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I started excitedly telling people about my new (and first) YA hi-lo novel to be published, Brom’s Quest, in the Dragon Speaker series, and I’d have people say “What? Brom?”. That made me realize that maybe Brom’s Quest wasn’t the best title. Especially for reluctant readers!
So I mentioned it to the publisher, and he agreed. And he just came up with a title I *love*. The Last Dragon. So I think that’s my new title!
I thought the title was firmed up, and here I am, only a week and a day from having signed my contract, and we’re changing the title! But it feels right to do, and I feel happy about it. I want the best title–the best *book*–that I can create. I want something that will grab readers, not turn them away.
So–what do you think of the new title? Does it grab you more than the old one?
Yeah, that’s why I try not to get too attached to anything, but I’m not always successful. But sometimes you have to give up one aspect of something you love to make the whole thing better!
Good luck with “The Last Dragon”! May it sell 10,000 copies!
Absolutely. Much better!
Oh, good! Thank you, Jo. Phew! Two yeses so far.
I really love it, too. I’m so glad!
Absolutely it’s hard not to get too attached to things in our writing. And if it’s something that’s really important to you, if you think it makes the book better, then I think it’s good to fight for it. It’s just also good to know when to compromise.
You’re right that sometimes you have to give up something to make the whole better. I guess it’s weighing things in your mind, and really paying attention to your gut and your writing instincts. And trying to be open to compromise, and to new suggestions that can make the book better.
Thank you for your good wishes; they made me grin!
(I meant, Madison, that your good wishes felt good!)
I understood! My favorite thing to do is encourage my fellow writers. I have so many that encourage me, so I just try to spread it around as much as I can!
That’s lovely, Madison! I love how so many of us support each other–it makes for a fantastic writing community, one that really nurtures. That cares!
That’s one thing that we writers can DEF be proud of!
Definitely like the title better. Good choice.
Oh, thanks MotherReader! Phew! (three yeses.)