For the past three early mornings I’ve been editing two new manuscripts that Carole is preparing to publish. I’m pleased to have finished both. The manuscripts are now sealed in separate envelopes ready for delivery to Carole. She will make the final changes and then submit for the printing of review copies.
I’m eager to receive the printed copies of the book. We are publishing a very small run at first and I will control the distribution to potential sponsors. That is the early stage of my self-publishing strategy. I’m enthusiastic about the advance in technology that will open so many new opportunities in self-publishing for Carole and me.
The work we publish is a very small niche of the reading market. It is not for everyone. Specifically, we will publish content for those who want to learn more about the prison experience and strategies for growing through it. Both of the books that we will release this fall sever that need, and before my release I intend to publish with Carole between two and five additional titles.
As a prison family, both Carole and I feel passionate about helping others create meaning in their lives as they or their loved ones struggle through the criminal justice system. We both understand how traumatic prison can be, but much of that trauma exists because it’s such a world of darkness. Few people can look beyond the stereotypes. They expect prisons to beat people down, to destroy their hope and punish them psychologically.
I do not dispute the pains of imprisonment. It is hard on family members and it can be hard on the individuals who endure imprisonment. Yet I strive to live as an example. With the love of my wife I want to show others that a disciplined strategy can lead to fulfillment while simultaneously enriching relationships and prepare for successful reentry. That’s what I strive to show through every book I write. Just as a single book on fishing wouldn’t be enough to describe the sport, one book on a prison journey wouldn’t be enough to describe everything. I intend to write many, in so doing I hope to help others understand this growing subculture thoroughly.
I’ll write more on the books we’re self-publishing later.
Ran 10 miles / 5,450 miles in 611 days
Sunday, 15 August 2010
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