The Commercial Book Publishing Process

Non-fiction

The commercial book publishing process can vary considerably from publisher to publisher, across genre, and dependent on whether the work is fiction or non-fiction. For non-fiction, the process begins with creating a short list of publishers that are likely to be interested in publishing a book on the chosen topic. This may be simple, as in there are only a few publishers that publish on that topic, or it may involve narrowing down based on their history, their guidelines and what payment system they have. Once the publisher is chosen, the next step is usually a book proposal. A book proposal is designed to address a variety of concerns and can include a topic summary, credentials, outline and marketing information. Sample chapters may be necessary. If the proposal passes muster, a contract will be offered. Once the contract is accepted, the book is written. Generally it will pass through an editorial process and undergo at least one or two revisions. Once the editorial process is completed, the publishing process for fiction and non-fiction tends to be the same and is covered below in Design and Printing.

Fiction

Until you get past the editorial process, the commercial book publishing process for fiction is very different than for non-fiction. The first step is almost always writing the book. This process can take some time but must be finished before the process can proceed. Once the book has been written, it should undergo a rigorous edit for grammatical and typographical errors, as well as plot flaws. Manuscripts with errors of this type are rarely accepted for representation by agents or publication by publishers. Fiction almost always needs to be represented by an agent to see publication. While a few publishers will accept unrepresented manuscripts, it is exceedingly rare. Once the agent has placed the manuscript with a publishing house, it will undergo an editorial process and usually revisions. When the editorial process is complete the manuscript will move forward into the design and printing phase of publication.

Design and Printing

When a manuscript moves out of the editing process, its next stop is typically in the publisher's design or art department. This is where the cover design or designs will be developed. If there are multiple designs, it may be run passed the editor, the author, or both for a decision. When the design phase is finished, the process can vary, but generally galley proofs (early printed version) are printed off for review by the author. The galley proof process is essentially a last chance to make small changes and look for typographical errors. The galley proof is corrected and returned to the publisher. The corrected copy is usually the last revision before the book is sent to be printed. There may be marketing efforts made ahead of shipping and these efforts might include advertisements in magazines related to the topic or genre of the book. The author might make promotional appearances. It may also be promoted via the internet. Once the printing is finished, the books are shipped (usually based on pre-orders) and offered for sale.