How does one go about getting their book published?

Question

im writing a fantasy novel. im currently doing rewrites. any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

It seems like at least two people ask this question every day. This is a good question, but the answer is the same for you as for everybody else; check to make sure somebody hasn't already given a strong answer to your questions before you post a new one.

The first thing you need to do is make sure your work is perfect. Not just "good enough," but PERFECT. Publishing is a highly competetive world, and if your work is the slightest bit wobbly you are on the short end and you're out of work. Get feedback from trusted parties (NOT your family, friends, or teachers) and work your manuscript over until it gleams in the sunlight like a ruby.

Then go pick up a copy of the Writers Market. You can purchase a copy if you want, though most libraries have copies in the reference section. Compare and contrast possible markets. check websites. If you can read a copy of a magazine you're looking at or read a book by a publisher that interests you, so much the better.

The most important thing to know when you're starting out as a writer is that writing is work. The only way you'll enjoy even modest success as a writer is to treat your writing as seriously as a job. Put in at least six hours a day in the writing and peddling. Writing is very rewarding (I just got my first handshake from a fan, and my shoes haven't touched the ground yet) but it is also very very hard work and you will sweat a lot before you get your first reward.

Answer 2

So basically, you find yourself an agent first (not absolutely necessary, but very useful) and contact the publisher of your choice and send them a synopsis, some sample chapters, etc. If they like your story, they will contact you, but you'll have to wait for a while.
You can also self-publish by having a printer POD (Print-On-Demand) and they will print the books for you. The marketing and stuff is all up to you, so you hold all of the power, but it can be a bit hard to get it sold if you are self-publishing.

P.S. Can you email me with some tips on writing? I'm also working on a fiction novel. Email me at: [e-mail]
(It's the email account that I check most frequently)

Answer 3

Start by sufing the Resolved Questions section here and you will find your question answered literally hundreds of times.

Buy yourself a copy of Writers Market and read it.

Learn how to write a great query letter.

Join Absolute Write Water Cooler and ask lots of questions - especially when they have guest editors, publishers and agents.

Visit Preditors and Editors often

Read a lot ...

C.

Answer 4

GO to bed with everybody you can, tell Oprah she's actually god, go to bed with all your teachers, tell your publisher you murdered somebody and got away with it, go to bed with every body you meet, tell Tom CLancy you'll write his next book for free along with the other 'hacks'....and remember being a celebrity is a lot of work...and go to bed with Jay Leno.