Submitting to Publishers
By Mary Kole
Mary Kole is a former literary agent, freelance editor, writing teacher, author of Writing Irresistible Kidlit, and IP developer for major publishers, with over a decade in the publishing industry.
As a published author myself, I understand how daunting the process of submitting to publishers can be, whether you pitch a novel, memoir, or book proposal. With so many variables to consider, it’s easy for aspiring writers to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to start when it comes to submitting to publishers. In this article, I’ll share my knowledge and expertise, including tips on how to compose a submission package, what to expect from a literary agent, traditional publisher, or other gatekeeper, and a list of common mistakes writers make when submitting to publishers. So, whether you're a seasoned author looking to submit your next project, or a budding writer embarking on your first submission journey, this guide is for you!
Gearing Up for Submitting to Publishers
First things first, let’s talk about the components of a submission package, which is the industry term for the materials you will send to a literary agent or publishing house if you aspire to traditional publication. When submitting to publishers, you will typically want to send a query letter, a synopsis, and sample chapters of your manuscript for fiction and memoir, or a book proposal for a nonfiction book. If you’re writing a children’s book, you will generally include an entire picture book or some chapters from a chapter book, middle grade, or young adult novel. Your cover letter should be no more than one page and should be personalized to the agent or editor you’re submitting to (see more about query personalization here). It should include your contact information, a brief summary of your manuscript, and any writing credits or previous publications you have under your belt. Round it out with a brief author bio about yourself. Additionally, you should attach a synopsis of your complete manuscript. This should be no more than two pages and should include a brief overview of the narrative structure, the protagonist’s character development and objective, and the story climax and a satisfying resolution to the tale. Lastly, you’ll need to select a few sample chapters as a writing sample (between ten and fifty pages) to include as part of your submission. You should send the opening chapters, which will ideally showcase a relatable character, your writing style, and first pages that hook the reader.
Considerations of Submitting to Publishers
When it comes to submitting to publishers, you have a few options. You can either submit via email or a query form that some agents and acquiring editors use. Follow submission guidelines to the letter (agents and publishing houses will post these so that they can receive manuscripts in a format that makes sense for them). There are generally no attachments accepted unless you get a full request or revise and resubmit letter, in which case the gatekeeper will send instructions for following up. Your initial outreach will be copied and pasted when you’re submitting to publishers and agents, but be sure to have your files available as Word documents with proper manuscript formatting, meaning double-spaced text and in a 12-point font. If you are an author-illustrator, make sure to host your illustrations online and send a link to access them.
What to Expect When Submitting to Publishers
So, you’ve crafted a stellar submission package and sent it. Now what? Well, publishing houses are inundated with submissions, so it may take a while to hear back, if you hear back at all. Unfortunately, sometimes there will be no response to your lovingly crafted submission package. Be patient (patience is one of the less frequently discussed writing tools), and don’t follow up too soon. Note that some publishers may send a form rejection letter, while others may offer feedback on your manuscript if they’re interested in it. Writing rejection actually takes many forms. Additionally, publishers may also require exclusivity—meaning they’ll ask that you don’t submit your manuscript to other publishers at the same time. Though simultaneous submissions are very common in the publishing industry, you do owe it to submit exclusively if an agent or publisher has given you notes. Exclusivity periods vary from publisher to publisher, so be sure to carefully read any submission guidelines or email exchanges you get into.
Most of the Big Five publishers will not consider unagented submissions, meaning that you will need a representative before reaching out. Some small and medium publishing houses will allow writers without representation to reach out. Watch out for hybrid publishers or vanity presses, though. If they ask for money, rather than offering an advance with your book deal, you might not be entering into a traditional publishing contract.
Common Mistakes Writers Make
Now, let's move on to some common mistakes made when submitting to publishers. First and foremost, always follow submission guidelines! This may seem obvious, but many writers ignore guidelines and end up sabotaging their own chances of getting prime consideration. Guidelines may include specific formatting requirements, manuscript word count limits, genre expectations, and requested materials. Following guidelines shows editors that you’re willing to put in the effort to do things right. Another common mistake is submitting before your manuscript is ready. It’s tough to know when your book is done, and some writers argue that a project never is. But many writers submit too early, only to revise and want to resubmit. Be sure that you’ve polished your manuscript to the best of your ability before submitting to publishers, meaning that you should get writing feedback from a critique partner or even a paid editor first. Lastly, avoid giving up too soon. Rejection is a part of the publishing process, but it’s not the end of the road for your writing journey. Keep submitting, and keep improving your craft.
Do You Need a Literary Agent for Submitting to Publishers?
One question that often comes up when submitting to publishers is whether or not aspiring writers need a literary agent. While it is possible to submit without an agent, as mentioned above, there are pros and cons to both options. Having an agent can provide you with invaluable industry knowledge, career guidance, and connections, as well as negotiating power when it comes to contracts. However, finding the right agent can be difficult, and agents often take a percentage of your earnings. Sometimes, getting a literary agent can be tougher than soliciting a publishing offer, because the field of publishing gatekeepers is so competitive. If you decide to go the agent route, be sure to research and find one that specializes in your genre and target audience, and has a track record of successful deals.
Submitting to publishers can be a lengthy and nerve-wracking process, but following the guidelines I’ve outlined here can increase your chances of success. Remember to craft a compelling submission package, follow submission guidelines, and be patient through the process. And whether or not you choose to work with a literary agent, always remember to keep improving your writing. Best of luck!
Click here to purchase Writing Irresistible Kidlit, my book on fiction craft for MG and YA novels, out from Writer's Digest Books. This will show you my writing craft philosophy and give you lots of valuable advice, including tips for the novel revision process and self-editing. There are over 35 example novels cited and discussed throughout. It’s a valuable resource for any writer’s toolkit.
Click here to purchase Successful Query Letters, my book on query letters, including over forty examples with comprehensive notes on each one. There’s a ton of submission advice, best practices, and insider information in these pages, and you’ll really enjoy seeing what other writers are doing in the slush.