You spend hours pouring your heart into every line and paragraph.

The visions and story you created within your mind are finally there, on the page in front of you.

Now what?

You can reach your dream audience several ways. A blog, website, or even social media are all fun paths to take. But there’s one avenue that nearly every writer dreams of – a published book.

Whether it’s a memoir, poetry collection, novel, or nonfiction book that’s ready to be witnessed, it’s natural (and so very brave) to want to share your work with the world. Getting published is viewed as a huge dream. But we’re here to tell you it is absolutely a possible one! 

With this guide, you’ll be able to break down how to find and secure the right publisher for your work. No, the wonderful world of publishing isn’t always a simple one. But it may not be as mysterious as we’re often led to believe.

So, take a peek at the steps we’ve listed out for you and go for it! Remember, your work is a part of your heart and it deserves to be seen, cherished, and loved. If you wrote it, someone out there needs it! Believe in your creations and trust that they will always make their way to those who need them most.

1. Find the Perfect Ending

Let’s be real. Finishing the project can sometimes be the hardest part. But the truth of the matter is, you began the work, and you know exactly how to finish it. Trusting yourself becomes vital to your success as you inch towards allowing your work to be seen. How do we begin to do that? 

Lean into your writing process. Keep simple goals and a regular writing practice to build that self-trust.

• Trust the creative process
• Keep simple goals
• Protect your creative time
• Maintain your regular writing practice
  

Consistency and discipline are powerful forms of self-love. Keeping these promises to create and finish your projects reminds you that you are safe to trust!

2. Do Your Research

Publishing becomes simpler when you know your audience. Check and check again that your book is in the correct genre. What was intended to be a romantic comedy could have ended up a bit more dramatic. That’s okay! But take time to consider your ideal readers so you can be sure the right audience is aligning with your work.

Ask yourself:

• What popular books are similar to mine?
  
• How old is my ideal reader?
• What are their interests and favorite books?
• Which tropes, if any, are present in my work?
• What sets my story apart from others?
  

After answering these questions yourself, turn to friends or family. To get a better idea of how your work is viewed, ask them to read it and answer these questions. Make it easier for publishers to envision your success by knowing your market and showing you are business savvy.

3. Gather the Materials

Novels & Memoirs:

Send in a complete manuscript for review, adhering to the publisher’s instructions.

Nonfiction:

This format calls for a book proposal. Much like a business proposal, the idea is to sell the idea of your book. Include why your book is needed, your ability to write it, a market analysis, and anything the publisher lists.

Poetry Collection:

Poetry also requires a strong manuscript. But this one, read the publisher’s guidelines and pay special attention to formatting tips.

4. Write Your Query Letter

Consider your query letter the gateway to putting your book on the publisher’s desk. Similar to a cover letter, a query letter gives the reader a chance to get to know you, your audience, your work, and your writing ability. Follow the instructions given while remaining clear, authentic, and concise.

Include:

• A brief, engaging book summary
  
• Genre and word count
  
• A 1-2 sentence author bio
  
• A kind closing line with contact information
  

5. How to Find the Right Literary Agent or Publisher

Although you may feel inclined to send these to every literary agent or publisher possible, save yourself time by doing your homework! Begin researching publishers and agents thoroughly so you can discover people who may appreciate and understand you and the work you do. 

Be sure to consider:

• Submission guidelines
  
• Preferred genres
  
• Recent publications
  
• Open submission windows
  

Targeted submissions give you a better shot at meeting with the person who is meant to further your work! You have to feel seen and heard by your presentation. Wait for the right fit! It’s out there.

7. How to Submit Your Manuscript With Confidence

You’ve made your edits.

Your work has a beautiful ending.

You know the publishing house or agency you’d like your strong, incredible work to call “home”.

Materials have been gathered and checked…and checked again.

Breathe.

Hit send!

Remember all of the promises you kept to yourself along the way. Your hard work and dedication to your artistry won’t go unnoticed. Nothing is more terrifying than baring your heart and soul for the world to see. And yet, you’re about to do it. Give yourself the grace you’d give your closest friend. Be gentle with yourself and find a way to celebrate this step!

Track your submissions and send dates. Always remember responses take time. When you’re ready, return to writing to remind yourself why you began in the first place.

8. How to Handle Feedback and Revision Requests From Agents

Take feedback as a sign of genuine interest. Busy publishers and agents wouldn’t have taken the time to reply and consider adjustments if they didn’t see a path forward for your work. Most books require rounds of edits and revisions. The creative partnership you’ve entered is a tricky one. Stand behind choices you believe in while remaining open to change. 

Feedback is an opportunity for growth, not rejection.

9. Moments to Celebrate Along the Way

1. Every single one. But we’ll include this list so no moment passes you by.
2. Finished chapters.
3. Closed story arcs.
4. Revisions.
5. Rough title selection.
6. Compiling your manuscript and submission materials.
7. Finding publishers and agents that feel aligned with you.
8. Sending your submissions.
9. Having the courage to share your work with the world and commit to it!

This journey requires tenacity. None of this is to be taken lightly. Choosing to be seen authentically is the key to a fulfilling life. Throughout this process, you’ve decided you are worth being seen. You deserve the joy that comes along with this expansion. Allow this process to sink into your bones as it changes your way of being.