As you might imagine in my line of work as a publisher, editor and creativity coach, I am always meeting people who tell me they want to be published.

I’ve learnt to listen very carefully to what comes after that first statement because it is the words they utter next that will usually tell me whether or not they are serious.

Statements like, “but it’s so hard” or “they’ll make me change my story” tell me that the speaker isn’t really at that point where they have committed to making their dream a reality.

It’s a shock to most writers when they realise what comes after writing a story. Turning up to the computer every day to get the story out; surely that was the important bit, right?

Well, I agree that writing – and finishing – the story is vital. But it’s only the first step on the road to publication. What comes next is just as important and it requires your commitment, dedication and downright hard work. Do you think you’re up to it?

Why not take five minutes to answer the following questions as honestly as you can. If you can truthfully answer “yes” to all of them then you really are ready to take the next step – and I would love to hear from you.

Happy writing,

Joy Aimée

1. I can pitch my story idea to a prospective publisher in 30 seconds.
2. I know my potential market and I have ideas about how to reach them.
3. I understand that every month 6,000 new titles hit the bookshops in Australia and that when my book is released it will be competing with 5,999 others.
4. I agree that my manuscript could benefit from the input of a good editor who is sympathetic to my intentions and my writing style.
5. I am prepared to help promote my book in whatever ways my publisher and publicist deem necessary.
6. I am prepared to talk to my readers. I will not hide from them.
7. I am ready for my story – my precious baby – to be birthed into the world and I will do all I can to ensure its smooth passage.

Congratulations! If you answered “yes” to all seven of the questions, you are ready to take the next step and we would like to hear from you. Please make your submission at www.aampersanda.com/submissions or send your hard copy to:

A&A Book Publishing,
PO Box 449,
Leichhardt   NSW   2040
Australia

A&A Publishing: working hard for our authors
www.aampersanda.com
and
Write Well Write Now – Professional services for writers.
www.writewellwritenow.com