When does a book become meaningful?

Fall colds, hocus pocus, and reader response theory

Happy October!

I am definitely a fall person. Unfortunately, I often get a cold as soon as the seasons change…this year is no exception. After trying to be good at resting for 2-3 days (Seriously, how does one rest? It is so boring!), I finally had to get out. Aaron and I went for a drive through a beautiful canyon in Utah; the leaves are just starting to change. It was wonderful—rejuvenating and (hopefully) healing. Once I feel better, we’re going pumpkin picking at a cute little farm nearby. I can’t wait!

This week, some interesting questions stopped by my office. At what point does a book become meaningful? Is it when it’s still in my head? Rough on the page? Revised? Published? Read by someone else? And who should determine the meaning of the book: the writer or the reader?

I explored these questions by making a….drum roll please…

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Creative nugget!

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Some creative inspiration

Watch: HOCUS POCUS (A childhood favorite…did you watch the second one yet?)

Listen: EVERYTHING I WANTED by Billie Eilish (I finally watched David Letterman’s interview with her on Netflix — their interaction was so cute!)

Read: A SONG CALLED HOME by Sara Zarr (I had a blended family growing up, and this perfectly captures so much of the nuance. Loved it!)

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Got any recommendations for me?

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Let’s cheer each other on!

This month I’m revising a picture book manuscript, doing research and sketches for a picture book dummy, and working a little something to submit to the SCBWI Narrative Art Award (because why not?).

What about you?

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Here’s to you and your October goals (imagine me with a mug full of apple cider)!

All the best from your gobbling-everything-pumpkin-flavored friend,

Rachel

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