Publishing Your First Book

Write the Book

This almost goes without saying, but too many impatient first time writers look into publishing their book before they finish it. You need to have a completed manuscript (unless you're writing non-fiction) before you approach publishers. Non-fiction writers with a strong platform can sell on a proposal with sample chapters and a marketing plan, but a fiction publisher can only tell if a manuscript meets their needs by reviewing all of it.

Polish the Book

Just because you write a book doesn't mean it's ready for submission. Put it away for a while and start something new. Then return to it several weeks later and re-read the whole thing. You are more likely to spot errors and mistakes after you have been away from the material for some period of time. You only have one chance to impress a publisher, so never submit anything but your best work. Let other people test read your book and give you feedback before you submit it. Try finding a writer's organization in your area or online that offers critique groups.

Write the Synopsis

A synopsis is a one to ten page summary of your book from start to finish. Since most submissions guidelines ask for only the first three chapters, the synopsis tells the rest of the story and offers just enough detail to let the publisher know if they want to see the full manuscript or not. Do not leave any cliff hangers in your synopsis fearing it spoils the surprise. The person evaluating your manuscript needs to know if you can write an ending as well as a beginning.

Write the Query Letter

A query letter is a sales tool. You are essentially trying to sell a product--your book--to someone with the power to buy it--the publisher. In one page you need to convey the enticing premise of your book and its place in the market (genre, word count). Include a one-paragraph description that sums up the unique plot of your story (think back cover blurb), and add a few lines of biographical information to explain your writing experience and background that makes you the ideal person to write this book.

Find an Editor (or a Literary Agent) and Submit Your Manuscript

Study books in the stores and the library to find ones similar to yours and note the publisher. Check publisher websites for submissions guidelines. Be aware--most large publishers accept only agented submissions, but needing an agent isn't a bad thing. A literary agent already knows which editor is buying what type of book. A literary agent is your advocate, and works to get you the best deal possible. This person is an expert in the publishing industry and can offer you not only editorial advice on your manuscript, but contract advice, career advice, and promotion and marketing advice.

Resources

• Writing a Successful Query Letter
• Why You Should Get An Agent
• Publishers Marketplace