How to Choose a Publisher
If you've poured your heart and soul into writing a book, don't limit your search for the right publisher. As a new author, submitting your manuscript doesn't guarantee you'll be accepted. However, if you have a list of publishers, it gives you a place to start.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
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Read books that are in your genre. If you like the way the book looks, is put together and written, look for the publisher's contact information in the book.
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Ask your writer friends who have published books for recommendations. Find out their experiences with their publishers, and ask if they could possibly put in a good word for you.
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Check "Writer's Market" for a list of publishers. Find some that specialize in your genre, and research them more.
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Subscribe to publications directed toward the publishing industry, such as "Editor & Publisher" or "Publishers Weekly." These periodicals will keep you informed on the publishing industry. Editor & Publisher is geared toward the newspaper industry, but it covers those authors who have recently published books.
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Browse the section in the bookstore or on Amazon that shelves books in your genre. This is a good way to see what books are comparable to yours and what publishers are picking them up.
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Look through the Small Publishers Association of North America (SPAN) catalog for a list of small publishing companies. Many times, if you're a first-time author, getting published by a small publisher may be easier than by a larger publishing house.
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Be prepared to submit your manuscript to several publishers before you finally get accepted. If you're lucky, the publisher that rejects you may give you some tips on improving your manuscript.
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Tips & Warnings
If you want to be published by a large publishing house, it may be helpful to find an agent. Many large publishers won't accept manuscripts from writers unless they go through an agent.
Don't be discouraged if you are rejected. Many authors are rejected several times before getting that big break.
