 Which publisher? The best place to find a publisher is in the Writers and Artists Yearbook which is available at your local library, this is an invaluable source of reference and provides additional information for each publisher such as the subject matter they publish. i.e. don't send a novel to a publisher who only publishes poems! Make a shortlist and contact them. What do I need to send? The precise details will be on your submittal form. Sometimes this is the whole manuscript, sometimes just the first three chapters, together with a covering letter giving information about yourself and your experience as a writer and a synopsis of the novel. What format does it need to be in? The general rule is double line spacing, 12 pitch text and make sure you use page numbers and put your name and the title on each page. How do I send it? Unless the publishers states specifically how they want it, generally it is loose-leaf within a folder. Make sure the title, your name and the page numbers are on each page in case it gets dropped or separated. Don't forget to send a Stamped Address Envelope for its return. What postage to I use? Recorded delivery or registered mail, any service which will confirm or guarantee that it gets there. How long till I hear anything? The waiting period could be as much as two months although can vary depending if they're busy. How do I know if they have it? Some publishers will acknowledge receipt with a card, others won't let you know at all. Just hang in there.
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