Some writing projects take a moment but are still worthwhile. Writing Magazine columnist, Patrick Forsyth explains:
Getting a new writing project is good, and most of us just want to crack into it; the sooner it’s done, the sooner we get paid. But sometimes … a while ago I saw a notice saying It is dangerous to cross this bridge when this notice is under water. We all see such things sometimes and smile. This time I saw several more examples before I had forgotten it, including a brand of crisps claiming to use Real Ingredients (what else?). I had a fancy that enough similar things might, linked together in the right way, make a book.
So I decided it should be written up in a way that, whilst maximising the humour, also mocked or castigated those involved. I approached four publishers with the idea. Three said no; one gave me a contract within a fortnight. I wrote the book and it is now published, as Empty When Half Full in time for Christmas (it would make a good present; indeed I have already received many orders for multiple copies). It seems to be off to a good start; one reviewer has called in “Hilarious!”
Now I knew when I started that file that it was not going to be a quick project; though examples abound (be careful!) and mounted up quite quickly. I had to collect sufficient material, but I was confident it could work out and pleased when a publisher took it up quickly when I was ready to write it. Now we will see how it goes. This morning I gave a talk (about another activity - my travel writing) and contrived to read out 3 pages of it. The whole room laughed out loud and I sold a reasonable quantity of books there and then.

Then of course they need pushing. Copies of Empty When Half Full are available at £9.99 on Amazon, or you can order one at a lower price from me (and I’ll sign it, wow!) contact details on my website www.patrickforsyth.com or send a cheque for £8.99 to 28, Saltcote Maltings, Maldon Essex CM9 4QP
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