Over a year ago, I received what I thought was an unusual email from someone, claiming to be an editor, who wanted me to write a book for their publishing company. I laughed when I received the email and ignored it for several days. Then . . . a second email came asking if they could please have a phone conversation. I was secretly intrigued enough to do a little detective work and vet the editor and the publisher. HOLY SMOKES! It was legit!
We had our phone appointment where she told me that she wanted me to write a book about crayons. I know I must have sounded incredulous! “Crayons?” I asked. “I don’t work in crayons!” She explained that through my blog and art work, she selected me to bring their book concept to life. She wanted me to be the ‘inquisitive reporter’ and explore all of the amazing things a person can do with the humble crayon. “Professional stuff, gallery-quality stuff – not crafts, fine art!!!” And then, she said, “we want you to take what you learn and create some of your own crayon art work!”
She had me hooked. “But wait,” I said. “There’s one small problem here. I have never written a book before.” She assured me all would be fine and she would hold my hand through the process. And indeed she did.
I spent 10 months researching and interviewing some of the most incredible artists I have ever met. With every mouse click and phone interview, I kept saying, “you can do that with a crayon?”
Sadly, just three days before my final deadline, my soul mate passed away. Needless to say, the book was put on hold for a short while, but I eventually got through it, with the help of my editor (who is also a widow). She gave me my space and encouragement and told me, “when you’re ready, you will finish it.”
Digging deep and working hard, I was finally able to complete the work on the book. It has been a bittersweet process, but I am so proud of the work, and just know my husband is in heaven beaming about his wife, the artist and the author! Dedicated to him and his love and support, I am happy to announce it is finally ready!
My book, “THE ART OF CRAYON,” will be released in just one week (August 15th)! You can pre-buy it HERE if you just can’t wait, or stay tuned for all the places (WORLDWIDE) where you can see my book!
More than 20 artists and their incredible artwork graces the pages of this full-color book. Stay tuned for that list of artists and some “glimpses” inside. If you do decide to get the book, I would love it if you would leave a review on Amazon or other places the book will be sold and share your input!
Look for THE ART OF CRAYON appearing on Amazon, Amazon UK, Barnes & Noble, Indigo, Book Depository, IndieBound, Waterstones, and your local Art & Craft Stores. You can also contact me directly to purchase your copy!
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Congratulations on this enormous accomplishment, Lo! I am so so proud of you!
Thanks Sandi (and for talking me off the ledge SEVERAL times)! Love you!
This made me smile so big today! I know how proud your soul mate would be and the fact that you finished the book is an amazing feat in itself! I am proud of you too, and all of your hard work and dedication. You are amazing. I love you and can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of this beautiful, and sure to be inspiring, book! Hugs sweet friend! xo Rae
Thank you Rae! I can’t wait for you to see Lincoln’s little hands on the Dedication Page! Thanks for all of the support and love! I love you!
I’m so very happy for you – it will be amazing, I just know. Mine is suppose to be here this Friday and I can’t wait. Having plenty of crayons from my daughter’s days of teaching art and some grandkids to play with, I will be busy all weekend for sure. Cancel all other plans! I’m enjoying some fun from my friend and author, Lorraine Bell!
Thank you so much Mary! I hope you will let me know what you think! I will picture you pouring through the book, crayons in hand, and finding new and different ways to put your twist on things! Love you!