It takes waiting time, effort, and many submissions to get published.
The absolute worst thing you can do is "cold-call" publishers to ask if they might be interested in your book. Instead, find out who produces books like yours. Browse your local bookstore, and make a list of publishers who offer books in your category. Writers often make the mistake of sending query letters to publishers and agents that do not specialize in the genre that they are writing in.
Look up promising publishers in the current Writer's Market or Literary Market Place (in the library reference section). There, you'll find the publisher's address and the editor to contact.
Writer's Market also tells you what a publishing company is buying, its rates, and how to approach the editor. For example, some publishers want to see your entire manuscript, others want a query letter outlining your story idea, and still others want a book proposal and/or a chapter-by-chapter outline. Some accept unsolicited manuscripts; others only accept books from agents. If you need more information, write or call the publisher to request writer's guidelines.
Send a query letter first class mail to any publisher or agent you want - even if they are not open for submissions. It is not illegal to send them mail. Often, if the query is compelling to read agents and publishers will request your manuscript, even if closed to writers who have no representation. Every publisher and agent is looking for a bestseller, so send your query letter. Yes, many will automatically reject your query, but you only need one to say yes.
These days, editors won't even look at a manuscript that isn't prepared professionally. Type your manuscript on high-quality white bond paper. Double-space your manuscript and leave a 1-inch margin on all sides. Number your pages, check your spelling, use a clear, readable font of a decent size (10-12 pt.). Don't "justify" your right margin; leave it uneven. Don't mix fonts, and don't overuse boldface or italics. If you have any questions about how to format a manuscript, query, or proposal, see A Quick Guide to Manuscript Format. Learn all you can about how to market your manuscript and follow the publishing industry standard rules regarding submissions. Be professional and you will absolutely see enhanced results for your efforts!
Submit your package. If you are mailing a large manuscript, use a manuscript box (available at stationery or office supply stores). Address it to the correct person, not just "editor". Be sure and include a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
If you prefer that your material be returned, be sure to include an envelope with sufficient postage, or a return label and postage for your manuscript box.
It may take two to six months or longer to hear the results of your query or proposal; it may take six months to a year or more to get a response on an entire manuscript. During this time you might consider submitting your manuscript to more than one publisher. Make sure, however, that each is open to "simultaneous submissions."
You do not need to be a fabulous writer to be published. You don't need a college degree. What you do need is writing and communication skills to have a great book.
You can hire a professional writer to rewrite your manuscript. Ghostwriters are listed on Web sites and in Writer's Digest Magazine. Many famous authors use the services of ghostwriters. If you hire a professional ghostwriter or editor to rewrite your script and query letter the odds increase dramatically of having your book published. It is an investment in your success and the cost is tax deductible.
You do not need a literary agent to be published, but they do open markets to reach exclusive publishers. Small press independent publishers should not be discounted. They can give your book longevity on the market and are capable to launch and manage bestsellers by employing subcontracts with larger publishers. Again, the key to success is submitting professional material so the agent or publisher's editor can see high quality in the writing immediately. source
:::I hope this helps:::
Edited by vwgoddess_19 on December 29 2005 at 9:04pm
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