Rochester Authors Sign Books, Share News of Movie Deal

When Michael and Gina Spehn finished the first draft of what would become their bestselling book, The Color of Rain, it was 160,000 words. 

But on Thursday night at the Rochester Hills Barnes & Noble, the published book they signed for guests was 99,761 words. 

So what was lost in the writing and editing process? The Spehns gave insight into that question and more to about 20 participants of a book club discussion at the store. Rochester Patch helped organize the book club after telling the Spehn family's story last year. (Read ).

Michael and Gina each lost a spouse to cancer and then met, married and blended their families (they have five children between them). 

They wrote their book "for all of the people over the hill," Michael Spehn said, refering to those who were dealing with some form of grief or loss who would benefit from the book's message of endurance and transformation.

Michael and Gina hinted at a sequel to the book. They also announced that the movie rights to the book have been purchased by The Hallmark Channel; the screenplay is in the works right now.

The book was first published in 2011 and then printed in paperback earlier this year. It is a New York Times bestseller. The Spehns started the New Day Foundation for Families to help young families facing cancer. 

Gina Spehn said the most rewarding part of the writing process, for her, has been connecting with and helping others who have experienced similar loss.     

"That has been the biggest blessing of this whole experience," she said.