Traditional publishing, sometimes called a "book deal," is when a publishing house agrees to publish and distribute your manuscript. This is usually done after the query letter and finding the agent who has set up the deal. Think of this as winning the lottery without the million dollars. The publishing house will take care of promotion, cover art, and final editing (and even some other editing) to meet their criteria for the book. They then usually own the rights to your book.

Independent publishing can mean two things: one is an independent publisher, and the other is self-publishing. An independent publisher might handle aspects, including printing and distribution, however, the author is usually still responsible for editing, development, and design. Depending on the contract, the publisher may own some rights, and the author may own some rights.

Self-publishing used to be a dirty word, but it has come a long way. This is precisely what it sounds like; the author is responsible for all parts and retains all their rights. However, be careful to read any contract carefully, as not all print on demand companies are the same.

Preparing Your Manuscript

It all starts with a manuscript, right? Well, what's the difference between a manuscript and a draft? What a great question!

The difference between a draft and a manuscript is simple. The draft is the piece as it's written. A manuscript is when it has been formatted for submission or publication. Assuming you have gone through your drafts, beta readers, and editors, the next step is formatting it the way the publisher wants. There are some basics, so let's start there:

• One font style and size;
• Spacing consistant throughout;
• Chapters clearly marked;
• Title pages;
• No pictures or notes; and
• Clean and professional looking.

This list isn't exhaustive, and publishers/agents will have their own submission criteria. Be sure to follow their requirements, or you will be rejected without review.

Need help getting to this point? See our pamphlet on editing, or see Maeghan or A.K. about becoming a client.

So your query letter is ready. Time for an agent. How do you find one?

The place to start is online. The internet is a great resource. The Guide to Literary Agents, and Writer's Market are published annually, and available at most book and e-book retailers. A couple of good websites -

• The Manuscript Wish List
• Query Tracker
• Publisher's Weekly
• The Submission Grinder (for short pieces)

Once you find a couple agents you like, make sure they work with your genre. Look into them and see who and what they represent. What publishers have they had success making deals with? You want to make sure your book and you are a match. Think of it like internet dating. Vet them before you move forward.

Now you have a list and are ready? Great. Start with 5-10. Don't bulk query. You want to give plenty of time to get feedback, typically 6 weeks to 3 months. If you get the rejection, because you will get rejections, read what they said. Is it a form rejection? Or did they give specific feedback?

Why you get rejected can help. Did you follow their guidelines? That will get you rejected instantly. Did they like your book, but it's not for them? That's awesome. Sometimes they may steer you to another agent. Did your book just not match what they are looking for?

Last bit of advice, don't re-query instantly to the same agents. Make sure you really look at why you were rejected and work on fixing those problems before resubmitting.

When trying to sell your manuscript, you need to know your genre and what the hallmarks are for that genre. Writing a Cozy Mystery, ensure you're under 100,000 words and have no sex or foul language. Writing a Sci-fi? Are you sure it's Sci-fi and not Fantasy? Don't try to sell it to a house that doesn't publish Sci-fi.

Always look further into your agents and publishing houses. Are the other writers happy there? What are the sales? What are they willing to do for you? What are they demanding from you? Publishers are there to make money and aren't always on your side.

Your story isn't for everyone. Finding the perfect agent and publishing house may not happen. Be prepared. Don't become Scar and the hyenas. Keep trying, and consider self-publishing.