First copy!
28 July 2010
Big Day! The first advance bound copy of THE YOUNG CHIEFTAIN popped through the letterbox this morning. I have watched the book progress on my computer screen through numerous drafts, changes and corrections to reach a final typescript. It is amazing how easy it is to miss spelling mistakes and typos and I was helped along the way by the Tamarind team and Sue Cook, the eagle-eyed proof-reader. I am used, as a film director, to moving pictures around and as a songwriter to making minute changes in lyrics so they fit or sound better. I guess the process is not so different with a story,but as in all these disciplines, it is always hard to know when to stop. There comes a time - usually a deadline - when you have to finish tweaking and surrender your baby. Usually it is wrenched from your arms as you protest , "well, maybe if we just....?" Enough - let it take its chances.
We had a lot of discussion about the cover and it went through many drafts. As an author, you have certain images in your head about your story and characters. Fred Gambino has come up with a terrific panoramic cover, with Jamie standing prooudly on a crag against a lurid sky, that really stands out. I am delighted.
Now we begin the business of getting the word out, to reviewers, librarians and stores ahead of publication date on September 2nd. I had great fun making the 'trailer' which is running on this site and on YouTube where is already has got hundreds of hits in just a couple of weeks.There will be a companion video up in a week or two.
I'll keep you in the loop with the latest developments as they happen. Feel free to post any comments. It's a bit lonely here on my own!
Best
Ken
1 comment
Written by Lizzie Betts-Gosling on 28 July 2010 at 20:33:00
Hey Ken,
A thousand congratulations from Ali & I. We wish you every bit of good luck and success with your book.
Bisous a vous deux
Lizzie @ Le Couvent, Roujan xxxxx