19 Aug Book Review of Write Through It: An Insider's Guide to Publishing and …
Review: Write Through It: An Insider’s Guide to Publishing and … by Kate McKean
As a writer navigating the choppy waters of publishing—especially in the midst of querying—I was drawn to Kate McKean’s Write Through It: An Insider’s Guide to Publishing and … like a moth to a flame. McKean’s no-nonsense, authentic style feels like a warm chat over coffee with an old friend who’s been through the trenches and comes out the other side gripping the secrets of the trade. Having years of experience as a literary agent and an author, her insights promised a reality-check I desperately needed.
In her book, McKean deftly guides us through the arduous journey from a messy first draft to the hopeful promise of a publishing deal. She breaks down the stages of traditional publishing, including writing, editing, and querying literary agents, all while keeping the tone refreshingly candid. This approach resonates deeply with my own tumultuous experience of completing a manuscript—full of enthusiasm only to be met with the daunting task of revisions and the nerve-wracking world of agent queries.
What stood out most in McKean’s writing was her ability to blend brutal honesty with that much-needed dose of encouragement. For every statement like, “Agents get several hundred queries a month,” she pairs it with relatable anecdotes and advice, reminding us that rejection isn’t a personal failure but part of the process. One quote that particularly struck me was: “The only way out is through.” This sentiment echoes my experiences—each draft, each query, each moment of uncertainty is just part of the journey toward growing as a writer.
The structure of the book, organized into clear subsections for easy navigation, allows for quick reference, making it feel not just like a read, but a companion. I found myself highlighting passages that mirrored my frustrations and uncertainties. The author respects the intricate dance between creativity and business that publishing demands, emphasizing that while you can’t control market factors, you can control your writing, editing, and how you present your work to potential agents.
Reflecting on my own journey—twelve revisions in, the battle of honing a 125,000-word manuscript down to a concise query letter—it was comforting to read McKean’s insights about the querying process. Navigating it can feel like an uphill battle, but her experiences illustrate that perseverance is key. It resonated with me when she acknowledged that the odds may not always be in your favor, but that’s not a reflection of your talent. You write and learn, and in that pursuit, you grow.
Write Through It is not just for first-time authors but for anyone curious about the intricacies of the publishing world. It serves as reassurance that the journey is as important as the destination. Aspiring writers will find McKean’s practical wisdom invaluable, making it a worthy addition to their bookshelf.
As I continue to query, I’ll keep this book close at hand, a reassurance and reminder that the journey doesn’t end with one manuscript or one query. So, to my fellow writers feeling lost in the process, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into McKean’s insightful guide. This book not only educates, it supports you through the inevitable ups and downs of the writing life, and urges you to keep writing through it all.
Thank you, Kate, for your honesty and guidance. This guide is a beacon for anyone brave enough to embark on the journey of publishing.
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