....and give me an advance so I can just write and finish this thing?
2006-06-25 06:18:54 · 5 answers · asked by shehawke 5 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
As a science fiction author, I would have to say that there are several things you are going to want to do. If you are writing non-fiction, all you have to do is write a book proposal, and send it to every possible venue. If, on the other hand, you are writing fiction, you will need to assemble a resume. I recommend writing at least one piece for a club or organization's newsletter, a fanzine, at least one short story to a magazine (it may take you a while to sell it), avoid "fanfic" sites, absolutely do not self-publish if you ever want to be taken seriously, enter contests, and join or start a writers' group in your local area.
To sell your idea, you're going to have to learn to write a book proposal, write a book proposal and cover letter, and you will have to write at least one to two sample chapters (they don't want to see the whole book). Please note, you will have to send it to each publisher one after the other, and expect that you will be turned down the first time no matter what, even if the same publisher purchases it after you have submitted it to them again. The below link will give you some information on writing book proposals. Ask any other writers you know, and check with your local library.
http://www.larsen-pomada.com/parts2.html
2006-06-25 06:31:53 · answer #1 · answered by juliantreidiii 2 · 1⤊ 3⤋
the website Julian Reid (below) recommends is very good. Also pick up a copy of "Writer's Digest 2006" which covers dozens of aspects of the writing/publishing business, including hundreds of publishers and what they want or dont want. Good luck to you (and to me) cuz i am in the same boat.
2006-06-25 13:49:32 · answer #2 · answered by Theycouldntkillkenny 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why don't you look into self-publishing your book? Perhaps a major publishing house would pick it up and offer you a contract if it is any good.
You don't mention what kind of book you are writing.
2006-06-25 13:23:37 · answer #3 · answered by ps2754 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have you tried finding a publishing agent? Also, sometimes magazines will publish a portion of a larger manuscript, which might generate further interest.
2006-06-25 13:23:09 · answer #4 · answered by Feathery 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're delusional if you think they are going to give you an advance.
2006-06-25 13:23:35 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋