Getting your book into bookstores isn’t easy, but the steps are straightforward. In this guide, I’ll take you through the whole journey. We’ll start with finding a literary agent, then move on to negotiating advances. Then, we’ll cover how to work with editors and proofreaders—and ultimately, how to get your book into readers’ hands. Success in publishing is like mastering a game at avalon78.com. You must know the rules, play smart, and keep pushing forward. Let’s dive into the behind-the-scenes world of publishing and what it takes to get your book on the shelves.
How to Get Your Book Published Traditionally
Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps ahead—feel free to skip to any section you need.
1. Start by perfecting your manuscript or proposal—it should be as polished as possible.
2. Query literary agents.
3. Your agent pitches to publishers.
4. Sign a book deal.
5. Start editing and pre-publication businesses.
6. Start signing your book in bookstores!
No drama—just the fundamental steps you need without the noise.
Perfect Your Manuscript or Proposal Before You Pitch
What do I mean by finish? Finishing doesn’t mean typing “The End.” It means revising until your book is the strongest version it can be. You’re not ready if you believe agents will spot your talent and fix your manuscript. If you think it needs work, it’s time to improve it yourself. (More on this in step two.)
FICTION
A common question is whether you can land an agent or publisher with a proposal—if only it were that simple! You must finish your manuscript first unless you’re already an established author.
NON-FICTION
You won’t complete the entire nonfiction book. For nonfiction, you’ll create a proposal and send that to agents instead of a whole book.
- An overview
- Author biography/platform
- Comparative titles
- Target audience
- Marketing and publicity plan
- Chapter outline
- Sample chapters
Query Literary Agents
Having a literary agent is almost always essential to land a traditional publishing deal. This helps with bookstore placement and getting honest reviews.
Some publishers, like Harlequin or small university presses, accept unagented work. But having an agent is helpful. Agents have connections with the right editors and can help you land a stronger offer.
HOW TO QUERY AGENTS
- Figure out where your book belongs in the market—genre, category, and audience.
- Look for agents who specialize in the kind of book you’re writing. Refine your list of target agents.
- Write personalized query letters.
- Send your queries in batches to see what’s working before you review each agent.
If they’re interested after reading your full manuscript, they’ll give you a call. You’ll chat about what caught their attention and how they envision marketing the book. Finally, you’ll cover the revisions they expect.
At this stage, your goal isn’t to pitch the book—it’s to see if you and the agent are on the same wavelength. Do you trust them? Do your goals for the book match? Can you work well together?
If their changes would make your book something you don’t love or support, it’s likely not the right fit. I disagree with revisions you’re not comfortable with.
Your Book’s Out There—Now What?
When your agent is on board, they will submit your book to chosen editors at publishing houses. They will focus on those they know and trust. An intense match between your book and the editor increases your chances of getting a deal.
Publishers come in all sizes—from giant corporations to small independent presses. The “Big 5” includes Penguin Random House, Hachette, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, and Macmillan. There are smaller presses like Algonquin and university publishers.
Editors at these imprints decide which books to publish. They shape the story. They manage proofing, cover design, and marketing. They also make sure your book gets into stores.
Sign the Book Deal
When an editor decides they want your book (exciting!), they’ll reach out to your agent with an offer.
If a publisher is interested, your agent will walk you through their proposed deal. This includes money, release date, and other details. You’ll usually talk to the editor to go over revision ideas. Then your agent will accept, negotiate, or turn it down based on what’s best for you.
Publishing contract details
THE CONTRACT
Once you accept, give your agent the go-ahead to move forward. They will negotiate your contract. They might secure more money or control for you. They can also keep foreign or film rights or adjust other terms in the contract.
THE ADVANCE
An advance is the money a publisher pays you upfront in exchange for the rights to publish your book.
It can be a few thousand dollars or even six figures or more.
ROYALTIES
Royalties and earning out. You earn royalties from each book sold but won’t receive them until your book has earned back your advance. For example, if your advance is $20,000, you won’t see royalty payments until sales generate that royalty. You don’t need to wait for the publisher to make back their production or marketing expenses—your advance is yours regardless.
Start Signing Books!
Now is the time to promote your book. You can do this through interviews, blog features, podcasts, radio shows, or TV appearances. Your publicist may help you get more opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Traditionally, getting published takes time, patience, and hard work. Although this may seem harsh, you can do it by following the steps. Stay focused, keep writing, and trust the process; your book deserves to be read.