My novel is about to be published, the date is yet to be announced, but last night, ahead of its “Real World” launch it was launched in the virtual world of Second Life which is also a virtual haven for writing and writers. Apparently I am the first novelist to be contracted by a publisher in this way – Ward Wood Publishing is breaking new ground here at a time when all the publishing rules are being rewritten.
I am told that my book, in its hardback edition and then in other media, will be available very soon but you can check on the details on the Ward Wood Publishing website
(see Links in the right hand column). It is called Stephen Dearsley’s Summer Of Love (credited to my real name, Colin Bell) and, let me admit this, I am very excited.
I have been writing and doing poetry readings in Second Life and other online sites as well as here in the UK and recently in the USA for several years now but it was appropriate that my first novel should be celebrated in Second Life where I have a lot of friends and where I have learnt a lot about writing and performance.
Whilst I was recovering from my brain haemorrhage, which I suffered three years ago this month, my animated avatar, who is also Wolfie, was much freer to mix in the outside world and he enabled me, here in “reality,” to stop going crazy confined to my house in Lewes. He is allowed to smoke too!
So after all the writing, the book is allowed out of its closet. It is a strange experience when a large writing project leaves the protected world of your own imagination for the broad bright light of the World. I hope you all will be kind to it.
Last night was special though as it was not only a wonderful and well attended event but it was also the moment when my real and virtual selves got to meet in public. Thanks to everyone who turned up and supported me.
Did your real and virtual selves meet in the sense of having a big photo of Colin on the wall at the launch event? That is very exciting, actually. What a strange and wonderful situation. Who'd have imagined such a thing in the days of dial up?!
Yes, I found it very strange seeing the other me on the stage with me! It was a great event – so many friends turned up. I hope the real world events will be as warm.
I was there in second life, Colin, and enjoyed the readings. A strange experience for me but it was lovely to witness the great sharing of writing and the friendly atmosphere. Congrats on the novel, I shall certainly be ordering myself a copy! Shauna
Shauna..thanks so much for these comments! I am delighted that you enjoyed the evening… it was quite a special occasion – I am looking forward to reading your work too – I have heard such good things.