I have written a short story...?

Question

how would i go about getting it published? Are there are restrictions on how long it has to be?

Answer 1

You will want to research journals and magazines that publish in the same genre as your story-- really look for things that print similar works. Each publisher will also have their own length guidelines-- some publications can support much longer pieces than others, so look for one that matches this as well!

To begin your research, take a look at the current edition of the book "Writer's Market". It is a fairly comprehensive listing of locations to submit work. Then, head down to your local public library and see if you can track down copies. Make sure it is appropriate or it will be a waste of time and postage to submit.

Each publisher has different submission guidelines, so make sure to research the specifics. Oftentimes, they are now on the web so it's much easier. Most only want you to submit one story in each submission package, and they generally have length guidelines as well.

Do not submit your story to multiple publications simultaneously unless you specify it in your cover letter and you are sure that the particular publishers accept simultaneous submissions.

For formatting your story and manuscript, see if you can locate a copy of "Formatting & Submitting Your Manuscript" (which is actually published by the folks at Writer's Market). It's my favorite reference for all sorts of literary queries.

It could take a long time, and be prepared for multiple rejections. Such is the life of an author! But, if you are persistant, you will find a home for your story.

Let me also suggest checking out the website http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitors/ to help you avoid other scams in every aspect of writing.

Answer 2

It is probably worthwhile to gather together a collection of short stories and submit them to a publisher.

If you only want to publish this one particular story I suggest you try literary magazines. In the UK you could try Granta.

It will be very difficult to get published if you are not an established author. The story will also have to fit in with the general tone of the magazine and appeal to its readership.

Any restrictions on the length will be decided by the editor of the magazine. That said, it should be long enough to engage the reader and give sufficient time for the story to be told.

In the UK, look at a copy of 'The Writers' and Artists' Yearbook' for publishers specialising in short stories.

Answer 3

It would depend on how long your short story is to the publisher. You also want to find a reputable publisher who has published books recently and they are popular. (or at least heard of) I would stick with magazines.

You need to have been editing a long time. Remember that many people wish to publish their stories and you are one of MANY people. Your story MUST stand out in the crowd or they will just pass you over. I suggest editing it many times over and asking people whom you trust to edit it as well. Find people who you know will give you useful input and won't cushion you with "Oh its amazing, the best ever" because chances are, its not. Surprise the world.

Try researching the topic more. There are lots of books on it as well. If you really believe in your story, you will end up getting it published. Continue to submitting it and editing it until it is accepted. Or self publish it.

First of, make sure that the grammar and basics are correct. You don't want to be submitting: my storie is like reely super u will luv 2 read it. I doubt it's gone that far, but you get it...

Include a cover letter. Make it short and sweet, to the point. Publishers get tons of these to read through every-single-day. Just give a brief description and don't act like you're on your knees, pleading to be published.

You probably want to include an SASE. (self adressed stamped envelope) for a response.

Good luck! And don't stop if you recieve a rejection letter. Or two. Or three. Or more. Just keep trying!

Answer 4

Pick up a current copy of Writer's Market or ,better yet, Novel and Short Story Writer's Market. Each publisher, whether it be magazine, book or contest, have their own requirements for length. The last book I mention is great for seeking out a market for your stories. Either book are great foundation reference books for starting your writing career. Good luck!

Edited to add: In response to the answerer above who stated you need to copyright your story. This is ridiculous and unnecessary. As soon as you write something original, your own words, it is yours - you have ownership. There is no need to mail it to yourself and not open the package for copyright. There is no need to spend $45 and copyright it through the US copyright office. There are thousands upon thousands of writers in the US and you can be sure very few of them are paranoid and naive enough to copyright each and every piece of their writing. If you are paranoid, type the words: Copyright (date) and your name on the manuscript. I'm so tired of people on here handing out absurd advice on copyrighting.

Answer 5

A thousand words is a good figure to keep to. A short story needs to have a whiplash ending. The way to sell it is to send it to whatever magazine you think it might appeal to. Don't mention price - they will tell you - it won't be much at first.

Answer 6

Your local library should be able to supply that information. DO NOT take your story to the library. They DO NOT NEED to see your story in order to give you the information you need.
Before you do anything get your story copywrited by submitting it to the Library of Congress and getting a copy right number.
NOBODY should be allowed to see your story before you get a copyright number. It is too easy for the unscrupulous person to steal your idea and make it their own. I worked for a library system and they had a packet on how to get a copyright for your story and how to submit it for publishing to publishers. You should be able to get this info or a copy of it to use while you prepare your story. Good Luck!!!! and keep it a complete secret until you are safeguarded by a copyright number.

Answer 7

No.Unless of course you have a restriction of time.Nice one.