4 Tips for Selecting your First Publisher
If
a debut author has found an agent, the book is written, and it is ready to be
sent to editors, the real fun begins. If an agent generates interest in your
book, deciding which publisher to work with will have a long-term impact on
your writing career. Therefore, it is indispensable to look for the right book publishers. Here are some ideas to consider if you find yourself in
this enviable situation.
- Contracts are a form of agreement. Read the contract thoroughly. If necessary, have the contract reviewed by an attorney, particularly if you have any questions. Examine royalties, developments (if any), prices, and rights carefully. What ownership rights do you have to your work? What are the publisher's rights? How many books do you buy for yourself and for review purposes? Can you get a discount as an author if you need more? How often do you receive royalties?
- Formatting is an essential part of the process. What format must your work be submitted in? Is it possible for you to double-check for errors before the final publication? What if your circumstances have changed? What's the best way to send in cover art, author images, and other details?
- POD stands for "Portable Object Unit." Is print-on-demand service available? Electronic books are awesome, but getting a printed alternative is also advantageous. Even if you're just thinking about ebooks right now, see if POD is a choice.
- Editing: Are the books edited or
proofread before being published, or are they printed "as is"?
Is there an extra charge for editing or proofreading? Who are the editors
if editing services are provided? What kind of history do they have? To
get a sense of the consistency of the editing, read some books by other
writers published by the publisher.
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