*smokes cig* Submitted for your Approval...

[wednes]

So...

I just sent out my query packet for a certain publishing house that a certain novel about a certain Hazel was written for. It's a simple story with some simple themes told in a way that I think (and my 3-5 regular readers may agree) is a clever and enjoyable read. Last time, I heard from these guys in just a few days, but they invited me to submit when I had something more "them." I presume this is not a reference to James Whitmore or giant ants!

I don't really understand why I'm not able to get published. I'm trying hard. My heart is in it. And everyone who reads my Sadie novel says things like "I couldn't put it down" or "man...the ending was so good." But publishing types see no such magic in my work. Is it because, like movie producers, they're just thinking of marketing strategies? Is it that my work is only "good" to people who don't read much and forgot books are awesome? Am I just being whiny and insipid? Anything is possible...

Anyway, I'm hoping for them to write back and ask to see the whole thing--since you only send out three chapters at this point. Even if they don't publish it, just having them want to read it would be better than not.

Have any of you had a submission sent back for changes? How does that work? Did you eventually get published? Do tell...

And now: leftover pasta. Mmmmm.

Comments

[wednes.livejournal.com]

I don't feel like beleiving that just yet. I mean, if passion, skill and perseverance mean nothing--then I'm just a big losery tool.

[roane.livejournal.com]

Don't believe it. If you haven't already, check out the archives on Teresa Nielsen Hayden's blog. She's a bigwig at Tor, and is pretty upfront about how the selection process there goes. Ditto arcaedia, who's an agent. TNH says that if you're not batshit crazy and are literate, you're already ahead of 90% of the submissions received. ;) Yes, there's an element of chance ("right story, right desk, right day"), but skill and passion and perseverance are all how you GET that chance.

Man, I am so impressed that you've gotten to novel submission stage. I can't seem to get past the first draft. Of course, if I actually WROTE now and then, it would probably help. :P

[wednes.livejournal.com]

Dude, I hope that's true. I really want to think that if I just keep at it that eventually the right person will see the value in my work. I honestly think my first novel would sell well.

Wait--did you say NOT batshit crazy?
Uh oh...

Thanks!