Made It Moment: J. H. Bográn
This, one of the shortest Made It Moments ever featured, delivers such a poignant punch at the end that I urged author J.H. Bogran not to add a single word when he sent it to me for looking over. Read on and I think you’ll agree that every word is deliberately placed and utterly needed. J.H.’s short story is available for the first time on March 1st and I am thrilled to be celebrating its release with him–and of course, all of you.
Back in 2007, Letra Negra Editores released my first novel in Spanish titled Heredero del Mal—Heir of Evil—. Excited with the prospect of being a “published author,” I organized a book launch party by calling in a few favors, prodding a few sponsors, getting a little wine, crackers and other assorted hors d’oeuvre. The place was not a bookstore, but a cultural center that hosts book launches, painting expositions. It even has a fully-equipped auditorium for plays and concerts. Another advantage of working with them was the extra media exposure. They got me interviews in the country’s two major newspapers and some short TV appearances.
I know what you’re thinking: where’s your made-it-moment?
Well, the moment I can pinpoint as the one happened during the book launch.
It was near the end, after I had ridiculed myself trying to put up a front of calmness when reading in front of the audience. I was sitting at a desk and there was a line—a short one, but a line nonetheless—of people waiting to get their books signed.
I agree that by itself, that was great, but the really special moment was when my 8 year old boy stood right next to me. He looked at the line, then back at me. The corners of his lips turned up as his eyes opened wide. “I’m the son of somebody famous,” he said.
Forget MasterCard. That precious second of pride I saw in his eyes is priceless!
J. H. Bográn, born and raised in Honduras, is the son of a journalist. He ironically prefers to write fiction rather than fact. José is the author of TREASURE HUNT, the first in a series about a professional thief who goes by the handle of The Falcon. Other works include short stories, contributions to The Big Thrill magazine, two TV serials that were co-written, and movie reviews for the Honduran newspaper La Prensa. He’s a member of the International Thriller Writers and of the online writers’ community Backspace.
JH – excellent news, your getting a contract for your latest and enjoyed your remarks here. I want you to post your news on my facebook wall…which is becoming something of a wall of fame lately. You belong there so’s any of my 5000 followers can get the NEWS, man! Thanks for sharing and thanks, Jenny!
Rob Walker
Comment by Robert W. Walker — February 29, 2012 @ 10:38 pm
What a wonderful moment! It brought tears to my eyes. Congratulations on your book and can’t wait to read it.
Comment by Johanna — February 29, 2012 @ 10:49 pm
I have had a similiar Made Moment. I understand this perfectly. Like the title of your book, JH. I will look into a grand book launch party, too
Comment by Lisa Zhang Wharton — February 29, 2012 @ 11:26 pm
Joe, you are so right! Other people can make special moments for us, but when something special comes from our own children, now THAT’S a really Make It Moment. Your son sounds so adorable.
I enjoyed your story very much and thanks, Jenny, for giving Joe this platform for sharing it. Very memorable…
Hugs – Betty Dravis <3
Comment by Betty Dravis — March 1, 2012 @ 12:29 am
A lovely story, J.H. Best of luck with the book. I agree, great title.
Comment by Anita Page — March 1, 2012 @ 12:57 am
To see that awareness in the eyes of your own kid is priceless! Well done!
Comment by Alison DeLuca — March 1, 2012 @ 8:13 am
Jenny,
Thank you for lending me spotlight today. It’s been a ride.
I’m glad to share my special moment with you and your readers.
José
Comment by J. H. Bogran — March 1, 2012 @ 9:26 am
That was definitely a ‘made it moment’ to savor. Best wishes, mi amigo.
Comment by J. R. Lindermuth — March 1, 2012 @ 9:38 am
Muchas gracias for the Moment. Good luck with The Assassin’s Mistress, the Falcon thief, and the many years ahead with a fine son.
Thanks again Jenny!
Comment by "Doctor Barbara" - Barbara Ebel — March 1, 2012 @ 10:26 am
Hi! GREAT moment! I love it! Thanks for getting these stories out Jenny! And, by the way, I joined via google friends and I was number 200!!! Yay!
Best of luck to you, Jose!!! Jan
Comment by Jan Fischer Wade — March 1, 2012 @ 12:03 pm
J.H., Thanks for sharing such a lovely moment: one, I’m sure, neither you or your son will forget. And all the best for The Assassin’s Mistress!
Comment by Eloise Hill — March 1, 2012 @ 12:18 pm
Another great Made It Moment! J.H. that is a great Made It Moment and thank you for sharing it with us. My eyes welded up with tears when I read what your son said. That is defnitely a Master Card moment.
Comment by Kellie — March 1, 2012 @ 12:59 pm
Well done, JH!
Comment by Gina Pangione — March 1, 2012 @ 3:37 pm
Loved this moment. And while I was reading it I imagined Jenny’s wonderful children standing beside her next year when Cover of Snow comes out. That’s a sight I can’t wait to see.
Comment by Carolyn J. Rose — March 1, 2012 @ 8:31 pm