dreams and reality
Last summer, when I was first thinking about the possibility of writing a book and was wondering how to go about drafting a proposal, finding an agent and approaching publishers, I sometimes indulged in a little daydreaming in order to escape these apparently insuperable practicalities. I thought to myself that it would be wonderful (and much simpler) to be 'discovered' by someone, and that if I could choose that person, it would be Melanie Falick, the creative genius behind some of the most innovative and inspirational knitting titles to have appeared in recent years.
And today I can say that (idle day-) dreams can come true, because it has just been agreed that Stewart, Tabori & Chang are to publish The Gentle Art of Domesticity in the US, and Melanie will be my editor on the US edition. I am over the moon (and every other cliche you can think of) about this excellent news and I find it hard to believe it's all happening. But I have spoken to Melanie today, and it is true and I know it's going to be very exciting.
At the moment I don't have any more details about exact dates and prices and so on, but rest assured that, as ever, I will make sure you are the first to know. The Stewart, Tabori & Chang Craft Newsletter will also keep you up to date on what's happening.
And now I'm going to ask the children to pinch me, just to be sure.
I am so excited for the book to be out in the US. This book came recommended from another blogger, and I have liked your column ever since. I ran right over to Barnes and Noble, and there was no ISBN number for it, and I was so sad. Can't wait to read it!!
Posted by: Jen | October 24, 2007 at 04:38 PM
That's wonderful - congratulations!
I have Melanie Falick's 'Weekend Knitting' out right this moment. I've done several projects from that book, inspired by the delicious photography.
Posted by: Martina | October 24, 2007 at 04:41 PM
Congrats!! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy when it comes out here on the other side of the ocean!
Posted by: lyricospinto | October 24, 2007 at 04:50 PM
Delurking to say...congratulations - to you and to us! I was planning to ask for your book for Christmas via amazon.co.uk, but I can wait a little longer to avoid the crazy shipping and exchange rates.
Also, I wanted to say that you've handled the bad press very well - I can't believe the media can be so harsh. Your everyday photos and activities have inspired me far more than that American crafter with her empire, going on about "Homemade Blown Glass Easter Figurines" and "Simple Veal Medallions for 50". I'd rather just enjoy my family and the fact that my toenails match the crabapples - now that's a Good Thing!
Posted by: alpineflower | October 24, 2007 at 04:55 PM
I just knew this would happen as soon as I ordered the British edition! et maintenant, passons a la traduction en francais...Felicitations, Jane.
Posted by: Laura | October 24, 2007 at 04:56 PM
Congratulations!
Posted by: yarndancer | October 24, 2007 at 05:04 PM
fantastic!!!
i am happy to report that my copy came across the ocean and found its way to my little corner of the world in the pacific northwest yesterday. i can't wait to curl up with a cup of tea later today and soak up all your words and photos.
blessings to you,
liz
Posted by: liz elayne | October 24, 2007 at 05:09 PM
Well Done Jane!
The book is beautiful and i am sure it will be a massive hit in the U.S.
So lovely your wish came true!
Posted by: suze | October 24, 2007 at 05:10 PM
Just last night I plucked your book out of my mailbox. It is SO beautiful and lovely. What a jewelbox of a book. Congratulations on it being released in the US. Really though I do hope that not one thing is changed as the original is perfect. Congratulations again on all your beautiful work.
Posted by: KT | October 24, 2007 at 05:17 PM
Fantastic news! I am waiting on my order from Chapters/Indigo -Canada. Can't wait....Sending you a "Big Hug".
Posted by: Marie | October 24, 2007 at 05:19 PM
Congratulations, that is wonderful news! I have enjoyed reading your blog for a while now, and am so pleased that your book will also be available in the U.S. Although I also noticed that it will be published in Canada very soon, and as I will be there for Christmas perhaps I won't have to wait so long to pick up a copy!
Posted by: Adrienne | October 24, 2007 at 05:20 PM
I'm excited to hear this because I was dissapointed that it was only published in the UK. Cool beans!
Posted by: misti | October 24, 2007 at 05:24 PM
Congratulations Jane!
I already have my gorgeous book but now Christmas shopping for my sister-in-laws and girlfriends will be oh, so easy!
Posted by: Cassie Kemp | October 24, 2007 at 05:26 PM
yay! congrats! i've been hoping that it would be released here in the states. now it simply remains to be seen whether i have the fortitude to wait out its US release or whether i'll cave and purchase the UK version before then.
Posted by: heather | October 24, 2007 at 05:30 PM
Congratulations! There is nothing like dreams that actually come true. Best to you!
Posted by: Cara | October 24, 2007 at 05:35 PM
Oh, joy, joy, joy!!! I will happily await the American edition!!!
Posted by: Cheryl (Copper's Wife) | October 24, 2007 at 05:41 PM
Our hopes realized!
Posted by: Jan | October 24, 2007 at 05:42 PM
Please let all of us states-side know when your book will be published and congrats!! That's wonderful news.
Posted by: Alyssa | October 24, 2007 at 05:42 PM
Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic!
Posted by: Puplet | October 24, 2007 at 05:47 PM
Amazon.uk delivered my copy yesterday (also to the Pacific Northwest US) and I didn't even bother to take my coat off before diving into it. Beautiful illustrations and lots & lots of lovely stories & insights & inspriations. Even the book cover is gorgeous with its old-fashioned cream-on-blue decoration.
I am curious what is involved in creating a US edition. I've been distressed with some US editions of British or Canadian books when the spelling and even the language is Americanized; as if we are too stupid to appreciate regional variations of the English language. If you care to do so, I would like to hear what changes (if any) are usual for a US edition.
Cheers, and thanks for a wonderful read.
Posted by: Lisa | October 24, 2007 at 05:47 PM
How exciting! I'm also intigued about the differences there may be between UK and US editions; presumably the recipes will be the key area of work?
Posted by: rosie | October 24, 2007 at 05:54 PM
fantastic news, you deserve it! Just don't get pinched so much that you get bruised...
update: I have ordered the wool for the seaglass scarf and the needles! I haven't knitted since I was about 12 (I am 34 now) so wish me luck!
Posted by: sarah | October 24, 2007 at 06:09 PM
I'm looking forward to the USA edition of your book. I've been lurking on your blog for about a year and thoroughly enjoy you. You have a wonderful eye for color and for seeing beauty in unexpected places.
Posted by: technikat | October 24, 2007 at 06:18 PM
oh I am so excited to be able to get this book here. Please don't change that cover photo though, it's so beautiful!
Posted by: amy | October 24, 2007 at 06:18 PM
Congrats! That's wonderful! I look forward to getting my copy!
Posted by: Allegra | October 24, 2007 at 06:22 PM