When They Say "Previously Published Writer"

Hedgetrimmer · Jan 9, 2007

Hey, guys. I'm interested in submitting a piece to a publisher that states in the guidelines that they only accept unsolicited manuscripts from previously published writers.

I'm fairly new to children's writing (almost 3 years) and haven't published anything in the field. However, I have had several essays published in national adult magazines as well as a narrative nonfiction book (small independent, 1997).

Am I qualified to submit my material, or is the publisher only referring to writers who have published children's material?

Also, if I do submit, do I mention my previous publications?

Sorry about the title typo. That should be "When," not "Whey."

Jamesaritchie · Jan 9, 2007

Hedgetrimmer said:
Hey, guys. I'm interested in submitting a piece to a publisher that states in the guidelines that they only accept unsolicited manuscripts from previously published writers.

I'm fairly new to children's writing (almost 3 years) and haven't published anything in the field. However, I have had several essays published in national adult magazines as well as a narrative nonfiction book (small independent, 1997).

Am I qualified to submit my material, or is the publisher only referring to writers who have published children's material?

Also, if I do submit, do I mention my previous publications?

Sorry about the title typo. That should be "When," not "Whey."

I suspect only the publisher can answer this question for sure. But considering the circumstances, I don't think you would lose anything by submitting, and by mentioning your previous publications.

Hedgetrimmer · Jan 9, 2007

Thanks, James. You're absolutely right about the publisher being the definitive source.

Perhaps I'll go ahead and drop it in the mail. I had planned to submit this piece last fall but just can't stop tinkering with it. Not to mention that I really hate the business aspect of queries, cover letters, labels, envelopes and stuff.

Does anyone else have a hard time submitting material because of the "other side" to writing?

CindyK · Jan 9, 2007

Hedgetrimmer - what that "typically" means is they don't accept the entire unsolicited manuscript from an unpublished children's writer. However, they are usuallly open to query letters from "not-previously" published authors and then will proceed with either asking for the entire (now solicited) manuscript - or not.

Hope that helps.

Hedgetrimmer · Jan 9, 2007

Cindy, I was thinking that's probably what was implied, as children's literature is so vastly different from adult material. It's also a lot harder, in my opinion.

Maybe I'll just sit down and write a query letter. Drats! I hate queries.

moondance · Jan 9, 2007

Yes, I was going to say a query letter would be the best option too - unofrtunately, as I don't think it's the best way for an editor to make any kind of judgment about your writing. Fortunately here in the UK we don't really do query letters, so I haven't had to face your dilemma!

Hedgetrimmer · Jan 9, 2007

Phooey on you, Moondance! :rant:

Toothpaste · Jan 9, 2007

Yes Moondance, that's what I love about the UK. So straightforward. It's the same way with letters for acting agents, in both instances they are simple "I am seeking representation" letters, followed by a synopsis and first three chapters (acting world: Resume and headshot). I know it's more to read than a query letter, but with all the getting muddled with 'hooks' and stuff, I loved the simplicity of just sending out the material to be judged on its own merit.

moondance · Jan 10, 2007

Hedgetrimmer said:
Phooey on you, Moondance!

LOL! Doesn't mean the market is any easier though!

When They Say "Previously Published Writer"

Hedgetrimmer

What happened, just there?

Jamesaritchie

Hedgetrimmer

What happened, just there?

CindyK

Hedgetrimmer

What happened, just there?

moondance

Hedgetrimmer

What happened, just there?

Toothpaste

THE RECKLESS RESCUE is out now!

moondance