Publishing???

Question

How does a person get his or her manuscript published?

Answer 1

First, do you want traditional publishing or self publishing? If you're looking for self publishing, go to lulu.com--it's free and easy.

If it's traditional publishing you want, then it's a whole lot harder, but far more gratifying!

There are research books available to you in the public library such as the Literary Market Place. Inside this book you will find listings for both agents and publishers. Don't have time to go to the library and don't want to shell out big bucks for a book that changes every year, then visit websites like Preditors & Editors and writerswall.com. Both have listings of both agents and publishers.

Once you decide which route you want to take--agent or publisher--research what they expect from a writer during the submission process. A query letter is really sort of an introduction of the writer. It contains exactly what a publisher demands that it contain--and every publisher is different. A synopsis usually follows after the query letter but can go hand in hand with it depending upon the publisher/agent. A synopsis should only be as long as the publisher wants it to be. Some don't tell you a length requirement while others will say it needs to be a page or only a few paragraphs. A synopsis is a condensing of the entire manuscript into a few paragraphs!

As far as manuscript format is concerned, again, you really should read what the publisher is looking for. Formats change from publisher to publisher. Most want double spacing, 12 point font, Times Numeral font, etc. But some will tell you exactly how they want the manuscript formatted especially if they accept online submissions. Always, ALWAYS follow submission guidelines otherwise your work could end up unread and rejected immediately because you didn't give them what they asked for. Publishers and agents aren't interested in amateurs. A manuscript submitted your own way as opposed to their way is a sure sign of an amateur.

Lastly, once your work is accepted either by an agent or a publisher, you will need an attorney to review the contract for you to make certain your rights are protected.

Good luck in your endeavor. And remember, an informed writer is a successful writer! Never pay for services from an agent. All money flows to a writer...not away from it! :o)

Answer 2

These days anything goes.It is changing even as I type and that is the truth . Use to be you could pay your own way if you were rich (still can) but basically the Internet has changed our world as we once knew it to be and lots of folks are going to the hire wire here and there in all areas. The old phrase I'll make ya famous is true and you don't have to spend most of your life trying to become a somebody because you can be an anybody out here in cyberland U.S.A.

Answer 3

Bea W explained well the publishing game. Good luck!