Back in the Writing Saddle Again

Well, I knew there would be a next book. I just didn’t think it would be so soon! Still feeling the effects of my last book-writing binge, I got the call from the publisher asking; “We want you to write an eco-friendly gardening book. Will you do it?”

“When’s it due?” I asked, expecting to get a reasonable response. One year would be a reasonable response. “We need it before Thanksgiving, so you’ve got about four months. Will that work for ya?”

“Can I think about it for a day?” I inquired. Twenty four hours later, we were finalizing the vision and details for the book. Thankfully, it was decided that this would be a book of tips but no pictures. I repeat…no pictures. That was a huge relief and a big time saver. It was also a huge factor in my deciding to go ahead with the project under such a short deadline.

Actually, it was quite amazing that I got the call in the first place. Ironically, I had been working on a similar idea. I had already been preparing to contact the publisher myself to suggest that I write a book on eco-friendly gardening – and that we should get started right away.

That said, my idea did include pictures and would have taken much longer to write. So in the interest of time and in deference to my publisher’s good judgment, I agreed to proceed with their version of the idea, and next thing I know, I have another book due before Thanksgiving.

Now, is this enough time to write an 80,000 word book? It’s been done in less time before (but not by me). Certainly, I could use more time, but…would I really use it? The truth is, probably not. It simply means that, now, every day counts.

Will this be a good book? You bet it will! In fact, it will be an excellent book titled; The “Green” Gardener’s Guide; Hundreds of Tips for Creating an Eco-friendly Garden.

I know this will be a good book, because I’m passionate about the topic. I’ve lived these tips for years. Plus, it will include more than just tips. Those that know me know I can’t just list the tips without going into an explanation on each one as to why that tip is important. There’s real “meat” planned for these chapters.

I’ve got a little less than a week to write each chapter, but I’m actually looking forward to this assignment. My hope is that the book will inspire gardeners and non-gardeners alike to think a little bit more about how they can reduce their footprint on this earth. Gardening is a great place to start. I’ll keep you posted on how it’s going.

If you care to suggest any of your favorite tips for creating an eco-friendly garden, I’d love to hear about them. In fact, I’d greatly appreciate it. Even living as an eco-friendly gardener, I could always hear some fresh ideas. Thanks in advance!