If you are new to the world of publishing, we know the process can be difficult to navigate. In this post, we’ll guide you through the traditional route and break down the steps you can take towards publishing your book.

Is it Hard to Get a Book Published?

Statistically, the odds of successfully publishing a book are about 1-2%. In other words, publishers typically only accept one or two manuscripts per every hundred they receive. Although this may seem like a daunting number, keep in mind that not all books are created equal. In fact, manuscripts can be rejected due to a variety of reasons like illiteracy, derivativeness, unoriginality, and familiar themes. Even when they are original and well-written, manuscripts are rejected simply because they are unsuited to the particular taste of a publisher. However, when a manuscript has the right qualities and is sent to the right publisher, the chances of being published are significantly increased.

 

Do You Have to Pay to Get Your Book Published?

Legitimate book publishers never require payment from their authors. However, other routes to publication require money from the writer. For example, if an author decides to self-publish their book, it will typically cost them between $2,000-$4,000. This cost includes editing, cover design, formatting, and marketing services for the book.

 

How to Get a Publisher to Publish Your Book

When completing your book, there are a few steps you can (and should) take before submitting it to a publisher.

  1. Identify your book’s target audience. In the publishing industry, there are some book genres that hold more appeal and have more reliable audiences than others. As an author, it is important to research genre trends and determine the type of books people are buying. This will give you a good idea of the books publishers are seeking and how your own book fits into that space. You can write a great book in any genre.
  2. Edit and proofread. Since you may have only one chance with a publisher, make sure they see the best work you have to offer. This means going through your manuscript multiple times, catching potential errors, and making any necessary edits. It is also helpful to find a writing critique group or mentor who can offer some constructive feedback.
  3. Research potential agents. While it is possible for your book to be published without an agent, having one will greatly increase your odds. Not only do agents have valuable connections at publishing companies, but they also know how to best pitch your book to acquiring editors. When beginning your search for an agent, make a list of candidates who represent books and authors within your particular genre. Although it might be tempting to settle on the first one available, it is important to choose one that is right for you and your manuscript.
  4. Land an agent. Once you find a potential agent, you’ll want to send a query letter, a synopsis, and a couple of sample chapters to pitch yourself and your book. If the agent is intrigued, they will request a copy of your full manuscript.
  5. Find a publisher. When you land an agent, they will work with you to further develop your manuscript. Once you are both satisfied with the manuscript, your agent will present your book to publishers and negotiate the best possible deal.

We know the process of writing and getting published can be a difficult task. However, we hope this guide has provided some useful information to help you navigate through it. With the right manuscript and the right publisher, you’ll have books on the shelves in no time!

 

Looking to submit your manuscript? Cogito Publications publishes books of literary fiction & creative non-fiction by new and established authors.

We accept manuscripts in Word or Page format (.doc .docx. .pages). Upload your manuscript to us today!