First Isn’t Always Best

by Jody Feldman

Once upon a time, way back in the dark ages before we all had computers, in a year that started with 19**, I submitted my first book, a picture book based on the neighborhood where I grew up. This was a neighborhood teeming with kids playing one yard game or another, but it also had “mysterious” neighbors, who were the subject of much speculation.

I submitted this book with much hope. It sparkled. It shined. It was good. Then the rejections (multi-plural) came. I eventually did what one does when faced with an exhausted pool of publishers: I shelved that book and moved on.

Not too long after, I realized the concept would work much better as a younger middle grade. I wrote, I submitted, and I received another collection of rejections. (Upon reread, no wonder.)

The idea continued to tug at me, harder and harder, until I no choice but to revisit it. This time, I came at it with more skill and skills and all the things that go into creating a book with voice and mystery and emotional arc.

Currently, this book is in the capable hands of my agent. We’re talking next week. And while I now know that first isn’t always best, I’m hoping that third time’s the charm.

To be continued...