The Frankenstein Condition is one year old! OMG!!! I can't believe where this journey has taken me. I have met with so many amazing people who are struggling with their monsters and have received e-mails describing how much the book helped them move forward in a positive way. I have heard so many stories of struggle that became journeys of self-awareness. It has accomplished so much more than I anticipated and is the reason for this blog.
Now between you and I, I have some news… I'm writing a second book. Shhhhh. It's a secret right now. The process of writing new material has given me perspective, reflection and a few winces. It also reminded me of a story about Canadian music icon Bryan Adams.
In the spring of 1981, a young Bryan Adams went into the studio to record his second album. His first album, self-titled, didn't reach a large audience. Frustrated but not down, he used this as an opportunity to work on new material and refocus. He wanted to call the new album "Bryan Adams Hasn't Heard of you Either". What a FANTASTIC title! Of course the record label objected and it became "You Want it You Got it". The lead single "No More Lonely Nights" peaked at number three on the Billboard's Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. And the rest is… well, he's BRYAN FRICKEN ADAMS!
I tell this story for two reasons. First, it's a great example of resilience and perseverance. He learned from his previous experience and came back stronger. He wrote the breakthrough record he hoped for. Critics praised him, audiences applauded him and radio embraced him. He reached a larger audience.
Second, he took the lack of recognition with humor and positive energy. Instead of giving the music industry the middle finger he took it as an opportunity to grow and improve.
So, eight months ago I began writing a second book. It was to be called "Frankenstein hasn't heard of you either". Haha! Kidding. It was to be called The Frankenstein Career. While I had three quarters of it done, it didn't seem right. My first book proved to be popular and the concept has really resonated. But the reality is I didn't print many copies. I guess you could say it's limited edition? Before I continue the "Frankenstein Condition" theme to other books I need to expand the audience. After all of that work, I decided to shelf The Frankenstein Career and write a second edition of sorts. While there will be some familiar content, there is so much more. I'm adding a great deal of new material in it, some tips and it's heavier! More weight for your dollar. It's monster…ier… Is that a word? Screw it. It is now. It will also have a new title. People might even see the second edition and think "There was a first edition??? How did I miss it??" Or so I hope.
I am also no longer able to use the Bernie Wrightson illustrations. They were only given to me for the first edition. (So if you have one, keep it! If you don't, buy one while I still have some!). I am developing a new style and approach. This book would not have existed without the support of friends and family as well as a team of very talented people. My editor Diana Fisher, media coach Kimothy Walker, Social-media queen Alanna Smith, my gang at Greenmelon and of course those of you who bought the first book, THANKS!! You are awesome! But of course you know that.
Stay tuned, 2019 will be a big year for The Frankenstein Condition. New book, new title, new website… But I've said too much already. Shhhh. If you are really curious, you can sign up to receive news before everyone else, just fill out the form at the bottom of the web page!