The closer DESCENT becomes to being published, the more work there seems to be.
When the manuscript is being prepared for print or e-book versions, there are sections on the inside that need writing. It’s all fun writing a novel or two, but do you remember who helped you along the way?
The time is close to when I have to commit to my acknowledgment section, and I’m a little stressed. What if I miss someone? Did I thank the right people?
So many people helped me write, and it took me four years to finish four novels. For some reason, I decided to keep a spreadsheet with who helped me on each novel. This includes beta readers, proofreaders, anyone who helped me with research, and of course family. At the time, I laughed at myself, but now I’m glad I did.
So I have my list, I’ve written the acknowledgement section, and I have one more question.
Do I ask people ahead of time if they are ok with being in print, or do I surprise them?
What’s your opinion?
If you haven’t read my blog before, I’ve signed on with Imajin Books and intend to blog about my publishing adventure. I’ll share what I learn and hope it helps someone out there get their novel published.
Thanks for reading.
Creative Story Editors 
I’ve written the acknowledgments for my upcoming novel and didn’t tell anyone. I like the element of surprise! Clever, though, keeping that list. Even more clever, writing 4 books in 4 years. Kudos.
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Thanks for the kudos. I like surprise too, I’m just a little concerned others might not.
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I think it’s always a good policy to not surprise people.
Assume someone mentioned:
Did I think the right people? (thank)
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Thanks for the eagle eye again on my typos. It doesn’t seem to matter how may times I read this, I miss one little letter.
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Absolutely, without doubt, totally, indisputably (you getting a sense of direction here!) …. you must ask first! There are two reasons that immediately come to mind:
1. Courtesy – If you are going to mention somebody’s name, they should be aware of the fact.
2. Privacy – There are people out there who simply like a very low profile and would not be impressed if they become a public identity.
Anybody who has assisted in any way with your book would no doubt love to hear a thank you, but some may not want it in print for all to see.
3. (Just thought of it). Not getting pre-approval could well dictate you hiring a lawyer! 🙂 🙂
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I didn’t think of these points. I suppose I need to ask! Gee, I really liked the idea of surprising people.
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Surprising people is nice ………….. as long as you can guarantee that it would be a nice surprise! You may well get the surprise though with a law suit as I believe (?) that ones name is ones personal property = you cannot use it without their consent.
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Colin, I think you’re saying ask people first 🙂 Your points address my concern. Thanks for commenting and sharing your opinion. Asking seems to be the way to go.
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I think surprising people is the BEST! I never expect to be acknowledged in people’s books, but when I do, I’m tickled pink . . . I can’t imagine anyone having a problem with it. A lot of people don’t read that part though, so I usually tag them in a FB or Twitter post 🙂
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Jamie, I’ve asked everyone, and they all said yes and were all thrilled. I like the idea of tagging them in facebook too. So much fun working on this.
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