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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:51:48 GMT -5
Proposing to a Major Publisher“Will you marry me?” …Not that kind of proposal!Contents/Quick Links: Introduction Important First StepsThe Query Letter--writing, addressing, and formatting Other Materials--sample chapters, illustrations, synopses, outlines, vitas, and SASEs How not to annoy the editorFollow-up ProcedureConclusionResourcesBibliographyIntroductionPublishing is a complex and confusing business that many writers and artists long to enter. Contrary to popular belief, securing a contract with a large publishing house is extremely challenging, and requires adherence to a long process of communication that many hopefuls never imagine before attempting to earn a publisher’s attention. Although the publishing standards for the many media and genres of literature vary, there are a few key elements in this seeking process common to almost all fields: the query letter and the sample work. This article will instruct in the organization and formatting of a query letter and the elements of other required materials as well as provide helpful tips for success.
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:52:43 GMT -5
First Steps and Important Process Tips[/b] Since, obviously, the first step is to have a project to pitch, we’ll skip that part and go to Step 2: Research.
Researching Publishers Before you submit the project to anyone, research the publishing houses, including their genres, titles, staff, etc. It is the author’s responsibility to research the publishing house, their title lists, interests, and requirements and only query those who publish projects like the one proposed. Pitching a fantasy novel to a strictly non-fiction publisher would be amateurish, ineffective, and could create a bad reputation for the author amongst editing and publishing circles.
The “S” Word Oftentimes you will run across the terms “solicited” and “unsolicited.” Solicited means that the publisher has requested the submission. Unsolicited includes any submission that the publisher did not request or has not been introduced to the publisher via an agent.* (I am still uncertain whether an agent’s contact makes the submission solicited or not; I’m pretty sure, but this point is pending further research.)[/size] When a publisher says they are not accepting unsolicited manuscripts, it basically translates that they will trash the submission without considering it unless you have an “in” through the company, such as a recommendation of the project to the editor from a staff member.
Track Record Keep track of the submissions. Create a log with the project name, the date the submission was sent, to whom it was sent, and any further activities (such as publisher responses or rejections, or the dates of reminder letters.) This is extremely important for the follow-up procedure and the entire process. This list is important so that you can avoid submitting the same project to one publisher more than once, you can document how many houses you have approached, and you can provide specific dates for your activity and the publisher’s.
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:53:18 GMT -5
The Query LetterA query letter is a letter sent from the prospective author to the desired publisher, and is applicable for both books and articles. This one-page letter is the first among the standard requirements. Although short, the query letter is the most important part of a submission not only because it is the first piece the editor at the publishing house will read, but also because it is the deciding factor as to whether the editor will read any more—or toss the whole submission into the recycle bin. The purposes of the query letter are threefold: to introduce the author and his/her credentials, show the marketing value of the proposition, and to pitch the project. 1.) Introducing the AuthorFirstly, the letter should list all other works (if any) the author has had published, and should also explain why the author is in a superior position to write the book, article, poem, or short story proposed. For example, if the proposition is a book about Africa, an author who has lived in, visited, or studied Africa extensively would be more suited to writing the book than someone who has not. In this letter, you basically need to establish your credentials as a writer. 2.) Marketing ValueThe second purpose, demonstrating the marketability of the project, requires more research. The author should investigate whether similar projects have been written, whether they are part of a popular trend, and then explain what features the proposed project contains that would make it just as popular or more popular. This section of the letter also should explain the target audience. The target audience is the group of people to whom the project will be marketed. The audience can be narrowed by age group, ethnic group, geography, religion, hobbies, and much more. For example, an article about textiles could be of interest to people who quilt, design clothes, or design homes. 3.) Pitching the ProjectThirdly, “pitching” the project means explaining the topic, premise, and unique qualities of the project. Any narrative works, such as fiction or biography, would require a brief summary of plot or events. In fiction, the proposal must demonstrate that it has a new, intriguing premise or setting that will make it stand out. The proposal itself must be written in an exciting manner that leaves the editor eager to read more. However, the query letter is not the place for mystery or cliffhangers; the author must explain what the main attraction is, not merely claim that it exists and is too marvelous to be contained in the query. Although special features of a book project (such as CD discs or other resources) are important, they are not the focus. Remember to pitch the book, not a list of features. Addressing the LetterThe overarching goal of the query letter is to capture the editor’s interest, but it must follow the conventions of the query letter. When addressing the editor, the author must use a formal tone and standard format. Since a query is a business proposal, the format is somewhat similar to a business letter. The editor’s name, publishing house, and address should be placed at the top left of the page, followed by a space and then “Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms. Editor’s Name].” Submissions addressed “To whom it may concern” or “Dear Editor” are less likely to be read than letters sent to a specific person. When researching publishing houses, the names of the acquisitions editors will often be listed; however, it is imperative that the author verifies that the information is up-to-date. Sending a letter to an editor who just retired will have no result and will look silly. Writing the LetterThe first paragraph is generally the introduction to the proposal—the proposed or known length of the work, the title, the genre, and whether the project has been completed. When submitting an idea for an article or short story, prior completion is not always required. Books, on the other hand, should generally be completed or almost completed when the proposal is sent. If the author is well known, either as a published author or a celebrity, that could take the position of the first paragraph. For example, if the author is a New York Times best-selling author or the President of the United States, the author’s identity will be of immediate and chief interest, and even more important initially than the project itself. If the author lacks an impressive reputation or history, s/he should still list any positive qualities. The author should never admit to any rejections, failures, or other unflattering statements in the query. Unless the author is simultaneously submitting to multiple publishing houses (required information if so), the author should not mention any previous submissions and/or rejections. (Side note: in general, do not submit to more than one publisher within a week. Do not pitch two different projects to the same publisher at the same time.) Also, if the author plans to use a pseudonym, this should be mentioned in the query letter, but using no more one sentence and not in the first paragraph. The next paragraph often discusses the selling quality. There is a fine line between being under-enthusiastic and over-enthusiastic. The author should be excited about his/her work, but not be leaping with ecstasy, as this will send the editor signals of amateurism. The letter should also not promise too much. For example, the author cannot realistically guarantee a best-seller or an award-winner, but the author can promise a high-quality book. The next several paragraphs are the proposal, followed by the research of similar titles already published. If the author has not introduced and explained him/herself already, the penultimate paragraph is a good place to do so. Also, if writing a book, the author should indicate whether it could possibly develop into a series or if it is a stand-alone book. Finally, the author should briefly list the materials included in the submission following the query letter. Be sure to thank the editor for considering the query. Another space and then “Sincerely,” followed by two blank lines (for the author’s hand signature), the author’s printed name and contact information (including email address, and author’s website if applicable), will finish the letter. The letter is to be single-spaced with one-inch margins, and non-indented paragraphs with spaces between them. Sample Format of Query Letter
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:54:03 GMT -5
Other MaterialsThe other materials attached with the query letter will vary based on the requirements of the publishing house solicited. It is imperative that the author checks the requirements because sending the wrong materials indicates a lack of professionalism, effort, and research into the publishing house. It also indicates “amateur,” which is an association the author must attempt to avoid as much as possible in order to secure the contract, even if the author has never been published. Sometimes a publisher will accept only a query letter initially. Other times, for a book, they may ask for sample chapters, a synopsis, and/or an outline. For children’s books, they may require sample illustrations (either originals or color copies). If an artist/illustrator submits work without partnership with an author, then art samples will be required; however, if an author would like to illustrate their own book (not a picture book), then illustrations are not always requested. If art samples are sent, they should be sealed between pieces of cardboard labeled with the author’s name and contact information for protection. This information should also be written on each individual piece of art. Sample ChaptersSample chapters are usually the first chapters in a book (from the beginning of the story), although if multiple chapters are requested, they could be excerpts from later in the story. If the book has a prologue or introduction, this may or may not be included as or with the sample chapter at the author’s discretion. Formatting:The sample chapters should follow general manuscript formatting, i.e., double-spaced, one-inch margins, Times New Roman or Courier New font, paragraph indentations (no gaps between paragraphs), and chapter or section headings centered and three inches from the top of the page. Pages should be numbered in the upper right-hand corner; the heading should include the title of the excerpted work and directly precede the page number. Do not explain your coding (i.e. “underline=italics.”) Format it the way you intend to be done unless they instruct you to do otherwise. A note on ellipses: an ellipse is almost always three dots…unless it happens to be at the end of a sentence, when you may use four…. Don’t use any more than that—it’s technically incorrect and unacceptable. Also, although you may use the copyright symbol on your submission, it’s considered amateurish since the submission is technically automatically copyrighted as evidence of your intellectual property. Sample Chapter Formatting Sample:Synopsis and OutlineA synopsis is a one- to two-page summary of the plot of a story that shows the major plot twists and includes the resolution of the story. It should pay attention to character development as well as plot, but cannot afford to be too detailed in such a short setting. It should flow well and be easy to read. The synopsis follows manuscript formatting. Similar to a synopsis, an outline also recounts the plot and development, but from within the technical framework of the book, meaning chapters, parts, and sections. Each chapter heading should have one to three sentences explaining the highlights of the section, including major characters, plots, subplots and book length. Chapter titles are not required. The outline may be up to 30 pages [although I’m not sure lengthy=good.]Résumé and VitaIf requested, the résumé may be submitted in any format (1 page list, color brochure, etc.). It should be brief and focus on achievements, previous clients, education, and awards. A vita is similar, being a personal biographical sketch, including the author’s qualifications to write the book. General Formatting Generally, publishers prefer that submissions are not stapled or bound in any way unless with a paperclip. Most publishers require white 8.5”/11” printer paper printed with black ink. DO NOT FOLD the submission. The SASEOne last optional item to include in the submission to the publisher is one that the editor will not have to read. When submitting materials, if the author would like the submission returned in the event of rejection, a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) may be included. (Usually a #10 envelope is preferred.) The postage must be the correct amount and already affixed to the envelope (not included loose in the submission.) When dealing with international publishers, special postage is required and is available at the post office upon request. The author can also include a self-addressed stamped postcard to be sent upon receipt of the submission, or can request delivery confirmation through the postal system. (Some editors recommend that you do not include a postcard for reply; rather, use postal confirmation or wait for a rejection letter or positive contact.) However, all of these options, though accepted in the industry, create extra hassle for the editors (except for delivery confirmation), who generally prefer that the submission may be disposable, rather than returned. The author should only require return for large submissions, such as full-length manuscripts.
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:55:53 GMT -5
Making the Editor’s Life Easy Introduction When submitting to a publisher, you are not entitled to having your work read. You don’t have a right to the editor’s time. Basically, you are at the editor’s mercy. Therefore, if you submit an unsolicited manuscript (meaning they didn’t ask you for it and your agent didn’t submit it) to a house that only accepts solicited manuscripts, the editor has the right to throw it in the trash without looking at it. This is a brutal reality. The fate of your proposal is subject to their whim. So, be nice to the editor and stay on his/her good side. Here are a few tips to help you accomplish that.
Tips on Gratifying the Editor 1.) Follow the instructions to the letter. Don’t make exceptions for yourself because you’re special. Just do as they say. Send only what they request in the format they request it.
2.) Don’t make your submission impossible to open. If you’re taping the envelope shut, leave a corner for the letter opener to get through, etc. You don’t want to frustrate them.
3.) If submitting to an imprint, make sure you address the submission to an editor in the imprint. If you’re submitting to Alfred A. Knopf, a division of Random House, and you address the letter to Random House, nothing good will happen. Also, make sure you address the correct imprint for your type of project.
4.) See “25 Ways to Annoy Editors (Without Even Knowing It)” for even more tips. (Listed in Bibliography below as Novel and Short Story Writer’s Market.)
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:56:18 GMT -5
Getting a Response Oftentimes, submissions are lost, forgotten, or shoved to the bottom of the pile with no reflection of its value as a submission. So, if you haven’t heard back from the publisher, it’s time to do a follow-up.
Follow-up Procedure First, wait until the end of the reported response time. This information should be available in the publisher’s submission guidelines or in the Writer’s Market. Next, wait another few weeks or a month, depending on how long the original time was. Then, send a polite email or letter describing the original query sent and the date it was sent, and inquire if they received it, if they have come to a decision, or when they expect a decision will be reached. You may continue to contact them every week or so until you receive a definitive decision or a mandate not to inquire again for a specific amount of time. If you send the message via traditional mail, it’s polite to include a SASE.
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:56:36 GMT -5
Conclusion This process of the publishing system is the starting point for publication with all publishing companies. By handling professionally these basic elements of submission, the author drastically increases the chances of avoiding the trash pile, catching the editor’s attention, and finally securing the contract.
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:57:20 GMT -5
ResourcesThe following are resources that may help in your submission process. I have not personally checked all the resources, but all were recommended by reliable sources. The ones I have used and found particularly helpful will be marked with a double asterisk. [**] General: Any version of The Writer’s Market is a great place to start. All versions are full of useful information, and even editions from previous years may contain useful articles, if not current listings.** For query letters: Formatting and Submitting Your Manuscript (2nd Edition) by Cynthia Laufenberg How to Write Attention-Grabbing Query and Cover Letters by John Wood evileditor.blogspot.com Reviews Query Letters editorialanonymous.blogspot.com Reviews Query Letters For current editors’ names & information: www.underdown.org/chchange.htm Tracks editorial staff changes of major houses by date www.robinfriedman.com Includes useful interviews with editors of major houses** For warnings about false agents or bad contracts: acccispin.blogspot.com For tips on agents: www.greenhouseliterary.com/index.php/site/faqAlso, Google can be a useful tool for finding editor interviews and basic submission policies.
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Post by Fvarithvaieyri on Jun 1, 2009 21:57:37 GMT -5
Bibliography
Adams, John Joseph. “25 Ways to Annoy Editors (Without Even Knowing It).” Novel & Short Story Writer’s Market 2009. Ed. Jane Friedman. Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 2009. Fiction Writer’s Market 2009. Ed. Jane Friedman. Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 2009.
“Quick Tips for Writers & Illustrators.” Children’s Writers & Illustrators Market 2009. Ed. Alice Pope. Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 2009.
“Query Letter Clinic.” The Writer’s Market 2009. Ed. Robert Lee Brewer. Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 2009.
Note: I also consulted a man who is in the publishing business who contributed greatly to my understanding of this process. However, for safety and anonymity, I will not cite him by name here.
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