People sometimes ask me how I got my first book published, and I would love to say that for me it was as easy as sitting down at my computer, whipping out a compelling story, and sending it directly to an editor who was dying to read it and offer me a book deal! But in reality, getting published was a long, time-consuming process. Here are a few suggestions for writers looking to break in, based on my own experiences:
1. Write every day. If you sit around waiting for the perfect moment and the perfect inspiration, you’ll maybe get a manuscript request after you join AARP.
2. Join a writers’ group. Nothing beats talking to other writers who are facing the same challenges you are. There are groups and associations out there for almost any genre. Many of these groups offer helpful online discussion forums and regional workshops. Two excellent examples are:
Romance Writers of America
Mystery Writers of America
3. Get an agent. A literary agent can help you target the right editors and houses for the type of story you’re writing. Many have great editing skills and the inside track to communicating with editors (in other words, e-mail addresses and phone numbers versus snail mail). And when it comes time to negotiate a contract, you want someone on your side who knows the business.
4. Get an agent. If you target publishing houses without one, you will end up in the slush pile. Very few authors get noticed there.
5. Get an agent. Did I say this already?? It’s important.
6. But how do I get a literary agent?? you are probably
asking. Call up your friend John Grisham and ask him for a reference
OR read 2011 WRITERS MARKET (Published by Writer’s Digest
Books), or some similar guide to literary agents and publishing
houses. Most of these books have how-to articles on writing a
query letter, etc. Be sure the one you use has current info and
call firms ahead to double check names and positions. This industry
has a great deal of turnover.
7. Read Noah Lukeman’s THE FIRST FIVE PAGES (published by Fireside) before you send a single page of your work anywhere. Most manuscripts get rejected in the first few pages (or paragraphs!). This book gives tips on how to avoid the common pitfalls.
8. Finally, and most importantly, write from your heart. Believe in what you’re doing. Read voraciously. And don’t give up.
Good luck!
