Years ago, an editor reacted to the a manuscript I’d written by writing “Congratulations on a well-written first draft.” Then as I recall, he demanded all kinds of changes. That’s the way it is with writing. .For my latest book, Walking South City, my editor has demanded change after change. I imagine It’s not much different with other authors and their editors. You shouldn’t take things seriously., because that’s the process.
For my book, about a walk I took through South St. Louis, my editor insisted on something like eight drafts for one chapter. Readers will appreciate that my editor wants it right.
But it’s great when you get it right the first time. So it is with his reaction to my prologue, in which I explain some of the reasons why my route looks like it does. “Stellar. Excellent Job,” he emailed me. As somebody who didn’t get many A’s, that made me feel stellar.
Next spring, you’ll have a chance to read the book. Here’s hoping you think it’s stellar.
Jim Merkel the Writer 