Lou and David Sears

For a recent Critique Group meeting, I looked back at my first attempt at becoming a published author. “Clara Finds Her Roots” was my first real manuscript that I sent out into the world. It began as a wordy (over 1,300 words) picture book idea. I didn’t know you shouldn’t approach published authors and ask them to read your story and offer suggestions – you are suppose to be invited to do so. Oops! I had gotten to know a couple of authors pretty well from being Conference Chair for the Missouri Reading Association, and wanted their opinion. They were gracious and read my story and offered suggestions. My story wasn’t very good at that point so after making several revisions and getting it down under 800 words, I put it aside and worked on other stories. This week I looked at my first story again and have decided that I really like my little story about a girl who discovers her Irish roots. Thinking about sending it to some publishers who are interested in historical fiction.