How to Effectively Send a Book to a Publisher: A Complete Guide

Introduction
Understanding the Publishing Industry
Preparing Your Manuscript
Researching Publishers
Writing a Query Letter
Submitting Your Manuscript
Following Up
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Case Studies
Expert Insights
FAQs

Introduction

Embarking on the journey to publish your book can be both exhilarating and daunting. Understanding how to send your book to a publisher is crucial in this process. This detailed guide will provide you with insights, tips, and a clear pathway to increase your chances of getting your manuscript noticed by publishers. Whether you are a first-time author or a seasoned writer, the steps outlined in this article will help you navigate the publishing landscape effectively.

Understanding the Publishing Industry

The publishing industry is vast and diverse, consisting of traditional publishers, independent publishers, and self-publishing platforms. Recognizing the type of publisher you want to approach can significantly impact your submission strategy.

Types of Publishers

Traditional Publishers: Large companies that handle everything from editing to marketing.
Independent Publishers: Smaller presses that may focus on niche markets.
Self-Publishing Platforms: Services that allow authors to publish independently.

Each type of publisher has its submission guidelines and expectations, making it essential to do your homework before sending your work.

Preparing Your Manuscript

Before you send your book to a publisher, ensure your manuscript is polished and ready. Here’s how to prepare:

Editing and Proofreading

Engage in thorough self-editing and consider hiring a professional editor. A well-edited manuscript demonstrates professionalism and care for your work.

Formatting Your Manuscript

Follow standard formatting guidelines: double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, with 1-inch margins. This helps ensure that your manuscript is easy to read.

Researching Publishers

Not all publishers are the right fit for your work. Research is critical. Consider the following steps:

Identify Your Genre

Understand the genre of your book and look for publishers specializing in that niche.

Review Submission Guidelines

Each publisher will have specific guidelines. Pay attention to details like manuscript length, preferred genres, and submission formats.

Check Publisher Reputation

Use resources like Publishers Weekly and QueryTracker to verify the credibility of publishers.

Writing a Query Letter

A query letter is your first impression on an agent or publisher. Here’s how to craft an effective one:

Components of a Query Letter

Salutation: Address the agent or editor by name.
Hook: Start with a compelling hook that summarizes your book.
Synopsis: Provide a brief overview of your book’s plot, characters, and themes.
Author Bio: Share relevant information about yourself and your writing background.
Closing: Thank them for their time and express your enthusiasm.

Example Query Letter

Dear [Agent/Editor Name],

I am seeking representation for my [genre] novel, [Title], complete at [word count]. 

[Hook: A captivating one-sentence description of your book.]

[Synopsis: A brief summary of the plot, main characters, and themes.]

[Author Bio: A few sentences about yourself, including any relevant publications or writing credentials.]

Thank you for considering my work. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Submitting Your Manuscript

Once your manuscript is prepared and your query letter is polished, it’s time to submit!

Submission Methods

Email: Follow the publisher’s guidelines for email submissions.
Online Portals: Some publishers use submission platforms; familiarize yourself with these.
Postal Mail: If required, print your manuscript and send it according to their guidelines.

What to Include in Your Submission

Along with your manuscript and query letter, include any additional materials requested, such as a synopsis or marketing plan.

Following Up

Understanding when and how to follow up is critical:

Timing Your Follow-Up

Most publishers provide a timeframe for responses. Wait at least 4-6 weeks before following up politely.

How to Follow Up

Subject: Follow-Up on Submission of [Title]

Dear [Agent/Editor Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my submission of [Title] sent on [date]. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Thank you!

Best,
[Your Name]

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Not following submission guidelines.
Sending to multiple publishers simultaneously (unless allowed).
Neglecting to proofread your submission materials.
Ignoring the importance of a personalized query letter.

Case Studies

Here we showcase two authors who successfully submitted their manuscripts:

Case Study 1: Jane Doe

Jane submitted her fantasy novel to 10 publishers and received 3 offers within 6 months. Her personalized query letters and thorough research led to her success.

Case Study 2: John Smith

John’s experience with self-publishing helped him refine his manuscript before approaching traditional publishers. His persistence paid off when his book was picked by a small press.

Expert Insights

We spoke with literary agent Sarah Johnson, who shared key advice:

“Authors should never underestimate the power of a well-crafted query letter. It’s your first chance to make an impression.”

FAQs

What is the best time to send my manuscript? There’s no specific best time, but avoiding holiday seasons can improve response times.
Should I send my entire manuscript? Most publishers prefer a query letter first, followed by the manuscript upon request.
How long will it take to hear back? Response times can vary, typically ranging from 4 weeks to 6 months.
Can I submit to multiple publishers? Only if their guidelines allow it; otherwise, it’s considered unprofessional.
What if I get rejected? Rejection is common; consider feedback, revise, and submit to another publisher.
Do I need an agent to publish? An agent is not necessary but can help navigate the publishing process.
Are there fees to submit my manuscript? Reputable publishers do not charge fees for submissions.
What if I self-publish? Self-publishing allows for more control but requires you to handle all aspects of the publishing process.
Is it necessary to have a platform? A platform can help, but it’s not always essential for new authors.
How should I handle feedback from publishers? Take feedback constructively and be willing to revise your work.