I Self-Published A Book
Today, I share a work of love with you.
In late 2022, I picked up Saul Leiter’s photography collection from a bookstore. I was drawn to his ability to capture the most private human experiences in a busy, big world. I immediately purchased the book. In early 2023, amid layoffs, lack of recruiting jobs, and extensive change in my life, I was flipping through the collection of photos when the idea struck; to write a short story each day inspired by one of the photos. So, I spent the next few days setting a timer for 30 minutes while my imagination led the way.
A few months later, I was complaining to a friend about the lack of momentum I was experiencing as an artist. I was frustrated and truthfully waiting for someone to validate me. My friend suggested that I create a portfolio to showcase my work. I collected the stories and took inspiration from my wonderful friend, Kyndacee, an artist, writer, and creative genius who had self-published her books. Then, “Daddy & Tea Cakes,” a collection of my short stories, was created. There were many weeks of rereading, rewriting, editing, learning Adobe InDesign, researching, and acquiring technical printing knowledge. Finally, the book was completed, but then it just sat there…
It sat on my computer as I procrastinated for fear of sharing my work. I was trying to figure out when I started to question myself as a writer. Where was the doubt coming from? At the root of the questions, it remained that I wanted to be validated first. Yet, I was being required to be seen trying, sharing my voice, and determining that I chose to validate myself. The only way to break the pattern was to do something different. Now, here I am sharing my first book and I’m incredibly proud of myself.
I learned much during this process that I want to share.
First, trust yourself—the way you see, feel, and experience the world helps shape your voice.
Second, it takes a community. Speaking of which, I have a few I want to thank: Charlene Fleetwood (my mom, editor, encourager, and mail assistant in the US); Simone Jackson & Kyler Spickler (Editors and grammar warriors, I salute you); and Kyndacee Harris, my creative inspiration. Thanks for showing me the power of creating on your terms and making do with what you have available. You push and inspire me both as a friend and an artist.
Next, is patience, because creation takes time.
Finally, and most importantly, gratitude. The year of uncertainty offered me time to write. It showed me that what we do is a choice. Further, what we do shows us more accurately who we are. I am grateful that artists and people persist. There are so many works of art and ideas that I see in a different light now. Anything that you touch is something that someone has persisted in creating, and I believe that is worthy of our gratitude.
So here is my book. I’ve included one short story that is dear to me because art is here to inspire, and that should be accessible to us all.
I would be grateful if you decided to hit the link and order a copy of the book. Of course, sharing with your community will mean the world to me as well.
With deep appreciation,
Monica Sheral
