Book 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 markets that publish student work. A Teen's Guide gives advice, encouragement, and motivation to young authors looking to make their mark as writers. Topics addressed in the book include the writing craft, freelance publishing, rights and copyright information, publishing pitfalls, writing camps and workshops, and staff writing and book publishing. Filled with successful strategies for becoming a published author, any young writer will find this book an enjoyable read.

Grades 4-12 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

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

Book 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 (7)

First-Time "Author-Want-to-Be's"- Buy This Book
Before I bought the book, I had more than 30 questions about the "getting published" process. This book answered them all. It covers the entire writing process from conceiving an idea for a book to getting paid. It comes with a CD that includes sample query letters, proposals, and contracts. Sheree and Jennifer definitely walk the talk. It's hard to believe there might be a better book out there on this subject for any first-time author-want-to-be. I highly recommend it.

Mary Lynch Barbera, RN, MSN, BCBA
In May 2007, my first book was published entitled:The Verbal Behavior Approach:How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders.Before reading The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Published,
by Sheree Bykofsky & Jennifer Basye Sander I was a complete novice to the publishing world.I referred to this excellent book during the entire two-year process....from writing a book proposal to selecting a title to submitting query letters to marketing....this book has it all!I HIGHLY recommend it for any and all aspiring authors!

[...]

Comparing five books about writing book proposals
I bought five books to help me write a book proposal:

"How to Write a Book Proposal, 3rd edition," by Michael Larsen

"78 Reasons Why Your Book May Never Be Published & 14 Reasons Why It Just Might," by Pat Walsh

"The Forest for the Trees," by Betsy Lerner

"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Published, 4th edition," by Sheree Bykofsky and Jennifer Basye Sander

"Think Like Your Editor," by Susan Rabiner and Alfred Fortunado

The worst was "How to Write a Book Proposal." This book felt like a bad date, like I wanted to wash my hair after reading it. The intent is to teach you to be an "Authorpreneur (r)." Yes, Larsen has registered this word. You'll learn such gems as everyone has 250 friends, and each of them has 250 friends, so you can "spread the word" about your book to more than 62,000 people by e-mail. I think there's a word for that -- spam. Larsen also says to include your promotion plan in the book proposal, including pushing "the paperback edition as hard as you can" when it's published a year after the hardcover edition. I'm not an agent or editor, but I'd think that an agent would giggle quietly to themselves if you were so presumptuous as to include a marketing plan for the paperback edition. (To the author's credit, he doesn't say you should suggest which actor should play the main character in the movie version of your book.) Then there's the chapter about including illustrations and cover art. Excuse me, I thought the editor and art director develop the cover art? I can't imagine creating the book cover to include in the proposal. And the author recommends including a "surprise," such as a baby shoe with a note saying "Now that I have a foot in the door." The book has one good piece of advice: pick a good title. For example, "How to Write a Book Proposal" is a title that will make 100,000 aspiring writers buy your book, regardless of how awful the book is.

"78 Reasons" was good. Some sections are wrong, such as #38 and #39, which correctly advises against paying for a vanity press to publish your book but confuses this with self-publishing. I've successfully self-published two books, and unsuccessfully self-published one book. The correct answer is that if you have a niche book in a niche market you know well, self-publish. Self-publishing mass market books is a recipe for disaster. Some of the advice is excellent, such as #16, about "killing your little darlings" (a scene you think is brilliant, that you build the rest of the book around). While most of this book is sound advice to a novice writer, as an experienced writer I didn't learn anything new.

"The Complete Idiot's Guide" covers the entire process from thinking of an idea through book proposals, book contracts, publicity tours, etc. It's a good overview but each chapter is too short. You'll need to buy another book about book proposals, etc. I'm keeping my copy as a reference to turn to occasionally but it's not the last word.

"The Forest for the Trees" starts with six essays about writing, with topics such as alcoholism, self-promoting poets (starting with Walt Whitman), the childhood of famous writers, writers who are too successful too young, etc. These are interesting reading. The second half of the book is essays about publishing, starting with literary agents. One paragraph describes the plethora of surprise gifts writers include with their query letters. She's received baby shoes, presumably from readers of Larsen's book. She says: "Please resist the temptation to do any of these outlandish things...a simple, dignified letter with a clear statement of your intent and credentials will win more affirmative responses than any gimmick or hype." If you read Larsen's book, read Lerner's book as the antidote. The next essays are about dealing with rejection, the life of editors, what writers want from editors, how book covers are designed, book titles selected, etc. This book is descriptive, not proscriptive, so you'll learn how the world of books operates, if not be told how to write a book and get it published. I enjoyed the author's "voice" and I recommend this book.

The best book is "Thinking Like Your Editor." The first half of the book is about preparing your book proposal. Unlike the other four books, reading this book made me completely rewrite my book proposal. The author begins by emphasizing the three most important things about a book: audience, audience, and audience. Who is going to buy your book? Not who might be sort of interested in your book, but who will feel that he or she must read your book. I'd thought about this before, but reading Rabiner's book made me think lucidly about this. She then walks you through the elements that must be in a book proposal, such as your thesis, or what makes your message unique and new and challenging; why is now the time to publish this book; and why are you the person most qualified to write it. The second half of the book is about writing your book, including the importance of narrative tension in non-fiction writing, and of presenting a balanced "argument" to make your views more convincing. The other four books made me say, "uh-huh, uh-huh" and not do anything. Rabiner's book made me spend several days working on my proposal. (My 2003 paperback copy has the typos corrected.)

More thorough than you'll think you need
Sheree Bykofsky and Jennifer Basye Sander want you to get your book published. They want you to understand absolutely every aspect of the business--from idea generation through book promotion--so that even though you're a beginner, you can navigate those shark-infested waters like a pro. Sometimes you might think they go into unnecessary detail, such as when they describe the ins and outs of an editor's typical day at a publishing house, but the truth is that because of a lack of this understanding many writers shoot their careers in the foot by making unnecessary mistakes.

This book is aimed at anyone interested in gaining entrance to the world of publishing, whether you want to write novels, poetry, children's books, how-to books, or magazine articles. If you want to publish with the big-name pros or even self-publish, this book will help you decide what would suit you best and how to achieve it. It covers everything from idea generation through the submission process, contract negotiations, finding an agent, and participating in the publicity process.

Because the public vision of the publishing industry is so vastly incorrect, there are many ways in which a writer can feel frustrated, annoyed, angry or hurt by things that really boil down to misunderstandings or a lack of comprehension. There are also so many ways in which a writer can ruin a potential career by making herself known as a high-maintenance troublemaker, when perhaps if she better understood what her editor's job was and how her editor conducted that job, she might do the right thing.

In addition, although I call it "the publishing industry," there's a lot of variety out there. Without a guide to that variety (when to query, when to submit a proposal or manuscript, how long each thing should be and how it should be written, what should be included with it, how it should be mailed, when and how you should or shouldn't follow up, etc.) it's easy to make a misstep. That's where "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Published, Fourth Edition" comes in.

This is an incredibly thorough book that will impart a very good understanding of the realities of getting published. It will help you to understand how editors, agents, and publishers view writers' actions. It will help you to make yourself an invaluable part of a publishing team, which can only serve to enhance your career opportunities.

If you have aspirations to having your manuscript published...
Now in a completely updated and significantly expanded fourth edition, "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Getting Published" provides the aspiring author and the novice publisher with step-by-step instructions on turning a manuscript into a published book. Enhanced with an accompanying CD-Rom enriched with dozens of document templates, lists of agents, lists of writers' conference, and publisher resources of all kinds and categories, "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Getting Published" is one of the most "user friendly" how-to books on the subject of publishing available to the general public today. Along with a methodical explanatory presentation of the book publishing process, readers will learn just how to best get their particular manuscript ready for publication; how to keep track of publishing industry trends as part of determining the suitability and viability of their publishing project; effective, innovative, and tested marketing strategies, and so much more. "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Getting Published" will also enable novice writers to avoid common mistakes, understand publisher contracts, and consider the pros and cons with respect to literary agents. If you have aspirations to having your manuscript published, then do yourself the tremendous favor of giving "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Getting Published" a careful reading. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Okay, so maybe you aren't a "complete idiot." But if the publishing industry's mysterious ways leave you feeling fairly ignorant, this easy-to-read volume (hey, it's written for idiots) can turn you into a competent insider in no time. If The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Published were reduced to one sentence, it would read: The book business is a business--so be businesslike. Don't send a query letter on pink stationery. Don't stalk your editor. Don't bribe the sales reps. That's obvious, but there's more. Between them Sheree Bykofsky and Jennifer Basye Sander have sold, publicized, written, packaged, acquired, edited, agented, and published books. They know whence they speak, and they freely impart their well-earned knowledge here.

The first step to being businesslike is learning the business. While Bykofsky and Sander include the usual stuff about query letters, book proposals, agents, and contracts, they also offer assistance on settling on a subject, information on how manuscripts become books and how books get into stores, and advice on keeping your book in the stores once it gets there. They augment their own publishing wisdom with that of their colleagues. When choosing a topic, don't be put off by a seemingly saturated market; Ben Dominitz of Prima Publishing claims that two of the best reasons to publish a book are "one, because no one has published a book on that topic, and two, because everyone has published a book on that topic." Never settle for a first offer from a publisher; says author and former lawyer Tim Perrin, "You should always say, 'Oh? Is that all?' ... It's never failed for me." And lastly, how does one land that coveted appearance on Oprah®? "All you have to do," says La Jolla-based publicist Arielle Ford, "is call ... the Prayer Line." Scoff if you dare, but two of Ford's clients got booked after leaving prayers. The book provides the phone number, as well as other useful ones. --Jane SteinbergBook 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 authorsDownload Description
Getting a novel or other work published remains one of the most mysterious processes in business today. Using the comprehensive and easy-to-read format of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Published, Second Edition, you'll learn practical steps to get your masterpiece published. Learn how to write book proposals and query letters, how to pitch ideas to agents and editors, how to write outlines and sample chapters, and how to deal with publishing companies. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (59)

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. Pork Chops and Applesauce: A Collection of Recipes and Reflections

Future Writer
I found the book to be useful and informative.It provides no-nonense, real-world appplications of the writing and publishing field.Plenty of examples and resources.

Oh, Please......
I would NOT recommend new writers to read this UNTIL they have finished writing their book.While it has great advice on the publishing business, it practically discourages any one from writing at all.It's very "left-winged" and biased.If you don't live in New York, forget it.The book makes you feel like you don't have any chance of ever getting published!!Not good reference material for first time writers.

If you want to get published . . . .
If you'd like to get published, this is the book for you! It gives step by step instructions for query letters, book proposals, hiring an agent, etc.It is simply marvelous! ... Read more

Book 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!

- Kelly Garbato

Author & ePublisher
Peedee Publishing / Hot Dog!, LLC

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

Book 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

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 (11)

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."

Rubbish
Claims to give you an example of a complete synopsis suitable to send out to an editor and then gives you a blurb for the back of the book.
Suggest cold calling editors which would only make them hate you and think you are a...dummie
Gives publishers' general details of the sort you could look up in the phone book which would be no use to you whatever since you would need to know individual editors names, what they are interested in publishing etc... Most of the publishing houses listed require agents but there are pleanty of publishers who do consider unagented writers who are not listed in this book. I really wish I had bought a different book as this was a complete waste of money.
I am lucky I know enough about writing and publishing to know what a terrible inaccurate picture this book gives.

Definitely for Dummies
For the total novice who has very limited experience in writing and publishing, this book will be treasure trove, especially if that novice is planning to write a non-fiction book. For everyone else, this book has lesser value. I found it offered very little for writers of fiction. The information offered was also rather basic; for a person with a moderate amount of writing experience, the book offered little in the way of insightful information. The "for Dummies" part of the title definitely applies in this case.

Getting your book published for those who already have
This book was a disappointment. The reviews below pretty much reflect my problems with the book. Another problem I had concerned promotion. The authors assume that every aspiring author already has extensive media contacts. The sample proposal they give is from 2 college professors who have already published 2 books and have been featured on national TV and raidio. Now come on, most people who buy this book have not been on national TV and have no idea where to begin a promotional campaign. That's why they buy this book in the first place! Instead of telling us how to establish media contacts to use in the proposal, the authors simply tell us to use all our media contacts in the proposal. If I already had media contacts I wouldn't have needed the book.

In sum, if you havn't already published a few books and havn't been on national TV, this book will leave you with many lingering questions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Finally A Book Advising Teens On How To Get Published
Ever wanted to get published? Well this is definitly the book for you. I have been writing stories for a while now and I have never gotten anything out of it besides my parents and friend praising me for my work. I read books for adults on how to get published I even got to the point where I was ready to send one of my books/stories to a publisher with barely any insight on what I was doing. Then my life, writing wise, changed.

I went to a local book shop with my mom for some apparent reason and she went to get her book and I went to get mine; however, I had no I idea of what I wanted to get so I searched for stupid things and then I typed out these exact words "how to get published" and you probably already know what I got. The Young Writer's Guide to Getting Published. I was amazed, a book for teens on getting published? So I went and found the book and my life has never been the same since. I got info on every thing, the cover letter, publishing (looking professional), and well just everything you needed to know. And the best part was in the back of the book there was a list with descrptions of publishers that accept young writers works. So stop reading this review and GET THIS BOOK!!!!!!

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

Book 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

Amazon.com
So William Morris won't return your calls? And the folks at Scott Meredith are still charging too much? Then hunker down and grit your teeth: it's time to take matters into your own hands. Renounce the passivity so often associated with the writer's lot and be your own agent. Ex-publishing executive Martin Levin takes you through all the steps in this book of basics, from cover letters to contracts. Note, however, that the info here is geared toward those who want to break into publishing. If scripting is your game, you'll just have to go out and produce your own flick.Book Description
Why sacrifice ten to fifteen percent of your book advance to a commissioned agent when you don't have to? If you're a talented writer with a head for details, you can prepare your manuscript, pitch it to publishers, secure an offer, and negotiate your contract without using an agent or spending hundreds of dollars on a publishing lawyer. In this revised and updated edition of BE YOUR OWN LITERARY AGENT, fifty-year publishing veteran Martin P. Levin walks first-time authors through the intimidating process of selling their work with a clear, intelligent, and supportive approach that works. Sample letters and proposals show you exactly how to write a query letter, compile an author bio, phrase a book summary, organize a sample chapter, and more. With a clean manuscript in your hand and BE YOUR OWN LITERARY AGENT in your pocket, publishing success is virtually assured. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Some info outdated, but still very good.
Levin writes a good guide for submitting, and the info from editors themselves is really good!However, four years later, some of his mergers and ideas are outdated.

Still good general info as long as you useother resources in conjunction!

Good guide toward getting your writing in front of an editor
This book is good for what it is.What it isn't, is how to be your own agent.Chapters on contracts and agreements say get a lawyer or agent.Though it does give examples of contract provisions, it leaves the readerthinking that he really does need an agent or attorney.This book isn'tabout never having an agent, its about getting the offer BEFORE you get anagent.It might even let you negotiate your first book deal if its asimple one.

However, the book IS a good guide on how to get yourmanuscript to an editor, and get him to read it.With tips not only onwhat your presentation should look like (query letters, sample chapters,etc.) but also how to find the right editor and make sure he or she readsyour manuscript.

The book contains annecdotes from famous authors, samplequery letters, cover letters, as well as tips on improving your chances toget plucked from the slush pile.It also does give you familiarity withcontract terms and a good idea of what a "standard" offer mightbe, so that you and your agent will be speaking the same language.

Thisis a good book for anyone who wants to send their manuscript directly tothe editor rather than trying to first find an agent.If you think you'llhave more luck this way, this is a good book for you. ... Read more

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

Editors Shelley B. Wepner and Linda B. Gambrell have organized the bookinto 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 youdeal with the oftentimes puzzling and harrowing experiences of thepublishing process. And they should know--collectively, their writing hasappeared in 1,275 journal articles and 722 books.

Chapters also include highlights and closing thoughts to recap majorthemes, and author reflections from a wide range of respected, publishedauthors 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

Book Description
Written by a best-selling academic author, Effective Writing for Health Professionals provides insights and strategies for publishing designed for nurses, midwives and health professionals. ... Read more

Book 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

Customer Reviews (5)

Outwitting Yourself
Nothing beats the joy of consuming something that tastes good and is good for you. In this case, it's great advice delivered in the same engaging voice that made "Outwitting Squirrels" such fun.

While I don'tthink there is one perfect book for aspiring writers to read (because youlearn best when you read several books on a subject), I did find two thingsparticularly nice about Bill Adler's take on book publishing: Hisamalgamation of perspectives as a writer, agent, publisher, packager; and,the format of the book, where extensive samples are woven into the chaptersinstead of held for an appendix. Why "Outwitting Yourself" forthis review name?Because, it seems that we potential writers can find 101reasons (a.k.a. excuses) for not getting on with our writing careers.But,with Adler's advice you will have the road map needed to find your way to apublished book... Outwitting your excuses, thereby outwitting yourself.HaveFun and Best Wishes on your journey to publishing success.With BillAdler's book of course!

Filled with insider knowledge!
Bill Adler Jr has been in the publishing business for twenty years, and is willing to let neophyte authors in on the secrets he knows about getting published. Great stuff in this book, a real inside look at how to becomesuccessfully published (and then how to get publicity for your book, too!).

Entertaining and enlightening book with practical advice
What I really like about this book is that it provides practical, real-world advice.The section of the book with remarks by actual editors is especially helpful.This is the single best book on how to get published that I've ever read.Bill Adler also has a fluid, entertainingwriting style that's a pleasure to read.

A really great book on how to get published!
Finally, a book that tells you what agents, editors and publishers are looking for.This book doesn't talk down to you, or assume you need writing classes.It's just useful, hands-on information.(And fun toread, too.)

Highly recommended!
This is the first book I've found that actually shows you how to make money from your writing.Writing for yourself isn't as much fun --or as profitable-- as getting published.Bill Adler, Jr.'s book shows you how. ... Read more

Book Description
This handy guide will furnish prospective writers with all they need to know about the serious business of getting their work published. Based on a series of seminars by the author himself, it provides guidelines on submitting papers in journals, chapters in books, articles in newspapers and sensible advice on approaching publishers with book proposals.
Written with refreshing honesty and unfussiness, this book will be an instant requisite for academics everywhere. ... Read more

Book Description
A comprehensive exploration of fiction andnonfiction — from the fundamentals of writing simply and directly topreparing a complete manuscript to approaching a publisher. KEYTOPICS: Selecting characters; using classic “hooks,” creatingeffective dialog; developing theme fiction, fantasy, and sagas; do'sand dont's of query letters; writing an interview; finding an agent; andanalyzing contracts and royalties. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

First class "how to" book
I have taken 4 Creative Writing classes, each given by a published author.I was one of the better students in each class.This book was the text of one of the classes.It was the only text book, and the class was the only class, that I actually learned how to write better.Other classes and other text books discussed how professional writers write but they gave me no usable tools that I could apply to improve my writing.This book will make a dedicated literate person into a very good amateur writer and it will tell that good amateur how to construct a manuscript that is publishable.It will not make a good amateur into a Steinbeck.The other "how to write" books I have read (and I have read quite a few) attempted to make me into a great artist.None of them, however, added anything to my toolbox of writing skills.

I used this as a handbook for several years before I made the mistake of loaning it to a friend who had the good sense to steal it from me, so I am buying another copy.

For the thinking analytical types.
This is not the kind of book that would appeal to everyone.Those that like to write and create haphazardly and do what is called free-writing, probably would find it too restrictive, bottom-line, cut-dry, no-nonsense.But for those of us who like formulas, outlines, graphs and just straight how-to guides, this book is great!I bought it a couple of years ago just put it away, I suppose wasn't ready for it, but a week ago I picked it back up and it was just exactly what I needed! Good job Kubis and Howland! I recommend it for anyone who is serious about getting his work published. ... Read more

Book Description
A collection of famous authors' first or very early fiction as it appeared in the prizewinning journal Ploughshares, Breaking into Print presents some of the freshest and most satisfying fiction of the past three decades: "Going After Cacciato" by Tim O'Brien "Gemcrack" by Jayne Anne Phillips"Expensive Gifts" by Sue Miller"Ollie, Oh . . ." by Carolyn Chute"In the Dark" by Edward P. Jones"After Rosa Parks" by Janet Desaulniers"Approximations" by Mona Simpson"Unicycle" by Howard Norman"Little White Sister" by Melanie Rae Thon"Displacement" by David Wong Louie"Back" by Susan Straight"Mary in the Mountains" by Christopher Tilghman"A Wronged Husband" by David Gates"Proper Library" by Carolyn Ferrell"The Infinite Passion of Expectation" by Gina Berriault With invaluable resources for those trying to "break into print" themselves:- An introduction describing the "discovery" process for new writers - Headnotes revealing how the authors launched their writing careers - Lists of websites and links for new writers, including MFA programs and writers' conferences - Books about careers in writing- "Shoptalk" excerpts from literary luminaries, with reflections on the writing life - Extensive lists of literary magazines and prize anthologies, with advice on submissions ... 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

Customer Reviews (3)

A Tough Love Writing Course
Originally published in 1986 as "The Awful Truth About Publishing: Why They Always Reject Your Manuscript and What You Can Do About It" (a title that may have been too hard for aspiring writers to take, despite the softer subtitle), Boswell's book is a concise, accessible guide taking the neophyte writer through the various stages of writing and pitching their book, always with a realistic view of the publishing environment writers will operate in. Boswell also includes valuable copies of query letters and the proposal for the book itself, so you have concrete examples to learn from. Best of all, he never sugar coats the hard truths about the long odds against writers, as when he explains why you must reconsider your proposal or the idea it embodies if you are rejected 10 times by agents or editors.

You can learn a lot from this book!
Very well wwritten and worth buying. There are some good tips and you can learn a bunch about the publishing world- take a shot.

Rick Frishman Pres PLANNED TV ARTS (NYC) ... co authorGUERRILLA PUBLCIITY & GUERRILLA MARKETING FOR WRITERS (Writers Digest Books)...

This book will outlast a jar of mayonnaise
A "how to" book may seem an unlikely choice for a review submitted with the sole intent of winning 100 bucks of Amazon books credit. However, you must love books and maybe have even thought about writing one, otherwise you would not have landed here. Push your virtual shopping cart to the aisle marked "Boswell" and grab this book. The book, originally published in 1986 under a different title, defies the author's assertion that a "jar of mayonnaise will most likely have more staying power" on the sales shelf than most books.Boswell offers practical and humorous guidance gained during a long career as a publisher and an author. He debunks the romantic image of the editorial meeting and offers valuable advice about the nuts and bolts of getting published.This book is for you if you want common-sense advice (beware: ego-deflating too) and a blueprint for your writing dreams. Push your cart a little faster.This book may not be released again until the next century ... Read more