Where can amateurs publish their literary works?

Question

I have a few short stories that I am working on and would love to get them published, or at least attempt to get them published :). Any pointers?

I'm not really looking to get a book made or anything, just want to share it with a wide audience and get it read by people. I can post it on my blog but few people read my blog :).

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. I write poetry primarily, but my submission package generally includes a cover letter introducing myself and the work that I have enclosed, plus my poems (each page having my name, address, and the page number at the top). Like "Writer's Market", many public libraries have this book in their reference section!

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

Self-publishing is one option. But so many writers are afraid of doing the work themselves. Some avoid it like the plague.

Vanity-press is another. But only if you don't care if your work is professionally edited or not.

Traditional publishing is difficult to break into, and can take forever just to get in the door.

Answer 3

I think you'll like www.ourecho.com where you can post stories and poems and family memories. You can put pictures with them too. Others read your story and put comments.
They even have some contests going where you could win $100 to $500. My mom and my aunt each won $100 on there.