The Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2013 (Writers' and Artists') [Paperback]

I am a product of the pre-CSE, pre GCSE `Sec Mod' era which provided no formal qualifications whatsoever - not even a certificate of education. So, when I sat down to write my first book in 1985, people laughed. I was serving in the army at the time and when the work was published, one senior officer actually said "By what right do you seek to write a book about Scuba Diving?" Today, my articles have been published all over the world, my 3rd book sold over 30,000 copies and my 4th was voted "Underwater Publication of the Year!" I am now working on my first work of fiction.

YOU can do the same if YOUR drive to write is strong enough. And if it is, you should laugh in the face of opposition

That said, we all need some help and, having read this review, you should ask yourself a single question; `Can I afford to be without a copy of this book?'

This work is not just a collection of addresses for various book publishers and magazine editors. Instead, it contains almost everything you might need to know when contemplating writing for very different categories such as; Newspapers, Magazines, Books, Poetry, TV, Film, Radio and Theatre. The advice given and lists of outlets in each of those areas is then followed by sections on; Literary Agents, Art & Illustration, Societies, Prizes and Festivals, Online, Resources, Copyright & Libel and Finance. Altogether, the wide ranging degree of helpful advice covers almost every element of the publishing world.

Only this week I learned that if your manuscript is not presented correctly (A4 paper, double spaced typing with a 3mm margin all round) prospective publishers are not even likely to read it. Why? Because they get so many and they really do not have time. In other words, these people are saying "Do it my way and I may get around to reading it but, irritate me, and I can't be bothered!"

As a further example of how this book works, if, like me, you write books aimed at the scuba diver, there is no point in submitting your work to a publisher who concentrates solely on, say, religious architecture (or whatever). You get the point - and save a lot of time, heartache and unnecessary postage into the bargain!

Nobody in the world knows all there is to know about the complicated subject of publishing. This book, however, will give the writer - especially the aspiring writer (and artist!) the widest possible appreciation. Had I been in possession of a copy in 1985, my own road ahead would have been so much smoother - really!

Now ask yourself that question!

And good luck.

NM

If you are thinking about buying this book, then you are serious about becoming a published writer. It really is as simple as that. This is your very first step to making your dream a reality. And you can make your dreams come true with this book. You only have to read some of the articles written by successful authors to know that, just like you, they started their careers with this book. They dreamed, just like you, they wrote, just like you, and they bought this book, just like you. They made it happen. And if you are buying this book, you can make it happen too.

This book is as important to the would be author as a good idea, tenacity and a word processor. Not only does it give you the addresess that you need, it also gives you articles from published authors that inspire you to keep going. Sometimes we forget that published writers have struggled the way that we do. This book encourages, explains and helps put everything in perspective. It's also a no nonsense advice centre for anyone brave enough and determined enough to change their life and become a professional writer.

The fact that you are considering buying this book shows just how serious you are about getting published. You've got a great idea and you want to share it with the world. The next step is to get your work read by the people that matter. That's where this book is invaluable. It offers addresses of all the agents and publishers you need, along with the really important information such as: Who is prepared to accept unsolicited manuscripts. Who is looking for your type of book. And literary consultants who can help you improve your work.

It's also a great book for anyone interested in freelance journalism. There are lists of magazines and newspapers who are all currently looking for new and experienced writers to fill their publications with well written articles. There are television, film and production companies that are interested in reading your scripts. And even website addresses for people who want to see their work online.

There really is something for everyone in this book.

Everytime you open it up, there is something new to learn.

So, if you are serious about getting published, and you obviously are, congratulations on buying this book. I'll see you at your first book signing.

Good luck!!!

Superb guide for any writer including novels, biography, poetry, and playwrighting with excellent advice on how to approach agents and publishers. A must for aspiring writers.