An exclusive interview with a library’s newest arrival.
Well, I suppose it all started when a collections librarian spotted me in a publisher’s catalogue. She’d read my reviews, liked my cover and decided I was exactly what the library needed. Naturally, I was flattered. I mean, there were thousands of books to choose from, and she chose me. I thought this could be my big break!
I arrived a few weeks later in a cardboard box with several other hopefuls. It was a long journey, rather cramped, and one of the cookbooks wouldn’t stop talking about itself. But we made it.
Once we arrived, things got serious. We were unpacked, inspected and checked against the original order. Then I was sent off to cataloguing, where they recorded all my details and gave me a call number and barcode. Apparently, every book needs an identity. I thought my title was quite sufficient, but who am I to argue?
Then came the makeover. A protective cover, a library stamp and a shiny new spine label. I barely recognized myself. I was ready for my public debut!
I’ll admit, I was nervous when they wheeled me out to the shelves. The competition was intimidating. Bestselling thrillers, award-winning novels, books with considerably more impressive covers than mine. I tried not to compare myself, but so many of them went out almost immediately!
The waiting was the hardest part. Every time someone walked past, I’d think, this is it, this is my moment! One reader actually picked me up, read my blurb and put me straight back. Devastating. I spent the rest of the afternoon questioning my entire plot.
Then, just when I was beginning to lose hope, someone stopped in front of me. They picked me up, admired my cover and started reading. One page, then another. I tried to remain composed, but internally I was screaming, PLEASE TAKE ME HOME!
And then it happened. They tucked me under their arm and carried me to the checkout desk. One scan of my barcode, one glorious beep, and I was officially on loan!
I couldn’t believe it. After all the preparation, the nerves and the rejection, somebody had finally chosen me.
What’s next? Well, I’m hoping for a cozy armchair, perhaps a cup of tea nearby, and a reader who simply can’t put me down.
And when I come back? I’ll be right here, waiting for my next big break.
Although, between you and me, I’m hoping they renew me.