May 1, 2012

THANK YOU

So tonight I launch my second book, The Little Book of Anxiety - Confessions from a Worried Life. And I owe it all to you guys. Okay, not the anxiety part. I can't blame you for that. But to you, I owe the books. Writing this blog has allowed me to gain confidence in my writing, to understand what works and what doesn't (generally anything about sex works, generally anything about politics doesn't*), and to know that I am not alone in my struggles.

I couldn't have written this book two years ago. I wrote my first book, When My Husband Does The Dishes... two years ago and I love it and am incredibly proud of it. I still giggle when I read it back. It's funny and honest and I wouldn't change a word.

But the Anxiety book is different. It's still funny and honest, but it packs more of an emotional punch than the first book, it reveals far more of me than Dishes, and I feel extremely vulnerable releasing it to the world. And yet you guys have made me feel safe. As a couple of people have said to me on Twitter, you all have my back. I know that. I feel it. And that's why I thank you. Because I couldn't have done this without feeling safe.

Chloe Maxwell and I were just congratulating each other on Twitter, as we both have books being launched today. Hers is about her journey with Max, her beautiful son who has autism. She commented about releasing a book, 'It's just like giving birth, isn't it?' Which it is, exactly.

And then I added, 'And when it's out, you're not quite sure whether you're ready for other people to hold it!'

So, for making me feel comfortable handing my baby over to the world, I thank you.

And I thank penicillin, which was injected into my bum yesterday after a brutal dose of tonsillitis threatened to keep me away from my own launch.

Either that, or do the launch from my bed. But I don't think even you guys are ready for that.

xxxx


*although as I've never actually written about politics, that theory is untested

18 comments:

  1. Congratulations! Looking forward to the read. If it's only half as good as 'Dishes' I'm going to love it.

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  2. Cannot wait to read. SPEWING I cannot come, stupid mountains. Stupid family matters.

    Love love to you, beautiful lady XXXXXXX

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  3. So bummed I can't be there, but glad my lovely friend Kate will be representing the HerCanberra crew. Hope to see you and your book up our way soon, my lovely...


    Hope all goes smashingly! And think of me during the YTT  singalong, won't you...hey, maybe you could dial me in!

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  4. Congratulations on your new book, Kerri! I am sure it will be very well received, as everything you write is characterised by your direct and honest style. And people like those who dare to be straightforward no matter what! Keep it up!
    Montana Vacation

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  5. We are all so happy for you. We will be there with you in spirit and hope you can Really Feel that love and support every time you feel a little bit anxious at the excitement of it all.
    Stand tall and proud Kerri as you have done an amazing job with your books and your blog.The bonus being you have  helped a huge amount of  people along
    the  journey that has led you to this amazing day.
    Thankyou from the bottom of my heart xx

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  6. Congratulations Kerri! I can't wait to read this book

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  7. You are an inspiration to so many of us Kerri. Which is why we will always have your back. Looking forward to celebrating with you tonight. xo

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  8. Congratulations and good luck tonight!

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  9. Would love to be there, Kerri - looking forward to buying the book as soon as it hits my local bookstore in Melbourne.  I'm a genetically-induced anxiety sufferer too and as I've mentioned once before, I have a feeling that you and I and Lily Brett are triplets separated at birth.

    Love your work (and glad they gave you a shot in the bum so you could be on top of your game tonight).

    xx

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  10. Congratulations! If the new read is even half as good as 'Dishes' I'm not going to be able to put it down! Love reading your stuff. Always strikes a chord - whether I'm laughing or crying. Keep writing!

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  11. I am sitting here in tatters because of the RENDING OF MY CLOTHES that has gone on ALL MORNING because I can't attend tonight... I know it will be absolutely fabulous, and you deserve nothing less. Have a fabulous time, and amidst your (undoubted) anxiety (I mean, you have to be anxious about tonight, yes? Otherwise your book's just a fake) please make sure you stop and look around and drink in the moment (and champagne) and pat yourself on the back. Brilliant effort, and a very very brilliant book. xxxxx

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  12. Congratulations Kerri and thankyou for being brave enough to write about your struggles.  I'm currently struggling with anxiety on a daily basis.  Can't wait to read your book and just laugh about it for a change.

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  13. Congrat's and I hope you all have a great time tonight!

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  14. Hi Kerri, I'm your newest fan.  I love the book, I finished it last night.  It made me cry and laugh but it was fantastic!  Thanks for sharing all your stories.  I may just go find myself a good therapist now.  Cheers, Col

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  15. Congratulations Kerri! Just finished reading your book last night ad loved it! Well done- can't wait for your next one! x

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  16. I seriously cannot wait to read this book! Going on the mother's day pressie list now!

    Congratulations!

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