How Mudsley Began
Writing a book is not an easy task. Years ago, I mentioned to my daughters that I would like to write a children’s book some day. As a teacher, I loved reading books to students so when I retired, I thought I might start working on a book of my own. I even had an idea about what my book would be about…but along the path of life filled with joys and sorrows, I never acted on my idea.
My oldest daughter, Lynn, never forgot those words and several years ago came to me with a beautiful golden box wrapped with a sparkling golden bow. I must admit that gift started my journey of writing. Inside I found a book about steps to write a successful story, a list of websites that help novice writers, a golden pen and a reminder of those words spoken so many years ago…so I started to write and write and write.
When you first begin, you think the plot and the words will flow like a river but for me it was more like a trickle…an idea here and there divided by lots of time. It is fascinating how the pieces come to you. For me, they often came in my wandering sleep nights. Who knows where the mind goes when you are suppose to be asleep.
The title for this story came to me one night and I jumped out of bed to write it down before I lost it…Mudsley and the Grand March. Then another night, I pictured two fish and the names Millie and Mort. Now I had the title and three characters…plus I knew what I wanted to tell my readers about this character called Mudsley and his journey in life.
I have been writing this story for about three years and finally feel like it is done…but one never knows because upon a re-read, I might come up with another idea or change out a word or add another character. The mantra is revise, revise, revise…edit, edit, edit! It never seems to end until finally, it does.
I was so lucky to meet this amazing artist who did all the illustrations for the story. She captured the character of Mudsley perfectly and she was a joy to work with. Mandi Smethells had two young daughters and they were our first audience. Mandi and her daughters loved nature and critters as much as my family. It was a great working relationship and I truly feel the story comes alive with her art.
Of course, I read the story to so many friends and other family members seeking input and suggestions. Their enthusiastic support was greatly needed as this is a long process and sometimes you begin to think it will never be good enough. My golf friends, my Book Club friends, my daughters’ friends, my extended family supported and encouraged me to keep writing. Bushels of thanks to each one of them for their constant encouragement!
Mudsley is soaring and I am overjoyed!
