Dead Meat 3: The Manuscript

I was told my story is good. Again.

There is something powerful about being told your work is good. Not great. GOOD.

Years ago, I sent a top graphic novel publisher a draft of my first chapter of a book I have since abandoned. They receive so many submissions I expected nothing back. But there in a black and white letter just a few weeks after sending it, I received personalized response:

Dear Zoe Alexandra,

This story is good. Unfortunately we cannot take it on at this time with our publishing schedule out for [2 plus years], thanks so much for sending it. Keep going.

The amount of “almosts” I’ve experienced in my life when it comes to my skills and interests supporting me is painful. I’ve found pockets of success in short lived jobs, one time honorariums or payments, but nothing to provide stability for the things people tell me I’m the best at. It has really sucked.

When I told my (NY Times Best Seller Author) friend that a top publisher of graphic novels said that, they didn’t miss a beat: