Momwriters Write

{All About MomWriters} {MomWriters Write}
{Special Events} {Projects} {Resources/Links}
{Contact Momwriters}

Ask The Writer
by Bea Sheftel
(Sept 2000)

What is a SASE?
A sase is a self-addressed stamped envelope which you include with your manuscript when you mail it to a publisher. If you want your work returned you should include an envelope big enough to easily fit your manuscript. If you don't need your work returned, just include a long self-addressed stamped envelope for the editor to contact you. Here are some tips I give my new writers:

Always include an envelope large enough for your manuscript to be returned. This way, if an editor wishes, she can make comments on your work which will be helpful to you as you revise. This happened to me with a confession story which I revised, sent back to the same editor and sold.

You may also include a self-addressed stamped postcard so the editor can notify you your manuscript has arrived and is being reviewed.

What is a query letter?
A query letter is your opportunity to showcase your ability as a writer and hook the editor to accept your
idea. Hook the editor with your first sentence. Let her know you have read the guidelines by including the
word count, and slant for her magazine. Leave your credits or particular expertise on this subject to the last
paragraph and then be brief. A query is one page, single spaced.

When do I need a query letter?
Editors are busy people. Book publishers, both fiction and nonfiction, require a query. Most magazines who publish short fiction, don't but those who publish articles do. Read the guidelines carefully and follow the editorial requirements.

If my manuscript is requested do I need a cover letter ?
I always include a short cover letter to remind the editor she requested the enclosed material. I include a paragraph or two about the story or article I'm enclosing. A cover letter takes the place of meeting the editor in person and shaking her hands. It also makes you look professional (even when you are not.)

What are simultaneous submissions and when do I need them?
This refers to your manuscript when you send it out to more than one publisher at a time. It does not include query letters which can be submitted simultaneously. Many publishers prefer you send your work exclusively to them. Writers, on the other hand, prefer simultaneous submissions. This is especially true if the material is time sensitive such as a current events article. Check the guidelines. If the publishing house allows for simultaneous submissions than you are free to do this, but mention this in your cover letter.

I sent my manuscript to a publisher. The editor said she liked it and for $$ she'd have someone revise it for me. Should I send the money?
Never pay an editor to revise or publish your writing. Some magazines, and book publishers are fronts for book doctors. They welcome your submission but then suggest a specific book doctor to get your work into shape. This is flim flam skim.

I write short stories and articles. Do I need an agent to help me get published?
Agents prefer to work with book authors or well known writers. They are paid a percentage of your sale for selling your work. However, if you find an agent to represent your book, he or she may require you sell all your work through the agency. Most will put their energies into selling books so they'll earn a larger commission. You might want to retain the right to market your articles or magazine stories yourself. I do not have an agent but some of my do. They have assigned them the rights to market all their writing. They are restricted by the agreement with the agent.

Where do I find markets?
Writer's Digest book have market guides for fiction and nonfiction. They also have a web site which allows you to search their data base of markets for free. www.writersdigest.com . They are the definitive source of markets but there are other places on line with listings of magazines and publishers. There are other resources for writers. Here is one: http://dmoz.org/Arts/Writers_Resources/

What if I receive a rejection slip after the editor requested my material?
Be happy. You are a working writer with proof of your efforts. Save it and then send your work out to the next market.

Bea Sheftel has had hundreds of articles, stories and poems published in print magazines and anthologies. She is the author of three romantic novellas, and two books of poetry, BEAUTY IN THE WEEDS one and two. This book is available at Amazon.com. For examples of her poetry check out her web page: http://members.tripod.com/~Beawriter/index.html

Back to Top