One size does not fit all.

That was the summary theme of Emily Watts' address that closed the ANWA 2002 Conference. Like those who dreamed up the idea of dispensing "one size fits all" pantyhose in a Las Vegas casino bathroom, anyone who thinks there is one way—and one way only—to publish in the LDS market is mistaken. Publishers expect individuality. They hope for individuality. They are looking for the person who can tell a story or examine facts in a unique way.

Emily expressed appreciation for groups like ANWA, where writing skills are honed before work is presented to editors. She noted that editors have neither the time nor job description to teach people to write; and that associations such as ours result in better skills and more viable manuscripts coming across her desk.

Of course, she noted, no editor's word should be taken as law. A rejection is not the final word on any project. If you believe in your work, keep looking. You will find the place for it.

This was also an opportunity for Ms. Watts to give us some insights as to current trends in the LDS literature market. She pointed out:

1. More fiction is being published. The world's offerings are less and less acceptable. There is a real need for wholesome entertainment.
2. Movies with LDS standards are the biggest trend. Moviemakers are looking for books that would make good scripts, and they are looking toward the LDS market.
3. Our values-based literature is reaching into the general market. There are now some Wal-Mart stores that have LDS book sections. President Hinckley impacted this area and opened the doors for us when he published Standing for Something through Random House.
4. Internet sales make our work available to a wider market than ever before. For Deseret Book, their website is their third largest "store," and a direct link to people all over the world who are interested in what we have to offer.

Despite all this optimism, Emily was sure to point out that we should not expect to get rich as writers. We should write because that is our talent and because we have something to say. She noted that it only takes one candle to dispel darkness, and that we can be those candles.

"Write what is in your heart," she said, "not what you think a publisher wants to see. Then, even if it doesn't sell, it's right."

Please send email to anwa_lds@yahoo.com if you have any questions.