If you've developed a book idea, or if you've written a publishing proposal, you need to know how to sell a book idea to a publishing house, particularly if you're not planning on working with an agent. You can sell your book without an agent, but you will be competing with other writers and authors who have an agent.
Steps
Step 1. Visit your local bookstore or library and look for books like "Literary Marketplace"
This book should be in the reference section of the library, where you can sit at a table and note the publishing houses.
In your notes, write the full names and addresses of the publishers and publishing houses. Make sure you write everything correctly
Step 2. Start by finding information about publishers and the categories they specialize in
When doing your research, be sure to highlight the publishers who specialize in the genre of the book you have in mind. A mystery book publisher will not accept submitting or submitting a science fiction book or young adult fantasy novel.
- Talk to the bookseller in your country. He will be able to give you some good advice on which publishing houses you should consider when preparing to submit your idea for a book.
- Grab a pen and paper and go to the bookshop in your city. Do some targeted research, taking into consideration only the category your book will fall into. You should note the major publishing houses.
- Search the book for a sequence of numbers - this will tell you how many reprints of the book - the more reprints, the more successful the book. The sequence can be found on the copyright page; write down these books on the notepad.
- Visit the library. Talk to the librarian in charge and ask him or her for advice and write down the answer.
Step 3. Look for publisher sites and publisher names to get your book idea to the right person
Step 4. Write a short, detailed, and straight to point publication proposal
This is a sales pitch of your idea and you want to give it the best possible chance.
- Write a one-page cover letter.
- Write an introduction to your book idea that is no longer than two pages. Include the topic of the book, what differentiates it from other books, what sector of the market the book is intended for, and what your plan is to effectively reach this sector.
- Also enter an index. If necessary, make notes as well.
- Also add a passage from your book. Ideally, the first three chapters.
- Attach a page with your personal information and write why you are the best writer for this book.
- Enter marketing information. This means you need to write about how you can market and sell your book, how it can be marketed, and where it can be sold the most. Also include ideas on how your book might be advertised.
Advice
If you enter into such a deal, you should receive a non-refundable advance - which will be taken into account when you receive your first fees
Warnings
- Don't use a font that is too convoluted and difficult to read.
- Do not pack your publication proposal in packing polystyrene.
- Don't use colored or scented paper for your proposal.
- In your proposal, don't write "All my friends think it's a great idea for a book."
