As the end of 2024 approaches, it is the start of the season for "best of" children's book lists. I just saw one a few days ago that listed over 100 "best" children's books, and not one of my three 2024 releases was included.
I was pretty disappointed, but processing my thoughts and emotions about it helped. In case you also don't find your book on a "best of" X, Y, Z list when you put your heart and soul into making it amazing, here's some things to consider:
1)
It's not YOU that didn't make the list. Your BOOK didn't make the list. This is not a judgment about you as a creator. If you can, try to take your ego out of this.
2)
Lists and awards are inherently subjective. In this case, other books rose to the list-maker's attention or delight. That doesn't mean they didn't enjoy your book, or that your book doesn't warrant praise too. It's completely possible given how many books are published each year that they haven't even seen your book yet, but they had to finalize their choices.
3)
It is okay to wish your book had been included, or won the award, or gotten the accolade. But note there is a difference between being jealous (kind of wishing it was your book and not someone else's book getting all the attention - like you would take it away from them if you could) and wistfulness (thinking it would have been great if your book had gotten attention as well.) We don't need to tear others down to feel good about ourselves.
4)
Your book probably has gotten some kind attention: A nice review, a reader who reached out with thanks, a great blurb from a colleague, and/or some other distinction. Enjoy that. Put it in your email signature. And recognize that there are probably folks whose book didn't get what your book did. In yoga, there's an expression about keeping your eye on your own mat, which means not comparing how you're doing with everyone else. You'll enjoy this KidLit journey more if you can avoid comparing your journey to other creators' journeys.
5)
Be kind to yourself. Not having your book included is disappointing, but your book out in the world can still touch hearts and minds and make an impact for the good. Not being on that list doesn't take anything away from the value of your book.
6)
There are probably some really good books on the list. Read one or two, just because it's great to know about other good books.
7)
Cheer your fellow KidLit creators on - whether their book is on the list or not. We're all in this together!
I hope that helps.
Illustrate, Translate, and Write On,
Lee
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