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Question: A few questions about publishing and such!?
Not that I've written a book, so don't everyone freak out!.

When you have finished writing a book, how do you get it to publishing!? Do you send it out to different publishing companies!? Just, stick it in a big envelope with a return address and send it!?

How do pen names work!? Does one need to use one's legit name first before using a pen name!?Www@QuestionHome@Com


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
First, you type your book in proper manuscript format (visit http://www!.writersdigest!.com to find out what is needed in a manuscript)!. Then, you edit your finished book several times to make it the best it can be!. If it is fiction, join a local writer's group to get feedback from other would-be writers (learn to develop a thick skin when it comes to accepting criticism from others)!. Get it proofread by someone who knows what they are doing (don't rely just on spellcheck)!.

There are a tiny number of publishers who accept unsolicited manuscripts (those that don't go through a literary agent), so getting an agent is a really good idea!. At the library or bookstore, look for Guide to Literary Agents, published by Writer's Digest!. Look for those agents who specialize in your genre of writing, and are looking for new clients!. Read, and follow, their submission guidelines!. In that book will be something about writing a query letter, which is what you first send to the agent!. It is part synopsis of your book, and part explanation as to why your book deserves to be published!. You have only that one-page letter to wow the agent, so take the time to make it a good one!. Expect the whole process to take lots of time, and expect many rejections!. When you are accepted by an agent, they are the ones who will send your book to the publisher, not you!.

Pen names are important only after a publisher has bought your book!. When it comes time to sign the contract, you need to sign your real name, but that is the time to ask the publisher about using a pen name!.

Those are the basics!. If you want details, go back to writersdigest!.com!.Www@QuestionHome@Com