nova and guitar melodies. The bookstore representative spent a few minutes sharing the great work Word Up does in supporting local authors and community efforts. After this, my husband introduced me with a sweet speech. Then it was my turn. Although I knew my guests since I largely promoted amongst family, friends and coworkers (though others are welcome to come in any publicly announced event), I will admit that I was largely anxious before my event.
When it was my turn to speak, my nerves had somewhat calmed down and seeing the smiles and interest of the attendees did help to reassure me that I was in good company. I expressed my gratitude for the hosting of the event, the time of the attendees and shared my self publishing journey. I shared some general context of the novel, and then I began reading an excerpt from my novel. At this point, the music has stopped, I guess in my heightened emotions or what have you but when I started reading from my book, I didn’t care. I gained even more comfort as I read the first few pages of my book and naturally and immediately performed for the character. Reading aloud for my audience quelled away any other insecure feelings I had at that point and I allowed myself to enjoy the moment. I chose to read my prologue since I felt that it best captured a quick glance into my main character Willoughs and gives a brief insight into why I titled the novel. When I finished that reading, I felt as though a weight were lifted and noticed the approving comments, claps and smiles from the attendees.
I shared a little more surrounding the context of the book and then allowed for a question and answer portion. Some questions asked were related to my writing journey, the reasoning behind writing certain characters, and others. When these were satisfied, there was a brief pause and I admit I wondered if I should read more or wrap up the event. I decided the latter though looking back I do wish I had read more! Nonetheless after my goodbyes and thanks to the attendees and the bookstore, I had conducted my virtual book launch. It was such a highlight and definitely a learning experience for whenever I am able to host a live event whether it be for my sake debut or my next work, I enjoyed the event and am grateful to have this moment for future planning!
The other developments of the recent month were that I have started graduate school again but this time as a doctoral student and I have accepted a new position as a high school teacher! In terms of my studies, I am excited and feel as though I am learning a great deal already. My concentration is in curriculum & Instruction and is one that I am passionate about as I continue to grow as an educator. In terms of my other news, it does come with a lot of emotions. I have taught at the middle school level for the past five years at the same school and it is where I began my teaching career essentially. However, I had always wanted to teach at the high school level and broaden my expertise within secondary education so when the opportunity presented itself I went for it. Though it is an interesting time to make this sort of change, I am ultimately happy and excited for my career and continuing to develop my craft. On a more personal note, I was also able to celebrate my third wedding anniversary this month. Even though our options were a bit limited, it was still just welcome to spend quality time together. Who knows, maybe next year we’ll get to go on the trip we would’ve otherwise taken this year!
So, in all, this month has been filled with some very positive developments. Despite our current conditions, it is important to continue finding joy. I hope that you find some happy moments to reflect on during this time or if you are desiring change and improvement, perhaps now is the time to make those changes. It can’t be stated enough how short life is and if you can find a way to make your situation a bit happier and more meaningful to you and your goals, why not now? I continue to realize this and know it’s easier said than done. However, when you take that leap of faith or dare to work towards happiness, you may surprise yourself and launch towards your just rewards.
I love reading book but i dont really have the talent on writing one. Congrats on the book launch!
Thank you! If you can dream it, you can do it. Perhaps try your hand at a few pages and see where it goes!
Congratulations on the launch of your book.looking forward to more books from you.
Thank you so much! You will hear more from me soon since I have some works in progress!
Super congratulations on your book launch. You are glowing and loving the digital book launch.
Aww, thank you so much!
I am the singer of a music band and I still get nerves every time I have to get on that stage 🙂
I’m a teacher so I naturally have to speak in front of large groups daily but when it comes to my own personal talents and work, it is nerve wracking! It is funny how that works!
Congrats! I’ll definitely have to check your book out! What an accomplishment!
Thank you so much!
Congratulations on your new job. I taught high school before and loved it!! Good luck in grad school.
Thank you! I’m excited about the change and have heard good things from those who have taught high school. It should be an interesting school year!
Congratulations on your book launch! This is a huge accomplishment! I know I would have been so nervous doing a virtual book launch, but you did it! Also I love your dress!
Thank you so much! It was definitely worth it though!
Oh wow you really did an amazing work congrats for your biggest achievement…Great work though…glad you shared your experience with us..it sounds really motivating and amazing..
Thank you so much! It is so satisfying to reach your goals and dreams.
WOW, congratulations! That’s an amazing accomplishment. I will check out your book, sounds like an interesting read.
Thank you so much!
Congrats on your book launch! I’m intrigued to read your book as well! Thanks for sharing this with us and I hope you write more amazing books in the future!
Thank you! Yes, this will be the first of many books to come!
Congratulation on this achievement. Hoping for more milestones as you are working for your graduate school degree.
Thank you, there is much to be happy and excited about thankfully!
Congratulations on your first novel! What a sweet little launch you’ve had! You can see on your face how happy you are!
Thank you! It was definitely a dream of mine!
This looks like a great read! Congratulations on your book launch!
Thank you so much!
Good for you for reaching that goal! I hope that it brings you much success!
Thank you for the well wishes!
Damn girl, you should be so proud of yourself! Going to add this to my to-read list!
Thank you so much! Please enjoy!
This book looks interesting. I wish that I can find the time to read this.
Thank you, I hope you are able to as well! Happy reading!
Writing a book is no mean feat and I heartily congratulate you on the book launch! I would love to do a sample read and review it if time permits!
Thank you so much! You can find it on Amazon (I’ve hyperlinked within the post as well), Barnes & Noble and other online book vendors. I hope you get a chance to check it out!