Publishers.....?

Question

Does anyone know where I could possibly look at getting something published, even though i havent had anything published before?

Does anyone know where I could possibly look at getting something published, even though i havent had anything published before?
I have written for a magazine and a newspaper but just as a guest writer.
I am looking for something more along a book line.
Thanks for the comment about editing, it IS hard to look at a piece once it is changed but it does help somethimes. lol

Answer 1

That depends on what kinds of works you are talking about. Do you want to publish short stories and poems, or do you write novels. I will address both.

For short stories and/or poems:

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.

For novels:

Different publishers specialize in different things, and fiction is a broad word. If you try to sell a fantasy novel to a publisher that only works with romance, you are going to get a rejection no matter how good your writing is.

So do your own homework. Take a look at the most recent "Writer's Market"... or even better, try the "Guide to Literary Agents".

I absolutely suggest getting an agent instead of approaching publishers directly. I'm assuming you are not a contract attorney, so you will need someone to look over any offers and to guide you through the publishing world.

Also, you will not be seding your manuscript to agents unsolicited! Send them a query letter and see if they ask to see a partial, then a full. If you send the whole thing, it will just get you a form rejection letter. Research each agent's specific submission guidelines and follow their rules!

Here are four websites that can help. Read them thoroughly (especially Miss Snark-- love her!) and research, research, research!
http://misssnark.blogspot.com/
http://www.agentquery.com/
http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitors/
http://www.publishersmarketplace.com

Answer 2

Well, since every writer by default was once unpublished, obviously publishers do publish unpublished writers. You didn't specify WHAT you want to publish. Are you looking for markets for a poem? Trying to sell a novel? Writing freelance newspaper articles? These are all completely different markets with different requirements.

I suggest you use the search function at YA to search for your SPECIFIC publishing request. Questions like your are asked and answered dozens of times a day.

Also, get a subscription to Writer's Digest, The Writer, or Poets & Writers. They have plenty of new markets each month.

Answer 3

First try any small publications or magazines in your area. They usually accept without too many rejections. Being published is nerve wracking. You worry endlessly about any changes an editor might make without your approval. Best to start small and determine how much talent you might have before investing anymore time in a publishing career.