How can I present just a concept to a publisher. Do I get paid for the "idea?"?

Question

I have a great idea for a gift book, a nice little treat for the impulse buyer. It's the quirky title and imaginative marketing idea that is so unique. Any ideas on how to present this in a query letter? Like... Dear Blahblahblah, Have I got a great idea for you!

Answer 1

Since you can't copyright an idea, I'd keep it to myself. Then you should write the book and present it to the publisher then. Most publishers don't spend too much time on ideas, they want to see a finished product.

Answer 2

There are a lot of writers workshops around. If you present a short summary of about three sentences about the book in a letter introducing yourself, vocalize this to an agent or publisher at the workshop, and ask if they would be interested in reading the first chapter (which you should not have on your person, but available in a nearby briefcase or in your hotel room or car), then you may find they are willing to read it at some point and you may receive some advice & criticism.
Usually, you should go through a lot of criticism first, from fellow writers in classes and workshops.

Answer 3

Hey, the best advice I can give you is to get hold of a book called "The Writer's Marketplace" It not only lists thousands of potential buyers for your work, but gives good sound advice for first timers. the subjects range from when to get a literary agent, to how to write a cover letter, a synopsis of your book, and what to include in communications with your potential publisher. A good place to locate this book is Half.com. There is a new annual edition published every year.

Answer 4

I once read a quote from holly lisle I think it said:
"If I sell 1000 ideas to you for a single buck I'd still be cheating you"
In other words, finding an idea is easy enough, its the writing that'll be the hard bit and I'd say no serious publisher would buy a concept, they only buy books.
Good Luck!

Answer 5

I would save my time for writing that book.

As someone else said, you can't copyright an idea. And publishing houses are more interested in manuscrits than ideas. You wouldn't get a penny for just an idea. Ideas don't sell until they're in some material form (such as a manuscript or an invention).

Answer 6

Don't write that letter!

You need to find an artist/writer to colloborate & do it all yourself. Then approach a publisher. Otherwise they'll do the same thing you would do if someone mentioned a great idea they weren't using to you, they'll use it!

Answer 7

I wonder how your idea can be that great if you have no idea how to present it? Are You that little convinced of your idea yourself?