Monique Polak

Our hiking boots are back in the closet -- and I'm back at my desk!

Oh, it was a good vacation! And oh, I am looking forward to getting back to my miracles manuscript! Except for writing in my journal every day (even during the four days we spent inside the Grand Canyon), I haven't done any "real" writing work in 10 days. I must admit, too, that I am a wee bit nervous to get back to my project... that always happens to me after a break from writing.  

In the mean time, the contract for my new book project arrived in the mail, so I thought I'd tell you a little about how the YA book business works. Before I sold my first manuscript, I'd send out completed manuscripts to Canadian children's book publishing companies. It took several years (and several manuscripts!!) before I made my first sale. Now, things are a little less complicated. I "pitch" a story idea, along with sample chapters and a chapter-by-chapter outline. The "editorial board" at Orca (my publisher) meets to discuss my proposal. Once it's approved, I get a contract (which, among other things, lays out our schedule, for instance, my first draft is due at the end of January 2010). And because I know you are probably interested in the money-making side of the industry, I also get an advance (this comes after I sign and return two copies of the contract). On the wall behind my computer, I've got a laminated photocopy of my first advance  from Orca. It's dated June 30, 2003. (You'd have to come to my house to see how much the cheque is for!)

During those years when I was struggling to publish my first YA novel, I'd never have believed that by 2009, I'd have published 11 novels and have a 12th one "in gestation." Which goes to show you: anything is possible and BELIEVE!!!

Check back with me tomorrow to see if I was able to find my way back into my story -- and to learn how this afternoon's visit with Grades 5 and 6 students at The Priory goes!