But what if...and, and, and...

My story Two Little Words With a Big Impact, previously published in Chicken Soup for the Soul My Resolution, and also in Chicken Soup for the Soul Raising Good Kids, is one of 19 stories selected for Chicken Soup for the Soul Guided Journal. 

According to Amy Newmark, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher, guided journaling is the next big thing to the adult coloring book craze. This new format is called a "bookazine." Like magazines, they're displayed in the magazine area of stores and newsstands, but like books these are designed to be kept, not tossed or passed on after they're read. They will be available only for a brief few weeks before they disappear from newsstands and become collectibles.

I was surprised when I opened the mail and saw this beautiful cover. The size and weight of the book is different form the typical CS collection, and I couldn't imagine why I had received it. I flipped through the pages and saw a completely different format. Then I read the enclosed letter and realized what an honor it is to have my story included in this inaugural edition.

 Along with a companion page to my story (which is about choosing to rephrase and use the word "and" instead of "but") there is a journal page where the reader is encouraged to write five sentences  using the word BUT, then rephrasing by eliminating the word BUT and using the word AND.


As I flipped through the pages, I noted places to doodle, color, write personal notations, one word thoughts, paragraphs, inspirational feelings, honest self evaluations. On and on and on.

That is when I decided that Chicken Soup for the Soul is onto something! Most readers, unless they authored one of the 101 stories included in the typical CS books, often pass the books on to friends or family. You can find them in thrift stores.

These journals are different, they are the owner's legacy to be treasured and eventually bequeathed to  family members and shared by future generations. Wouldn't you love to read your mom's or grandmother's thoughts and personal comments in her own handwriting?

Each of the 19 stories has a companion page. Mine has space to write five sentences. This is my first entry on that page. Think positive.

I have an 80,000 word fiction manuscript that needs to be revised, but why should I bother? An agent told me, "Who cares about the 60's? I lived through that decade. I certainly don't want to read about it!"

I have an 80,000 word manuscript that needs to be revised, and even though an agent rudely rejected it, I feel as though the daughters of those who lived through the 60's may be interested in what their mothers experienced.

My dear readers, the journal is affordable at $9.99 and will be collectible, and would make a great gift for someone you love, and don't forget one for yourself. Leave your legacy for future generations.