28May
Let me start this post by telling you that what you are about to read is a real life dream come true. I’m not one to use kitschy phrases like that – okay, yes I am. But I really mean it this time. Today I want to tell you all about what’s going on with my book.
A few months ago, I was contacted by someone at a publishing house in New York. I’m going to keep the person and the company confidential just in case I end up being the laughing stock of the literary community. I’ll save them the embarrassment of having been the person who first reached out to me.
Anyway, they reached out to me via email and said they had an idea for a book – an honest look at the ups and downs of the first few years of marriage. The person said that they had been reading my blog and they felt like I had the right voice to tell that story and had I ever considered writing a book, specifically a memoir? When I got the email, I burst into tears. Just a pool of jumping, shrieking, dancing tears. It wasn’t so much that I was going to be published because at this point (and still today) there is the uncertainty of publishing, but it was that someone out there in the industry thought I had what it takes. That they saw something in me and that what they saw was the dream that I have always had.
In the next few days, I spoke by phone with the person at the publishing company and we talked about what kind of book I could write. She wasn’t offering me a book deal. She was just reaching out and seeing if this was something I had considered. And then she gave me two pieces of advice. She said that she and no other big publisher could work with me until I had a) gotten an agent and b) started writing a book. And so I hung up the phone and I started researching how to find a literary agent.
Turns out, it ain’t easy!
People say that finding a literary agent is more difficult than actually getting published and after a few days of reading and researching and bugging anyone I knew who had any ties to anything resembling publishing, I decided that was true. For those of you, like me, who are not familiar with the book publishing process, your agent is the person who will sell your book to a publisher. So, you can imagine the pressure of finding the right agent. You want to person who understands you, understands your work, and can be your biggest cheerleader, adviser, and advocate. Not an easy process, to say the least. And it’s a bit like dating because while you are sizing up the agent, the agent is also sizing up you. Actually, they are sizing you way more than you are them. In fact, you’re damn lucky if they even take the time to size you up in the first place.
For non-fiction books like mine, the first step is to find the agencies that represent non-fiction. But the problem was that agents are behind the scenes for a reason and it is really hard to find information on which agencies are representing what. You can Google “nonfiction literary agencies” and you get a million different firms, but there is hardly anything out there that tells you up front what agencies are good and which ones you should pass. After a few weeks of doing nothing but researching best selling books and finding out who represented them, I came up with a list of about ten different agencies that I thought might be the right fit and I found the specific agent within the agency that I thought would be the right one for me.
And then I started writing.
For non-fiction, the first thing you write is a book proposal. It’s a big document (currently mine is about 50 pages, but it looks like it will be about 100 pages when all is said and done) and it includes things like the author bio, the introduction to your book, chapter outlines, chapter summaries, and sample chapters. Mine took a solid week to write and when I was finished, it was the first time I thought to myself, “I might actually be able to do this.”
With my proposal in hand, I started sending out queries (which is literary speak for emails that beg agents to read your stuff). My query was a one page letter introducing myself, my blog, and my idea for a book – a memoir about the first five years of my marriage. If an agent is slightly interested in your topic, they will write you back and request to see your proposal, if you’re lucky. Everything that I read said to be patient because it takes agents between three to eight weeks usually to respond, if they respond at all.
Within three days, I had responses back from almost every agent I queried.
And then I wet my pants.
So, I started sending out my proposal to people, which might be one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever done. Up until now, anything I’ve written has been for you guys (who I like to picture more as pen pals than as an actual audience) and for Chris. I’ve never sent anything out professionally before. And so I waited to hear the laughter all the way from New York as these literary agents at the top agencies in the business started reading my ramblings.
For two weeks, I didn’t hear anything. And then, slowly, I started to get emails. And then my phone started to ring. And before all was said and done, all but one of my top five picks for agents had contacted me and had offered to represent me. Not only did I have a choice, but I had some of the top agencies in the industry to choose from. When I got my first offer, told them I needed to talk it over with Chris. I hung up the phone and I did the jumping, shrieking, dancing, crying thing again. And this time, Chris did it with me. And as more offers of representation came in, my mind just reeled.
I had narrowed my choices down to a couple top agencies who had made offers when I unexpectedly got an email back from my first choice agency, who I had not yet heard from. The agent said she had read my material (holy crap!) and she was interested in my material (HOLY CRAP!) but she wasn’t the right agent in their firm to represent the topic, and would I mind if she passed it along to someone who was a better fit? I said that of course I didn’t mind and I would wait to hear from someone.
A week went by and I didn’t hear anything and I didn’t feel like I could keep the other two agencies waiting for much longer. I was just about to commit to someone when I decided that I would email the agent at my first choice agency one more time. Truth be told, I really didn’t expect to hear from her again. Their film division represents actors such as Ellen Degeneres, Robert Duvall, Samuel L. Jackson, Beyonce, Al Pacino, Susan Sarandon, and Paul Giamatti, to name a few. Their literary division represents people like Nora Ephron, Toni Morrison, and the estates of Dr. Seuss and Tennessee Williams. The agency is so big that I figured she had other things going on and politely had given me the brush off. But as far reaching as this was, I couldn’t accept an offer with another agency without at least checking one more time. So, I sent a quick email her asking one more time if there was interest before I went with someone else. Within an hour or two, I had an email from both agents at International Creative Management, or better known as ICM. And within a few hours, I was on the phone with the agent who was offering representation.
We talked about my book and my blog. She had read everything I have ever written and was quoting my own self back to me. She had thoughts and ideas about my writing that were scarily similar to my own. She was enthusiastic, but realistic. And as we talked, it just felt like we clicked. I felt that I had found a partner. Someone to guide me through this process with the hand of a friend and the authority of a professional.
An hour after we spoke, I called her back and accepted her offer. This time, there wasn’t even the jumping, shrieking, dancing, crying thing. I was too overwhelmed for that.
It might seem to some people that I’m celebrating a little prematurely. I don’t even have a finished book yet. But that isn’t the part that is worthy of a celebration to me. Win, lose, or draw down the road, the part that I am celebrating now is that the wheels are turning because I finally am taking steps that will turn a pie-in-the-sky dream into a reality. Believe me, no more is more shocked at this than I am, but I’m so thankful for unexpected surprises!
I’m sharing all of this with you because this is your journey, too. As my imaginary friends, you all have been a part of this from the very beginning and it would be absolutely no fun for me at all if I couldn’t take you with me down this road. Periodically, I’ll share with you how the process is going and when I get the courage up, maybe even an excerpt or two from what I’m writing. I hope you all know how important you are to this process for me and how thankful I am for all your support and encouragement. It really does mean the world to me.
1) Jessica @ How Sweet It Is: Congrats to you!! It IS a dream come true and you are the perfect person to write about it! I seriously can't wait for the book - you candid writing about marriage and motherhood always have my in hysterics!! (05.28.2010 07:53am)
2) julia: Hi, Congratulations. This is huge. I can't wait to read it. Julie (05.28.2010 07:56am)
3) Ashley: Congratulations!! I can't imagine how it must feel to be (actually/actively) working toward your dream. We all have that dream job that we would do if it were the least bit realistic or practical and so nice to see a "friend" be going for hers... (05.28.2010 07:56am)
4) Sabrina: Whoa, this really is great!! I'm so excited for you, you'll be pulling it off, I know that for sure - so, tell me, who do you have in mind to be playing you once it will be made into a movie?! ;) Major congrats from this side of the ocean, can hardly wait to follow you on your journey :) (05.28.2010 07:58am)
5) Christie {Honoring Health}: Wow, I just found your blog today and I am already excited for you! Congratulations! (05.28.2010 08:02am)
6) deepa: Congrats! This is wonderful news! I don't think it is ever too early to celebrate! Hell, you had MULTIPLE agencies pounding on your door. Whatever happens after this, you have the knowledge that people on the inside recognized your talent and wanted to be a part of your dream. That is huge. (05.28.2010 08:02am)
7) tessabella76: Congrats!!!!! So happy for you!!! (05.28.2010 08:04am)
8) Lindsay: Congrats! I, for one, can't wait to read your book :) (05.28.2010 08:05am)
9) Nikki: Congrats Katie! I am rooting for you all the way. It is so awesome to see great things happen to great people! (05.28.2010 08:05am)
10) Liss: Congratulations! I was getting more and more excited for you as I kept reading. I had no idea it was so hard to get representation. Really looking forward to the final product. :D (05.28.2010 08:07am)
11) Stephie: Congratulations and a toast to you!!! (its OJ, but its also 8 a.m.) (05.28.2010 08:11am)
12) Megan (Best of Fates): WHOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Okay, I literally loudly exclaimed with joy when I read this... causing my coworkers to be like, "what happened" and then I explained that somebody I know through the Internet got an agent for her book, and then they looked at me as though I'd just told them I'm moving across the country to meet this amazing guy I met on WoW after hitting every SciFi Con along the way. What I'm saying is, you've destroyed any small semblance of normalcy that I had left at work, but it's worth it because oh my goodness I'm SO excited for you! Seriously, to a point that's somewhat weird given we've never met. YAY! Whew, I need to calm myself down. But YAYY!!!!!!!!! (05.28.2010 08:22am)
13) Erin: Katie - I know we don't "really" know each other but I feel like I know you through all of the blogs, even though I had to read about a years worth to get caught up once I found you. That being said, I am happy for you and proud of you for taking this step to make your dreams come true. You're an inspiration. Erin (05.28.2010 08:22am)
14) Alaina: Congratulations!!!! That is so great! I can't wait to buy and read your book! (05.28.2010 08:23am)
15) Whitney: Congratulations! Sounds exciting! (05.28.2010 08:24am)
16) Sarah D.: Congratulations! All of your hard work on this blog is paying off. I can't wait to read the book (and I've already made it through the first 5 years of marriage)! (05.28.2010 08:26am)
17) Kat: WOOO!!! I'm jumping, screaming, and screeching for you! :) THIS IS SO EXCITING! CONGRATS! Can't wait to get my hands on it!!!! (05.28.2010 08:34am)
18) kate: Oh my goodness CONGRATULATIONS!! I really am so, so, so jealous of -- I mean excited for -- you! :) Wonderful, wonderful news and so great that this dream of yours is within reach! I hope things continue to go well and I can't wait to read your book! (05.28.2010 08:35am)
19) Ellen: CONGRATS!!! I have been following via google reader for a while so I never comment, but this is TOO EXCITING! I love your writing style, and while I'm not a mom yet myself, I hope to be one day and I look forward to reading your book! (05.28.2010 08:37am)
20) Emily Ley: KATIE! This is SO HUGE! I am so stinkin proud of you!!! I know that this is just the start of a HUGE AND AMAZING journey for you!!! xo (05.28.2010 08:38am)
21) Elisabeth: Congratulations and how exciting! So happy that your dream(s) are coming true. (05.28.2010 08:41am)
22) Sarah H.: This is amazing! And inspirational! I'm just so proud of you! When your books come out I'm going to buy a lot of copies! You're right to celebrate now--in life we have to celebrate the journey, not just the end goal :) (05.28.2010 08:42am)
23) GirlyGreenGirl: Congrats! I can tell how ecstatic you are and I know your mind was running a million miles a second as you typed this post due to all the typos (which are usually minimal) but that's how I can really grasp your excitement! I'm so happy (and jealous - which is the best compliment a girl can give another girl imho!) Can't wait to read it!! (05.28.2010 08:43am)
24) Sarah H.: The sad part Megan is I understood everything you just said. Ha (05.28.2010 08:44am)
25) Leigh @ Kesler Expressler: That is so so awesome. Congratulations, Katie! (05.28.2010 08:44am)
26) Beth: Congratulations Katie!!! Can't wait til you come to my town for a book signing and pictures!!!!!!!!! (05.28.2010 08:44am)
27) Kelly S: Congratulations! It is no surprise that all the agents wanted you. You are so funny and cute, and your blog is definitely a bright spot in my day to day life. Your book is going to be amazing!! (05.28.2010 08:47am)
28) Katie: LOL - I like to think my typos are just part of my charm!! :) (05.28.2010 08:53am)
29) Jordan: SO AWESOME. You are well on your way to being just like P-Dub. I'll make sure to come meet you at a book signing ;) (05.28.2010 08:58am)
30) kk: Good news roll around when it's bean's birthday. I'm very happy and excited for you!! woohoooo~ Agent = Book = Tour.. WOOHOO~ (05.28.2010 08:58am)
31) Kim B: Congratulations! It is awesome that your dream is becoming reality! Enjoy watching it unfold. (05.28.2010 09:00am)
32) Audrey: As a former literature and creative writing major, I know how intimidating all of this publishing stuff is. Your blog really does have a wonderful "voice" and it's no surprise to me that you've received such positive feedback. Congratulations - I'm elated for you! (05.28.2010 09:02am)
33) Michaela: OH. MY. GAAAAAAWD!!! I swear I could not me more excited if I had written a damn book myself! Sometimes I feel silly getting so happy/sad/amazed/uplifted about the life/lives of people I haven't met, but I think that is just a testament to your writing. It shows the quality of it - the accessibility of it. The reason why they all wanted to publish you, and why you will be a success! I think of you as my imaginary friend too, and it is so cool to have such a high-achiever for an imaginary friend :D so CONGRATULATIONS! and I can't wait for your book tour to Australia :) If you like girl scout cookies, wait til I rock up at your book-signing with tim-tams :D (05.28.2010 09:03am)
34) jess: congrats! excited to hear how this journey goes...i look forward to living it vicariously through you :) (05.28.2010 09:06am)
35) Jessica: Yay! Yay! Yay! That is so awesome! If I knew you I'd give you a big congratulations hug! So happy to hear your good news and you will make a great author! I will be in line at your Orlando book signing for sure! (05.28.2010 09:11am)
36) Ella: Congrats!! Im so happy for you :) I cannot wait to read your book. Im over here in Australia too :) (05.28.2010 09:13am)
37) Jaymie: What a great accomplishment! I know you will write it beautifully! What a great shower or wedding gift! It will be the must have item on wedding registries. (05.28.2010 09:15am)
38) Darcy: Congratulations, Katie!!! That is such amazing news! You are an awesome writer and I can't wait to read your book (05.28.2010 09:15am)
39) Sara: Wow!! Congratulations!! Wishing you best of luck in this new and exciting journey! (05.28.2010 09:18am)
40) Lori C: This imaginary friend is SO PROUD of you! You really do feel like a friend and because I love your writing, and your family, and your friendship (even if it is just on the internet), I will be one of the first in line to buy your book! If you do book signings will you promise to come to Tulsa? (05.28.2010 09:18am)
41) Ashley: Congratulations - that's fantastic! I wish you all the best and can't wait to read your book! (05.28.2010 09:20am)
42) Jen C: AMAZING!!! congrats! can't wait to read it! you must come to st. louis for a book signing :) (05.28.2010 09:22am)
43) Jennifer: That's amazing news! Congrats and best of luck on this journey! (05.28.2010 09:25am)
44) Tiffany: That's the best news I've heard all week! Like all the rest of your imaginary friends who love you, I'm so happy for and proud of you! It's awesome that you're on the right path to live your dream and it really couldn't happen to anyone better. Your blog is the first thing I look at when I get to work in the morning and it's often the best part of my day (esp. when there are new Bean pics and stories!). Congrats Katie! Can't wait to tell you in person when you're a famous author on a BOOK TOUR! (05.28.2010 09:29am)
45) Katie: Congratulations!! (05.28.2010 09:30am)
46) Katie: Wow! Congratulations! When your book is published, I will wait in line to meet you - you are my PW! (05.28.2010 09:33am)
47) Jenny J.: Katie, that is amazing! I am so happy for you! No, happy doesn't do enough, I'm ecstatic! I will be first in line to buy your book when it hits the shelves :) (05.28.2010 09:36am)
48) Rachel P.: Congratulations Katie! What a dream for you! I'm so excited you are an open book to all your readers...and you are so personal! Thanks for sharing your ups and down and your really highs with us...I can't wait to get my hands on your book! Good luck throughout the entire process. (05.28.2010 09:39am)
49) Betty: Congratulations!!! And I agree with what Comment 44 says, I will totally make you take a picture with me and my baby when you do your book tour!!!! (05.28.2010 09:40am)
50) Meghan: Congratulations, Katie!! It's absolutely wonderful you made your " real life dream come true" :) And I would totally be a crying, screaming, jumping up and down mess right there with you because it's such an amazing moment! (05.28.2010 09:43am)
51) Lee Ann: Just amazing and wonderful! Also a little jealous that we'll have to "share" you with the wider world once your book hits the NY Times top 10 list! Congratulations, Katie! (05.28.2010 09:44am)
52) courtney: Wow and congratulations! It's so great to see someone, who like so many of us out there is working hard to make it with a husband and a kid, begin to see their dreams coming true. I certainly don't think you're celebrating prematurely. (05.28.2010 09:48am)
53) Katherine: Wow such big news!! Enjoy it and celebrate it and everything else this holiday weekend! Congrats!! (05.28.2010 09:51am)
54) Life of a Doctor's Wife: Oh my gosh Katie... I haven't even been reading you that long, but I feel so freaking happy and excited for you! You deserve a bestseller! Thank you so so much for letting us tag along on your journey! (05.28.2010 10:00am)
55) Kendra: Katie what great news! I'm so excited for you! What a blessing right now for you and your family. (05.28.2010 10:01am)
56) Miriam: Congratulations! What a huge step! And I love your attitude - regardless of what happens down the road (and I'm personally hoping for LOTS of books full of your awesome writing and sense of humor and photos!), this is a big accomplishment and something to celebrate. Yay! :) (05.28.2010 10:02am)
57) Kathleen: I'm so proud of you Katie. much love, K (05.28.2010 10:05am)
58) Caitlin@ Simple Girl Confessions: I am SOOO FREAKING EXCITED. I will be in line to buy that book that very morning it comes out! CONGRATULATIONS KATIE! (05.28.2010 10:05am)
59) Nancy: Wow! Your dreams are coming true and it is amazing! What is more amazing is that this will prove to Bean (and any other children you may have!) that they too should chase their dreams because anything they think they can do! Congratulations to someone who truly deserves everything that will come! (05.28.2010 10:07am)
60) Jessica: Congratulations!! This is exciting. Can't wait to read your book!! (05.28.2010 10:09am)
61) Sara: Huge Congratulations! Seriously this is so exciting. All of your hard work is paying off--of course there's lots more hard work to come, but that's what makes it all great! Enjoy the ride Katie! (05.28.2010 10:11am)
62) dave: Congrats! I'm happy for you. I'm also pround of my taste because someone I discovered in this infinite Internet space, someone whose writing I admired, without anyone telling me about how good you are, is going to publish a book. So, when Bean grows up he is going to have a writer mommy and will be seeing pictures of himself in book(s?). Sounds cool. Congrats again! (05.28.2010 10:23am)
63) jaymee: let's see, it's friday AND something good happened to a good person - it's gonna be a great day now, I just know it. Congrats! You've so earned this. : ) (05.28.2010 10:23am)
64) Omaha Kat: Congratulations, Katie. I, and all your imaginary friends, are rooting for you. Thanks for letting us be a part of your journey... (05.28.2010 10:26am)
65) Marie: Congratulations! I am super excited for you! I just found your blog recently, through a friend, but have pretty much read through your archives. I love your storytelling method, and can't wait to see what the book possibilities bring! (05.28.2010 10:26am)
66) Katie's Grandma: Katie, Sweetie it is with tears in my eyes, trembling in my hands, and such JOY in my heart, that I say Congratulations!!! Throughout your teen years, I have kept all the sweet things you have written. Some were very poignant, some very funny (especially the 100 or so things you wanted in a husband)! And you found him!! Next came BEANIE - The light of our lives! Now, ,, , A BOOK!!! To say I am proud of you is an understatement. (05.28.2010 10:28am)
67) Casey: That is really amazing... congrats! Just like with PWs cookbook, I can't wait to buy your book! (05.28.2010 10:29am)
68) Robin: That absolutely unbelievably awesome! Congrats and job well done! (05.28.2010 10:30am)
69) Tara: Congrats Katie! Can't wait to read the book when it comes out! (05.28.2010 10:41am)
70) Sarah @ Picture Window Blog: How exciting! It's really interesting to hear about the process you're going through. (05.28.2010 10:42am)
71) Tiffany: Katie, I am so proud of you!! This is such exciting news. Congratulations. Can we go ahead and start the pre-orders? You are the highlight of my daily blog reading and I can't wait to read your book! beautifulblogger.com (05.28.2010 10:43am)
72) Courtney @ Living Life on Fire: Yay! Congrats! (05.28.2010 10:49am)
73) Mindee@ourfrontdoor: High Five Katie. You are totally going to succeed at this because you are more than just a great writer - you are also a good business woman. You have a plan, you follow through and you work hard. There are a lot of good writers out there but your skills are what is going to make it! (05.28.2010 10:53am)
74) Gina B.: Nothing premature about this! You have every right to do a little happy dance and tell all the world about your good news! I'm so happy for you and I know your book will be amazing! Congratulations! (05.28.2010 10:57am)
75) Heather in ND: Aww, your grandma is TOO sweet!! CONGRATS CONGRATS CONGRATS!!! Mindee is totally right, you're amazing!! (05.28.2010 10:57am)
76) Dan: WOW, that is so cool, congratulations! Your trials and tribulations remind me of all we went through 30 years ago and my kids are going through now. (05.28.2010 10:58am)
77) Casper: Congratulations, that is wonderful! It is a step in the direction and is totally worth celebrating! (05.28.2010 11:19am)
78) Katie: Congratulations!! I am so happy for you, but honestly I'm not shocked at all. You are such a great writer, so I have always pictured you writing a book. I can't wait to buy your book! Maybe you and I can become BFF's like you and PW. Ha! Congrats again, you totally deserve this! (05.28.2010 11:20am)
79) Summer B R: Katie, I am sooo thrilled for you. This is so exciting and I cant wait to hear more about this journey. When you're all rich & famous, dont forget the little people.....and your FAMILY (even the ones by marriage!!!) xxoo (05.28.2010 11:26am)
80) Katie S.: Congratulations, Katie! I'm so happy for you, and all that this means to you and your family! Please know that your success gives me hope that I will one day be able to pursue my passion in life :) (05.28.2010 11:27am)
81) Jen: CONGRATULATIONS!!! I was getting a rather slow start this morning and really had the mindset that it's Friday...who cares! I dropped my boys off at daycare and was slugging along in the car when it dawned on me...Katie has a HUGE BLOG POST today...MUST.INCREASE.MY.SPEED. ...and as I read this, I actually wiped a tear from my eye. I don't even know you and I am fabulously happy for you and proud of you! You deserve a glass of champie...what the heck, you deserve a whole bottle! (05.28.2010 11:36am)
82) Holly: Congrats and best wishes on making your dream come true! (05.28.2010 11:38am)
83) Dawn: Wow - I haven't even been following your blog very long and I got GOOSEBUMPS reading this post. Like everyone else I am sooo excited for your news, and look forward to reading more about this as you continue to share - and of course looking forward to your book. It is such a wonderful thing to watch as someone's dreams come true. :-) (05.28.2010 11:45am)
84) Kristin H: Congratulations!! That is such exciting news! The comment from your grandmother almost made me tear up. You and your family must be bursting with pride right now - imagine when the book is published :-)!!! (05.28.2010 11:45am)
85) Adrienne: Congrats Katie! You know that you will have tons of your dedicated readers preordering your book as soon as we can. It's so great that you are following your dreams. whoo hoo! (05.28.2010 12:07pm)
86) Sara: Wow! I've never been so happy for someone I don't know! Congrats!! (05.28.2010 12:11pm)
87) Msnels: Congrats! I would most def read your book and am looking forward to it! :) (05.28.2010 12:27pm)
88) Andrea: I am teared up reading your last post. Might have something to do with being pregnant with twins and crying at a lot of things lately, but it's also because I feel so proud and excited for you. I have been reading your blog long before you got pregnant and felt a connection to your stories and where you are in your life. This is really wonderful news and I just wanted to say congrats on your accomplishment. I look forward to purchasing your book some day and if you make it to Jersey for your own book tour we can have a photo op with my two beans and husband. ;) (05.28.2010 12:39pm)
89) Amy: CONGRATS, KATIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is such WONDERFUL news!!! And holy COW, what a prestigious agency. So happy for you, and will be praying for your efforts these next few months. :) (05.28.2010 12:43pm)
90) Amy: And hey, maybeeeeeeee you can go on a sweet book tour like your bff! ;) I'd stay in line for a few hours! (05.28.2010 12:44pm)
91) Katie B.: Congratulations! You've worked so hard for your dream and I'm so happy you've been given the opportunity to achieve it! (05.28.2010 12:46pm)
92) Diana: Huge congratulations, Katie! What an exciting time! It's fun to take this journey with you...thanks for sharing the details with us. (05.28.2010 12:55pm)
93) Diana: Your charm and your humanity! I think that's why they have editors in the literary world! (05.28.2010 12:57pm)
94) Alex: I know this is what you'll be hearing all day, but congratulations! This is so exciting & I'm interested to hear how the process goes and to read your book when it's published. (05.28.2010 12:57pm)
95) Christina: Katie! That is so fantastic! :) I love how you break it down for all of us. I am definitely not a creative writer, but I appreciate those who are, and sort of live vicariously through you. I am SO exctied to see where this goes for you. God is so good! (05.28.2010 01:03pm)
96) Lindsey: Congratulations Katie!!! I can't wait to read more about your journey. (05.28.2010 01:11pm)
97) Dawn: Congrats! Reading through all your well-wishers comments I happened to see your Grandma's comment and it brought tears to my eyes. So awesome! (05.28.2010 01:13pm)
98) RACHEL: wow so pleased for you, cant wait to hear more x (05.28.2010 01:15pm)
99) Ashley: WAY TO GO! I love to see your dream become reality and it's so inspiring. Good Luck! (05.28.2010 01:31pm)
100) Kristen: That's amazing news! I'm so happy for you! Hearing stuff like this makes me feel like all of our dreams are possible. Even mine. So thank you so much for sharing your news, and congratulations! What an adventure you're about to have. :) :) (05.28.2010 01:43pm)
101) Amber Barnum: That's great news! Congratulations!! I love reading your blog, and I will be first in line to buy your book when you finish it! I love hearing your outlook on marriage, parenting, and life in general. You are just so funny and snarky! :-) (05.28.2010 02:01pm)
102) Susan Samson: Congrats to you Katie! So very happy for you! I love your blog and with your humor will surely keep me laughing! (05.28.2010 02:10pm)
103) Emma Graves Fitzsimmons: Hi there -- I've been reading your blog for a few months, but this is my first comment. First of all, congrats! I'm a writer -- well, a reporter, for the NYTimes, and I am so happy for you. What a great opportunity! I've really enjoyed your blog and look forward to reading your heartfelt observations here in my cubicle. I decided to finally go ahead and post a comment because I wanted to share an interesting blog by a woman who is trying to publish her first book, a travel memoir about her time in Africa. She just got an agent, and she poses interesting questions about writing and the publishing process as you embark on this journey. Best of luck! http://www.alexisgrant.com/author_blog.php (05.28.2010 02:11pm)
104) Abby @ They Lend Me Their Hearts: Holy Crap is right!! That is so exciting!! I can't wait to buy your book and place it right next to my PW Cooks book... well maybe not right next to it since the cook book is where my other cook books are... But you'll be on the shelf! After I finish reading it that is! (05.28.2010 02:13pm)
105) Marina: This is my first time posting a comment, though I read your blog daily. Just wanted to say CONGRATS! Very exciting news! I'm looking forward to hearing more about the process as you go along. (05.28.2010 02:23pm)
106) Jenna: Congratulations, Katie! I'm so happy for you! I love your blog and love books even more, so I can't wait for this to happen when it does! (05.28.2010 02:25pm)
107) Mallory: Congratulations, Katie!!! I am so happy and excited for you - you so deserve this. You're going to do great!! (05.28.2010 02:48pm)
108) Alaska Jordan: OH MY WORD!!! This is so amazing!! (But sounds exhausting.) Thanks for sharing in this special time for you guys... I can't wait for updates! (05.28.2010 02:59pm)
109) andrea: holy crap! so exciting! now get writing because i need a new book to read!!! (05.28.2010 03:18pm)
110) Katie M: Wow congratulations Katie! You are an incredible writer and your book will be amazing! What an incredible blessing! (05.28.2010 03:33pm)
111) Kara: Oh Katie -- congratulations! You have such a gift with words and for sharing your experiences. So many good thoughts & wishes being sent your way! (05.28.2010 03:54pm)
112) Lindsay: Congratulations, Katie! This is wonderful news, and as someone who works in publishing (children's), I know how difficult and trying a process it can be to get an agent and to go on to submit to publishers after that. Thanks for a great description of the process, and congratulations on such quick success!! (05.28.2010 04:05pm)
113) Ali: How wonderful! Congrats and I look forward to reading all your books. ;-) (05.28.2010 04:49pm)
114) Maggie (Southern Graduate): Katie, what great news!! I think we're all doing a little jumping and shrieking for you, in our own little corners of the world. Congrats!! (05.28.2010 04:51pm)
115) Mike J in Fremont: Congratulations Katie!!! That is fantastic news! I look forward to reading you book. MJ (05.28.2010 04:58pm)
116) Meredith: Oh my GOODNESS!!! This is incredible. I remember reading one of your early posts back in the day saying that you wanted to write a book. And now you are being represented by one of the TOP agencies. And had MULTIPLE offers. AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING!!! I am so happy for you. Many many congratulations!! (05.28.2010 05:09pm)
117) Alicia: Congratulations Katie! I can't wait to read that book someday! (05.28.2010 05:39pm)
118) Keshet: This is so interesting to read and so exciting for you, Katie! (05.28.2010 05:54pm)
119) Katrina: That is so exciting! I can't wait to here more about the book and the process, and hopefully be able to buy the book! (05.28.2010 06:04pm)
120) teenage geek: I hope you know how great it is that you're sharing this success with everybody. I've toyed with the idea of being a writer at some point and this post gives me hope that it might actually happen. Thank you. (05.28.2010 07:12pm)
121) Amy: I am already so excited to read your book. Get writing! (05.28.2010 07:35pm)
122) Tan@tan/green: I truly cannot think of anything more exciting than this - I am so happy for you! Congrats and good luck as you put all that hard work and love into The Book. (05.28.2010 07:36pm)
123) mmclaughlin: Wow - that is amazing!! Congratulations!! I think I would freak out if one agency was offering me a book deal - and probably go into a dead faint if there were multiple offers...especially from the first choice agency! Good luck with your writing! (05.28.2010 07:48pm)
124) Chelsea: I remember when I first stumbled upon your blog and read everything from the beginning in a weekend. I cannot wait for the book (which I am sure will not only happen, but be wonderful). Congratulations! (05.28.2010 08:05pm)
125) Caroline: WOW!!! Congratulations! You deserve every bit of this -- what an exciting journey! (05.28.2010 09:05pm)
126) Cindy: All that I can say is that I knew you could do it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (05.28.2010 09:26pm)
127) Kate: Congratulations Katie!!!! That is absolutely awesome and I'm so happy for you! (05.28.2010 09:45pm)
128) Maybelline: Wooohooooooooooooooooo...!!! Yaaayyyyyy..! I got emotionaalll!!!! =) this is huge for you guys and just wanna say Keep it up: The sky is the limit!!!!!!.. Congratulations and thanks for sharing!! (05.28.2010 09:49pm)
129) Lisa: SUCH EXCITING NEWS!!! They have great taste. I visited Pioneer Woman's blog daily for years... now I visit yours daily (and hers weekly). We love reading about your adventures, Katie! (05.28.2010 10:34pm)
130) La.: Um wow. I am so proud of you Katie! (05.28.2010 10:49pm)
131) David: Congratulations! And enjoy that terrific feeling (oh my God somebody is interested in Publishing My Stuff) for as long as it lasts. (05.28.2010 11:22pm)
132) Israel Chauca F.: Congratulations! I'm looking forward to read your book ;) (05.28.2010 11:46pm)
133) Sarah C. H.: As your imaginary friend I just wanted to say how proud I am of you!!! Maybe that's weird, but you're our imaginary friend too. I'm so excited that you're finally writing a book. I've been wanting to read it since I first stumbled upon your blog. Congratulations!!!! (05.29.2010 02:10am)
134) Christina: It is going to be a wonderful adventure!! Congratulations, and thank you for taking us along! (05.29.2010 03:30am)
135) Lisa: This is absolutely amazing, and I am so happy for you! You definitely have a good following of supporters and I can't wait to see where this takes you! (05.29.2010 04:13am)
136) Andie: Oh my God! I don't even know you and I started to tear!! This is amazing I'm so happy for you :D I can't wait to read your book! (05.29.2010 04:56am)
137) Ginny: I couldn't be happier for you, Kate. All these many, many blessings are no doubt a credit to your hard work and dedication to a passion and dream you've had for years. Your blog has mande you an inspiration to so many (and soon to be millions more!) but you've always been an inspiration to me. I'm so proud to call you my sister - not just today but everyday. (05.29.2010 08:24am)
138) Liz, JM, Leo and Rosie: YAY! We're all jumping up and down around here for you! Way to go and CONGRATS! Can't wait to see what happens next! (05.29.2010 09:47am)
139) Becca: Congratulations Katie!!! Very exciting news!! I can't wait to check out your book :) Funny thing- my husband is represented by ICM as well for his screenplay writing! I remember how exciting it was for him to sign all his paperwork and feel like finally some doors were opening up. Best of luck and enjoy the journey :) (05.29.2010 11:21am)
140) Heather M: As an ex-editor from the publishing world I can completely see why they are so interested in representing you. You have a clear and warm writing voice that imparts some of who you really are to your readers. That is a powerful voice. Congratulations on your new venture. Enjoy the excitement and the journey :) (05.29.2010 12:39pm)
141) melissa: dear katie that is marvelous news. it is so special to feel validated for your passion. congratulations. love, melissa (05.29.2010 02:16pm)
142) Heather: I don't think this is premature AT ALL! What has happened so far is most definitely notable and worth celebrating. I applaud you for recognizing your success, and thank you for letting us in. Good luck and congratulations! (05.29.2010 04:51pm)
143) Spain: Congratulations! What wonderful news!! Here's wishing you all the best!!!!!! (05.29.2010 05:13pm)
144) alison: woo hoo! you go girl! congratulations! I knew you'd be famous! (05.29.2010 06:17pm)
145) Cindy: Congratulations, Katie! That is such exciting news!! (05.29.2010 10:05pm)
146) Ashley: I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU! I have been hooked on your blog from day one about a year ago, and honestly feel like you are a best friend! SO GLAD to see you reach a dream! You've got this girl!! (05.30.2010 12:15am)
147) Brooke: Congrats Katie! I can't wait to read it! (05.30.2010 01:09am)
148) Ashley: Congratulations! That is super duper news! I can't wait to read the book :) (05.30.2010 08:24am)
149) Laura: Wow, that is so exciting! Congratulations! Ever since you mentioned even the remotest thought of a book, I've had some money set aside to buy it just as soon as it came out. Can't wait to hear more about it. Congratulations again, you so deserve this! (05.30.2010 01:23pm)
150) Jeska: Just make sure you go west for your first tour of book signings. Don't stay only on that side of the country. I would be first in line in my area!!! (05.30.2010 03:15pm)
151) Emilyc: Congratulations!!! That is awesome! I'm so excited for you, and just so you know - I'd buy your book! :) (05.30.2010 03:40pm)
152) Michelle @ theyellowlily.etsy.com: Wow!!!!! Congratulations... I am so excited for you and your family and can't wait to read more!!!!!! :) (05.30.2010 07:37pm)
153) Laura: Whooop! Is it weird that I'm proud of you?! Your blog readers are probably your biggest cheerleaders, after Chris and Bean, that is. :) Congrats Katie!!! (05.30.2010 08:25pm)
154) Katie: Congratulations... I am sooo excited for you. Make sure you include Australia on your future book tour as a NY Times Bestselling author... I will stalk you ala Pioneer Woman! No I am not getting ahead of myself! (05.31.2010 05:34am)
155) Ashley: Congratulations! I absolutely cannot wait until you have a published book that I can hold in my hot little hands, AND for when you do a book signing and I get to hear you speak in person! (I sound so stalker-y, I know, but I love this blog!) (05.31.2010 09:19am)
156) Emily Marie: Yay!!!! I'm so very very happy for you! I can't even imagine the excitement you must be feeling right now - good job, and I can't wait to read it!! (05.31.2010 10:18pm)
157) Deb: Congrats! This is a big milestone in your journey, so happy for you guys! (06.01.2010 10:47am)
158) Megan: Congratulations Katie!! (06.01.2010 12:27pm)
159) Jaclyn: Katie - that is so incredibly amazing!! I'm so excited for you, and I wish you all the best -- I want to be able to read that book!! hehe. Congrats! (06.01.2010 09:10pm)
160) Jeanne: wow. that's totally awesome. congratulations! i'm so excited for you! (06.01.2010 11:05pm)
161) Ginger: Congratulations! The publishing process is long and arduous, especially for non-fiction so kudos to you for what sounds like a wonderful start to the process (I work in non-fiction publishing though, so I may be biased)! (06.02.2010 04:42pm)