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Getting back into the swing of work in the New Year is difficult---especially after spending several days last week painting the apartment, playing wii, seeing movies, and reading books that are not necessarily for work.  The biggest shock comes in the morning when the alarm rings, but if I think about what I have to look forward to in 2009, it makes getting out of bed that much easier.

We've got some great books coming this year; one of my favorites is The Help by Kathryn Stockett.  Putnam will publish this fantastic first novel in February.  This book has all the makings of a bonafide hit, and we've already sold translation rights in 8 countries, so things are looking good.

Reconnecting with my Penguin friends and colleagues makes the transition back to the office a little less painful.  For the majority of the year, I spend five days a week with these folks. Even a few days away from them made my heart grow fonder. Seeing everyone this week is like a mini family reunion-without the bad potato salad.

Also, later this winter, I am looking forward to visits from my international publishing colleagues.  February is a time when many of them come to New York to hear about upcoming projects. Although it's technically work, it's nice to reconnect with people I only see a few times a year.

And I'm really looking forward to The Watchmen movie, based upon one of the best comic book series of all time.  Hopefully the movie will come out on time in March, it looks to be a blast!

So although the alarm may go off early, the daylight is scarce, and the winds at 375 Hudson Street are brutal, there are still pockets of happiness that help me get out of bed every morning.  What is getting you through the January doldrums?

Posted by: Lance Fitzgerald, Director of Subsidiary Rights

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