I want to be a writer, but have heard how hard it is to find a publisher. Where do I start?

Question

I am in the process of writing a book, but have no idea what to do with it when I'm done. Also, I write columns for my local newspaper, so I have some professional experience, if you want to call it that. I just need some advice on where to go from here as to how to find a publisher that takes chances on new and upcoming writers.

Answer 1

You write you book first and make sure if meets the standard manuscript format, then you get a copy of Writer's Market to submit a query or partial to either an agent or a publisher. Expect a lot of rejection, but if you have the stamina, keep at it. Agents or publishers will take a chance if the material is outstanding.

Answer 2

Understand that you must be a good writer and have a good story to get it published. This is first and foremost. I would spend some money, not much about 30 dollars and buy a copy of Writers Market. It provides names and addresses of agents, publishers, magazines and all venues including contests. It will list publishers by the kind of stories they are interested in such as Mystery, Romance, Children's Stories, Westerns, and so on. They will help you narrow down your search. It also gives great tips on submitting queries and writing technique and it comes out each year updated. I recommend it to anyone seriously pursuing a writing career. But...don't quit your day job just yet.

Answer 3

Once you've finished your book, set it aside for at least a month before going back to it and revising it. Join a writers' group to get feedback (and give feedback). Enter reputable competitions, especially if the final judge is a big-name agent or editor - that's one way to leapfrog the slush pile.

These days, the big publishing houses will only look at submissions that come via an agent, or if an editor requested the manuscript after you pitched the book at a conference. Take a look at a website called Preditors and Editors, and also the forums at Absolute Write.

Best of luck.

Answer 4

Most local libraries have a copy of the annual writer's guide to publications. It is a fairly comprehensive source of publications and publishing houses accepting new works. That would be a good place to start. Also check into the existence of a local writer's guild or other club for networking opportunities.

Answer 5

Try writing short stories and submit them to magazines like Reader's Digest. Then, when your book is completed, you have published works from the small magazines to create a portfolio just like an artist would have. It will give you more credibility and maybe you'll have a better chance with a book publisher.

Answer 6

Ask your friends if they knew any publisher, or somebody who is in the business.

I think that you can also enter any writing competition to attract some people. Who knows..