After The Proof Is Done: Playing Catch Up
One thing about spending a few weeks locked into a major part of the book-writing cycle, like doing the final proof of the manuscript, is that a lot of other stuff falls by the wayside in the meantime.
Although—brief digression ensues—I realised as soon as I said “final proof” that actually it’s called the “first-pass-proof.” That’s because although it’s the final time the author gets to see the manuscript before it’s a book, it’s only the first proofing round for the publisher’s production team.
So though you see the author’s part of the process via a writer’s blog like mine, there’s this whole other world that’s pretty much invisible to readers (and the author, although at least we know it’s happening!) between this stage and anyone getting an actual book in their hands.
In short, there’s a lot more to this book malarkey than meets the eye!
Now, back to stuff that falls by the wayside—like updating my website and blog with the new USA book covers for The Wall of Night series, just for example. And various items of correspondence (you’ll know if your mail falls into this category. ๐ )
Not to mention ensuring all the plot and character reminders captured on post-its and the backs of envelopes throughout the proofing are captured in a more secure location, especially where they are relevant to the writing ofย The Wall of Night Book Four.
All designed to keep the author scurrying before she can even think about getting back to actually writing WALL4! So on that note, I had best get to it…
Oooh that’s very exciting though, seeing the book on actual paper! It looks huge that way!
Yes, you read it very differently, so I think this stage is an essential final step.
It really is! You see clearly, Wen, and to the heart of the matter. ๐
Big congrats! This is a lovely place to be… full of anticipation, with the hard work done. I’m looking forward to reading D of B – when’s the release date?
Release date is end of January 2016–so really getting quite close now! And yes, it’s good to have a “wrap.”
Let me know if you want me to post stuff on the blog in advance. ๐
Sure! ๐
Congrats all the way from Amsterdam, too! Well done.
Thanks, Marion!