Getting a book published.

Wreakin_Havok · 3rd December 2005, 1:45pm

Has anyone ever tried to get anything published before? I have some ideas for a book and was wondering how you go about getting something published.

Write to publishers with your idea? Is that pretty much it?

Anyone with any help or experience would be appreciated.

Thanks.

mysterio · 3rd December 2005, 1:47pm

I think you actually have to write the book first?

Wreakin_Havok · 3rd December 2005, 1:51pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by mysterio

I think you actually have to write the book first?

Aye, well it's not an actual novel or anything. What I'm wanting to do could probably be put together fairly easily.

Best thing to do knock something together and then send it round publishers?

Christie. · 3rd December 2005, 1:52pm

apparently, you should use a particular size of font. i can't remember exactly (might be 12) but google it and other stuff.

**Ghostsuit** · 3rd December 2005, 2:11pm

If it's a book you write the book then send the first three chapters I think.

Wreakin_Havok · 3rd December 2005, 2:14pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ghostsuit

If it's a book you write the book then send the first three chapters I think.

It's not an actual novel style book but I guess I'll put something together and send it out when I have. I'v not looked yet but I assume finding addresses for publishers will be easy, either in books or on the web.

Rowsbette · 3rd December 2005, 2:41pm

I misguidedly sent off the beginnings of a novel to many publishers when I was ten, the nice ones who replied said that very few manuscripts get accepted straight off the bat. Most also recommended getting an agent who could approach publishers for you.

As to how to go about getting an agent, I've no clue.

Pink punk · 3rd December 2005, 8:32pm

I think the general idea is get an agent, yes. Also, you would be most likely to send in a sample chapter and a synopsis. University creative writing departments seem to be a useful place to find contacts and get advice, if you are a student, why not pop by or ask someone to?

Ness · 3rd December 2005, 8:35pm

you send 10000 words into several publishers, if they like it, theyll commission the book.

thats one way to get it done, and it comes recommended by David Gemmell :P

3rd December 2005, 8:37pm

Have a look in books along the same genre you are looking to be published in - agents details, publishers details and all that kind of information tend to be in there, and can give you a starting point for contacts.

Ness · 3rd December 2005, 8:44pm

aye very valid point, well done Vonster. my example was for fantasy heroic fiction.

Wreakin_Havok · 4th December 2005, 1:31pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Niobe

Have a look in books along the same genre you are looking to be published in - agents details, publishers details and all that kind of information tend to be in there, and can give you a starting point for contacts.

Aye, since it's not an actual book book I will have a look at the kinda thing I'm planning to do and see what publisers may be interested in it.

Cheers chaps.

**djtoast** · 4th December 2005, 2:06pm

Perhaps be a little canny if possible if it's an idea that they might pinch, eg if you've noticed that there aren't any books about Man U football team, and think that if there was one it might sell well, don't be surprised if you get lots of "no thanks" replies, and suddenly lots of books on that topic appear...

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