Writers' and Artists' Yearbook 2011 [Paperback]

Ignore any disparaging comments about this product because no book could possibly include every single element, nuance and minor detail about all aspects of publishing. Just read this review and `THEN' ask yourself a simple question;

Can I afford to be without a copy of this book?

I am not an educated man and, 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 fairly senior officer actually said to me "By what right do you seek to write a book about Scuba Diving?" Whilst my response remains unprintable, I can now report that 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!" My point being; If the drive to write is strong enough, not only will you write - but you SHOULD write in spite of whatever opposition you encounter.

Whether you buy a copy or not, all aspiring writers need to appreciate the value of this product. It 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.

This is not just a book of addresses. It also contains helpful advice, explanations, getting started and simply explains many elements of the publishing world. 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, ancient architecture. You get the point (and you save a lot of time and postage!).

Nobody in the world knows all there is to know about the complicated subject of publishing. This book, however, will give the writer 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

Excellent book, full of useful info for writers, especially on the legal and marketing side and the ins and outs of finding an agent. I bought the 2011 edition which is still relevant. I have been using the W&AYB for many years and it is a unique resource for writers and would-be writers.

As all the information in this book does not change greatly from year to year this was great value for money.