What if I send it in and they don't like it? What if they say "Get out of here, kid. You got no future."?

Back in January, I made a set of goals that just so happen to coincide with the new year. Number 6 on my list was to write down on paper (or at least type into the computer) the children's book that I have had ruminating in my head for several years. So one day a few months ago, I did. I typed it out. And I asked myself, "What now?"

I bought a book about getting books published with lists and lists of publishers and agents. I looked at the book for a couple of weeks. Then I looked at my story again. Then I looked at the book. Finally, I printed out my story. I sent it off to 4 different publishers from the book. It was a scary day. I was like Grace from "Return to Me" trying to mail her thank you letter to the heart donor's family. I just couldn't put the envelopes into the mailbox! I finally let go and off my book went to four different publishers all in New York.

On Monday in the mail, came my first rejection. After careful reading (I'm sure) their editors determined that my story wasn't right for their list. I'm sure all authors are rejected at one time or another. But, what if my story really is stupid? What if it's no good at all? What if it isn't right for anyone's list? And, what the heck is a list?

If you want to read my story, I'll send it to you. I considered posting it but someone might steal it. I don't worry about people getting info about my kids from my blog and stealing them but I do worry about my book. If you read it, you may not criticize. You must, using your most convincing language skills, assure me that it is on it's way to kiddie book stardom. Or at least publishable.