Fiction Book Publishers Key Terms

Learn the language of fiction publishing

By Kathryn Keep

Like most industries, there are steps you must take in order to get your book published. What do you do if a publisher doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts? Should you consider small presses or only large publishers? How do you effectively query an agent or publisher? Is self-publishing a viable option for your work? Knowing the answers to these questions and understanding fiction book publishers key terms can help you choose the best market for your fiction.

Agent

A literary agent sells your work to a publisher. Avoid agents who charge up front fees as this leaves far less financial incentive for them to sell your book. When seeking an agent, look for up-to-date information. Many literary agencies have websites.
Try: Guide to Literary Agents is a blog devoted to current information from agents about finding the right agent.

Unsolicited manuscript

An unsolicited manuscript is any material sent to the agent or editor that he or she did not request. The vast majority of publishers and agents will not read unsolicited manuscripts, but most will accept a query letter.
Try: Rants and ramblings, written by a literary agent, explains some reasons why publishers and agents won't accept unsolicited manuscripts.

Query

A query is a one-page letter introducing your book. If interested, the agent or editor will ask for your manuscript. There are many dos and don'ts for writing a query letter.
Try: Nelson Literary Agency answers questions about and shares samples of actual cover letters. Nicholas Sparks shares a detailed sample query letter.

Self-publishing

Self-publishing was once considered a last resort, but when done with a clear plan and an eye for business it can be profitable.
Try: HowStuffWorks offers information about the self-publishing process, as well as practical insight from a successful self-published author.

Large publisher

These are the giants in the world of publishing. They tend to stick with mainstream books. Only agents are able to pitch a work to the largest publishers, so if you want to approach a major publisher, you must have an agent.
Try: AgentQuery offers information on the dozen or so large presses.

Small press

Many well known authors got their start with small presses, because this kind of publisher tends to be more willing to work with new authors. Small presses are often on the cutting edge of new trends. Most accept at least queries directly from authors.
Try: Check out The Modern World for its spotlight on small presses that are making significant contributions to the publishing world.