Well, the long wait is over and the panic has set in;)
Chizawa Bay, As Ugly As I Am is now available on Amazon in both ebook and paperback. Thank you to everyone who pre-ordered and to all who sent in lovely messages of encouragement. And many more thanks to everyone who’s been waiting patiently for the paperback version. I was truly surprised by how many people preferred paper over digital.
It’s an odd feeling putting your art out into the world. There’s a sense of pride and accomplishment. A desire to have your themes and thoughts read by a larger community. And at the same time, an overwhelming sense of paranoia, constantly praying that you haven’t made any mistakes or written something absolutely nonsensical. I guess we will find out soon how it all plays out.
I wrote the book, so of course I’m going to recommend you read it. It’s about life, what’s important and what we can do to make the most out of it. There are some real nuggets of wisdom spread throughout. Have an open mind and heart while you read. It may not be a world you’re accustomed to, but if you can make it to the end you may understand a bit better about what keeps me tied to the amazing land of Japan.
— Shawn