If you stopped by yesterday, you found out about the follow up we are currently writing, but The Next Big Thing post also told a lot about Depression Cookies and why we write women's fiction.
An excerpt:
Who or What inspired you to write this book?
I am one of three daughters and now have three daughters of my own. I have a vested interest in exploring the mother-daughter dynamic, as well as female relationships in general.
Life has such a funny way. I wrote that post a few days ago.
Last night, my preteen daughter came to me with a worrisome text, one from a friend that was asking if she liked another friend. My daughter has been having trouble with this friend, so red flags shot up. I coached my daughter on how to handle it.
About 20 minutes later, my daughter came down and hugged my neck and told me she loved me. Anyone who has an emotional preteen girl knows you have to take these moments when you can get them.
Then she told me...
I'm so glad you wrote your book. There was a scene almost like what happened to me. I knew you'd understand. Thanks, Mom.
At first I debated on whether she was old enough to read the book. Not just because of some of the themes, but also to make sure she could distinguish fact from fiction. After all, this book is written by her mom and Nana and a lot of it did happen. We embellished, of course, but could she understand that?
I've often said I write to work out my own feelings, a journey of self-discovery if you will. But to know what I wrote helped her, or could help any other teenager or mother (or woman), was beyond my expectations. Such a meaningful feeling.
Her few words have now become the best review I have ever received.
What review of your work meant the most to you? Do you let your children/significant other read your work?
7 comments:
Aww...This is so touching. I got teary eyes just imagining your conversation with your daughter. This illustrates how strong bond you have made with your daughter. Your post fills me hope and truth that we may not see, but we feel it. Thanks for sharing.
I'm so glad things worked out, your girls are smart and they have an awesome mom and Nana that wrote a wonderful book. When my daughter gets older, she'll read your book too. (:
As a mom of three girls as well...your post is AWESOME! For your daughter to come to you like she did is proof you're an amazing mom.
I hope that one day I'll have "Heartfelt Review" from one of my daughters.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for that sweet story. It's the little things that mean so much.
My articles aren't generally of interest to my kids but they are welcome to read most of my work if they so choose.
Sun Hee Yoon, Thanks. There's nothing more important to me than building a strong relationship with my three daughters.
Elise, You are so sweet. :-)
Ainsley, Thanks for your kind words. It's hard being a mom and finding the right things to say to them sometimes.
Lisa, Amen, I love the little things. Thanks for stopping by.
My 17 year old is using my book Yassa in his English class for assigned reading. I can't wait to hear what he says about it. :)
My best reviews have been those that fall from the lips of my mother. She's an avid reader and is brutally honest when she doesn't like something. It's awesome to have reviews from someone you trust, IMO.
WRITE ON!
Jo, Mom reviews are wonderful. A little tricky, though, when you write a book with her. ;-)
Post a Comment