Some of you know that, over the past two years, I have been seeking a publisher for my book – Shrapnel: A Memoir. It's been a long two years, with dozens of rejection letters littering my inbox from editors at major houses and independent presses alike, many of which were tantalizingly glowing.
Recently, I had all but given up on publishing with a professional house, and had moved closer toward self-publishing (which can be a daunting, overwhelming venture).
However, something amazing has just happened – my manuscript found its way into the hands of an editor who wants to take a chance on my book. Which is why, today, I am thrilled to announce that Shrapnel has been offered on for publication by a fantastic independent press: Oneworld Publications.
I can't express my joy at finding the right home for this book, and Oneworld truly is the right home for a myriad of reasons (which I won't bore you with right now).
Anyway, many of you have inquired over the months about the book and about its progress, and I want to thank everyone here for the support and help you've given me during my lengthy search.
For those who don't know about my book, here's the introductory synopsis from my current website:
What should I buy for the children of the terrorist who tried to kill my wife?
I'm sorry, that was a bit forward. We hardly know each other. Let me explain:
In the summer of 2002, Hamas terrorists, targeting both Israelis and Americans, struck a cafeteria at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. The blast threw my wife, Jamie, across the blood-streaked linoleum floor and killed the two friends with whom she was sitting.
The bombing sent me on a psychological journey which, years later, led me to East Jerusalem and the childhood home of the Hamas terrorist who set everything in motion.
Not out of revenge. Out of desperation.
This is the story of one man's personal attempt to heal by understanding his enemy – an enemy who inexplicably expressed remorse upon being captured by Israeli police. It is the story of reconciliation between an American Jew and the terrorist's East Jerusalem family. And it is the story of digging, of unearthing shadowy decisions made by Israel which undermined a (possibly) historic cease-fire attempt by Hamas just days before the Hebrew University attack.
This book is a story embedded within a larger historical story: the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which refuses to end.
I have much work ahead -- editing and such -- but hopefully that work will come to fruition and a publication in the spring of next year.
Again, thank you to everyone here. So many of you have helped me tremendously along this journey (you know who you are).
There are simply too many to thank.