It used to be that you could pretty much expect a publisher, who accepted your manuscript for publication, to reject any cover art or illustrations you submitted along with it. I’ve told new authors for years that if they are really attached to their title, cover design, etc., they’d better self-publish or go with a pay-to-publish company.
I notice now, however, that many traditional publishers are asking to see your cover design and illustrations. This does not mean they will use what you send if they accept your book. But they are considering these materials now, nonetheless.
In an informal survey of traditional publishers, I discovered that nearly half of those I studied say that they will review artwork and photos. I submitted two of my own books with photographs, cover design and/or illustrations over the years and both of those publishers used what I sent them. Most of my publishers changed the titles I suggested, however. Guess I’m not that great with titles.
My point is that if you are reluctant to send your manuscript to a traditional publisher because you are attached to your cover design or your title, you might reconsider. Seek out publishers who are open to reviewing your artwork. Take the chance that he will also like your title. If not, you always have the option of signing or not signing the contract. Ultimately, it is your choice.
I’ve met many authors who are absolutely gripped by fear of what might happen to their manuscripts. They are so afraid that a publisher will steal their idea, edit their voice out of the story, toss out the artwork their daughter did for the cover or misrepresent their work in some other way that they won’t even approach a publisher. I’ve met authors who are told by numerous publishers, “Make this change or that change and we will publish it.” But they don’t—they won’t. One gentleman, for example, wanted a traditional publisher for his novel and he found a few who were interested. All he had to do was cut it by 200 pages. He refused to do it. Instead, he just went around complaining to everyone who would listen that he couldn’t find a publisher.
Becoming a published author does involve some risk—but the risk factors generally aren’t those that most authors fear. Read my free ebooklet to get an idea about authorship. It’s called “50 Reasons Why I SHOULD Write That Book.” Once you’ve read this booklet, you’ll know whether or not you are a good candidate to become an author. Take into consideration the things you learn in that booklet—for example, if you are just beginning your writing/publishing journey, start NOW studying the publishing industry so you’ll know more about what to expect and how to more successfully navigate the industry.
Here’s an example of what you’ll find in this FREE ebook. These are the section headings encompassing the 50 “reasons,” which are each fleshed out so you will understand why they are so vitally important to your success as an author.
• Have you done your homework?
• You know that your book is a good idea.
• You are the right person to write this book.
• You are willing to do what it takes.
• You are already doing what it takes.
• You’ve taken steps to make this a viable product.
• You have a marketing plan.
• You are taking care of business.
I challenge you to read this booklet and honestly evaluate your situation. Let me know what you discover. Download the booklet here: http://www.patriciafry.com