Archive for the ‘Publishing Biz’ Category

re: Hidden Hassles of Pen Names

posted 8/26/11

Dear Editor…

I write both adult novels and books for children. Should I use a different pen name for my adult fiction than I use for my children’s fiction? I’ve asked people this before and most just scratch their head and say, “Interesting that you can write for such a wide audience.” I know I am not the only one in this situation.

Sincerely,
Haley

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re: New Title for Revised MG?

posted 8/18/11

Dear Editor…

I’ve acquired the rights to one of my out-of-print MG novels and am going to release it as an e-book. I’ve revised the book to update and improve it and am developing a cover and getting the required new ISBN. Since the book is substantially different, should I give it a new title so it doesn’t get confused with the previous version? I like the old title, but don’t want it to limit possible sales if people think it’s the same book, even though there’s a new generation of readers out there who’ve likely never heard of the original.

Sincerely,
K.

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re: Which Comes First, the Agent or the Editor?

posted 7/22/11

Dear Editor…

I’ve always been focused on writing queries to agents. Recently, I’ve heard a number of authors say it’s far better to sell your ms to a publisher yourself and then get an agent. Other authors say almost all publishers no longer accept unsolicited manuscripts. Is it better to approach an agent or a publisher?

Best regards,
L.

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re: What Does It Take to Be an Editor?

posted 5/10/11

Dear Editor…

I’m interested in becoming an editor and I would like to know more about the job scope. What skills would I need and should I major in English at university?

Thanks,

Sarah

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re: Can Online Critiquing Hurt My Pub Chances?

posted 4/26/11

Dear Editor…

Will posting my pb manuscript on online discussion boards for peer critiques hurt my chances of publication?  I have commented on several on SCBWI’s discussion board, but always hesitate.  What are the pros and cons of this?

Sincerely,

Wendy

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re: Promote My Own Book? How???

posted 3/29/11

Dear Editor…

Ok. So, I’ve published my book. NOW, HOW TO PROMOTE IT???? The publisher has some publicity but not enough . . . they have a hundred books to promote. I’d like to help my book. So what can you suggest???

Thank you,

Mimi

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Newsflash: DearEditor.com Now on Facebook!

posted 3/24/11

Dear Readers…

DearEditor.com is steppin’ out. Read more…

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Guest Editor Jeff Hirsch re: Dare I Dream “Dystopia” in This Market?

posted 3/22/11

Dear Editor…

My current novel is post-apocalyptic, and I was going to market it as dystopian. One of my critiquers said it’s not depressing and dark enough to be dystopian. Is that a necessary criteria for this genre?

Sincerely,

Carol

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re: What’s a Poor Vampire Writer to Do?

posted 2/25/11

Dear Editor…

It’s no secret that editors and agents are sick of werewolves, ghosts, and especially vampires. So is there really any point in writing a vampire novel right now? Don’t agents and editors just roll their eyes when they see the words “Vampire” and “Young Adult Paranormal” in a query letter?

Sincerely,

Megan

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re: Dare I Write a YA Western?

posted 1/24/11

Dear Editor…

I’ve hashed out an idea for a young adult western, which I think could be refreshing amidst a swirl of vampires and zombies and fantasy novels. What is your opinion on the marketability of a western in today’s market? Is it a difficult placement and sell in 2011?

Sincerely,

Lorie

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