Tonight I did something I have only done once before…I read a manuscript.
The other one that I read was from a famous (hate that word when used in a "christian" context by the way) author who has sold a ton of books (over a few million). Upon finishing reading his manuscript, I jotted down some thoughts & ideas to make the book better. I was even bold enough to pitch him a youth version of his book. When I met with him later that evening I presented my ideas and he tore them apart and seemed insulted. I felt pretty bad at the time as a young buck, sort of put in my place.
A few months go by and I get an email listing books that are coming out…and I see the title I wrote down and this new book emerging. When it comes out, the entire intro was my words – ripped off.
Looking back on that experience today, it is pretty funny. It didn’t and doesn’t make me mad, rather God used that moment to inspire confidence in me that I too could, one day, maybe write a book.
And a few years later, one of my life goals was crossed off – I was a published author. I co-authored a book with a friend Mark Dowds called Experiencing Life. I was a youth pastor at the time and we wrote a small group resource for students.
PS. When this book I read tonight in manuscript form comes out, I will promo it like a mad man. I don’t say this lightly, but it is brilliant in every way.
I totally look forward to reading any book you write.