I am trying to write a Middle Grade novel. I've never done this before and my internal editor keeps shouting at me how completely awful it is. But I'm still trying and, when I stop worrying about whether it's good or not, I'm having a lot of fun with it.
My son asked to read it the other day. He's in second grade and reading has been a struggle for him this year. I think the main problem he has is that he's not interested in the books and if he's not interested, he's distracted.
Anyway, I intended the book for someone a little older, but when he asked to read it, I let him. Of course I let him! He sat down with my laptop and started reading. I pretended to do something else, but really, I was watching his reaction. I expected him to get bored soon, but he didn't. What's more, he actually laughed out-loud! Yay!
He read until bedtime (it was only about half an hour, but still, him voluntarily doing that was a big deal) and then, when he handed the laptop back to me, he had to sit and tell me what had happened. I thought that was cute since I have a pretty good idea what happens in the books I write. Most of the time.
His reaction to my story makes me want to finish it, no matter how bad I might think it is as I write. Because, really, is there any higher praise than a reluctant reader wanting to read more?
Have a wonderful weekend!
Nothing like a little validation! That's awesome.
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome way to connect with your second grader! Myrna's thirteen-year-old daughter (or maybe Robyn's fourteen these days; I lose track) has been reading her latest WIP as she's been writing it (and Myrna's been reading hers), and I must say, I really hope at least one of my kids likes to read and write like I do. That would be such a fun thing to share with your children.
ReplyDeleteYay! I have to admit, I've been a little hesitant to let my daughter read my book. She's a little young yet, but she's asked and I keep telling her "When's it's finished." Meaning when it's published. Sheesh, I hope it gets published.
ReplyDeleteKayeleen--It made me very happy! I'm still smiling about it.
ReplyDeleteKrista--This was a first for us. But then, most of my books are YA girl books and this is MG boy. I'm excited to share the rest of it with him.
Liesl--I hope your book gets published too! Then I can read it when it's "finished."
That is awesome! I have one brother I run my book ideas past and I can tell something's good when he runs with it and starts asking about characters, what would happen to them, theorizing why they would do what they do. Nothing is better than seeing other people excited about your story!
ReplyDeleteHow sweet! And since kids are pretty honest, and he laughed and he liked it, that is some great, positive feedback.
ReplyDeleteSierra--So true! There is nothing better than other people excited about your story.
ReplyDeleteStacy--I'm hoping it's positive feedback and not that he's just being nice. But, like you said, kids are pretty honest, so maybe I should keep smiling about it. :)