RESOURCES FOR WRITERS
Online Resources You can spend forever looking up information online about getting published. You will save yourself a lot of time looking at two web sites: Preditors and Editors and Writers Beware. These sites offers lot of good cautionary news to writers, with good links to sites on specific topics. Finally, you should be sure to go to Association of Author’s Representatives (AAR). The AAR will give you good information on what agents can do for you and a full listing of other reputable agents. As for basic writing skills, I would like to thank Miss Amelia from the Greater Salt Lake area who brought to my attention this wonderful online resource called The Resource Guide to Writing Basics to help writers of all ages and walks of life.
Recommended Books There are many books on the business of publishing, and getting published. When you go to the ubiquitous online bookseller and type the words “getting book published”, you will see what are most popular, and up to date. I have listed a few below that I recommend. You can find these titles where ever books are sold, or at your local library.
- GUIDES TO PREPARING SUBMISSIONS MATERIALS, FINDING AN AGENT and/or A PUBLISHER
- WRITER’S GUIDE TO BOOK EDITORS, PUBLISHERS AND LITERARY AGENTS by Jeff Herman. Extensive and up-to-date annotations make this a fine resource – and it’s reasonably priced.
- THE FAST TRACK COURSE ON HOW TO WRITE A NONFICTION BOOK PROPOSAL by Stephen Blake Mettee. This book is just want it says. There is solid information that will bring a writer up to speed on what to expect, structure of your proposal, agency agreements, and even some basics on book contracts. Highly recommended.
- THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GETTING YOUR BOOK PUBLISHED by Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry. Considered by insiders one of the better books on the subject.(as of 2015…getting a bit dated, but still worthwhile).
- HOW TO WRITE A BOOK PROPOSAL by Michael Larsen. Micheal is a respected agent. This book is like a lesson in getting your book published. Surprising current for a book published in 2011.
- And especially for academics…GETTING IT PUBLISHED: A Guide for Scholars and Anyone Else Serious about Serious Books by William Germano (as of 2015…getting a bit dated, but still worthwhile).
- WRITING SKILLS
- WRITING FOR STORY: Craft Secrets of Dramatic Nonfiction by Jon Franklin. If you want to write nonfiction narratives, this book is essential reading. Trust us; this is a book every nonfiction writer should read and reread.
- ELEMENTS OF EXPRESSION by Arthur Plotnik. This book will help any writer add snap, crackle and pop to the page.
- ON WRITING WELL: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser. If you haven’t read this book, you’ve missed one of the best books ever written on the subject.
- SPUNK & BITE: A Writer’s Guide to Punchier, More Engaging Language & Style by Arthur Plotnik. This edgy book encourages writers to put Strunk and White back on the shelf if they want to make their writing sparkle. Art practices what he preaches, making for a fun read.
- LEGAL STUFF
- THE COPYRIGHT PERMISSION AND LIBEL HANDBOOK by Lloyd Jassin et al. A modestly priced basic, plain-English introduction to issues such as fair use, permissions, etc.
- EVERY WRITER’S GUIDE TO COPYRIGHT AND PUBLISHING LAW by Ellen M. Kozak. A succinct guide with a slightly broader scope than Jassin.
- GETTING PERMISSION: How to License & Clear Copyrighted Materials Online & Off by Richard Stim. This Nolo Press book offers clear and excellent guidance not only about the legal basics when it comes to both text and illustration permissions but also on how to research permissions and negotiate the lowest fees. It includes a disk with forms and agreements. Well worth the investment.
- KIRSCH’S GUIDE TO THE BOOK CONTRACT: For Authors, Publishers, Editors, and Agents by Jonathan Kirsch. Too short to cover every issue, but worth owning.