January 12, 2006

Anonymous, George: Publishing Deal? I have been approached by a reader of my blog who is an acquisitions editor for a smallish but not academic press. She wants me to write a non-fiction book about a feminist topic (I don't want to get too much more detailed or it'd be relatively easy to search this). I could not have imagined this outcome in my wildest dreams and have been trying to find out a couple of things since then -- namely, how much money can I expect from a deal like this, considering that I'm a first-timer and that it's a well-respected, mid-size but not huge publisher (if it helps, it's an imprint of Avalon Publishing)?

Additionally, what's protocol when approached by an editor as far as when I would get paid? I'd hate to write the whole thing only to be told "I'll take a pass." All the answers I'm seeing online conflict, and I trust you folks more. I'm so nervous, fellow monkeys, and I don't know what to expect! Help!

posted by Simian XY 18 years ago
  • My best advice would be to contact a literary agent. Unless you feel like this would spoil the deal, agent reprsentation will garner you the best possible compensation, ensure that all points are handled definitively (no handshakes or verbal promises for someone to go back on later) and go a long way toward paving the way for future deals, which naturally are more remunerative if your first book does well. Also: congratulations!
  • Find an agent. Ask writer acquaintances for recommendations. Don't sign anything until you've run it past a trusted expert. Don't be shy about asking direct questions to your contact at the publisher. Make a list and be sure you understand the answers. Congrats. Keep typing.
  • First off, let me congratulate Simian XY on his deal. I wish I had some advice to offer, but I don't. Well done, though! Second, Simian XY should be congratulated for having the first Anonymous George not in any way concerned with illegality or depravity. Way to go!
  • Fes: Jinx
  • Well done, you clever fucker! I've no real professional advice, but the 'get it writing' thing is a must. I've been burnt a few times by verbal 'oh yeah, we'll pay you X amount' and then got nothing for my writing. Just cos it's your first doesn't mean it's for free.
  • Second, Simian XY should be congratulated for having the first Anonymous George not in any way concerned with illegality or depravity. Unless the title of his book is The History of Depraved Feminists and Their Illegal Activities. Seriously, congratulations, XY. I'm sure this is something a lot of us Monkeys have dreamed about.
  • Watch out for scams! http://www.sfwa.org/beware/
  • Congrats! I have no advice to offer, except follow the advice of the smarter monkeys!
  • I can't really offer any new advice, but I would like to amplify that you should get an agent. A reputable agent would jump at the chance to represent someone who has ALREADY been contacted by a publisher.
  • Congratulations! I suggest following Fes' advice. Here's a site that might help you to find an agent who's reputable and avoid the shysters (it's a little slow at the moment).
  • The History of Depraved Feminists and Their Illegal Activities. Now *that* sounds like an intriguing read.
  • I know I've seen article comparing payments for first-time authors with and without agents. I can't find it now, but the mean difference was huge, and you should definitely GET AN AGENT. Sorry for yelling, but AGENT AGENT AGENT! I found this article while looking for that other one. It might be helpful.
  • I got 10% royalties (standard for their authors) and a $4-5000 advance for my book Apache Essentials on the Friends of Ed label. They also offered increased royalties at different selling points and a separate royalty scheme for book club and electronic sales. A good tip to know, however. In Canada at least you are only taxed on your royalties earned, not on the advance. So the more you can get on your advance, the better it works out for you tax-wise, especially if you're unsure how well the sales will be. I'm unsure if the same situation occurs in other countries, but it's worth asking your friendly neighbourhood accountant. Another good tip is to read through the contract at least three times. Make sure you know each and every clause in there, and discuss with your publisher clauses you do not agree with.
  • Sorry, no useful advice, but how cool is that? You go! Congrats!
  • Stephen King, in his CD collection "On Writing" has a number of interesting things to say about literary agents. He has hardwon insights on how they work, and what you should expect of them, and some warning signs that disqualify potential agents. I heartily recommend the whole set, but the part on agents sounds pertinent. Stephen King is the most entertaining and effective cusser that I have ever heard. It's like salty punctuation in his spoken word. Good luck with the book thing!