In the past couple weeks I’ve received questions from my subscribers about where and how to start to find a publisher for nonfiction.
The wonderful thing about nonfiction is that you can query publishers before you have your book completed. But aside from that, the process is the same as when you submit fiction.
Whether you are a nonfiction or fiction writer, keep reading. This post outlines 3 beginning steps to find a publisher.
#1 Start with the Right Tools
The Christian Writer’s Market Guide is published annually. As the title indicates, this book lists literary agents, book publishers, and periodicals that publish primarily Christian content. Details provided generally include web address, editor, contact info, and many other pertinent bits specific to the publisher or publication. What I especially like about this book are its topical listings for publishers and periodicals, and the extensive listing by state of Christian writers’ conferences and workshops.
Writer’s Market is published annually by Writer’s Digest Books. This book lists literary agents, book publishers, consumer magazines, trade journals, newspapers, playwriting, greeting cards, and contests and awards for the general market. It gives much of the same information as the book listed above. In addition, you’ll also find approximately 200 pages of advice written by publishing industry leaders.
Bonus Tip: Libraries often carry this book in their resource department.
The online version of the Writer’s Market book. This resources includes tools for tracking your submissions as well as writing advice. It is a paid monthly subscription.
Each of these tools has its unique benefits. Review what each has to offer and pick the best one or two for you. (Personally, I keep the books on my shelf.)
If you don’t have access to any of these resources, you can do online searches. You can also visit the library or a local book store and review the books on the shelves. Who is publishing books similar to yours and for your audience?
Finding publishers takes an investment in time, which is one of the main reasons many writers seek an agent. The agent does the shopping, allowing the writer to spend time writing the next book. But landing an agent can be as hard as landing a publisher.
Having an agent isn’t required, but you will find that some publishers accept submissions only via an agent.
#2 Analyze each publisher
Once you have chosen the best options for your idea, you need to analyze each one.
- Visit their website
- Review their catalog—have they already published one or more books about your topic? Do they publish books for your audience?
- Read through and follow their submission guidelines
#3 Craft a strong query letter
A query letter is equivalent to knocking on the door.
Here are 2 previous posts about how to write a strong query:
How is a Query Letter Like a Sledge Hammer?
The time you invest with these 3 steps will pay off. You may be sending out fewer queries, but you are targeting those queries to markets you know are already interested in your topic idea. It’s more likely they will actually open the door when you knock and review your book proposal.
Do you have a question?
Do you have a question about manuscript submission? Leave it in the comments below. If I can answer it in a comment, I will. If not, I’ll address it in an upcoming blog post or via Ask the Editor on Facebook live.
For more detail on how to find a publisher, subscribe today via the GET DOWNLOAD button in the side bar and get my free download 5 Steps Every Manuscript Submission Should Include.
Great post, Debra. Do you think we should buy a new Christian Writer’s Market Guide or Writer’s Market every year? Do they change enough?
No, I don’t think buying a new Market Guide each year is necessary. They don’t change that much from year to year.