“]

Cover of A Time to Kill [Blu-ray

The July 10, 2011 issue of Parade Magazine featured an interview with John Grisham. His first novel, A Time to Kill was turned down and rejected 30 times; he still has the files. According to John, “I saved all of that stuff.” It makes you wonder if those in the publishing world really know a good thing when they read and see it. Not only is A Time to Kill a wonderful book, it’s a thought provoking movie. Matthew McConaughey’s performance as young lawyer Jake Tyler Brigance shines through at the end when he delivers his closing statement before the jury. I won’t give away the ending in case you haven’t read the book or seen the movie.

Reading that famous author John Grisham was rejected will put you at ease. John eventually was published and has experienced major success since the publication of A Time to Kill. It makes you wonder about the publishers and or literary agents who rejected John’s novel. Are they still in publishing? Are they kicking themselves in the behind? Do they have publishing remorse? How could they not see what a great book A Time to Kill was? Let’s face it; John’s books make great movies. More importantly, they make a lot of money for the arts and entertainment and publishing industries respectively.

John Grisham’s story will inspire you to keep writing every day. Forget about the naysayers because it’s obvious they don’t know what they’re talking about! Whenever you receive a rejection letter from an agent or publisher say the following, “Thank you for rejecting my novel or non-fiction book. I’ll find another literary agent or publisher. No biggie. After all, look at the success of John Grisham. He was rejected 30 times!” Now, go forth and write your novel and know that it will be published.

Rebecca

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