How to Get Happily Published

I almost put this book away after just starting it, because I didn't like the first section on how to write well. Her suggestions on writing seemed almost fatalistic--either you have it or you don't. Where the book excels is when Judith gives her advice on dealing with editors, publicists, and others in the publishing industry. As a publisher, her words rang true. The author definitely knows how to coach authors to win the attention and respect of those in the publishing industry and then to make their books successful.When I got to the final section of the book I was amazed. She has 120 pages listing every conceivable resource for writers organized into the five main sections of her book: where to find material for writing and advice on how to write well and connect with writers' support groups; connecting with people of influence and negotiating the best deal with the publisher; the follow-through needed to make your book successful; help with self-publishing when you choose to go it alone; and how to earn more money as a writer. She lists the books, web sites, other publications and contacts for each of these topics, and comments on each resource. This is truly an incredible aid to the aspiring author, and must come from a deep well of experience that Ms. Appelbaum possesses.The book addresses the needs of both fiction and non-fiction writers.

This book gives the reader options in simple to understand terms. Afterall, a first time adventurer into the field of writing and publishing has to learn a whole new business. After reading many books on the market, I was about to give up. If you are as committed to seeing your book published as you are to writing it- then this book is for you. It has resources galore, insider knowledge, practical facts and enthusiastic encouragement without the questionable "pie in the sky." If I had only one book it would be this guide.

How to Get Happily Published is the best-selling book on book publishing. Judy tells you what is selling, how to find an agent and/or a publisher and what to submit to them. Then she gets into book promotion and sales. [It does not matter whether you sell out to a large (NY) publisher or publish yourself, the author must do the promoting]. She describes where to find help, where to find money (grants, writers' colonies, tax angles, angels and more) and what to do once your book hits the charts. Judy is an author, past executive editor of Publishers Weekly and a book publicist. She knows book publishing and shares the knowledge generously. Whether you plan to look for a publisher or self-publish, this book is a recommended investment.

No more rejection letters? Maybe not, if you follow the sensible advice in Appelbaum's masterful bestseller. She explains that publishing must be treated as a "rational, manageable activity ... in which knowledge coupled with skill and application can ensure success." Also shows how to get the best deal from the publisher, legally retaining as many rights as possible and how to promote the book once it's published. If you are a beginning author, my advice is to simply write one page per day, but first read How to Get Happily Published. It's also a great resource for experienced, published writers and publishing firms.

This book is loaded with practical information, such as names, addresses, and contact information so you can actually find out the nuts-and-bolts of how to get published. I found the comprehensive resource section in the back of the book to be the most helpful portion of the book over the long term - the resource section alone is almost 80 pages long and includes relevant books, periodicals,organizations, conferences, schools, advisers, and experts. I've had this book for over three years and have referred to it many times. It was interesting to read the first time around, as well as serving as a needed reference since then. The author's advice is readily usable at any stage of the writing/seeking publication process.