"I have always wanted to write a book... is a lie. I, for a long time, have wanted people to read a book that I wrote" I wish I could actually be able to understand myself like that. With clear honesty and understanding the difference between subtle reasons I am doing something
It takes a lot of time thinking about and learning to understand your feelings. I recommend writing, either stream of consciousness or poetry. For me I can start by writing down a thought, then finding a line that rhymes or continues it, and then going from there and I usually end up expressing things more clearly then I could have in my head or in conversation. It's helped me a lot
Here's my inevitably incomplete, but hopefully helpful advice, based on what's worked for me: 1. Get a therapist if you can. Everyone should have one. 2. At random points throughout your day, when you have a thought about something you think you know to be true-whether it be "I want to go to college" or "capitalism is preferable to the alternatives"-stop and think "Why?" or "How do I know?" and then follow that line of thought until its conclusion.
I feel strongly that John would start his in a similar manner. They’ve both set unrealistic expectations, just in different spheres that sometimes form a 3D Venn diagram.
My brother came into the kitchen where I was watching this video, took one look at the screen, and said “he looks like a nerd”. Just thought you’d appreciate knowing that.
dutch isnt in the list of other languages your book will be published in and for like a full 8 seconds i was like "damn i wont get to read it :( i'll have to order the italian one and try to read that :(" and then i realised that i speak english
metallsnubben Agreed! I was totally sympathetic until I finished reading her comment. Then I spent eight seconds laughing at myself and wishing I was more observant.
You should write a book and get these two to endorse it. Two/three more comments of that callibre that make me laugh out loud like that and I'll even buy it.
Questions Answered Pinned Comment: You forgot to tell us the title of your book? Apparently I did, I am bad at this! It's called "An Absolutely Remarkable Thing." Who is reading the audio book. I dunno, but I'm working with a producer at Penguin starting the process of looking through women who it could be. There is a ton of talent out there and I'm sure we will find someone great. How do you write? I write mostly on my laptop wherever I have time to write. I use Scrivener and save to a Dropbox folder. Editing has been done in Word. What Hogwarts House is April May in? If we're going straight houses...probably Slytherin? If mixed, a Slytherdor. How do you pre-order from a local book store? Walk in and go to someone who works there and say, "I'd like to pre-order 'An Absolutely Remarkable Thing' because the author, Hank Green, who is a huge fan of independent book sellers told me to." How long did it take to finish? I started the outline in 2013. I wrote the first large chunk in 2014 for Nanowrimo. What is a general outline of the story? I want to avoid spoilers, but, basically April May is a young woman, recently graduated from art school, who gets caught up in a very public, very intense international mystery and it makes her very famous and important. She has to solve the mystery, balance relationships, deal with the pressure of being in the public eye, and fight for what she thinks is right all at the same time and it is not healthy. Why do you look so young in this video? It was filmed on my phone, which is less good at picking out high-contrast features like wrinkles and pores. I think? If you sign books, is there a way for me to increase my chances of getting one? Probably not. I talked to John about trying to make it so that people who order early get a signed copy, but the system isn't set up to do that. So, probably, if I sign some copies, they will be distributed randomly. Are you going to have a book tour? I don't know yet. A lot of that is up to my publisher, but a fair amount is also up to family and how much I really don't want to be away from my baby for too long. We're still working it all out. It will almost definitely not be as long as John's tour. How long is it? Pages can be deceiving, but current estimate is around 340 pages. Turtles All The Way Down is around 70,000 words, this is around 100. Who is the intended audience? People, mostly. It's being marketed and sold as adult literature. The main character is 23, she is in a long-term relationship, but she still has a lot of work to do to find herself and so there are also themes that are common in YA. I'd say under 15 probably would be too young. There is very little sex but some violence. I'll keep adding as I get more :-)
"I didn't want to write a book; I wanted people to read a book that I wrote." This is so simple but it hits like a train. Books, movies, and series are essentially softcore drugs. As someone who not only consumes media (in excess, I have to admit) but also thinks a lot about the reasons for my doing so, the idea of ever being able to cook up one of these drugs and push someone's buttons to the point where my words have the power to drastically change their mood is equally as compelling. Congrats to you, Hank, for being able to find the motivation to write a long-form button-pusher. Oh, and I haven't forgotten... An Absolutely Amazing Thing In My Pants.
It is so sweet to me that he's talking about his own book and yet is wearing a tuatara pin. There's just something wonderful about this. Congratulations, Hank, I can't wait to read it!
You didn't just get published because you're John greens brother. You got published because you are an amazing human being who deserves to be heard. It's about time you've got a book. I've been saying that since 2008
yeah, but lots of amazing human beings who write good books don’t get published, because it’s so tough to get anyone in the publishing industry to hear you out. maybe Hank’s books would’ve still been published if he hadn’t already had a platform, but there’s no denying that having a plaform helped afford him the opportunity to at least be heard out.
All throughout elementary and middle school, I wrote short stories constantly and had a greater desire to write a book someday. Now in my 20's, I've wandered away from that concept because it seems so overwhelming. But guess what? This video has deeply motivated me to try again. I frequently imagine characters, moments, and especially a powerful means of communicating in a different color the things I want people to feel and think about; the reality of having everything I need, however, had not sunk in. Thanks for being real and so encouraging, Hank. I'm stoked to read your book. And, if I write my own someday, I'm going to thank both you and John in the acknowledgements (i mean, with your permission of course and only if you don't hate the book).
I love that you guys haven’t jumped on the ten minute bandwagon This condensing of your thoughts into a short time keeps so much more interest in what you’re saying and allows for only the most important stuff to be said You guys are doing such a great job
Cannot wait to read An Absolutely Remarkable Thing in September!!!! Hank really inspires me to branch out of my comfort zone and try to create amazing things like he and John do!
As an aspiring writer, I SO VERY MUCH identify with the idea of "wanting to have written a book," without wanting to do the actual work required. Thank you Hank, for giving me some courage to do my own work. I think I'm going to get off the internet for awhile and start writing.
1. Your hair looks fab, Hank. It was very distracting. 2. You have been very fair in acknowledging the privileges that have allowed you to have a book published without also acknowledging that you are incredibly gifted and this would likely have been a success irrespective of your fame. 3. If you could, and I know you might be reluctant to, given that it's not always hugely exciting, could you maybe highlight the stages to writing a book, and getting published? The whole process seems very shrouded in mystery. Congrats!
Neha The Jedi ohmygoshyoubesooooolucky! I’ve still got to read Turles All the Way Down, Crooked Kindom, The Book Of Dust, Fangirl, and Again but Better.... and now this! I guess it isn’t a bad problem to have
I now fully expect John to write a song and perform it and put that sucker on spotify. Also CONGRATZ!!!! That is also a dream of mine so well done I know how hard it is. :)
I love that you take the time to acknowledge how much being a Green (although not necessarily John's brother, being this brother is enough IMO) helps with having a book published. Thank you for your honesty. I'm sure the book will be awesome ! Congrats Hank.
Been here since 2010 and I am unfathomably proud of the group, these followers, and these two brothers. They have accomplished so much since their first grainy video around 2007. So proud. Forever a Nerdfighter.
I’ve read some of this book in an early version on Patreon and then listened to some of it as a p4a2016 perk and it is so good and so distinctly Hank Green.
As someone who has a brother who is so successful in the field I want to go into, I just want to say how proud I am of you. sometimes it can be so scary to live in the shadow of someone else (though clearly you are successful in your own right with many things), but I'm sure on some level writing a book must have been a scary goal. it really inspires me to not be afraid to follow my passions and it is a nice reminder that just because your family is successful, that doesn't diminish your hard work or the skill and effort you have that you needed to reach this milestone. I can't wait to read it, thank you.
Hey Hank, I noticed your book does not have a cover yet. This is my own ego talking here, but I think it would be cool if you did a Nerdfighteria art contest to design the cover. I'm sorry if this is too presumptuous of me, anywho we are all super proud of you! Congratulations on writing a thing!
Congrats. You've done something pretty neat and cool and I want to read it and enjoy it and celebrate in my own little personal way as whatever emotions this book can evoke in me come to life and I'm reminded once again of why I love books and how I too wish to one day know what it's like to have someone else read a novel that I have written. Here's to the future: the short term one where your book is released, and the long term one: where mine is too.
Getting lost in Hank's writing will be an interesting change of pace from getting lost in John's! Hearing about your process is really cool, we know how it feels to want to know a character's story. You've inspired us and so many other creators here on TH-cam, we can't wait to see what you do in print!
Hank I am so happy for you! Your description of what wanting to write a book is exactly how it feels to me. I’ve been trying and fighting with myself on a book for YEARS. Not that it gives much context but I wrote the story line and first chapter when I was 15, and let’s just it’s been an minute... I love you and Johns videos so much and it makes me so happy when either of you accomplish something you’ve been working towards. Thank you for sharing your time and yourself with us. The best of luck and I will be preordering your book as soon as I can!
I really relate to that whole 'wanting people to have read the book as opposed to being excited about actually writing it' thing. Also props to you for outright acknowledging that you have it easier than a lot of people to get a book deal.
"have wanted people to read a book that I wrote". Wow, that is shockingly honest and self aware. Been watching you guys since John tried to wax his chin and it's totally consistent with how you present yourselves but man, occasionally you still surprise me.
SEPTEMBER 25th IS MY BIRTHDAY! And while most won't care, I for one, think it's an absolutely remarkable thing. Thanks in advance for a great present Hank!!
This completely opened my eyes to the way authors think when beginning to write a book. I always thought (not that I ever thought about it much) that people wrote books for themselves. And then it would be like, "oh hey this is good and other people will like it too." Quite the opposite of what you said about how you had these ideas and then were motivated to write because you just really "needed other people to know about them." I like the idea that you write with the intention of informing your future readers, instead of writing for sake of writing and then people reading your work because it's "good." Idk if that really made sense once I put my thoughts into words here (I ain't no author lol). I can't wait to get lost in your book, Hank! :)
BULGARIAN!!! I remember the days when John was basically unknown in Bulgaria and I e-mailed publishing houses about translations of his books until one finally had good news for me. And now your book! No need for that! (I mostly buy books I loved in translation because my mom's English isn't at reading books level). Can't wait!!!!!!!
i have a question, Hank. on amazon it says customers also bought Turtles all the way down, and Microfiber Travel Sized Gym Towels. Please explain the correlation of the gym towels.
There is none, as Amazon is a large corporate beast who just wants to suck you, your wallet, your mind, and all your business into their giant stinking maw. Buy from an independent bookstore.
I am unreasonably proud that you have managed to do the thing that we both have been wanting to do for so long. Hopefully one day I can manage to write a book too. This is my first time pre-ordering a book and I'm really look forward to it.
I love how you didn't just use your connections through John to get a book published just for the sake of having a book but you've taken your time, written what you thought needed to be said and made sure it was worth publishing. The world needs more people like you.
Thanks, Hank. I used to be one of those twelve-year-olds who writes Warrior Cats fanfiction, but the more I learned about "good" writing, the more I got wrapped up in the idea of painting detailed pictures with words and the less I thought about having a story to tell. I'm not calling that exploration a mistake or a regret; I think having a strong command of language is one of the most applicable skills there is. I've decided to wait on serious fiction writing, but I haven't given it up. Someday. When it's really important.
woodfur00 me too! I used to write warriors cats fanfiction and heavily used their forums to role play and i loved creating a story through those and then i worried about my skill of writing and didnt enjoy it as much because i cared more about what orhers would think even though i didnt share most of my writing. I havent written in awhile but i hope to come back one day to simply enjoy it for myself
I've always thought that Hank and John look fairly different, but this is the first time that I've looked at Hank and seen John, if only for a split second. I think it has something to do with y'all having similar facial expressions when you are really proud with what you've made. You should be proud. :D
"i, for a long time, have wanted (people) to read a book that i wrote" no greater truth. Your process, hank, and the evolution of your semi delusional relationship with whatever (im sure) wonderous characters you've created, is exactly what i imagine penning a full length novel to be like, I've not done this myself - obviously, but knowing someone shares the SOP as well as completing the task gives me such hope
Hank! I want to read this and I want to be able to write like this. I have been mulling around the idea of a book for so long without being able to sit down and do it. So proud of you. Can't wait to read.
I tried to ask my local book store if your book was available for pre-order there, and apparently it isn't. But on the plus side, when I said "by Hank Green", the guy's face lit up and was like "WAIT. JOHN GREEN'S BROTHER THAT HANK GREEN" So Im glad I was able to announce the release of your book to a person
Thank you for openingly acknowledging part of why you're getting published is that you're John's brother, Hank. As someone who's been struggling to get noticed as a writer for years (and you, John and I are of similar age), you're being in such a position of privilege that your projects are being considered more viable than 99% of who are just as creative and have no audience who cares whatsoever about our voices and what we have to say absolutely cannot be overstated.
Today I attended auditions for the world premiere production of a one-act play that I wrote last year. I'm currently feeling a lot of the things you're feeling, Hank.
Lindsey Corliss Congratulations! And I wish you and your play the best! (Theatre Director Nerdfighter here, so I know how you feel: it’s both exhilarating and terrifying hah. So break legs!)
I pre-ordered the book THE SECOND I saw the title of this video. I have been waiting for this to be a reality for so long, I am so happy for you! You and your brother are a constant inspiration for me as a writer and creator. Thank you for being you.
Looking forward to reading it! Books transmit an author's voice in an indirect and yet very personal way....after listening to your actual voice for over a decade I'm really interested to experience it in another medium. I wish you lots of success!!!!!
Holy crap, I feel like I was just hit with a car. I've also been struggling with motivation in writing and this video was actually kinda really eye opening. I need to fall in love with my characters, my plot, and the themes/morals simultaneously all over again. The answer seems kinda simple actually, it's baffling that I never realized this prior. It's just like.... wow.... I just needed to remember why I decided to get a degree in Creative Writing in the first place. Jeez, thanks Hank.
Hank, I am so excited to read your book, and this video has given me some things to think about. I used to write, but I'd always start and abandon stories. Going into college writing courses made me feel worse because of how many great minds I was surrounded by (I felt like a failure every time I had a piece reviewed). Watching this has me considering starting over, outside of fanfiction this time. Thank you, Hank, for helping me to revisit this part of myself with new eyes.
For some reason in this video, you became human for me. Like I could see your thoughts, and feelings, and the camera you're speaking to. For years you've been an icon, a role model, and a celebrity to me. But, at least for a short moment, you were human.
I don't think it's possible for anyone to always be fully human for me, even irl. I'd even go so far to say that it's that way for most other people also. I'm glad it happened today too.
I completely adore the way you described your writing process; I'm currently writing a book and other than the having a best-selling brother and potential publishers that was very similar to how I feel.
Hank I am so excited for you! I am not a book reader, I don't even read John's books (but I do buy them) but I plan on doing my very best to read your book. Looking forward to it.
Laughed too hard at "because I'm John Green's brother, thanks for that John." Because literally how I got into college was because the dean of admissions like my sister so much that I think she had some residual like for me too.
I'm pretty sure my B in my high school English class was because the teacher couldn't tell me and my best friend apart, and didn't dare give her any less than a B
Congratulations not so much on the book, because I have no idea what it is about, but on finishing it. And all the best on sales and the chance you might change some lives for the better. I'm about to finish my second ('Horrible Idea") and I fully expect 30 people tops to buy it. My earlier book, "How On Fire Are We", and sold about 200. All 200 of those people love it. Most likely no one else will, unless you race in the 24 Hours of Lemons and can read, and if you can't, it has lots of pictures.
I think the biggest thing I need to remind myself while reading your book is to think of it as YOUR book. Not John Green's brother's book. I'm very excited to read what you've come up with.
Yay! :D I love the way you talk about your characters and their stories. As a writer (not professionally, but you know, it's a creative outlet), I've always been fascinated by the way we writers don't actually decide the story. We come up with the characters and the setting, but then the characters have lives of their own. They do what *they* want, they react to *their* world and the characters around *them* ... all we do is write everything down for people who aren't in our brains to see :) Sometimes, this can be a problem, when your characters do things you'd rather they didn't, and you're like, "but what's the most realistic way to... you know... NOT have them do this?" And you may nudge them in one direction or another by placing obstacles in their path. But by and large, fictional characters are more alive than many real humans :) Congrats on the book, and I wish you all the best with its success!
I'm incredibly proud of you and I can't wait for your book, mostly because I find you and your brother have truly distinct artistic voices. While they resonate with similar ideas given that you share a common upbringing and general moral compass, they are both expressed so differently. You express it through song, your bother through non-melodic literature. I'm most interested to see how you go about telling a story, crafting a narrative, expressing ideas and emotions. No questions. Just best of luck, I know it'll be a roaring success because you have a strong loyal group of supporters here. Good job Hank. We are all proud of you.
Ever since you posted the first few chapters on Patreon, I've been desperate for more and I'm so excited I finally get to read more. I love the story and I have every faith in your ability to tell it well.
I am very excited and congratulations! The bookstore I work for was in Tennessee this week at that conference. We also hosted the TATWD book in St.Louis where I briefly waved at you and got to be John's book catcher while he was signing. Two questions. 1. Will bookstores be receiving ARC copies for review 2. What genre is your book? (YA/general fiction/sci-fi, etc)
"I have always wanted to write a book... is a lie. I, for a long time, have wanted people to read a book that I wrote"
I wish I could actually be able to understand myself like that. With clear honesty and understanding the difference between subtle reasons I am doing something
Lieyre yes, I was so overwhelmed by this ability of his that I shed actual tears.
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It takes a lot of time thinking about and learning to understand your feelings. I recommend writing, either stream of consciousness or poetry. For me I can start by writing down a thought, then finding a line that rhymes or continues it, and then going from there and I usually end up expressing things more clearly then I could have in my head or in conversation. It's helped me a lot
Here's my inevitably incomplete, but hopefully helpful advice, based on what's worked for me:
1. Get a therapist if you can. Everyone should have one.
2. At random points throughout your day, when you have a thought about something you think you know to be true-whether it be "I want to go to college" or "capitalism is preferable to the alternatives"-stop and think "Why?" or "How do I know?" and then follow that line of thought until its conclusion.
Now John needs to write a song.
Evan Knowles +
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Never mind just one song... I'm holding out for "F*ckin Majestic: The Musical"!
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You remind me so much of John Green!
Angie Richards you know they are siblings right or were you being sarcastic lol
morbidyouth it's from Hank's Twitter
Angie Richards oh wow I feel dumb lol I don't have Twitter
morbidyouth all good dftba ♥️
Casandra decreasing world suck by not being gatekeeping jerkwads 👍🏾👍🏾
"John set unrealistic expectations, and I'm brining it back down to reality," sounds like the first sentence of Hank's autobiography.
I feel strongly that John would start his in a similar manner. They’ve both set unrealistic expectations, just in different spheres that sometimes form a 3D Venn diagram.
My brother came into the kitchen where I was watching this video, took one look at the screen, and said “he looks like a nerd”. Just thought you’d appreciate knowing that.
dutch isnt in the list of other languages your book will be published in and for like a full 8 seconds i was like "damn i wont get to read it :( i'll have to order the italian one and try to read that :(" and then i realised that i speak english
For some reason, I wasn't questioning your reasoning until the end. Reading that comment. IN ENGLISH
metallsnubben Agreed! I was totally sympathetic until I finished reading her comment. Then I spent eight seconds laughing at myself and wishing I was more observant.
That's the best twist ending ever. Then I realized: I speak English.
(I'm part Dutch, and I'm constantly amazed at how good at English the Dutch are.)
You should write a book and get these two to endorse it. Two/three more comments of that callibre that make me laugh out loud like that and I'll even buy it.
I got really confused and the penny dropped when I read "that i speak english". You almost got me xD
Questions Answered Pinned Comment:
You forgot to tell us the title of your book?
Apparently I did, I am bad at this! It's called "An Absolutely Remarkable Thing."
Who is reading the audio book.
I dunno, but I'm working with a producer at Penguin starting the process of looking through women who it could be. There is a ton of talent out there and I'm sure we will find someone great.
How do you write?
I write mostly on my laptop wherever I have time to write. I use Scrivener and save to a Dropbox folder. Editing has been done in Word.
What Hogwarts House is April May in?
If we're going straight houses...probably Slytherin? If mixed, a Slytherdor.
How do you pre-order from a local book store?
Walk in and go to someone who works there and say, "I'd like to pre-order 'An Absolutely Remarkable Thing' because the author, Hank Green, who is a huge fan of independent book sellers told me to."
How long did it take to finish?
I started the outline in 2013. I wrote the first large chunk in 2014 for Nanowrimo.
What is a general outline of the story?
I want to avoid spoilers, but, basically April May is a young woman, recently graduated from art school, who gets caught up in a very public, very intense international mystery and it makes her very famous and important. She has to solve the mystery, balance relationships, deal with the pressure of being in the public eye, and fight for what she thinks is right all at the same time and it is not healthy.
Why do you look so young in this video?
It was filmed on my phone, which is less good at picking out high-contrast features like wrinkles and pores. I think?
If you sign books, is there a way for me to increase my chances of getting one?
Probably not. I talked to John about trying to make it so that people who order early get a signed copy, but the system isn't set up to do that. So, probably, if I sign some copies, they will be distributed randomly.
Are you going to have a book tour?
I don't know yet. A lot of that is up to my publisher, but a fair amount is also up to family and how much I really don't want to be away from my baby for too long. We're still working it all out. It will almost definitely not be as long as John's tour.
How long is it?
Pages can be deceiving, but current estimate is around 340 pages. Turtles All The Way Down is around 70,000 words, this is around 100.
Who is the intended audience?
People, mostly. It's being marketed and sold as adult literature. The main character is 23, she is in a long-term relationship, but she still has a lot of work to do to find herself and so there are also themes that are common in YA. I'd say under 15 probably would be too young. There is very little sex but some violence.
I'll keep adding as I get more :-)
vlogbrothers YAY I CAN'T WAIT TO READ IT AND IM WRITING A BOOK TOO YAY
vlogbrothers and same I write too much but always poetry and fanfiction
Hi, will it be available in India on the same date?
Will you narrate your book?
Really excited!It'll truly be remarkable.What about other countries ?
I'm so excited for this! I remember when you first tweeted about writing this book and I thought "The science brother is writing fiction?"
Lol.
if my brother ever starts writing a book of his own accord I WILL HAVE THAT reaction
Hank! I’m so proud of you for writing a book! That is so rad! I cannot wait to read it. Thanks as always for everything you do, DFTBA.
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MrLotrfreak b
guess John has to go and become a scientist now.
"I didn't want to write a book; I wanted people to read a book that I wrote."
This is so simple but it hits like a train. Books, movies, and series are essentially softcore drugs. As someone who not only consumes media (in excess, I have to admit) but also thinks a lot about the reasons for my doing so, the idea of ever being able to cook up one of these drugs and push someone's buttons to the point where my words have the power to drastically change their mood is equally as compelling.
Congrats to you, Hank, for being able to find the motivation to write a long-form button-pusher.
Oh, and I haven't forgotten... An Absolutely Amazing Thing In My Pants.
It is so sweet to me that he's talking about his own book and yet is wearing a tuatara pin. There's just something wonderful about this. Congratulations, Hank, I can't wait to read it!
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Holy crap, Hank, shut up and take my money!
basically me the entire video
I enjoy that Tim Minchin is your avatar.
Kathy, but really, isn't Tim Minchin *everyone's* avatar? :P
IceMetalPunk I mean, if they are doing something right in their life, yes?
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You didn't just get published because you're John greens brother. You got published because you are an amazing human being who deserves to be heard. It's about time you've got a book. I've been saying that since 2008
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pppiano99 mikey mouse
yeah, but lots of amazing human beings who write good books don’t get published, because it’s so tough to get anyone in the publishing industry to hear you out.
maybe Hank’s books would’ve still been published if he hadn’t already had a platform, but there’s no denying that having a plaform helped afford him the opportunity to at least be heard out.
never pre-ordered so fast
'because i'm john green's brother. thanks for that john.'
true sibling love.
Rachel Anne
Nepotism is Magic.
This will get lost in the comments, but Nerdfighteria is so proud of you, Hank!
AN ABSOLUTELY REMARKABLE THING IN MY PANTS. THATS AMAZING
Yay Hank! Can't wait to read your book!
All throughout elementary and middle school, I wrote short stories constantly and had a greater desire to write a book someday. Now in my 20's, I've wandered away from that concept because it seems so overwhelming. But guess what? This video has deeply motivated me to try again. I frequently imagine characters, moments, and especially a powerful means of communicating in a different color the things I want people to feel and think about; the reality of having everything I need, however, had not sunk in. Thanks for being real and so encouraging, Hank. I'm stoked to read your book. And, if I write my own someday, I'm going to thank both you and John in the acknowledgements (i mean, with your permission of course and only if you don't hate the book).
Pre-ordered!! :D
I love that you guys haven’t jumped on the ten minute bandwagon
This condensing of your thoughts into a short time keeps so much more interest in what you’re saying and allows for only the most important stuff to be said
You guys are doing such a great job
Laura Fitzpatrick +, the Vlogbrothers formula still works ^.^
Cannot wait to read An Absolutely Remarkable Thing in September!!!! Hank really inspires me to branch out of my comfort zone and try to create amazing things like he and John do!
Me too
I am SO excited!!!!! Congrats Hank! *****showers you in all the glitter*****
That would be bad for the environment
As an aspiring writer, I SO VERY MUCH identify with the idea of "wanting to have written a book," without wanting to do the actual work required. Thank you Hank, for giving me some courage to do my own work. I think I'm going to get off the internet for awhile and start writing.
How’s it going?
1. Your hair looks fab, Hank. It was very distracting.
2. You have been very fair in acknowledging the privileges that have allowed you to have a book published without also acknowledging that you are incredibly gifted and this would likely have been a success irrespective of your fame.
3. If you could, and I know you might be reluctant to, given that it's not always hugely exciting, could you maybe highlight the stages to writing a book, and getting published? The whole process seems very shrouded in mystery. Congrats!
Jennifer O'Hara ++++++
25th September? Great! Now I can get the book as a Birthday present and my parents won't even complain about buying yet another book!
Neha The Jedi ohmygoshyoubesooooolucky! I’ve still got to read Turles All the Way Down, Crooked Kindom, The Book Of Dust, Fangirl, and Again but Better.... and now this! I guess it isn’t a bad problem to have
Neha The Jedi lol Same!
25th September is my birthday too!!
Same!!
It’s a birthday gift for me too 😄
"But there was no way to finish reading her story without writing it."
THAT'S 👏what that feeling is!!
This is my most anticipated book of 2018!
I now fully expect John to write a song and perform it and put that sucker on spotify. Also CONGRATZ!!!! That is also a dream of mine so well done I know how hard it is. :)
I love that you take the time to acknowledge how much being a Green (although not necessarily John's brother, being this brother is enough IMO) helps with having a book published. Thank you for your honesty. I'm sure the book will be awesome ! Congrats Hank.
Been here since 2010 and I am unfathomably proud of the group, these followers, and these two brothers. They have accomplished so much since their first grainy video around 2007. So proud. Forever a Nerdfighter.
Love the tuatara lapel pin!
When do we get a book written by Dave Green?
I’ve read some of this book in an early version on Patreon and then listened to some of it as a p4a2016 perk and it is so good and so distinctly Hank Green.
As someone who has a brother who is so successful in the field I want to go into, I just want to say how proud I am of you. sometimes it can be so scary to live in the shadow of someone else (though clearly you are successful in your own right with many things), but I'm sure on some level writing a book must have been a scary goal. it really inspires me to not be afraid to follow my passions and it is a nice reminder that just because your family is successful, that doesn't diminish your hard work or the skill and effort you have that you needed to reach this milestone. I can't wait to read it, thank you.
Bless Hank, so focused on telling us how he wrote his book that he forgets to mention the title. 😂
I'M NEW AT THIS!
Green brothers gonna be the modern Brontë sisters
Hey Hank, I noticed your book does not have a cover yet. This is my own ego talking here, but I think it would be cool if you did a Nerdfighteria art contest to design the cover. I'm sorry if this is too presumptuous of me, anywho we are all super proud of you! Congratulations on writing a thing!
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I believe he already got it designed by an artist - I heard him talking about it on Dear Hank and John!
Meredith Adams Oh, awesome. I can't wait to see what the book looks like!
Congrats. You've done something pretty neat and cool and I want to read it and enjoy it and celebrate in my own little personal way as whatever emotions this book can evoke in me come to life and I'm reminded once again of why I love books and how I too wish to one day know what it's like to have someone else read a novel that I have written. Here's to the future: the short term one where your book is released, and the long term one: where mine is too.
Can't wait! I feel a sense of pride surrounding this even though I have done nothing :)
Tyler May same! I feel like a proud parent that has raised an accomplished child
I am so happy for you Hank! And I am looking forward to this whole new experience we are all going to share. DFTBA!
Getting lost in Hank's writing will be an interesting change of pace from getting lost in John's! Hearing about your process is really cool, we know how it feels to want to know a character's story. You've inspired us and so many other creators here on TH-cam, we can't wait to see what you do in print!
Hank I am so happy for you! Your description of what wanting to write a book is exactly how it feels to me. I’ve been trying and fighting with myself on a book for YEARS. Not that it gives much context but I wrote the story line and first chapter when I was 15, and let’s just it’s been an minute... I love you and Johns videos so much and it makes me so happy when either of you accomplish something you’ve been working towards. Thank you for sharing your time and yourself with us. The best of luck and I will be preordering your book as soon as I can!
I really relate to that whole 'wanting people to have read the book as opposed to being excited about actually writing it' thing. Also props to you for outright acknowledging that you have it easier than a lot of people to get a book deal.
What I love about the Vlogbrothers is I am absurdly happy on behalf of someone I'll probably never meet. But I really am happy for you Hank
"have wanted people to read a book that I wrote". Wow, that is shockingly honest and self aware. Been watching you guys since John tried to wax his chin and it's totally consistent with how you present yourselves but man, occasionally you still surprise me.
Videos like this is why I wish TH-cam had a “Love” button, because I love this!!! I’m so happy for you Hank, and already pre-ordered your book 💜
I will be sure to share my casting suggestions with you when this is made into a movie.
SEPTEMBER 25th IS MY BIRTHDAY! And while most won't care, I for one, think it's an absolutely remarkable thing. Thanks in advance for a great present Hank!!
You mean "An Absolutely Remarkable Thing" that comes out September 25th, 2018 and available for preorder now.
WELL if I wasnt already desperate to read this book, I'm now absolutely craving it. Cant wait Hank, congrats
This completely opened my eyes to the way authors think when beginning to write a book. I always thought (not that I ever thought about it much) that people wrote books for themselves. And then it would be like, "oh hey this is good and other people will like it too." Quite the opposite of what you said about how you had these ideas and then were motivated to write because you just really "needed other people to know about them." I like the idea that you write with the intention of informing your future readers, instead of writing for sake of writing and then people reading your work because it's "good." Idk if that really made sense once I put my thoughts into words here (I ain't no author lol). I can't wait to get lost in your book, Hank! :)
BULGARIAN!!! I remember the days when John was basically unknown in Bulgaria and I e-mailed publishing houses about translations of his books until one finally had good news for me. And now your book! No need for that! (I mostly buy books I loved in translation because my mom's English isn't at reading books level). Can't wait!!!!!!!
i have a question, Hank. on amazon it says customers also bought Turtles all the way down, and Microfiber Travel Sized Gym Towels. Please explain the correlation of the gym towels.
For large tears on the go
100 Days
There is none, as Amazon is a large corporate beast who just wants to suck you, your wallet, your mind, and all your business into their giant stinking maw. Buy from an independent bookstore.
Hey, you sass that hoopy Ford Prefect? There's a frood who really knows where his towel is.
I am unreasonably proud that you have managed to do the thing that we both have been wanting to do for so long. Hopefully one day I can manage to write a book too. This is my first time pre-ordering a book and I'm really look forward to it.
I was a young writer and lost sight of it until recently; thank you for your testimonial. It gives me hope for myself and my writing.
I love how you didn't just use your connections through John to get a book published just for the sake of having a book but you've taken your time, written what you thought needed to be said and made sure it was worth publishing. The world needs more people like you.
The release date is the day that I was borthed¡
miles Forziano aye same!
SAME
miles Forziano that’s my brother’s birthday. Lucky bastards.
I was borhedied on July 13th
I love that "borthed" has become accepted terminology in this thread without saying a word about it. :) Also, I was borthed in April.
Thanks, Hank. I used to be one of those twelve-year-olds who writes Warrior Cats fanfiction, but the more I learned about "good" writing, the more I got wrapped up in the idea of painting detailed pictures with words and the less I thought about having a story to tell. I'm not calling that exploration a mistake or a regret; I think having a strong command of language is one of the most applicable skills there is. I've decided to wait on serious fiction writing, but I haven't given it up. Someday. When it's really important.
woodfur00 me too! I used to write warriors cats fanfiction and heavily used their forums to role play and i loved creating a story through those and then i worried about my skill of writing and didnt enjoy it as much because i cared more about what orhers would think even though i didnt share most of my writing. I havent written in awhile but i hope to come back one day to simply enjoy it for myself
Exciting! Can’t wait to meet these characters :)
I’m actually doing my nerdy “new book pre-order” dance now! I can’t wait to read it!
I like how he's wearing a t-shirt under his professional author jacket. Also I'm so excited to read the book!
Shirt is from starcadet.com it's real gooood.
A Han Solo as a cat shirt is not something I ever realized I needed in my life until now.
I've always thought that Hank and John look fairly different, but this is the first time that I've looked at Hank and seen John, if only for a split second. I think it has something to do with y'all having similar facial expressions when you are really proud with what you've made. You should be proud. :D
"i, for a long time, have wanted (people) to read a book that i wrote" no greater truth. Your process, hank, and the evolution of your semi delusional relationship with whatever (im sure) wonderous characters you've created, is exactly what i imagine penning a full length novel to be like, I've not done this myself - obviously, but knowing someone shares the SOP as well as completing the task gives me such hope
Hank! I want to read this and I want to be able to write like this. I have been mulling around the idea of a book for so long without being able to sit down and do it. So proud of you. Can't wait to read.
I tried to ask my local book store if your book was available for pre-order there, and apparently it isn't. But on the plus side, when I said "by Hank Green", the guy's face lit up and was like "WAIT. JOHN GREEN'S BROTHER THAT HANK GREEN"
So Im glad I was able to announce the release of your book to a person
I bet that local bookstore will be getting some preorder options soon.
Thank you for openingly acknowledging part of why you're getting published is that you're John's brother, Hank. As someone who's been struggling to get noticed as a writer for years (and you, John and I are of similar age), you're being in such a position of privilege that your projects are being considered more viable than 99% of who are just as creative and have no audience who cares whatsoever about our voices and what we have to say absolutely cannot be overstated.
Today I attended auditions for the world premiere production of a one-act play that I wrote last year. I'm currently feeling a lot of the things you're feeling, Hank.
Lindsey Corliss Congratulations! And I wish you and your play the best! (Theatre Director Nerdfighter here, so I know how you feel: it’s both exhilarating and terrifying hah. So break legs!)
I pre-ordered the book THE SECOND I saw the title of this video. I have been waiting for this to be a reality for so long, I am so happy for you! You and your brother are a constant inspiration for me as a writer and creator. Thank you for being you.
I love that he's openly acknowledging that nepotism was a factor
But will the audio book be signed?
asking the important questions
Kinda - with his audio signature?
The big question
You got Patrick Rothfuss to read and revise your novel?! That alone is an absolutely remarkable thing
Looking forward to reading it! Books transmit an author's voice in an indirect and yet very personal way....after listening to your actual voice for over a decade I'm really interested to experience it in another medium. I wish you lots of success!!!!!
Holy crap, I feel like I was just hit with a car.
I've also been struggling with motivation in writing and this video was actually kinda really eye opening. I need to fall in love with my characters, my plot, and the themes/morals simultaneously all over again.
The answer seems kinda simple actually, it's baffling that I never realized this prior. It's just like.... wow.... I just needed to remember why I decided to get a degree in Creative Writing in the first place.
Jeez, thanks Hank.
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I heard the first chapter through the P4A Perk and it was soo good! Can't wait to read the rest of it!!
Will you read us the first chapter too before release date??
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Hank, I am so excited to read your book, and this video has given me some things to think about. I used to write, but I'd always start and abandon stories. Going into college writing courses made me feel worse because of how many great minds I was surrounded by (I felt like a failure every time I had a piece reviewed). Watching this has me considering starting over, outside of fanfiction this time. Thank you, Hank, for helping me to revisit this part of myself with new eyes.
For some reason in this video, you became human for me. Like I could see your thoughts, and feelings, and the camera you're speaking to. For years you've been an icon, a role model, and a celebrity to me. But, at least for a short moment, you were human.
If you want more of that feeling watch some hankschannel videos/livestreams they are super down to earth and lovely! :)
Awww...I wish that happened every video, but I'm glad it happened today.
I don't think it's possible for anyone to always be fully human for me, even irl. I'd even go so far to say that it's that way for most other people also. I'm glad it happened today too.
I completely adore the way you described your writing process; I'm currently writing a book and other than the having a best-selling brother and potential publishers that was very similar to how I feel.
That's a reeeeeaaal nice tuatara you got on your lapel there
Hank I am so excited for you! I am not a book reader, I don't even read John's books (but I do buy them) but I plan on doing my very best to read your book. Looking forward to it.
Laughed too hard at "because I'm John Green's brother, thanks for that John." Because literally how I got into college was because the dean of admissions like my sister so much that I think she had some residual like for me too.
I'm pretty sure my B in my high school English class was because the teacher couldn't tell me and my best friend apart, and didn't dare give her any less than a B
Great Job, Hank! I just started working on my own fiction book so Its great to hear your thoughts on having completed one.
Will the author of the book be Hank Green or William Green?
I'm so excited for the book! Congratulations Hank! I'm going to pre order right now! DFTBA!
Congratulations not so much on the book, because I have no idea what it is about, but on finishing it. And all the best on sales and the chance you might change some lives for the better.
I'm about to finish my second ('Horrible Idea") and I fully expect 30 people tops to buy it. My earlier book, "How On Fire Are We", and sold about 200. All 200 of those people love it. Most likely no one else will, unless you race in the 24 Hours of Lemons and can read, and if you can't, it has lots of pictures.
I cannot tell you how excited I am about this
I think the biggest thing I need to remind myself while reading your book is to think of it as YOUR book. Not John Green's brother's book. I'm very excited to read what you've come up with.
Congratulations, Hank! Your fellow citizens of Nerdfighteria are very proud :)
the whole wanting the process to be completed but not to go through it thing of my god I understand
Yay! :D I love the way you talk about your characters and their stories. As a writer (not professionally, but you know, it's a creative outlet), I've always been fascinated by the way we writers don't actually decide the story. We come up with the characters and the setting, but then the characters have lives of their own. They do what *they* want, they react to *their* world and the characters around *them* ... all we do is write everything down for people who aren't in our brains to see :) Sometimes, this can be a problem, when your characters do things you'd rather they didn't, and you're like, "but what's the most realistic way to... you know... NOT have them do this?" And you may nudge them in one direction or another by placing obstacles in their path. But by and large, fictional characters are more alive than many real humans :)
Congrats on the book, and I wish you all the best with its success!
Promoting your own book, still wearing a pin for John's. #siblinggoals
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I'm incredibly proud of you and I can't wait for your book, mostly because I find you and your brother have truly distinct artistic voices. While they resonate with similar ideas given that you share a common upbringing and general moral compass, they are both expressed so differently. You express it through song, your bother through non-melodic literature.
I'm most interested to see how you go about telling a story, crafting a narrative, expressing ideas and emotions. No questions. Just best of luck, I know it'll be a roaring success because you have a strong loyal group of supporters here.
Good job Hank. We are all proud of you.
I hope it will be available in English too eventually.
Ever since you posted the first few chapters on Patreon, I've been desperate for more and I'm so excited I finally get to read more. I love the story and I have every faith in your ability to tell it well.
I am very excited and congratulations!
The bookstore I work for was in Tennessee this week at that conference. We also hosted the TATWD book in St.Louis where I briefly waved at you and got to be John's book catcher while he was signing. Two questions.
1. Will bookstores be receiving ARC copies for review
2. What genre is your book? (YA/general fiction/sci-fi, etc)
ROOTING FOR U !!! this video made me happy !!
Yay Hank! Will you be reading the audiobook?
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PLEASE DO A BOOK TOUR!