planting seeds

I’ve often written about seeds this past year, so it’s fitting that one of the last books I publish this year, Let the Faithful Come, will feature this gorgeous illustration by Charity Russell. I know some people think it’s unwise to release so many books at once. With the traditional publishing industry, an author sells a manuscript and waits 1-2 years (or more) for the hardcover edition to come out. Then another year passes before the book comes out in paperback. By that point, the author may or may not have another book ready for publication, but that model doesn’t work for me. I’d rather put a book/seed out into the world and trust that over time it will take root and grow. My illustrator in Hong Kong finished up the four remaining illustrations for Billie’s Blues and I think I’m going to release that book this fall as well. That will bring the total number of titles for 2015 to seven, if you include the Spanish translation of Max Loves Muñecas! Too much too soon? Readers, teachers, and librarians are clamoring for diverse books, so how can I justify rationing my titles? Especially when still I’ve got 15 manuscripts sitting on my hard drive. I got another ridiculous rejection letter last week but I also heard from an agent who wants to talk later this month. I’m realistic about my prospects, and will try to stay focused on finishing my novel in progress. Because I know that what’s urgent to me isn’t urgent to everyone else…