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In the modern publishing industry, authors have more publication options than ever before. That can be amazing, as it allows authors to choose the option that best suits their goals for each specific project and for their career as a whole. But it can also make it difficult to determine the best route. Let's break down how to publish a book using the major types of publication, with the pros and cons of each option. This is the traditional, time-tested publication process. Here's the breakdown: Step 1: Write a book. This should be a given, but it's worth mentioning that you should write and complete your manuscript before querying agents. Step 2: Secure a literary agent. Signing with an agent can be a long process. Personally, it took me six years. The process of securing a literary agent involves writing and submitting one-page query letters, responding to requests for your partial or full manuscript, having a discussion over the phone with an interested agent, and finally making the decision to hire a literary agent to represent you. Don't underestimate this process. It's not easy. Read about how I got my agent here. Step 3: Go on submission. After signing with a literary agent and determining your manuscript is ready, your agent will submit your manuscript to publishers. Your manuscript needs to make it through several levels of the publishing house to be officially accepted. Once that happens, and you agree to the terms, you've got a book deal. Of course, there are more steps in there. (Traditional publication is a complicated process.) But that's the gist of it.
It is possible to pursue traditional publication without an agent. While large houses, such as the big five, do not typically accept unsolicited submissions (i.e. manuscript submissions directly from authors, rather than from agents), many smaller houses do. These publishing houses are often called small presses or indie presses. The process for publishing in this way is similar to publishing traditionally with an agent. First, complete the manuscript. Then, submit to publishing houses. Publishers may ask for a query letter or for the full manuscript. Authors can also secure agents or publishers by pitching at conferences. Here are the pros and cons of this type of publishing.
Self-publishing is the newest type of publishing and is changing the landscape of the publishing industry in big ways. What it is: a way to publish your work in a manner that allows you complete control. What it is not: a backup plan if you are not able to publish traditionally. Self-publishing is a lot of work, and if you have your heart set on publishing traditionally, but your manuscript is not accepted, don't think of self-publishing as a consolation prize. If you are not sure self-publishing is the best route for your career, trunk the project and start a new one. Self-publishing gives you all the control and all the responsibility. The author becomes the publisher as well, by publishing their book through a print-on-demand service such as Kindle Direct Publishing or IngramSpark. After finishing the manuscript, the author—either themself or by hiring professionals—completes tasks including editing, interior formatting, and cover design. The author is also responsible for all marketing efforts.
Choosing the Best Type of Publication for You
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Wow. What a great article. It breaks down the pros and cons in a concise format that is easily understood. Thanks for sharing your keen insight Victoria.
Very insightful!
Thanks so much for the information. I sent in my dream poems and a sample of journal writings .
I have extensive journals since 1988 . I thought I would just send the box of them handwritten in but it doesn’t seem to work that way.
I’ve been using the phone to transcribe on Apple pages which will convert into a PDF.
Looking forward to the fruition of 32 years of writings being shared.
Yours,
Theresa
Hi, Theresa! Someone from our team will be contacting you soon. Looking forward to helping you reach that goal!
This post was truly worthwhile to read. I wanted to say thank you for the key points you have pointed out as they are enlightening.
I'm very glad to hear that! I hope all goes well with your publishing process.
Great to hear it was helpful. Best of luck with your publishing process!
I totally agree when you said that publishing is not an overnight process, since it takes a while and it has no way to rush it. I guess it would be best to have a publication management service to help you if you plan on releasing your work. They would have the experience and knowledge to actually get the right outcome and help you to stick to your budget and schedule as well.
It is a big undertaking, especially if you've never self-published before. That's one of the big reasons many of our clients choose to book all of their services with us—our Book Bosses handle all of the coordination and timing. Of course, it doesn't hurt that our team members are all great at what they do. 😁
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