Your pages are interesting and well-written, and it is an engaging story.  The pacing is also strong and the story well-executed.  That said, I didn’t feel like I got to know the characters as deeply as I would have liked, and I feel that for trade editors, they will be looking for that stronger connection.

The first day I felt horrible, but my husband reminded me that not everyone will understand the aboriginal issues in Canada. And do I really want to slam them over the head with it?

No. But I don’t want to be rejected either. I’m a little embarrassed that after 30 plus years I can still feel so vulnerable. The second agent read the first chapter and didn’t want to read anymore.

I counsel young writers about the pitfalls of our profession. I tell them not to take these rejections personally. At IWSG we lend an ear to writers trying to place their first ms with an agent or publisher. I know how the system works. Yet, here I sit feeling … the same thing we all feel when we receive a rejection. I can’t write. Why did I ever think I could. Nobody wants to read me stuff. I’m washed up. Finished. Woe is me. 

I especially like the last one, don’t you? Woe is me. 

Seriously, agents and publishers are just people. They’re no better or worse than the rest of us. One day I will find a new publisher for my work. It’s all about timing, faith, and a whole lot of stubbornness. We can’t and shouldn’t give up.