Originally Posted By JohnS1 I don't know if I ever mentioned it here before, but ever since I wrote and had published my book about Death Valley, I never knew if the book would actually be allowed IN Death Valley. It's a National Park, you see, which means that a proposed book must be read and reviewed by a committee of federal government employees who have to determine if the contents of any book satisfies the goals, objectives and mission of each particular park. In my case, the head of the department that orders and stocks volumes in park-owned retail outlets loved my book, but noted a few things that might signal red flags among the park officials who had to review it. So, for six months, I have been on edge as to whether my book would even be allowed in the park. Given that there are 800,000 to a million visitors each year, it is obviously to my advantage to have my book stocked there! Well, today I heard from my publisher that the book was approved and will be stocked at the Visitor's Center book store. I'm as happy as a clam, especially since I'll be there on the 9th, 10th and 11th of this month to make a presentation at the DV 49ers Encampment. Now, I will be able to announce the publication of my book and actually tell them they can buy it IN the park. Woo Hoo! I am overjoyed! PS -- If you have read my book, kindly leave reviews at Amazon.com if you get the chance. There are still only three there now! Many thanks, John
Originally Posted By Ursula Hi John, I now own your book. FINALLY!!! I do have some LPWBSPing to do and then I will dig into it. I will also try to write a review for you, too. (Even though I haven't written anything in ten years or so!)
Originally Posted By LilliBelle John, this is wonderful news! Congratulations! I, too, have your book and have read just a little bit. I promise to take the time to read the rest and post a review. I really like your style of writing.
Originally Posted By smedley This is excellent news John, I ordered my copy last week. I will make sure to post a review once I've received and read it!
Originally Posted By -em Awesome! Now I need to go there so I could point to the book and say "I "know" the author!" -em
Originally Posted By wendebird WOO HOO! WOnderful news John! I'm very happy for you. BTW, I plan on visiting for the first time this year & will buy your book before we go.
Originally Posted By JohnS1 Thanks to all of you for the good wishes! And to top it all off, I got even more good news today. As soon as the book was approved, the head of the Death Valley Natural History Association called my publisher wanting to set up three separate signings for November 10 and 11. I can't believe they are throwing out all the stops like this. I only wish some of you could be there! Thanks again for all the good wishes. Your support has really been important to my continued optimism when things have not been quite so rosy!
Originally Posted By Kar2oonMan Great news, John! I like the fact that your book is gaining momentum like this.
Originally Posted By JohnS1 Thanks, Toonie! This was a big coup for me because I wanted some continuity on an annual basis so that my publisher will see it as worth their while to keep reprinting each year. Being in DV is a big step toward achieving a minimum number of anticipated base sales each year. But it's not just the prospect of making an income off of a book; the idea is that continued sales will allow me to do more book writing and not have to keep getting part time jobs to make ends meet. I'm slowly learning how full-time writers make a living - by having several irons in the fire at the same time. I wanted to share someone else's success as well. My agent, Laurie Abkemeier, also represents John Grogan, a Phildelphia Enquirer columnist whose new book, "Marley and Me" is pretty high up on the NY Times Best Sellers list. What a great accomplishment for her, and for the author too, of course. Would that I could make THAT list! Again, thanks to you all for your kind words. If anyone happens to be passing through Death Valley next week, please look me up! (-:
