Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Hot off the Press

Went down to Suffolk to Clay's factory to see the book being printed, and took my eldest along on the grounds that if this one crashes and burns I might never get another book published.

I also thought there has to be a good chance by the time he is my age, books will all be on kindles and suchlike. Even I was surprised as we witnessed the process though, because when you think of a book, you think of the intellectual and emotional response that book elicits in terms of reading, whilst in terms of writing you think of the inspiration and creativity and the hard work involved. Books though are also a thing to be manufactured with consideration given to the grain of the paper, and glue and guillotines and conveyor belts. Then of course they have to be sold. Don't start me on the selling of books because I'll end up mewing in a corner. Who knows whether a book will sell? Can you make a wish? Clay's published all the Harry Potter books, so maybe it is a good place for magic to happen.

10 comments:

Z said...

What? You were only a mile away from me, then!

Unknown said...

So, when does the book tour in the Colonies start?
-Jeff

All At Sea said...

Oh how wonderful, to see your hard work come to life. Your son will certainly remember that in years to come. I for one, will be buying your book. And nothing beats the real thing - my husband is getting a kindle for Christmas but I'm holding out!

All At Sea said...

Oh how lovely, to see your hard work come to life. You son will remember that in the future. I for one, will be buying your book. And nothing beats the real thing - my husband is getting a kindle for Christmas but I'm holding out!

Lou Archer said...

How wonderful. One day I hope to do the same and watch my books roll off the press. ebook just don't have the same smell!

BillatBingley said...

All the very best with your new book Judith! We were up in your part of the world early Ocotber, but didn't get a chance to drop in and see you.

Malcolm (BillatBingley) and Dorothy

Anonymous said...

Lovely - what a fabulous end to your hard work!

Martin said...

I've been to Clays!
9p to produce each paperback.

That was twenty years ago, I was a design student, fantastic place.

www.retiredandcrazy.com said...

Good luck Judith. Let the magic begin!

Guisy Sal said...

I guess there really is nothing equivalent to that feeling when you see the fruits of your labor going down the conveyor belt into boxes waiting to deliver it all over the country (or just all over the state). Now that's what you call accomplishment.