Thursday 23 October 2008

Publishing Process



An author, once she has told her story, found a publisher, and the book has been edited, proof-read, and fine-tuned, gets a proof copy that she goes over with a fine-tooth comb. The first third of the payment has been sent to the publisher. A deal has been signed. The author is assigned an editor, publicist, proofreader, book designer, in a cast of 'thousands'.

This proof comes in the form of an unglued book, basically. The printer prints it off and the author and editor gives it a final go-over. This part of the process is very exciting. The book, at first glance, finally looks like a book. Book marks are created, and similarly proofed.

The errors or omissions are noted, she either asks for a new print-off, or signs off the book as corrected, or as is. The book designer then gives the command. It is sent to the printer, along with a check for the 2nd third of the agreed to payment.

In the background, book stores are contacted. Book signings will be arranged, as well as a book launch. The author, if this is non-fiction, can arrange to write articles, seek out local media for reviews, interviews, and present workshops, or present at topic-related conferences. Advertising in magazines with similar topics can be arranged.

The item is placed in a catalogue, with the cost and information to promote the book.

Locally there are many papers in my region: Parry Sound Press, Bracebridge Examiner, Huntsville Forester, for example.

Nepean This Week : published by Osprey, is a paper that might result in some attention. I lived and worked in Nepean and have many former teacher colleagues there, as well as the larger Ottawa Citizen newspaper. Explore your options. Many local papers take an interest in local authors!

Your local bookstores should show some interest:

Manticore Books, Orillia
Check your local chamber of commerce website for details.

The Gravenhurst Book Store 120 Muskoka Road South P.O. Box 40 Gravenhurst (705) 687-0555

Reader's World, 52 Manitoba St., Bracebridge, P1L 1S1
Parry Sound Books - in parrysound.com, 26 James St, Parry Sound

I was checking out the books in our Shopper's Drug Mart. The pharmacist explained that The Newsgroup are the ones that decide to put books in a drug store chain or not.
Your publisher would contact that agency to make those arrangements.

2 comments:

Barrie said...

It's quite a process, isn't it?

Jenn Jilks said...

Aye! Indeed it is! Like being pregnant for 2 years... :-)

Can't wait to give birth and have it in my hand.