Does anyone know of any fiction agents or publishers that may be taken on new talent?

Question

I've posted a similar question earlier this week, but wanted to make sure I reached the weekend crowd of yahooers. I've written a fiction novel along the lines of Harry Potter and am looking to get it published. Already sent out 20 query letters and the one that was interested said the manuscript was too reminisent of Harry Potter. I've made adjustments and ready to send out again. Anyone have any tips to share. It would be much appreciated. Kind of a life long dream of mine, and I'm turning 40 soon and getting that wo-is-me feeling about my lifes accomplishments thus far. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I understand how you feel, and it's a worthy goal. I admire you for actually writing the novel you've always wanted to write and actually submitting it; most people never get beyond the dreaming stage.

Could I suggest something? Your post has several spelling and punctuation mistakes. Your novel may not be getting past the first desk it lands on, due to similar errors. Your manuscript may be excellent, and it might get further if you ask a friend who's proficient in writing to proofread it before you submit it next time. Spell checkers aren't sufficient. For instance, you wrote "taken," which is a valid word, but the word you intended was "taking."

Maybe you could take a refresher course at a local community college or an online course. Amazon has a great selection of books on grammar, punctuation, and novel-writing. I wish you luck! Anybody who wants to can learn correct spelling and punctuation usage, but not everybody has the discipline to actually sit down and write a book, like you did.

Answer 2

There are a lot of publishers out there.

You should pick up the 2007 Writer's Market Guide, which can be found at Amazon.com or in bookstores. It will have a comprehensive list of publishers, including what genres they publish, as well as guidelines(if available) and their website URLs. You'll be able to find dozens of places to submit your manuscript.

My further suggestion. Have a friend who has read Harry Potter read your manuscript, they'll be able to indicate if it's still too close.

Answer 3

DO NOT choose an agent that asks for a retainer, ESPECIALLY a non-refundable one.
They could make one phone call in six months and say they are living up to their end of whatever agreement you might have.
Agents work on potential, thinking that the more talented you are and more likely to get published (with their help), the more they will make from their commissions.

Answer 4

Re-query the agency that responded to your initial query. Otherwise, the best source is Writer's Market 2007, or Literary Agents 2007.

Not much else to it than that, you already know how to go through the motions.

Good luck.

Answer 5

I would deffinately like to know also. I am currently undergoing a 'demo' of International Library of Poetry for obviously, my poems, and I am going to enroll with writersonlineworkshop. if there is anyplace else i too would like to know. I also hear that Oprah has a book club and she looks over young author's books and helps them get them published. something like Oprahsboookclub.com. im not quite sure though.

Answer 6

Have you tried Writer's Market? I have the Poet's version--It's a book that lists publishers, what they're looking for, if they accept work from new/unpublished authors, and the guidelines for submission. It's a great tool--a must-have for any writer.

Answer 7

Hi! I'm interested in your story but I'm not a publisher. I'm writing a novel too and I'm just curious what your story might be for. Mail me at [e-mail]

Answer 8

please tell me when you get a good answer. im 13 and ive written so many stories and i want to publish them sooo bad.