PENNY SPEAK

'There are three rules for writing the novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.'
W. Somerset Maugham

"Like most writers I was turned down more often than I care to remember, or cared to admit to my agent. Now, when it's too late for her to dump me, I might as well admit it. A few things would have helped had I known them earlier. This is a small attempt to make your life a little easier, if you're an unpublished author.

First - finish the book. Most people who start books never finish them. Don't be one of those. Do it, for God's sake. You have nothing to fear - it won't kill you. It won't even bite you. This is your dream - this is your chance."

It isn't often that you hear authors talk like that or even write with such honesty. Some are smug about the first agent/first publisher/movie rights they bagged. Others will mention it in passing, then subtly move on to the other stuff. Rarely, do they want to delve on the touchy issue of rejection slips.

That's just one of the many reasons why the award-winning Canadian author Louise Penny seems so endearing. She has so much to share about Getting Published, starting with what you just read.

She gives a nod to writing contests, while nudging you to get on with it.

I only get to meet her in September and I know there won't be a still moment as we take a walk down Three Pines.