What steps does an new aspiring author have to take?

Question

I'm interested in writing a book about ideas that i have kept over the years for a story plot but i don't know the first thing to trying to get a book published. After I have finnished the typing of the book who should i send it to? who should i see? What else can i do?

Answer 1

First, decide the genre of your book. Look in bookstores to see which books in this genre are the hot sellers so you know what is being published in the market. Tweak your story idea so it will be marketable.

Then... Write the book.
1. Plan out your characters.
2. Plan out your plot.
3. Make time each day to work on your book.
4. Promise yourself not to do any editing until you're done with the first draft. Otherwise you could get caught in the "first few chapters trap" that so many new authors get tangled in.
5. Once you've finished the first draft, do some self editing.
6. Send it out to other writers for unbiased opinions. Don't be afraid of criticism. Take to heart what they have to say, and make proper changes accordingly.

(While you're working on the book, you'll want to develop writing credits. Agents and publishing houses look for people with an already successful writing background. Try to get published in major national publications.)

Once you have the book in tip-top shape, shop around for agents. Most publishing houses don't take unsolicited manuscripts. Don't pay any fees to an agent. They get paid once you have a publishing contract.

This is just skimming the surface. There's lots of research and legwork involved. This is just some info to give you an idea of what might be in store.

I'm not an expert. Just someone who is also working on a novel and researching the publishing industry. You're welcome to email me if you have any questions.

Best wishes.

Answer 2

Before you start your project, be sure you really know the elements of the craft. Writing, good writing, is so much more than a clever plot within a marketable genre. You need great imagery, characterization, conflict, narration, use of time, etc. There are tons of useful books on craft out there, I'd reccomend taking a look on amazon and reading the reviews in case you find one of interest. Then you need to write a lot. Just write and write, utilizing your new skills in relation to craft. And also read a lot. Read widely. I can't stress how important it is for a writer to read. Then write your story of novel. Just write it, but before you start, really make sure you know your characters inside and out. You should know details about them that won't even make it into the manuscript. When you're done, you revise, preferably with others' opinions in mind. Try to find other writers that will read your work, and read theirs in return, offering constructive comments. Then revise again. And again. It's not easy. If I knew what to do after that I'd tell you, but somehow you need to talk to agents/publishers, send them a couple stories or chapters to give them a sample of what you can do, and then it will happen. You'll be published. It takes many people years and years, good luck.

Answer 3

Debbi:
There are many publishers out there and believe me, it is hard to find one. I spent two years and many, many manuscripts sent with only three replies to the negative. One took three years to reply? Just type in (Canadian) USA or English Literary Agency's and try some of these. If your work is excepted there are no charges to you. They will give you upfront $ and a percentage on books sold. Usually about 15%. Best selling authors can demand much, more. Good luck.
I went the self publish route. Very hard row to hoe. It worked for me only because I am retired and had time to do many book signings.
I write this mainly to warn you about the bad guys out there trying to take your money for nothing. Check (Warnings &Cautions for Writers) May save you some headaches.
Wayne Russell, The Vagabond Writer

Answer 4

Get a writer's book on agents and publishers, and start querying them. But make sure that your book is professionally edited and is presentable to the agent and publishers needs.

Make sure you follow their guideliness PRECISELY, or you'll get more rejected than you will down the line. (Don't take this wrong: Many writers get rejected dozens upon dozens of times.)

But above all, keep trying, keep writing, and keep experimenting with your work.

Answer 5

Essentially, learn how to tell a story. Then tell it well.

There are many sites with info and advice (including Yahoo Answers, of course). My site has some tutorials on it you might like:
http://www.storyentertainment.com

Answer 6

write the book first,,,good luck..