Fabulous book cover!

Final Edits are Finished!

I'm happy to report that I've completed the final edits and the manuscript is now with the designer who is beginning her part of the production process.

We had a grand total of 189 contributors who shared their stories, memories and tributes to Jake. It's funny, touching, hilarious and has something for everyone.

Gar Whaley, my publisher, told me that he had two reactions after he read the manuscript. The first was that he was sorry he never met Jake Hanna. The second was that he now felt like he knew him. That's exactly the reaction I was hoping for, so I'm delighted he felt that way.

We Have a Publisher!

I'm thrilled to report that I have signed a contract with Meredith Music Publications, who plan to release the book in the fall of 2012. So I'm really working hard to finish it.

For several years November has been NaNoWriMo - National Novel Writing Month - in writing circles. People actually try to write an entire book in 30 days! I'm borrowing that 'template' and modifying it as MaLyMeWriMo - Maria Lynette Memoir Writing Month - as my writing partner Lynette and I both undertake to finish our books by November 30.

May the literary forces be with us.