Author, Andrew, Davidson, makes good

I thought you might like to hear this story about Andrew Davidson. It surely gives everyone encouragement. After all, it might just be you or me next!

TORONTO – Author Andrew Davidson grew up in a small Manitoba town. As a teenager, Davidson began honing his writing style - which set him on a path that has culminated in his first novel. It is a story that has made the man from Canada the prize of the international publishing world.

And what a prize!

His first novel, ‘The Gargoyle’, was chosen by Doubleday U.S. for a massive $1.25-million advance and he signed separate deals with Random House Canada and the U.K.'s Canongate Books, as well as its Australian subsidiary. The privileges to the book have been sold in 20 countries.

Davidson admits that the payout does make him feel “good.”

Good? I'd feel bloody marvellous. Most first time authors get zilch until their book starts selling.

• Next post http://ajbarnett-story.blogspot.com/2008/08/publisher-novel-nothing.html

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Is there a publisher who will look at my novel for nothing?

• Anthony, is there somewhere I can have a publisher look at my novel for nothing?
  I've had good things said about it, and friends are saying I should get it published, but I don't know how to do it, or where to go. I don't want to spend too much money for someone to turn round and reject it.

Well Eileen, it's good that people are saying nice things. It's a great boost to your ego.

First off, don't ever think about paying to have your book published. The idea is that a publisher pushes money YOUR way, not the other way around. If anyone asks for money, it's a scam - run away. It should cost nothing

To ensure your work isn't tossed onto the slush-pile before it's been looked at, it must be presented in the most proficient way you can. Let the publisher understand they're dealing with a professional person and they're more likely to give you a chance. See my blog http://ajbarnett-story.blogspot.com/search/label/submission%20guidelines to get the standard way to present your manuscript. There's no certainty they'll look at it even then, but without, it will be tossed to one side.

You'll find a list of reputable publishers and agents in http://www.writersandartists.co.uk/ Just pick one to suit your genre. When you've selected an agent, or publisher (if you're sure they'll accept work without an agent), send a short, polite, letter of enquiry.

However, before you even THINK of sending the letter of inquiry, check your work again and again. Be certain you've tied all those loose ends, that your grammar is okay, and that you've polished your manuscript until it shines.

Then sit back and offer prayers.

• Next post http://ajbarnett-story.blogspot.com/2008/08/age-limit-publish-publishing.html

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To Write A Story - 20 Ways To Write A Story Better
20 Things You Should Know About How To Format A Book
Mastering Conflict In Your Story Characters