Taking the Hit

Dealing with a bad review

I’ve heard it could happen, but in the nine years I’ve been creating picture books I’ve never experienced it. Until this week.

I won’t go into detail about what was said. Most of it was okay, but one word threw me under the bus. “Underwhelm.”

I was devastated. How can anyone say that about my story? My heart literally broke. I wasn’t right for two days. Once the initial feelings of sadness and self-pity waned, I got to thinking about my purpose.

I don’t write to be the next NY bestseller. I don’t write to please adults.

Are my stories literary masterpieces? No, I write with kindergarten through third-grade mentalities in mind. Its less polished nature adds to its charm and makes it easy to read. Are my stories going to live the test of time and be passed on for generations? I don’t expect them to. Are my stories going to provide a child with a moment of smiles and fun? Yes, I believe they will.

So, phooey on that anonymous reviewer. My story may not have lifted you to the excitement level of Harry Potter or Game of Thrones, but it’s heartwarming, fun, and sends a terrific message to the children that read it. Magic happens when you help others.