I am writing a book how can I get it published when I finish?

Question

I haven't finished it yet but I want to start thinking about how to get a publisher. Does anyone know how I can do so?

Answer 1

There are two types of publishing: Tradition and Self-Publishing.

The first answer that you got suggested http://www.lulu.com which is, in my opinion, the best self-publisher around. You can set up your book on their website, for free, and they will print copies as they are purchased. They do not edit your book, so you will need to take care of that on your own. This will also NOT get your book in a traditional bookstore, although you can purchase a very affordable package that would allow sale of your book through online bookstores like Amazon.

The second answer referenced "Writer's Market" which, along with "The Guide to Literary Agents" are my two suggestions for diving into the traditional publishing market. I suggest looking for an agent first because they are the best step through the publishing door. You will create a submission package that matches the agents preferences (some, for instance, just want a query letter and summary in your first contact with them while others want more). Once you find an agent that is willing to represent you, they will market your book to publishers. Remember, in traditional publishing you should not be paying for anything! They get paid when you get paid!

But first, you have to get that thing written! Happy writing and good luck!

Answer 2

You have to send copies of your manuscript to different publishing houses. Look them up on-line. Just a couple tips. Local publishers will be more likely to publish you. And as a new writer you have a less than 1% chance at getting published in the traditional sense (where the publishing house pays for everything, does the marketing and so on). Your best bet would probably be to go to a vanity press (where you pay a fee and will guaranteed be published but have to do all your own marketing) or a Subsidized Press (you pay a fee, but they do all the other cr*p). Try this place called "Vantage Press" they do a subsidy and have a good reputation.

Answer 3

I have answered many questions about this in the past, and my answer is how I became published -

Go to the reference section of your library and take out the book called "THE WRITER'S MARKET"

That book not only explains how to do this, but it also lists thousands of publishers and agents and tells you the steps to submission which are:

-Query Letter, once accepted,
-Synopsis, once accepted,
-Manuscript with exclusive rights for one year, once accepted,
-Publishing Contract, once accepted,
-Collect checks!

Answer 4

A really simple way is to use Lulu.com. You can get an ISBN so that your book will can be bought on Amazon and other places, but you'll have to do your own publicity.
The more traditional way, is to send your book to as many publishers as possible. If your book gets accepted by them, great, but this will be a very lengthy and difficult process.