Publisher ofr super-hero genre???
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Publisher for super-hero genre???
Hello everybody,
I am trying to publish a super-hero novel. It is a two-book series, but it is not a graphic novel. Originally, I wrote a180,000-word story; but I knew that I was going to have a hard time selling the book since I am new to the publishing game. So, I decided to split the story into two books. Now, I am trying to find a publisher for the super-hero genre. I was thinking of self-publishing, but I would love to sell it the traditional way first. The people here are remarkable, and they supplied me the names of many reputable publishers. However, when I was checking them out, I could not find any super-hero novels. (not including the comic companies like Marvel or DC) Would anyone here know of any publisher that accepts super-hero type genre? Thanks for your help.
Hello everybody,
I am trying to publish a super-hero novel. It is a two-book series, but it is not a graphic novel. Originally, I wrote a180,000-word story; but I knew that I was going to have a hard time selling the book since I am new to the publishing game. So, I decided to split the story into two books. Now, I am trying to find a publisher for the super-hero genre. I was thinking of self-publishing, but I would love to sell it the traditional way first. The people here are remarkable, and they supplied me the names of many reputable publishers. However, when I was checking them out, I could not find any super-hero novels. (not including the comic companies like Marvel or DC) Would anyone here know of any publisher that accepts super-hero type genre? Thanks for your help.
Hi Shadow,
Not big paying markets, but you might check out Wild Cat Books or The Pulp Factory, they are always interested in super hero novels. Plus, they know other markets for them. But, again, you're not going to see much money from these groups. I don't have their url handy, but google them. If you can't find them, go to my website and you'll find Wild Cat Books listed. Just click on one of their covers and it'll take you there. Uh, advise, though, don't mention my name.
"The Weed of Crime Bears Bitter Fruit!"
Not big paying markets, but you might check out Wild Cat Books or The Pulp Factory, they are always interested in super hero novels. Plus, they know other markets for them. But, again, you're not going to see much money from these groups. I don't have their url handy, but google them. If you can't find them, go to my website and you'll find Wild Cat Books listed. Just click on one of their covers and it'll take you there. Uh, advise, though, don't mention my name.
"The Weed of Crime Bears Bitter Fruit!"
I don't know what age group you are going for, but if it could appeal to the Young Adult market, super hero books are somewhat in vogue because publishers are looking for books that appeal to teen boys. In that case, I'd suggest going with a literary agent who will know better how to market and sell your work.
Please, just so I wasn't misunderstood. I'm not recommending Wild Cat Books and The Pulp Factory, just mentioning that they are an outlet, though very low paying. They have some good writers and outstanding artists associated with them, including some professionals, but I didn't stick around long. Several reasons why I left, but being a professional, I wasn't going anywhere with them being one reason. But if you are looking to be published, and have super hero material, they are a quick outlet. Just be careful, and don't expect much pay. Best to find an agent, and look for a mainstream publisher.
"The Weed of Crime Bears Bitter Fruit!"
"The Weed of Crime Bears Bitter Fruit!"
Hi Shadow-Chaser, I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who is working on a superhero novel that's not a graphic novel! I think there's a lot of potential to do a literary exploration of a superhero character.
One recent example of a book that does exactly this being published into the mainstream is Austin Grossman's Soon I Will Be Invincible. It's definitely worth checking out, if only to see what else is out there that could be similar to what you've written.
As for what to look for, keep in mind that 'superhero' isn't technically a genre as far as the publishing world is concerned. You might want to look at your story and figure out what elements it shares in common with other genres.
Usually a superhero story could fall into the more Urban Fantasy category or Sci-Fi (if you have a lot of scientific elements backing up your storyline). Otherwise, as suggested above, it might appeal to the Young Adult sector.
I would warn you to examine the split book though. 90,000 words is a tad on the short side for most adult genres, though it's good for YA. But you need to make sure that the first book is good as a standalone story by itself. You have to look at it as though the first book is your ONLY shot to tell the absolute best story that you can to hook your audience (aka prospective agents, editors and hopefully, readers). If that does well, then you'll get the chance to publish the second book.
It might be best to go over the book as a whole with a fine tooth comb and cut anything that feels unnecessary or drags the story down.
One recent example of a book that does exactly this being published into the mainstream is Austin Grossman's Soon I Will Be Invincible. It's definitely worth checking out, if only to see what else is out there that could be similar to what you've written.
As for what to look for, keep in mind that 'superhero' isn't technically a genre as far as the publishing world is concerned. You might want to look at your story and figure out what elements it shares in common with other genres.
Usually a superhero story could fall into the more Urban Fantasy category or Sci-Fi (if you have a lot of scientific elements backing up your storyline). Otherwise, as suggested above, it might appeal to the Young Adult sector.
I would warn you to examine the split book though. 90,000 words is a tad on the short side for most adult genres, though it's good for YA. But you need to make sure that the first book is good as a standalone story by itself. You have to look at it as though the first book is your ONLY shot to tell the absolute best story that you can to hook your audience (aka prospective agents, editors and hopefully, readers). If that does well, then you'll get the chance to publish the second book.
It might be best to go over the book as a whole with a fine tooth comb and cut anything that feels unnecessary or drags the story down.
Superpowers (A Novel) by David J. Shwartz was published by Three Rivers Press. It's not a superhero book per se, but it's in the same vein.
I don't think I can recommend anything specific asides from dropping that one name. Obviously, it would be great to get an agent to do the leg work for you. Barring that, maybe you oughta spend some time at your local bookstore and try and find books similar to what you have, make note of who the publishers are.
Good luck though, I love me some superhero yarns. ^_^
-An
I don't think I can recommend anything specific asides from dropping that one name. Obviously, it would be great to get an agent to do the leg work for you. Barring that, maybe you oughta spend some time at your local bookstore and try and find books similar to what you have, make note of who the publishers are.
Good luck though, I love me some superhero yarns. ^_^
-An
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I read a book called Hero a few months ago published by Hyperion. I have no idea if they publish a lot of such novels.
Thanks for all the great advice. 
My overall count is more 95,000 words for the first part and 98,000 for part deux. It is challenge to find a publisher, and I do consider it a fantasy and sci-fi. I am from Canada, so I made the hero Canadian. But I have included scenes from the US, Japan, and Switzerland. I know most people frown on the self-publish option, but it is one I am considering if all else fails. I am checking out the recommended sites and hoping to submit a proposal soon.
Will keep you updated J
The Resurgence: Chronicles of the Shadow Chaser
Summary:
For a decade, Dr. Arthur Brown has been protecting the city of Toronto as the Shadow Chaser. However, one unfortunate night had changed his life forever. He was able to heal and move on, but the Shadow Chaser was no more. Now 20 years later, that same evil has returned to prey on the innocent. Brown, with the help of his friend, Alexander Taylor, prepare for the war against evil. Brown chooses Kevin Wolf, a dispirited seventeen-year-old, damaged by the loss of the love of his life at the hands of that prevailing evil. But will the new Shadow Chaser be able to fend off the impending darkness, or will he sink once more into a self-imposed abyss?
My overall count is more 95,000 words for the first part and 98,000 for part deux. It is challenge to find a publisher, and I do consider it a fantasy and sci-fi. I am from Canada, so I made the hero Canadian. But I have included scenes from the US, Japan, and Switzerland. I know most people frown on the self-publish option, but it is one I am considering if all else fails. I am checking out the recommended sites and hoping to submit a proposal soon.Will keep you updated J
The Resurgence: Chronicles of the Shadow Chaser
Summary:
For a decade, Dr. Arthur Brown has been protecting the city of Toronto as the Shadow Chaser. However, one unfortunate night had changed his life forever. He was able to heal and move on, but the Shadow Chaser was no more. Now 20 years later, that same evil has returned to prey on the innocent. Brown, with the help of his friend, Alexander Taylor, prepare for the war against evil. Brown chooses Kevin Wolf, a dispirited seventeen-year-old, damaged by the loss of the love of his life at the hands of that prevailing evil. But will the new Shadow Chaser be able to fend off the impending darkness, or will he sink once more into a self-imposed abyss?
Actually 90k might be considered long for YA, which generally comes in 50-80k. Adult market novels range from 85k-120k, the longer end usually seen in fantasy or historicals. So 90k is an average length.
To the OP: I've completed two superhero novels. When I was querying them to agents, I called it urban fantasy and targetted it to agents who repped that genre. No one who requested to read it ever questioned the genre choice.
Oh bugger. I think I've been on hiatus too long. Not sure what I was thinking when I posted the above, because I knew this about the word counts. I think I've just spent so long NOT thinking about them that I had a spacey moment. So thank you for correcting!
And ShadowChaser-it sounds like you're off to a good start and doing your homework! I wish you luck! I think this is a genre that's got a market out there, and I know I hope to see more superhero novels in the future!
Hey folks,
I hope all is well with everyone. I have been checking out the recommended sites, but a majority of them accept agent submissions only. So, the search continues for a publisher and an agent. In the meantime, I ordered a personal print of the book via lulu for private use. The book looks great, but I am still working on the details.
While I have you here, I have a couple of questions. I am wondering if you mention a slogan or a trademark name, are you in violation of that trademark or copyright.
For example in my story one of the thugs said to my hero, “You’re not Ted!” My hero says, “No, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn last night.” He has a sense of ha ha.
Another part: while rescuing a kid, the boy asked if he was Spider-Man. My hero says, “No, not that popular, I’m Shadow Chaser.” I made a few changes to replace those lines, but I would appreciate your comments.
dreamsofnever, thank you for your kind words. I wish you all the best with your super-hero novel. It would be awesome if a few super-hero novels help create its own genre.
Thanks
I hope all is well with everyone. I have been checking out the recommended sites, but a majority of them accept agent submissions only. So, the search continues for a publisher and an agent. In the meantime, I ordered a personal print of the book via lulu for private use. The book looks great, but I am still working on the details.
While I have you here, I have a couple of questions. I am wondering if you mention a slogan or a trademark name, are you in violation of that trademark or copyright.
For example in my story one of the thugs said to my hero, “You’re not Ted!” My hero says, “No, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn last night.” He has a sense of ha ha.
Another part: while rescuing a kid, the boy asked if he was Spider-Man. My hero says, “No, not that popular, I’m Shadow Chaser.” I made a few changes to replace those lines, but I would appreciate your comments.
dreamsofnever, thank you for your kind words. I wish you all the best with your super-hero novel. It would be awesome if a few super-hero novels help create its own genre.
Thanks
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You're okay with those trademarks, Shadow. It's more like ... you might run into problems if you're trying to quote out of a comic book. But mentioning a popular character won't be a problem.
Thanks, Katiemac. I was really worried about the Holiday Inn one a bit, but thanks for the advice.
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