Book submissions are the formal process by which authors send their manuscripts or book proposals to literary agents and publishing houses. This step is the bridge between completing a creative work and seeing it available to the public. Understanding the nuances of this process is essential for any writer looking to secure a traditional publishing contract.
While the digital age has introduced new ways to share stories, the traditional publishing route remains highly structured. To succeed, authors must provide specific documents, follow strict formatting rules, and conduct thorough research. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of how to navigate book submissions effectively.
The Role of Literary Agents in Submissions
In the modern publishing industry, most large publishing houses do not accept unsolicited manuscripts directly from authors. Instead, they rely on literary agents to act as gatekeepers. An agent’s job is to find high-quality work, help the author refine it, and then pitch it to editors at publishing houses.
Because of this, your first goal in the submission process is often to find an agent rather than a publisher. Small presses and some niche academic publishers may still accept direct submissions, but for wide commercial distribution, securing an agent is a standard requirement. Agents work on commission, meaning they only get paid when they sell your book to a publisher.
Preparing Your Submission Package
A submission package is a collection of documents that introduces you and your work to an agent or editor. Each agency has its own specific requirements, but most will ask for some combination of the following three items.
1. The Query Letter
The query letter is a one-page pitch that serves as your first impression. It should be professional, concise, and focused on why your book is marketable. A standard query letter includes a brief hook to grab attention, a short summary of the plot or main argument, and a brief author biography.
2. The Synopsis
A synopsis is a summary of your entire book, usually ranging from one to three pages. Unlike a blurb on the back of a book, a synopsis must reveal the entire plot, including the ending. It demonstrates to the agent that your story has a logical structure and a satisfying conclusion.
3. Sample Chapters
Most agents will ask for the first ten pages, the first chapter, or the first three chapters of your manuscript. It is vital that these pages are your most polished work. Ensure the story starts in a compelling place and that the writing is free of grammatical errors.
Formatting Your Manuscript for Submission
Professionalism is key when submitting your work. Even if your writing is excellent, poor formatting can lead to immediate rejection. Most industry professionals expect a standard manuscript format, which generally includes the following rules:
- Font: Use 12-point Times New Roman.
- Spacing: Double-space the entire text.
- Margins: Maintain one-inch margins on all sides.
- Alignment: Use left-aligned text (do not justify the right margin).
- Indentation: Indent the first line of every paragraph by 0.5 inches, but do not add extra space between paragraphs.
- Page Numbers: Include page numbers and your last name in the header of every page.
Always check the specific submission guidelines of the person you are contacting. Some agents prefer PDF files, while others require Microsoft Word documents.
Researching Agents and Publishers
Sending your manuscript to the wrong person is a common mistake that wastes time for everyone involved. You must ensure that the agent or publisher you are contacting actually represents the genre you have written. For example, a thriller agent will not be interested in a children’s picture book.
There are several reliable resources for finding the right targets for your submission:
- QueryTracker: An online database that allows you to search for agents and track your submission status.
- Poets & Writers: A well-established resource for literary agents and small presses.
- Manuscript Wish List (MSWL): A site where agents post specific themes or genres they are currently looking for.
- Book Acknowledgments: Look at the acknowledgment pages of books similar to yours to see which agents represented those authors.
The Step-by-Step Submission Process
Once your manuscript is finished and your materials are prepared, you can begin the actual submission process. Following an orderly approach will help you stay organized and professional.
- Finalize Your Manuscript: Never submit a first draft. Ensure your book has been edited and proofread multiple times.
- Create a Shortlist: Identify 20 to 30 agents who represent your genre.
- Read Individual Guidelines: Visit each agent’s website to read their specific submission instructions.
- Personalize Your Query: Mention why you are reaching out to that specific agent. This shows you have done your research.
- Send in Batches: Many authors send queries in batches of 5 to 10. This allows you to see if your query letter is working or if it needs to be adjusted based on the initial feedback.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a spreadsheet of who you contacted, when you sent the email, and what their response was.
Non-Fiction vs. Fiction Submissions
It is important to note that the submission process for non-fiction is different from fiction. If you are writing a novel (fiction), the book must be completely finished before you submit it. Agents want to know that you can successfully execute the entire story.
For non-fiction, books are often sold based on a book proposal. A proposal is a detailed document that explains why the book is needed, who the audience is, and why you are the right person to write it. It usually includes a table of contents and one or two sample chapters. In non-fiction, you can often secure a contract before the entire book is written.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding simple errors can significantly increase your chances of getting a positive response. Be mindful of these common pitfalls:
- Mass Emailing: Never CC multiple agents on the same email. Each submission should be sent individually.
- Ignoring Guidelines: If an agent asks for a five-page sample and you send fifty, they may discard your submission without reading it.
- Querying Too Early: Do not submit your work until it is as perfect as you can make it. You usually only get one chance with each agent.
- Aggressive Follow-ups: Publishing moves slowly. Wait at least six to eight weeks before sending a polite follow-up email if you haven’t heard back.
Managing Rejection and Moving Forward
Rejection is a standard part of the book submission process. Even the most famous authors faced dozens of rejections before finding success. A rejection does not necessarily mean your work is bad; it often means the agent’s current list is full or the book isn’t the right fit for their personal taste.
If you receive feedback, consider it carefully and decide if it warrants a revision. If you receive a “form rejection,” simply move on to the next agent on your list. Persistence is often the most important trait for a writer seeking publication.
Submitting a book requires patience and a thick skin, but by following the established industry standards, you give your work the best possible chance of being noticed by the right person. For more guidance on the writing process, explore our articles on manuscript editing and self-publishing options.