3 A Story
Dorothy Price
11 years later, Geneva never knew that first writing group at Morrison Library would be the spark to make her dreams come true. She always loved to write. But it wasn’t until that first meeting Geneva believed she was a writer. Novels, short stories, plays; you name it, Geneva wrote it. All before she stumbled on a picture book. At first it was one, then two, then 300. Before long, any picture book Geneva didn’t own, was borrowed, read, dissected and returned to the library.
Locations changed over the years. Imaginon, Steele Creek, South County, Myers Park. Each one hosting author and literary events that drew Geneva in to listen, learn, and ask. Each one, fueled her desire to be on the other side of the table one day. Eventually, her reading collection grew from picture books to chapter books to middle grade to young adult. Why limit your writing to only one genre, Geneva thought?
Soon, Geneva had a writing portfolio. After years of reading and researching everything in the Mecklenburg County Library system on children’s publishing, Geneva was ready to see if her writing had what it takes. Story after story, Geneva submitted her work.
She waited.
She was rejected.
She persisted.
The door cracked, and then, quickly closed. Oh, so close. So, so close.
And then, one day, the door opened wide. Her first picture book was greeted with publishing praise. Geneva celebrated her victory! The journey long, now five years in. But this success was just the beginning. Although publishing a book was part of her dream, Geneva also wanted a literary agent to represent her writing career. Again …
She waited.
She was rejected.
She persisted.
Finally, part two of her dream came true. 11 years strong, Geneva is a fully represented children’s author.
So, what’s next?
A new set of goals and dreams, of course. The sky is the limit. The journey, once full of ups and downs, highs and lows … also full of many lessons learned along the way.
And so, Geneva will pass the torch. To new aspiring authors, who dream of starting their own writing journey. One thing to remember, before we go—if Geneva can, so can you.