Advice about Trade Publishers

SOME ADVICE ABOUT TRADE PUBLISHERS

Write a solid book proposal

Most large publishers only want to see proposals from agents

If you find a publisher (often a smaller one) who is willing to look at a proposal:

- send for a catalog, and make sure your book fits their line

- borrow a couple of their books from the library and read them to see

- if your book is similar in style

- if your book is approximately the same length

- if the book looks professional and has been carefully edited

- go to the publishers' website, print out their guidelines, and follow them exactly

- read "How to Write a Book Proposal" by Michael Larson

- check the following sites, which contain helpful information:

www.manuscriptediting.com/proposals.htm
www.shepardagency.com/writing_proposals.html
(please note that I do not endorse this agency, but their site contains useful advice)

- proofread your proposal carefully, because just one instance of poor spelling

or grammar will kill your chances before the editor finishes reading

Publishers expect you to promote your book.

Saying you're "available for interviews" isn't sufficient. You need to:

- provide a media list for your local area

- provide contacts with groups you belong to

- provide a list of local bookstores

Tell your publisher's marketing department:

- your ideas for marketing the book

- who you think is the primary target audience

- other groups who might be interested

- groups you belong to or might be able to speak to

Publishers love authors who travel regularly (whether for business or pleasure)

as well as those who present seminars on the subject of the book

or are at ease speaking to groups of all sizes

READ CONTRACTS CAREFULLY

Take special note of:

- any exclusions

- any reversionary interest

- a termination clause

- the accounting provision

If you don't understand what these terms mean, you need to consult a lawyer before you sign!

VALUABLE CONTRACT INFORMATION from Canadian lawyer and writer Tim Perrin:
Contracts Checklist; An Offer You Can Refuse (S.M.A.R.T. Contracts)

Sample contracts: