Build-a-Book Report # 7

My book outline is filling in, slowly but surely. It takes time. I realized a few days ago that this book is the culmination of decades of work I've spent taking notes and saving articles on the various issues I am covering. Consequently, I still have quite a ways to go. I need to have not only all the subjects I plan to cover but also a good idea of where I am going in each one. Also a must is whether the research needed to develop each topic is available. An author does not have to have the completed text for a book in order to secure a contract for a book, because a publisher will often change part of a proposed book, leading it in a slightly different direction than the author intended. Case in point: with my first book on self-esteem for teens, the publishing house said, "Get practical." So I revised the text to show how to apply self-esteem to such teen interests as personal appearance, getting along with people, and building friendships. What publishers do want is a sound idea, developed uniquely and well, and written in an interesting manner.

My best discovery this week has been that my notes are truly revolving around the outline I sketched out a month ago. I added one new chapter topic, "The Mixed Effects of Technology" on our society and personal lives. We have long known the value. Now we are beginning to see some down sides, such as how computer games and even social websites such as Facebook are actually isolating us from the healthy interaction we and our families need to nurture our relationships. If any of you have a story to tell illustrating this down side of technology, please send it to me and I will use it if I can.

Also, as a Thank-You to my regular followers for sticking with me through my book project, I'd like to give you a quick review of a book I read this past week. Philip Yancey is one of may favorite authors. His The Jesus I Never Knew is an award-winning study of the life and impact of Jesus, written from a completely objective point of view. He used one source, the gospels, and extensive writings that support his findings about what he reads there. He covers who Jesus was (his history), why he came (his teachings, especially in the sermon on the mount and why he did what he did during Holy week), and what he left behind (how the church grew from a mustard seed of eleven disciples into one of the world's foremost religions, numbering in the billions. If you take the time to read it you will find a different Jesus from the one you grew up with--a truer and much stronger understanding and love for our Savior, who gave up so much for each one of us.

Have a good week, with God's blessings and my best wishes,
Margaret