I have finally read On Writing by Stephen King. The book was recommended to me by many readers. Over my vacation, I studied, highlighted and pondered the book. Well, actually, I just read it. First, I must admit that On Writing will probably be the only Stephen King book I’ll read. Not because it wasn’t good — no, because, I would never be able to go to sleep again if I read his typical book. I jump at my shadow–frequently. I’ve even jumped at the sight of my hair in my peripheral vision–don’t sneak up on me, you will regret it. My husband asked me the other night if I’ve ever seen a horror movie. I said I had seen Signs with Mel Gibson. He laughed. I was puzzled.

I enjoyed the book, found it helpful, and will re-read it in the future; however, it gave me no guarantees of writing success. Of course, I really didn’t expect it to, but I wanted it to. It did keep me reading and writing so I’m glad I read it. I realized if Stephen King could go on to success after many rejection letters– I guess I still have a shot. So, on the topic of rejection, and how to face it, I give you 5 top responses:

1. You can curse the day that you were born, eat a pint of Ben & Jerry’s finest Chocolate Fudge Brownie ice cream and cry, and cry, and….cry.

2. You can sing “Stayin’ Alive” with Lakisha (American Idol) and the Bee Gee’s.

3. Pick a book from an author you think you write better than, and try to find mistakes in their books. Make sure you take the book with you wherever you go and point out the mistakes to your grocer, mail carrier, mechanic, etc. (please don’t ever do that with my writing I make it too easy).

4. Stalk the editor that rejected your last submission.

5. Keep writing. Keep stretching yourself. Don’t give up, and your time (mine) will come, and then you can eat the ice cream.

This post was inspired by a Problogger group writing project for a chance to win $1001. If I win the prize, that check will be copied, framed, and all loved ones and strangers will be notified. It would be the first monetary by-product from my writing.

I could write 5 ways I would spend the $1001, but I won’t. I have great ideas especially for that dollar at the end.