Ann Blyth: Actress. Singer. Star. - Countdown to Publishing

We've four weeks to go before Ann Blyth: Actress. Singer. Star. is published.  I'm going to be quite busy around here until then, and can hardly believe the culmination of two years' work is fast approaching.  I'm excited, and a little nervous, but mostly just sort of stupidly stunned that I seem to be where I am.

But I did not get here alone.  The acknowledgements page in the book will introduce you to an army of support that really made the book possible.  Among them are professionals -- photographers, librarians, as well as fellow bloggers, but most astonishing to me are longtime fans of Ann Blyth who graciously shared their time, their memories, and their treasures.

And what treasures!  Photos, magazines, clippings, coveted and rare audio from radio and television, recorded movies and TV episodes that have enabled me to comb through Ann Blyth's career and enjoy her work in a way that perhaps no one else has in decades.  They are dedicated and discerning fans to have preserved this valuable material, and they are my heroes.  More than being helpful to me, they have created and left a legacy for all those who would become Ann Blyth fans in the future. 

There are some interviews in the book as well, from colleagues of Ann's who generously gave me their time and their thoughts.   I hope, like those who gave me their treasures, their trust in me will be worthwhile.  I do not take their trust lightly.  They can all be sure, at least, of my gratitude.

Here's what's going to happen in June:  I'm going to blog every day until Thursday, June 18th, when the book is published, or "launched" as the term goes.  Beginning on Monday, June 1st and every day until the 18th, I'm going to give away a small piece of memorabilia I've gathered on this journey: photos, magazines, an audio CD of old time radio, a DVD of a film, of a television appearance, a few original lobby cards from Ann's films.  So stop by frequently and see what's happening.  I'll let you know day by day what the prize is, and I'll just pick the winners from a hat. 

Since a number of bloggers have kindly offered to review the book, I'll link to their blogs throughout the month, before and after the launch, whenever they decide to post.  Others have offered to interview me.  I'll also be making good on my offer some months ago to thank participating bloggers by drawing names among them for copies of the print book, with eBooks going to the rest.

I'll see you next Thursday for more on this publishing adventure.