Thursday, December 9, 2010

I Could Be Your Writer

I'm not sure what the etiquette is for this thing I'm going to do, or even if there is one. But I'm going to do it anyway, because, you know, I've got this blog here at my fingertips, it's sort of decently established, and so why not tell you what I'm thinking?

I'm thinking you know me. You know people. People know people. We have all these great connections, and supportive friends, and folks who just happen to stop by our internet places.

What's to say my blog won't be visited by the person(s) who holds the key to my literary future?

Elizabeth Berg was a freelance writer when someone contacted her, an agent, I think it was, or maybe an editor, and said, "I've this proposal for a book, and I want you to be its writer." Someone contacted her, just sort of slid the folder of opportunity across her desk. She took the job, wrote the non-fiction book, which springboarded her into the fiction career she wanted. Now, two-dozen highly-successful novels later...

So I'm thinking maybe there's someone out there looking for a writer. Maybe they're looking for me, because I could be the one plucked from obscurity. Why not?

I'm a good fiction writer. I can do narrative non-fiction, too. Short stuff, long stuff, articles, books. I do have experience. I relate well to people, understand a variety of topics. And I'm confident in my skills. I'm also fortunate to have people in my life who would vouch for me on this stuff. I consider you all, my readers, among them.

You know what? Some might think this is me begging a lucky break, but it's not. It's me acknowledging my place, my potential, and admitting that I've worked hard for close to ten years. It's me agreeing to work harder yet, because I'm here, and I'm ready.

I could be your writer. Are you looking for me? Do you know someone who could be?

35 comments:

Melissa Gill said...

I think that one of the exciting possibilities of social networking is the opportunity to make just that kind of connection.

Susan R. Mills said...

I hope the person who wants you to be their writer comes along quickly! Good luck to you, Janna!

Terri Tiffany said...

I love your confidence!! I read that about E. Berg too and thought the same thing. One never knows!

Janna Leadbetter said...

In the meantime, I keep working as I've always done, mindful of the path laid before me. There is a plan, and I'm ready to seize it!

Rhonda Schrock said...

Best wishes! Keep us posted on the next chapter of your story, Janna.

Melissa Amateis said...

Good for you for putting this out there, Janna. That takes courage all on its own. :-)

Anonymous said...

I applaud you, Janna. Good luck to you.

Melissa Sarno said...

Janna, I'm with you on this one! I recently decided I'm just going to tell people I'll write for them if they need a writer and see what happens. Good for you, putting yourself out there. I will keep my ears open for jobs. And if you have some experience writing game scripts for kids, let me know, I work in Children's Media.

Karen said...

Janna, I think this is a good way to try to test the waters. You never know what's under the currents until you step in. Blessings**

Diane said...

I love it and I love your courage to step out. I am the ultimate big dream believer and I pray the right person or connection is made for you! Hugs :O)

Anonymous said...

You go girl! Keep up the confidence and sef-promotion and surprises will slide across your desk too, I'm sure!

septembermom said...

I think that it's a good thing to put it out there and see who comes along. I wish you the best of luck Janna.

DL Hammons said...

I think thats a great idea! Good luck with it. :)

Janet Johnson said...

Go you! I hope you find them. :)

Anonymous said...

Janna, I hope you get a big fat book contract from this! You deserve it.
-FringeGirl

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Janna -

Letting people know your availability for projects is part of social networking. I hope this post opens doors for you. :)

Blessings,
Susan

Tabitha Bird said...

I wish i did know someone. I hope since you have put it out there that something good comes your way :)

The Hat Chick said...

Will yourself into where you want to be. Have you ever considered self publishing and selling to independent booksellers? Have you sent your book to Oprah?

I'm not a writer. I'm a business, a-type chick. From a marketing perspective, that's what I would do. I would send my book to Oprah. Giddy up, girl!

Jill Kemerer said...

Wouldn't that be the coolest thing ever if an editor stopped by your blog with an assignment?? I hope it happens!

Kathryn Magendie said...

YES! Because Janna is wonderful - so someone snatch her up quick!

Elana Johnson said...

Just another reason why the Internet is such a great place. So much potential for good to happen! Keeping my fingers crossed for you, and if I know anyone looking for something, I'll send them your way.

Jemi Fraser said...

What a fun idea! Good luck with it!!

Jackee said...

Love that story about Elizabeth Berg. Here's hoping you get the same luck to go with your talent, Janna!

Midlife Roadtripper said...

I don't think you are begging at all. You have a service to offer. A valid one. Many, many say they want to write a book. Then they try and realize very quickly there is more to writing than just putting words on a page.

I hope someone takes you up on this. Butt in chair is one of the hardest parts of being a writing.

Laura@OutnumberedMom said...

I say, "Why not?" with you, Janna! You never know -- keep us updated.

Patti Lacy said...

Janna, you are right ON!!! SO MANY folks are "checking out" web posts and Facebook material.

May God bring you His perfect plan during 2011!!!!

Blessings,
Patti

Deb Shucka said...

You go, Janna.

Kristen Torres-Toro said...

I hope the right person sees this, Jana! You deserve it!

Debbie said...

I hope you do get a response from this! And why not? I did not know that about Elizabeth Berg.

Janna Leadbetter said...

I didn't know how this post would be received, but you're so encouraging! I love you all. Thank you.

colbymarshall said...

Cool- ood luck with that!

colbymarshall said...

Cool- ood luck with that!

Linda Myers said...

Great idea, Janna! We have this great network - why not use it?

I'm a new follower.

Heather Sunseri said...

You never know, do you? That would be so exciting! I'll have to check out Elizabeth Berg's story.

Barbara/myth maker said...

Way to go. I know that lucky break will come to you soon.