Product Description
A Teen’s Guide to Getting Published is an exciting must-read for young writers wanting to see their work published. This revised edition, written by two successful former teen authors, offers practical writing tips and an expansive, up-to-date listing of print and online markets that publish student work.

A Teen’s Guide provides concrete advice, encouragement, and motivation to young authors looking to make their mark as writers.

Topics addressed in the book include:

• the writing craft,
• freelance writing,
• rights and copyright information,
• publishing pitfalls,
• writing camps and workshops, and
• staff writing and book publishing.

Customer Reviews (5)

Useful.
So you look at this book and you think, Hey, that looks like a pretty good book. Maybe I should get that because I want to get published.
At least that's what I thought.
I got it, I read it, and I liked it. But I wish that instead of buying this, I'd bought a book more tailored to me. The most interesting part was the first, which gave information on how to write what you wanted to publish. The rest was uninteresting and it repeated itself often. Now I know that what I needed was a book for my beginning stages of writing.

Best Book for Young Writers
I'm a pre-teen writer, and I'm new to the whole publishing buisness. This book helped me out tremendously. I submitted a short story to a magazine before I bought this, and have realized a lot of things I did wrong. Things covered in the book include: how to actully write (but that is only one chapter; if you want a how-to-write book, this isn't for you), preparing a submission, rights and copyright, online publishing, mentors and professonal/peer crtiques, writing clubs or camps (with actual camps listed in the back),school publications, book publishing, self publishing, markets, contests, and additional resouces. It gave me a lot of information and was easy to understand. If you are looking for a book on how to write or are familair with publishing, this book isn't what you need, though. On the other hand, if you are looking for a nice informative, well written, easy to understand book that is a nice introduction to publishing, I would highly recommend this book.

A "user-friendly" introduction to the business end of the writing world written especially for young adults
Now in an updated second edition, A Teen's Guide To Getting Published: Publishing For Profit, Recognition, And Academic Success is a "user-friendly" introduction to the business end of the writing world written especially for young adults. Written by two successful former teen authors, A Teen's Guide To Getting Published covers the writing skill, freelance publishing, rights and copyright information, common mistakes, scams, and risks (of particular note is the warning against distributing one's address, phone numbers, or other sensitive contact information - such things can lead to harassment by stalkers and worse), the basics of writing camps and workshops, and much more. Written in a friendly, down-to-earth tone, A Teen's Guide To Getting Published is recommended to anyone getting started in selling their writing regardless of individual age.

By teens, for teens --a great intro!
As far as I know, this is the only book on publishing written by teens for teens.As we adults know all too well, teenagers listen better to their peers than to us.If your teenager wants to be a writer, by all means, get this book.The Dunn sisters (who were 15 years old when they wrote this) draw on their own experiences to present a clear, no nonsense explanation of how the publishing process works.They explain the do's and don'ts of getting into print, and the pitfalls to avoid when dealing with editors.Readers of all ages will learn the usual things about cover letters, the all-important SASE (Self Addressed Stamped Envelope), some basic terminology that editors use, etc.Plus, the Dunns give excellent tips on using professionalism (no cutsy stationery or fancy fonts, don't dot your i's with little hearts -- just use plain old-fashioned standard type styles, and never address the editor by his or her first name!)These are the pitfalls that so many teens fall into, thinking that custy "individuality" and a "chummy" first-name basis will sell their work, when, infact, it just makes them look amateurish and gets their work rejected.

Speaking of rejection, the Dunns cover self-esteem issues, too, pointing out that even long-established professionals get piles of rejection slips, and this should not be taken personally.O how right they are!My first book, "Beyond the Ashes," took five years to get into print --- I could have papered the walls with my rejection slips.But once I found the right publisher, it was a "go" all the way, and the book has been in print continously for a decade.So, as the authors of this book so rightly point out -- BE PATIENT and don't beat yourself up if your work gets rejected by an editor.

These knowledgeable authors also warn new writers about various publishing scams, such as poetry "contests" that are really just ways to sell you an overpriced anthology, or contests which charge entry fees that kids can't really afford and have little chance of winning anyway.The Dunns recommend starting with your school publications and/or reputable children's magazines, and they list the ones that they've had success with.You may not get paid much (or anything in some cases) by these pubs, but you will build up a portfolio of successes that can lead to professional writing jobs later.(Most writers start this way. As Richard Bach once said, "A professional writer is an amateur who never gave up.")

My only complaint about this book is that it's a bit thin for the price.I realize they did it through a small press that probably doesn't have the capital of a large press, and short-run books are always costlier to produce.Still, I hope they will consider expanding the book when they do a new edition.As it is, the information itself is priceless.

A True Gem
A Teen's Guide to Getting Published is far and away the best guide to help anyone get published!Anyone can try to write a book, but the Dunns truly know what they are talking about.The book is an incredible resource indiscovering the exact process through which one must go to actually getpublished.The Dunns provide the key information that will get most bookspublished.One of the most helpful things in the book is a step-by-stepguide to getting started.The Dunns provide excellent help in how to writethose first letters that can make or break a book's chances of gettingpublished.This guide on how to get published also discusses the benefitsof an author working directly with the editor.The tips given by the Dunnsin this book are solid gold!This is an excellent book, and anyoneinterested in getting published should definitely read it as soon aspossible to avoid all of those rejection letters!I wish I would have readit five years ago! ... Read more

Product Description
Book Magic is indispensable for every writer who aims for publication. Easy to read and practical, it provides all the information and tools you need to understand the publishing industry and increase your chances of getting commercially published or ably manage your own self-publication, in print or electronically.
Books are magic! They turn unknown writers into authors and, perhaps, even into household names. But publishing is a complex world, full of insider rules and financial constraints that, if not respected, cause good book ideas to vanish into thin air and writers to question their calling.
Aspiring authors will discover:
- how to weave some spells that boost your chances of getting published
- the wizardry surrounding agents, query letters, and phone calls to editors
- the crystal ball that interprets trends in the North American market, as well as what's happening in electronic and self-publishing
- how to disappear from the dreaded slush pile
- the magic bullets called book proposals, synopses, etc.
- how Canadian and American publishing scenes differ, and how approachable medium and small publishers really are
- how to shape-shift into an author with credentials
- electronic sorcery
- the enchantment of holding your first published book in your hand.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Excellent Primer for Those New to Publishing!
This slim volume covers all of the basics a writer needs to know to move into the publishing world in an informed way. Tips for self-publishers as well, for promotion, available technologies, etc. Lively writing style, pithy instructions, never talks down to the reader. Highly recommended.

Book Magic is a Winner!
Book Magic hits the nail right on the head for anyone contemplating becoming a first-time author-or even publishing a second or third book. Julie Ferguson covers all the latest techniques for getting your book published and includes some very useful insider tips on the publishing industry. I have used her advice with great success and highly recommend this book.

Useful Guide to Getting Published in a Hi-Tech, Competitive World
Before you read this review, please note that author, Julie H. Ferguson, is a colleague who interviewed me for the book to gain insights into my publishing experience. If you think I'm too biased to provide an adequate review of Book Magic then read no further. But also note that I wouldn't have agreed to the interview if I didn't believe in the quality of Julie's work as a writer and publisher. If you still wish to continue, then . . .

They say that everyone has a story to tell and, based on my experience, many folks would love to have their stories published. Those with the courage to write their stories, though, soon discover how difficult writing is. And writing well is absolutely formidable. But to see one's story in print is truly a magical experience, and if you want a legitimate shot at experiencing this magic, then Julie's practical guide can help you achieve your dream.

She begins by demolishing prevailing myths about getting published, such as needing an agent or that publishers prefer fiction. From there, she delves into the different ways one can be published, thanks to technology. Topics include finding a publisher, avoiding the slush pile, pitching your book, writing query letters, and what you need to know about publishing electronically. This book is full of useful information including appendices that provide sample pitches and query letters. Needless to say, Book Magic covers a lot of ground in a mere 122 pages, which might frustrate those readers looking for more details regarding editing, book production, or the publishing/marketing process. However, the author provides a great list of books that cover these issues.

What I liked best about Book Magic is that Ferguson addresses nearly every type of writer from those who want to write a memoir for family and friends only, to those seeking bestseller status. Whether you've been writing for years or are just beginning, you'll find something in Book Magic to make the journey easier, and that too is magical.

Book Magic is a Winner!
Book Magic hits the nail right on the head for anyone contemplating becoming a first-time author-or even publishing a second or third book. Julie Ferguson covers all the latest techniques for getting your book published and includes some very useful insider tips on the publishing industry. I have used her advice with great success and highly recommend this book.

Belongs in every writer's library
Book Magic is a must-read for every novice writer, and it has a great deal to offer, as well, to the experienced pro. I recommend it to all my writing students, and to anyone seeking knowledgeable advice on breaking into print. ... Read more

Product Description
The book version of Prospera Publishing's monthly newsletters directed at budding writers. With plenty of tips on subjects such as plotting, characterisation and copyright, plus the Newbie Novelist's column, this book will help those new to the profession feel right at home. ... Read more

Product Description
Expert advice for new writers.

Publishing companies have consolidated, there are fewer editors, and literary agents are more selective. The result is that it’s tougher than ever to get published. Now, a successful literary agent and author and a best-selling nonfiction author and literary consultant provide even more of the practical advice every writer needs to get published. In this new edition, readers will find:

• An updated overview of changes in the publishing industry
• Practical tips about pitch letters, negotiations, contracts, and industry trends
• Includes CD-ROM with sample pitch letters, proposal templates, a comprehensive list of literary agents, links to fantastic author websites, and more ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Great Guide
This book breaks down the publishing process in easy to understand steps.The book covers all aspects of publishing.Wonderful for the novice writer.

Perfect for Its Purpose
I recently decided to write a book, and I realized that I needed to see the trees from the leaves and get a big picture overview of the process I'm embarking on. After checking reviews for several books, I settled on this one and purchased it at the local bookstore.

Well, I just finished the book a moment ago, and I have to say that it delivered on everything I hoped for. It gave me, a newbie to the publishing world, a feeling that I know what's basically going on. The two authors also come across as extremely knowledgeable and full of relevant experience.

Here's to a (hopefully) successful new book endeavor!

Good reference book
My husband is an aspiring writer and I bought this for him. I'm not sure it was the most helpful thing he's ever read, but I do see evidence of him flipping through it still from time to time, so he must be getting something out of it.

An incredible resource for first time authors!
"The Complete Idiots Guide To Getting Published" was an invaluable resource for me and inspired me to put together a proposal for a book that I'd been thinking about for a while.

With the guidance in the book, I was finally able to get the proposal for my non-fiction reference book done and felt that great sense of accomplishment that the authors said would come from tackling this task.

Now it's on to the process of submitting, which I am more confident about since reading this book.

"The Complete Idiots Guide To Getting Published" is a fantastic tool for first time authors like myself, and the words of advice contained in it come from two people who know the publishing business inside and out, so they are well worth the price. The CD-Rom included was a nice touch as well.

I highly recommend this book to anyone thinking of submitting their work to a publisher.

Wonderful Book!
Amusing, insightful - a great guide for the newbie looking to be published for the first time.Of all the books I've read about getting your book published, this was the only one that described how university presses operate.With Sheree and Jennifer's great information, I was able to obtain a publishing contract for my first book with my first query!Many thanks! ... Read more

Product Description
A new updated edition...to help writers beat the competition.

Written by a New York literary agent and a West Coast acquiring editor, this book offers inside advice, author case studies, and even sample proposals, contracts, press releases, co-author agreements and more. This third edition features new content on non-fiction success, hot topics in fiction and non-fiction, how world events affect publishing, and more.

€ The most complete handbook on the market in this area
€ Expanded information relevant to the changing tide of the industry
€ Includes sample proposals, press releases, agreements, etc.
€ Authors know the book publishing world as editor, agent, and as authors ... Read more

Customer Reviews (62)

Good Info
If you're a writer who wants to get published, this book is an excellent source for info on the process.

Fantastic "How To Book" For Writers!
While I was out of town and scouring the local bookstore I came upon this wonderful and insightful book.
I had published articles before but never a book, so, I thought, "WHY NOT." I purchased The Idiots Guide To Publishing and got more information than I ever expected,wow!
Now that I am armed with this information it is time to revamp, rewrite and regenerate my in progress work.
Thank you Sheree and Jennifer, and I can't say it enough.

lol
I read THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO GETTING PUBLISHED while riding Amtrak.My thirteen-year old daughters were mortified when I'd occasionally burst into laughter.Despite the fact that I've been published before, I found the book to be very informative as well as entertaining, and downright funny in places.

The HOW TO instruction manual for all authors
If I could give this book 10 stars, I would! The information is presented in a user friendly and yet scholarly manner. It is an invaluable reference manual for getting published. As a first time author, I was able to have my proposal reviewed by a major US publisher who complimented my on my "excellent proposal". I had never written a query letter nor a proposal before, but I followed the templates in the book exactly, and was rewarded for my knowledge and presentation.THAT IS THE BEST REVIEW I can give this publishing guide.IT worked for me. It will work for you, too.

Tough words for an equally tough business.
It was discouraging to read page after page of the uphill endeavor I was facing - to some degree I didn't believe it'd be that arduous. I came close to giving up the idea of seeing my words in print.

Now that I have one book published and a zillion more twirling around in my head, I know every word in "The Idiot's Guide to Getting Published" was true. It was tough stuff to read for an equally tough business. Now I liken it to being an actor and wanting to be discovered; but don't give up, it's well worth the journey.

Cynthia Briggs, Cookbook Author
Pork Chops and Applesauce: A Collection of Recipes and Reflections
Sweet Apple Temptations ... Read more

Product Description
Getting research published can be difficult and frustrating. Many authors experience long delays, high rejection rates and journal processes that can seem so opaque and arcane that even those who have successfully published are often unable to say what they did right. Understanding publication strategy can prevent or reduce many of these problems.This revised and updated edition of Liz Wager's popular and highly regarded guide uncovers the ethics, conventions and often unwritten rules of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and at conferences. It gives clear advice on how to choose the right journal, how to avoid delays, authorship disputes and many other problems associated with being published. The A-Z format makes this a clear, accessible resource relevant to readers with different levels of experience and different backgrounds, including students and healthcare professionals, medical researchers, and people working in drug companies and communications agencies developing publication strategies.'A very readable and authoritative guide to every aspect of publishing in scientific journals.The book's layout means that readers are both provided with a routemap for publishing but can also find quickly information on the topics that might be bothering them.' Richard Smith in his ForewordFrom reviews of the first edition: 'Intelligently written, logical and solid.' BMJ CAREER FOCUS'An essential resource' - NURSING STANDARD 'Subvert the system. Buy the book. Put it with the other reference books on your desk. And use it to get published.' EUROPEAN SCIENCE EDITING 'I would have no hesitation in recommending this book to colleagues. I wish I had had something similar when I started out!' CLINICIAN IN MANAGEMENT ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Comprehensive and practical guide to writing scientific publications
This is an excellent reference book packed with very helpful advice on all aspects of getting manuscripts published. The first 5 chapters contain clear and comprehensive information on how to put a publication plan together, project manage the writing of the manuscript and tips on how to get the best results from working with a writing team and medical writers. The A-Z sections are well-written. The text is clear and easy to read and includes web links and references to guidelines as well as information on various professional associations. Every possible aspect of publishing manuscripts is covered. I know this will be a book that permanently resides on my desk and is already well-thumbed! It is an essential resource for anyone writing manuscripts and abstracts for publication.

Liz Wager is THE medical publication guru
Very helpful, especially to students and others who are relatively new to the publishing world. I recommend it highly. ... Read more

Product Description
There’s never been a better time to be an author. Books like the Harry Potter series create a media phenomenon, with people lining up and camping outside bookstores to purchase newly released titles. Yet book sales overall – not just those of mega-sellers – are on the rise, as more and more people seek knowledge and entertainment through reading. The Library of Congress currently registers about 60,000 new titles for copyright each year. 60,000 books by 60,000 authors. Imagine yourself as one.

Getting Your Book Published For Dummies is your complete guide to realizing whatever gem of an idea you’ve been carrying with you. If you’ve ever thought, “this would make a really good book,” be it the next great American novel or a guide to naming babies, here’s your chance to put pen to paper and find out! Written from both sides of the editor’s desk – by a widely published writer and a HarperCollins veteran publisher – this guide puts in your hand the advice you need to:

• Pick an idea
• Approach the publisher
• Craft proposals and queries
• Work with agents, or act as your own
• Self-publish
• Negotiate a contract
• Create the actual book
• Sell your published book

Full of examples, proposals, query letters, and war stories drawn from the authors’ extensive experience, Getting Your Book Published For Dummies shows you how to clear all the hurdles faced by today’s writers – freeing up precious time for you to refine your manuscript. You’ll get the inside scoop on:

• Titling your book
• Major publishers, smaller houses, niche publishers, university presses, and spiritual and religious publishers
• The 12 elements of a successful nonfiction proposal
• How editors read queries
• Submitting fiction
• Publishing outside the box
• And much more

Getting Your Book Published For Dummies is the clear, A-Z handbook that makes the entire process  plain and practicable. You don’t need to be a celebrity. You don’t need to be some kind of publishing insider. All you need to do is write. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Getting Your Book Published for Dummies
This was an excellent buy.It was received in a timely manner and was in excellent condition.They took the time to thoroughly bubble wrap the book so it wouldn't be damaged in the mail.

Resourceful books about Publishing a new book
This book provides a lot of useful information about how to deal with editors, prepare your query letters and proposals.It also explains what you can expect from a book contract so you can get yourself prepared in the negotiation process.The only drawback about this book is the fact that it says little about digital publishing and it does not say much about how to effectively prepare your proposal and strategy about communicating with your editor or publisher in the digital format.It would be even better if this book can list out the email address of major contact, such as chiefeditors.Overall it is a good book with a lot of useful information one needs to know before he/she seals a book deal!!

Get Your Book Published for Dummies - It worked for me.
I've been trying to sell my manuscripts for years... I followed all the rules and ended up with nothing but a stack of rejection notices. I bought "Get Your Book Published for Dummies" and followed just one of the author's suggestions. Within weeks I had heard from a publisher and my book has already been published. If you have yet to sell your first manuscript, I suggest that you purchase this book and follow the author's recommendations. I did... and it worked for me.

Lots of information and ideas
For those of us who have never published this is an excellent place to start. I suggest reading it cover to cover, even if you already have a book ready for publishing, because it is so full of ideas for discovering your next publication and how to improve any you already have.

A handy manual
The major virtue of this book is its compendium approach to the problem its title states.For those who know absolutely nothing about getting published, it is a helpful manual.The major flaw of the book is that its content boils down to a Catch-22---i.e., to be published you must have X.But X cannot be gained without Y and to do Y, you must have X.

I don't know whether the author's ideas have been repeated by the many who write on the same subject or whether the information in the book is so generalized that everyone in the industry knows it. In any case, the book brings together in one volume most of the things a writer trying to get published should know.And it does suggest the cause ofthe difficulty of getting published.That in itself is worth the price of the book.

However, the book is lightweight.One continues to wonder how to get published without having to do the kind of social commingling the author, and so many others, recommends.

The book was published in 2000.It has not to my knowledge been updated.So, some of the information is out of date. As the author notes: "editors move around a lot." ... Read more

Product Description
You have an idea. A great idea. Now what? Whether you dream of having your name on the cover of a successful book (and 81% of Americans believe they have a book in them), or you’re a seasoned yet frustrated veteran of the publishing jungle, this nuts-and-bolts guide demystifies every aspect of the publishing process.

Husband-and-wife team Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry, who developed the enormously popular Putting Your Passion into Print seminar at Stanford University, are known to their students as “the Click and Clack of publishing.” Whether the thought is large (how does one deal with rejection) or small (why is it that a “special pen” works such magic), they cover all the bases. How to:

• Choose a top-of-the-heap idea;Come up with a blockbuster title;
• Craft an attention-getting pitch;
• Create a selling proposal;
• Find the right agent, publisher and editor;
• Understand a book contract and royalty statements;
• Enhance presentation skills;
• Develop sales, marketing, and publicity savvy;
• and, if necessary, self-publish (as did Irma Rombauer for The Joy of Cooking and James Redfield for The Celestine Prophesy).

Customer Reviews (29)

Just what the dr. ordered!
I have a 10/1 book proposal deadline and I've been freaking out a little bit.The author's humorous tone and straightforward information makes the journey feel a lot more manageable!

Excellent
I find this book a wonderful resource for a newbie like myself to the publishing world, and fun and easy to read besides!

A Real Eye-Opener!
I'm currently writing my first book and so I picked up "Putting Your Passion Into Print" to investigate the possibilities for publishing it. What a shock! After having read it, I no longer have any real desire to publish my book. What I got out of "Putting Your Passion Into Print" is that you, the author, are responsible for everything. Forget about writing! You'll be too busy with a thousand other petty things. And don't expect any help from your publisher.

This book really tells it like it is! Publishing is a cut-throat business, and if you want your book to be successful, you've got to be a tough businessman, a marketing whiz and an executive secretary all rolled into one.

I got the impression from reading this very detailed book--and, believe me, the authors leave no stone unturned--that it is aimed more at people who are looking to make a bundle by writing bestsellers. Idealistic people like me, who are simply slaving away out of "Passion" because they want to share something important with humanity and posterity, should go another route.

Highly recommended for daydreaming, want-to-be authors, if only to scare the hell out them. Thank you so much, Arielle and David, for opening my eyes!

(The book probably deserves 5 stars, but I gave it 4 because after reading through 300 pages of the traditional way of doing things, I was so much looking forward to an equally detailed treatment of "Self-Publishing," which was disappointing in its brevity and repetition of things already said in the previous chapters.)

newbie
Though I would never imagine using only a single source for all my research on getting published successfully, I can safely say this will remain one of my key books on referencing the topic. There's a ton of excellent information, and it's an easy read. The success stories laced throughout are also an inspiration to keep pushing ahead. What could be an incredibly dull topic was made out to be entertaining, informative, and very usefull for my own endeavors.
Highly recommended from a newbie's perspective.

Get a clue on publishing a book...successfully!
If you are new to the publishing business or are even "thinking" about writing a book, this will sit you down, make you laugh and shine a very bright light down the path to how to get it done, successfully. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Useful for the unpublished
William Germano, vice president and publishing director at Routledge, wrote Getting It Published to explain the expectations that scholarly publishing houses have toward writers.He set forth as his goals "to explain how publishers select manuscripts and publish them, to help the serious writer best present her or his work so that its chances for acceptance will be significantly increased," and "to show how the process from submission to publication can be made to work, and work well for both publisher and author" (x).Germano's helps train the young scholar how to shop his book around after he has done sufficient research and written a manuscript.


Germano explains that an author must ask the two questions:"Why did I write this book?""Whom did I write it for?" (1).Too often, an author has too big of expectations for their book.Many scholarly works concern a niche subject that will not penetrate the culture at large.It is important for the author to understand what audience wouldbe interested in his book and to approach publishing houses that have shown an interest in that subject.


In the end, Germano's Getting It Published is very useful at guiding the unpublished author through the upcoming publication obstacle course.His perspective is unique to most scholars since he is on the publisher side of the fence, and this perspective provides a lot of insights that would not be shared in a conversation with a fellow scholar.The neat thing about reading through this book is that it actually inspired me to delve more into my research and write more.Germano has written a book that provides a good practical layout on simple things like writing letters and asking for permissions to reprint pictures, quotes and poetry while at the same time expressing what the expectations for the author are and what the author should expect out of the publisher.It lays it all out concisely and clearly. ... Read more

Product Description
BREAKING INTO PRINT, a collection of famous author's first or very early fiction as it appeared in the prizewinning journal PLOUGHSHARES, presents a broad range of writing styles and some surprising narrative leaps. For example, a young man writes from the perspective of an elderly women, and a Caucasian woman writes from the point of view of a black man.BREAKING INTO PRINT includes some of the most lauded fiction writers today, such as Tim O'Brien, Howard Norman, Sue Miller, Gina Berriault, David Gates, Carolyn Chute, Carolyn Ferrell, and Mona Simpson.Headnotes to each story discuss how the authors received their first break, and then shaped a successful writing career.DeWitt Henry interleafs "Shoptalk" from PLOUGHSHARES throughout the book including reflections on the writing life from James Carroll, Richard Yates, Tobias Wolff, and Rosellen Brown.The book also contains two annotated appendices, rich with lists of web sites and links for new writers in addtion to MFA programs and writers' conferences, books about careers in writing, and an extensive slate of literary magazines and prize anthologies. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

"Breaking into Print" with DeWitt Henry
De Witt Henry's "Breaking Into Print" is truly revelatory.This latest book of Henry's is an anthology of Ploughshares short fiction.It contains the early stories of contemporary luminaries of short (and long) fiction.Represented writers include, Tim O'Brien, Edward P. Jones, Mona Simpson, Howard Norman, David Wong Louie, Christopher Tilghman, and Gina Berriault.Breaking Into Print demystifies the process of publishing short fiction.There are 15 stories in the collection and each is preceded by a biography that tells the story of how its author came to have the story published in Ploughshares.These biographies also show how the authors went on to publish more work and receive other literary accolades.

Beginning writers will find the appendices of Breaking Into Print especially helpful.The first appendix, Resources for Writers, lists: (1) books that discuss editing, publishing, and marketing, (2) books by writers on writing, (3) handbooks on the craft of writing fiction, (4) websites for writers, and (5) books about the dark side of the literary life.The second appendix, Recommended Literary Magazines for Short Fiction, opens with general advice about submitting short fiction and is followed by sub-sections that identify the agendas of certain venues for publishing short stories (i.e.Mainstream, Feminist, Avant-Garde, etc.).

The stories and specials features (the biographies, editorial keynotes, and appendices) in this anthology make it an excellent buy for those interested in learning how to break into print, and it is also an ideal reader for undergraduate and graduate Creative Writing courses.

Break into this one.
I found this book doing a search on the editor who released another anthology I enjoyed very much (Fathering Daughters).You're bound to recognize the names in this collection as award winning, fresh and vitalauthors.The stories are no less than provoking, satisfying, andbeautiful.

Recommended for anyone aspiring to be published.
Breaking Into Print: Early Stories And Insights Into Getting Published presents an informative collection of famous authors' first or very early fiction as it appeared in the prizewinning journal"Ploughshares". Here presented are some of the freshest and mostsatisfying fiction of the past thirty years including Going After Cacciato(Tim O'Brian); Gemcrack (Jayne Anne Phillips); Expensive Gifts (SueMiller); Ollie, Oh... (Carolyn Chute); In the Dark (Edward P. Jones); AfterRosa Parks (Janet Desaulniers); Approximations (Mona Simpson); Unicycle(Howard Norman); Little White Sister (Melanie Rae Thon); Displacement(David Wong Louie); Back (Susan Straight); Mary in the Mountains(Christopher Tilghman); A Wronged Husband (David Gates); Proper Library(Carolyn Ferrell); and The Infinite Passion of Expectation (GinaBerriault). Breaking Into Print is enhanced for the reader with invaluableresources for writers aspiring to become published; an introductiondescribing the "discovery" process for new writers;headnotesrevealing how the authors launched their writing careers; lists of websitesand links for new writers (including MFA programs and writers'conferences); books about careers in writing; excerpts from literaryluminaries reflecting on the writing life; and extensive lists of literarymagazines and prize anthologies, with advice on submissions. Breaking IntoPrint is recommended reading for students of contemporary literature, aswell as anyone seeking to have their own work successfully published andpresented to the reading public. ... Read more

Product Description
Writing for publication isn't easy, but getting published is an essential part of your professional development. Whether you're a novice or an experienced literacy writer, a K-12 teacher, or a university-level educator, you will benefit from the insights in this book.

Editors Shelley B. Wepner and Linda B. Gambrell have organized the book into four sections that offer guidelines for

getting started;

writing for journals, newspapers, and magazines;

writing and editing books; and

responding to revise-and-resubmit and rejection decisions.

Altogether, the 17 contributors present more than 80 guidelines to help you deal with the oftentimes puzzling and harrowing experiences of the publishing process. And they should know--collectively, their writing has appeared in 1,275 journal articles and 722 books.

Chapters also include highlights and closing thoughts to recap major themes, and author reflections from a wide range of respected, published authors to cheer you on as you struggle and succeed with your writing. Plus, an epilogue synthesizes the top 10 guidelines, or pearls of wisdom, that appear most frequently throughout the book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The importance of establishing a "write-for-publication" mindset.
Edited by professors Shelley B. Wepner & Linda B. Gambrell, Beating the Odds: Getting Published in the Field of Literacy combines essays from seventeen contributors presenting more than eighty guidelines to cope with the often confusing labyrinth that is the publishing process. Though compiled especially for classroom teachers, reading specialists, faculty and administrators affiliated with literacy programs and others seeking to publish their writings in the field of literacy, much of the practical advice in Beating the Odds is applicable to writers of all walks. Whether one is trying to get a literacy article published in a journal, newspaper or magazine, or responding to rejection or revise-and-resubmit decisions, writing or editing a book, or just getting started, Beating the Odds offers sound advice on every step of the way. Of especial note are the topics not covered by most other writing guidebooks, such as the advantages and pitfalls in collaboration in writing for publication, and the importance of establishing a "write-for-publication" mindset. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
Kids can write and publish too, and with this handy reference, they'll learn where and how to sell what they write. Kathy Henderson has completely revised, updated, expanded and renamed this edition of the popular marketing manual for the young writers of the 21st century. Young writers will find: profiles of professional editors and young writers, including Stephen King and Jewel; directions for formatting plays and scripts; advice about markets and contests to avoid; information about local and regional places to submit writing; market and contest listings - more than 40 new ones, 155 in all; author's tips with important information, warnings and resource alerts; In all, kids will find over 350 markets and contests that accept submissions from writers just their age. They'll learn the kind of material the organization wants and the editor's or sponsor's remarks and suggestions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good, basic writing book for young people
THE YOUNG WRITER'S GUIDE TO GETTING PUBLISHED is an excellent resource for an aspiring writer. The book gives complete step-by-step instructions for creating and selling writing material and 'breaking in' to the industry. Highlights include personal profiles of young writers (with photos :) ) who have successfully sold their ideas and gotten published. This book is encouraging, positive, and even includes a list of potential markets for young writers. I like the index for easy use. An improvement for a future edition might be to address internet issues (queries via email, internet submissions, internet markets, etc.) in more depth. Overall, nice job!

Handy, Useful Guide
This guide is useful to a certain extent. It does go a bit far by saying remember to put your name on the manuscript. Only joking, its brilliant!!!!!

A "nuts and bolts" explanation of the publishing process
Kathy Henderson's The Young Writer's Guide To Getting Published is an ideal and highly recommended introduction to the process of how to get a manuscript professionally published. Using Stephen King as an illustrative example, Henderson provides a "nuts and bolts" explanation of the publishing process and provides updated market and contest listings; profiles of professional editors and young writers; offers thorough directions for formatting plays and scripts; answers the most commonly asked questions; details information about local and regional places to submit manuscripts; gives invaluable advice about markets (including contests to avoid); offers a wealth of helpful hinds for developing marketing ability; and offers practical author-based tips, advice, warnings, and resource alerts. If you are a young writer from 8 to 18 who aspires to have your writing published, then give a careful reading to Kathy Henderson's The Young Writer's Guide To Getting Published! ... Read more

Product Description
Introducing the big secrets of writing--in handy, accessible, and inviting little books!

-More than 300 practical writing insights, pieces of instruction, and nuggets of wisdom covering craft, inspiration, and publication-A friendly format that's value priced, for instant application anywhere, for anyone-Expert advice from an engaging and experienced "writer's writer" who knows the advice authors crave to hear

Aspiring and published writers alike will welcome the practical and witty lessons in these engaging new books. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A Writer's Writer Gets to the Point
Paul Raymond Martin is a writer's writer and knows the craft and the business.His book may seem deceptively slim, but that is only because he does not waste words, and certainly does not waste your money or your time with needless overwrought advice.

This book is a gift not only in giving tips for publication.That's easy.The book also helps writers improve their craft and feel enthusiastic about writing even as they pursue the often frightening world of 'getting published.'

I never wanted to buy a book about getting published.The entire thought overwhelmed me.However, I look forward to opening Mr. Martin's book for inspiration.

Perfect!
Well, perfect for what I got it for. As a young writer (I'm eighteen), I was wary of buying a big, thick book on writing full of rules--I was afraid it would restrict my writing so that it lost any life I have been able to infuse it with. I had already bought different books to improve my spelling, grammar, and vocabulary, which were daunting enough. I also knew that plenty of stuff is published all the time that I think is terribly written and conceived--how was I to know the author of the book on writing even knew what he was talking about? But this book, a collection of quotes from lots of different writers, I felt comfortable with. I like to read one or two quotes and think over them myself to discover or discard the merit they hold before I write. Self-teaching (with a few nudges in the right direction) is the best method. ... Read more

Product Description
Every Writer Needs One Book that Jump-Starts a Writing Career. This Book Is It.

In this one-stop writing resources, Sally Stuart will tell you how to:

•Find the publisher you want
•Write a professional query letter or book proposal
•Approach and work with editors
•Decipher copyright and tax laws
•Negotiate contracts
•Manage the writing life
•Set up a home office
•Develop your book and article ideas

With practical tips and anecdotes, technical details and legal helps, this essential compendium provides the information every writer needs to get in print and stay in print. Whether you are just beginning or you have been published for years and want to polish up on a few fine points, this is your guide to publishing success. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Valuable, Wise Counsel For Any Writer
As an acquisitions editor for a book publisher and a former magazine editor, I know the challenges for writers to get published. It involves hard work for anyone. I find way too many people are shooting out their work without seasoned advice on how to get published. Sally Stuart has cut through the haze with this well-crafted book.

If you are wondering anything from how to get ideas to how to determine if you are a writer, the topic is covered in the Getting Started section. In the basics section, you will examine format, editor-author relationships and rejection. Also this book covers copyrights, practical matters like how to set up your office (paper and electronic) plus answers the question when to go full-time or part-time. Also self-discipline and management issues are addressed. Finally specific sections emphasize marketing, writing for periodicals or books.

Every section of this book is packed with experienced wisdom such as, "What's the secret to my persistence? Early on I learned that rejection happens...And rejection should not stop you from submitting manuscripts." Or regarding the question of part-time or full-time, "Work hard, but be patient. The average business takes from 5 to 8 years to get off the ground and only achieves real financial success at about ten years. There's no reason to expect a writing career to blossom much faster."

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned writer, you can profit from this book.

Good for beginners...
One of the library books I've had around for awhile is Sally Stuart's Guide To Getting Published by, who else, Sally Stuart.I finished reading it over the last couple of days, and it's a so-so book.If you're just getting into the writing field, this would be a decent concise guide to many of the things you need to know for your writing career...getting started, the basics, the business of writing, and so on.If you've been writing (and getting published) for awhile or if you've read a number of other books on the same subject, you probably won't find any new ground covered here.

Also, Stuart is the author of the Christian Writers' Market Guide, and this book is meant to be somewhat of a companion piece to the Market Guide.As a result, you'll see more references to the religious writing market than you would normally see in a book on writing.It's not intrusive and the core information is still valid, but just be aware it's there if that's something that offends you.

Overall, not a bad book for those starting to explore the field, but not much to offer those who have "been there, done that".

Read this one!
Reluctantly, I bought Sally Stuart's Guide to Getting Published. I've read so many bad books about writing that I didn't want to feel I had wasted my money. Cautiously, I began to read it-prepared for a lot of words and little substance. Amazingly, I kept reading. This book exceeded my expectations. It's practical, well written, substantive, and Sally Stuart knows what she's writing about. This book could easily be used as an inexpensive self-study course on getting published. I hope this book sells a million copies.

Concise and easy to read
This book is packed full of helpful information for aspiring writers from all venues.Ms. Stuart covers everything, from good writing habits to organizing submissions.The information is concise and easily referenced. It's practical advice is not only helpful, but encouraging as well. ... Read more

Product Description
This complete manual on writing fiction in all genres takes readers through each phase -- from story idea to manuscript to submission -- with a step-by-step guide to the editing and publishing process (including negotiating a contract with or without an agent), and an informative section on writer's conferences and workshops. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Want to hone your craft? Then listen to the editor.
Seidman's approach to writing is not for the faint-hearted or those with a cookie-cutter mentality, but it is for someone who wants to get a solid handle on craft. With decades of experience working for top publishers and editing some of the best in the business, Seidman has distilled his knowledge and made it easily available for anyone truly interested in learning how to write. Seidman's books on writing should line every writer's reference shelf.

Books can't really do that, can they?
This is what happens when Strunk & White takes An Idiot's Guide to Getting Published to a cheesy motel room for a weekend of frolic.You get the perfect love child of how to write a book for publication without looking like the proverbial idiot.Seidman manages to beat the unsuspecting reader over the head with his well worn copy of Elements of Style in such a way that you don't really notice the lumps until later.Then he switches hats and lets you know exactly what's going on behind those closed editorial doors.Apparently they aren't designing new and inventive ways of make authors pull the rest of the hair out and swear to take up horticulture.

If you want to write a book and you want to publish it, then this is one of those that should grace your collection of how to write books and get published tomes.It's compact, it's laminated cover doubles as a coaster in a pinch, and you can actually learn some punctuation rules if you're not careful.

An Incisive, Positive, Constructive Book
This is a concise, intelligent piece of work written in three clearly defined segments; the most intensive being the first part which deals directly with the art of writing in the real world. There is then a short,centrally located segment which is about networking that makes plain goodsense look quite simply like a brilliant idea.The Third and lastsection deals in no uncertain terms with the Business of Publishing, andmake no mistake, the guy who wrote it has more than 40 years experience inthe field, so each page he presents to us is not only useful, it's a nofooling around, fact-filled leaf within a series of only hundred and somebusiness oriented pages that complete this valuable text.Thebook then is punctuated with an ending comprised of short, comprehensivelyhelpful lists.Do yourself a favor and don't miss it.

Hey Mikey, He Likes It!
I was thoroughly impressed with Michael Seidman's ingenue in the subject of fiction writing... I've only read half the book and I already have a considerably solid idea of how my book should be constructed... I recommendthis book to anyone who has the desire to write or anyone who has writtenbefore.

A very special book.
Seidman does something very special in this book: he talks to writers as a friend trying to demystify the process of writing and the process of getting published and beyond. It's an absolutely refreshing change fromother writing books that admonish, cajole, preach, and give self-help peptalks. It's an enjoyable book, which makes it that much more important tothose of us who want to learn. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

Very useful for anyone interested in publishing his or her work
This is a great end-to-end book on the publishing business for scholars and trade publication authors.It gives an excellent overview of the business, talks about the ins and outs of contracts and provides a lot of useful inside information.

This book is relatively short, but it is organized well and packed with useful "to the point" tips.It also introduces the vocabulary one needs to understand and negotiate publishing a book or other work.

As the title suggests, this is a serious book, but it is an easy an enjoyable read.The author is very credible and you can trust the information contained within.

I learned about this book from a fairly well known author and editor.He thought it was the single best resource on the topic.I own at least 5-6 other books on this subject and this is probably my favorite too.

Useful for scholars and trade authors alike!
Having read a number of books on publishing in the past several months, I was delighted to stumble upon "Getting It Published."Although it isn't directly related to my current career path - presently, I'm self-publishing a general trade nonfiction book, as opposed to a scholarly tome - I found Germano's advice to be helpful, thoughtful, and eloquent nonetheless.

In welcome contrast to the many publishing books that are aimed at more general audiences, "Getting It Published" does not dumb itself down for the lowest common denominator.Germano's writing is witty, enjoyable, and informed - it's as though you're receiving guidance from your academic advisor rather than reading a how-to book written by some faceless, self-proclaimed publishing "guru."It should come as no surprise that Germano is the VP and publishing director at Routledge.His wealth of insight is remarkable - he covers the process of publishing scholarly work from beginning to end.From writing the manuscript, to crafting a successful proposal, signing a contract, and seeing the work through to publication, Germano doesn't miss a beat.He even covers the not-so-little details, like copyrights, permissions, quotations, artwork, and cover design.His discussion of the various publishing houses and their tasks ("What do publishers do?") was most informative.

"Getting It Published" is a must-have for those new to scholarly publishing.Newbies to the world of publishing who aren't looking to publish scholarly work won't be disappointed, either - there's plenty of useful information in here for everyone.It also serves as a much-needed break from all those awful "For Dummies" books and "Idiot's Guides" that seem to saturate the publishing market!

useful handbook
Gives consistent and straight-forward advice, with a few bits of practical inspiration.There are no real trade secrets here, and Germano makes some points that are certainly arguable, but these qualities may be why this guide will remain current and useful for some time.

Tremendous
The former editorial director of the Columbia University Press lays it all out for aspiring non-fiction authors. From finding a publishing house to choosing a title for your work Germano provides solid advice which the would-be writer should ignore at his or her peril. His advice certainly made me re-think the working title "Get Over the Schmuck: Bereavement for Dummies" when submitting my motivational guide to coping with loss, and it paid dividends. An indispensible guide.

An expert publishing guide for scholars
William Germano became an expert in scholarly book publishing as editor in chief of Columbia University Press. Today, he is vice president and publishing director of Routledge. This book summarizes the most important lessons of a life in editorial development.

Germano explains book development from two perspectives. As an editor and publisher, he explains what a book must do for the press that releases it. He helps aspiring authors - and editors - to understand their role in the process of creating and developing the book a publisher will produce.

Germano's easygoing, informative style reminds me of the old-fashioned editors and publishers I have known. This is an overview of working with books intended for a scholarly or scientific audience. It is a systematic guidebook to the publishing process. It explains what publishers do, how a manuscript must be prepared, how to select a publisher, and how to propose a book. Then it explains how to work with publisher or editor from proposal to finished product.

First-time authors and editors will find this a valuable resource that helps beginners to avoid common mistakes. Seasoned authors will find value in the concise, well structured tour of the publishing process.

Book review published in Design Research News, Volume 6, Number 7, Jul 2001 ISSN 1473-3862. ... Read more

Product Description
The best, most comprehensive book for writers is now completely revised and updated to address ongoing changes in publishing. Published in 2005 as Putting Your Passion Into Print, this is the book that’s been praised by both industry professionals (“Refreshingly honest, knowledgeable and detailed. . . . An invaluable resource”—Jamie Raab, publisher, Grand Central Publishing) and bestselling authors (“A must-have for every aspiring writer.”—Khaled Hosseini, author of The Kite Runner). With its extensive coverage of e-books, self-publishing, and online marketing, The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published is more vital than ever for anyone who wants to mine that great idea and turn it into a successfully published book.

Written by experts with thirteen books between them as well as many years’ experience as a literary agent (Eckstut) and a book doctor (Sterry), this nuts-and-bolts guide demystifies every step of the publishing process: how to come up with a blockbuster title, create a selling proposal, find the right agent, understand a book contract, develop marketing and publicity savvy, and, if necessary, self-publish. There’s new information on how to build up a following (and even publish a book) online; the importance of a search-engine-friendly title; producing a video book trailer; and e-book pricing and royalties. Includes interviews with hundreds of publishing insiders and authors, including Seth Godin, Neil Gaiman, Amy Bloom, Margaret Atwood, Larry Kirshbaum, Leonard Lopate, plus agents, editors, and booksellers; sidebars featuring real-life publishing success stories; sample proposals, query letters, and a feature-rich website and community for authors. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A must read for all would-be authors!
Everyone, it seems, has an idea for a book they think should be made. But how do you go from a good idea to a career in writing? Originally published as Putting Your Passion into Print, this revised edition has a new name and a fresh perspective on the rapidly evolving world of publishing. In The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published, Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry present lucid, step-by-step advice to would-be authors, from inception to publicity.

The authors begin with the most important step of writing a book: choosing the right idea. Once you have that down, you can move into building an online presence (or "platform") through a website and social media; finding and landing the best agent for you; perfecting your pitch and proposal; undertaking the submission process; and, because every author is faced with it, dealing with rejection.

The authors then address the more businesslike aspects of publishing. They cover how to sell your book to a publisher; negotiate contracts and royalties; manage relationships with your editor/publisher; and, of course, write the damn thing. They also cover self-publishing options in depth.

But writing and publishing a book is only half the battle. An excellent bound book in hand is useless if no one knows about it. Therefore, Eckstut and Sterry constantly emphasize the importance of getting the word out. Though they advise that you begin establishing an audience immediately after conceiving of the book, they note that publicity and marketing efforts really need to be in place about six months before publication. Don't worry, though; they offer advice on everything from how to negotiate special sales to how to appear confident and knowledgeable in an interview.

For a complete review, head over to [...] ... Read more