How do i get my stories published into books?

Question

how long do they have to be?

Answer 1

Getting published is a process, but there's a good market out there for short stories. Here's a good link for information: http://fictionwriting.about.com/od/reviews/gr/writersmarket.htm

Of course you have to start by writing your manuscript.

After that, find a good editor, someone honest enough to be straight with you and to help you fix your document and format it for submission. I use www.wordtechs.com and have been very happy with them.

Next you can either locate an agent or write your own query letters, and follow the publishers' submission guidelines, send off your manuscript and wait to connect with the right person.

Don't skip the editor step, and don't expect it to be an instantaneous thing. Start writing your next book while you wait for acceptance to keep your mind occupied and to keep from worrying.

Good luck,
~Tia~

Answer 2

If what you're looking to do is get short stories published in anthologies, then the first step is to find a good source of up to date market information. Two good sources I use are Spicy Green Iguana and Paula Fleming's Market List. These listings will often have information from editors of anthologies who are currently accepting submissions. Read the listings carefully. Editors may only be interested in receiving submissions from writers who are already members of such professional organizations as the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, the Romance Writers of America, etc. etc.

Market listings will also include the length limits for stories. A common range is 3000 to 5000 words. A short story manuscript formatted according to professional industry standards will usually have 250 words per page. 5000 words divided by 250 words per page equals 20 pages.

If what you're really looking for is a way to have a collection of your short stories published, then I suggest contacting companies such as iUniverse or Author House. Companies like these can offer you more or less reasonable rates for helping you publish an attractive volume of your own work. Understand this is not the same as having your work published by an actual publisher, and it does not count the same as a professional publishing credit.

I hope this information is useful to you!

Answer 3

You need a literary agent. If the agent likes your stories, he will find a publisher for you. Or, you can publish and them yourself at

lulu.com

Answer 4

Submit them to a publisher or two. If they are really good, then how long they are should not really matter. Good luck.

Answer 5

Buy "Writer's Market." It lists opportunities. Also, my author-friend says people like you shouldn't get a literary agent. They're expensive and sometimes hoaxes.