ok guys... i've written a book. now i need to know all about publishing it, getting a copyright for my piece, an agent, an editor. How does things come and go about in this?? im really lost and i need guidance. pls help!
2007-11-26 13:02:28 · 3 answers · asked by unknownguy033 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Books & Authors
No one on here can cover as much information as Writer's Market 2007 or 2008 can. Pick up a copy. It will address every question you have listed and more.
Good luck.
2007-11-26 13:08:35 · answer #1 · answered by Dave 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The previous replies have sound advice. While you're finding the Writer's Market 2007 or 2008, learn how to craft the best query letter you can possibly write. It should be no more than one-and-a-half pages in length, yet describe your manuscript and your credentials succinctly for the literary agent.
You must write a letter that will capture the agent's attention and keep it long enough to read the entire query letter. Otherwise, it's destined for File 13.
Your manuscript is automatically copyrighted once it is in printed, tangible form. You can apply to the Library of Congress for a certificate of registration if you want to--at a price of $35 to $45. It will take eight months to get the certificate back to you. (Log on to copyright.gov/)
On your manuscript do not place the copyright notice. Agencies, seeing such, will quickly label you as another amateur. They know the manuscript is copyrighted in your name when they receive it. Should they decide to represent you, they will apply for the certificate of registration on your behalf.
2007-11-26 13:38:48 · answer #2 · answered by Guitarpicker 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
So you have finally finished writing the book for which you toiled so hard and just like your newborn, is very close to your heart? And you thought that you have crossed the biggest hurdle? Well now comes the tougher part, which is to get your book printed and making it see the light of the day. For this, you would need the services of a book agent. Not just any book agent, but also someone who is good at his work. There are many kinds of literary agents and hence you have to be careful with who you choose to represent you.
To start with, do a background search on the area of specialization of the book agents. This is important since some agents work with fiction, some specialize in poetry whereas other love technical titles. Once you identify a list of agents who deal in your area of work, you would need to zero down on someone who can ensure that your interests are protected. This is difficult since finding agents who know their jobs is very difficult. It's almost like searching for a needle in a haystack. Don't be surprised if you keep bumping into scammers disguised as book agents. Though people like these are available in plenty, they are in it only for themselves and can be really terrible at their job.
2007-11-26 13:19:35 · answer #3 · answered by aquarius448 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋