James Patterson, please award me one of your $50K author grants.
Okay, so ostensibly the reason we’re all here is to talk about author James Patterson’s new initiative to help emerging authors finish their books with grants of $50,000 called “Go Finish Your Book!”, but I’d like to use this space to make a more specific appeal:
Mr. Patterson, please consider me for this program.
I know today’s announcement, made on the AP and on your personal website, is explicitly saying that the selection process is over, and that you’ve already selected a group of writers out of hundreds of submissions, but I know you love a good twist as much as any writer. Wouldn’t it be thrilling if there were a surprise 13th grant under your “Unreliable Narrator” hat, for a blogger with a big chunk of a novel done and who shares your gorgeous first name?!
James, I’m on the edge of my seat!
I also read that this program is in partnership with organizations like the Authors Guild, AWP, Girls Write Now, PEN America and the Iowa Writers’ Workshop—what a coincidence, I’ve covered a number of these groups right here at Lit Hub! Me and your grant are seeming like more and more of a natural fit the more that I think about it…
In a video released on his site, Patterson explained his thinking behind the project like this:
“There are so many incredible stories out there that never get written because life gets in the way”—I couldn’t agree more, fellow James!—“I wanted to give these writers a little time, a little space, and a push to say: your voice matters”—I’m blushing!— “Now go finish your book.” James, with your help, I will.
The statement ends with Patterson saying he’s picked 12 people and is excited to see how their projects turn out. Another thing we agree on: congrats to all the winners. I can’t wait to see the books that come out of this grant!
There’s nothing better than the space to write, and financial security is one of the surest ways (in America, at least) to get it. This is the kind of program I would love to see more successful authors emulate, especially when so many grants are drying up elsewhere.
Incidentally, James, if you hear of any of these other grant programs getting underway, I’d appreciate the consideration! I know you won’t forget my name.
