For me, it’s a personality thing. I work best under direction. I think that traditional publishing would keep me focused and on schedule.

This is not to say that I’m not a self-starter. However, I do my best work when an editor is hanging a deadline over my head or telling me in great specificity what needs to be revised. I know myself very well, and I don’t think that I could organize everything needed to self-publish – procure an editor, find cover art, locate an eBook coder, etc. It all sounds exciting, but I tend to lose momentum whenever I plan a huge “project,” be it someone’s engagement party or my spring cleaning. I have grave doubts, should I decide to self-publish, that it would ever get done without anyone riding my behind. ☺

That said, I still am concerned about the direction publishing is taking. I’ve heard so many conflicting arguments of what will/will not happen. It’s difficult to know who to believe these days. I see a lot of flaws in arguments made by the successfully self-published who need not be named, because we all know who they are by now. All a writer can do is plot his or her course and see where the future takes us.

I’m pursuing traditional publishing for the legitimacy that it would give me and my book. I believe in standards.

Several reasons. I enjoy the interaction with the publishing industry and community as a whole. I enjoy agents and editors and believe they provide valuable services for authors.

I do not believe every writer is cut out for self-publishing, and both sides have their pros and cons. Traditional publishing is, in many ways, the avenue through which I've discovered the majority of authors that I love and admire. And there are also many publishers that I have long dreamt of being published through.

I intend to pursue traditional publishing for my first novel next year. As a fiction writer with sights set on a writing career, I want the legitimacy of acceptance into the traditional publishing industry. I want my name on a spine in a bookstore. (And I will have it. Oh, yes.) Until that happens, I won't feel I've "arrived" as a writer.

Steve
Twitter @steventhowell
http://steventhowell.wordpress.com/

I'd say it should stay with traditional with all the spelling errors today... it is needed. there are also many that take words out of context and their grammer 'like mine' sucks lol Traditional NEEDS TO STAY

As a self published author, I know the trials and travails of the craft. You actually become the publisher and quickly learn about pagination, typology, and graphic arts. If you have the time and patience to learn the process, you can produce a reasonable product at a modest price. However, getting this book distributed to book stores and other outlets is daunting at best.

That's why I'm looking into the traditional publishing arena to develop credibility and validation. I know it won't be easy, but I think it will be worth the effort.

For me, the more the merrier! There is nothing more that gets my creative juices going than collaboration. I've always imagined the traditional publishing route to be a group of people moving towards a common goal.

That traditional agent who gets the traditional publisher to invest in a traditional editor and traditional printer - you know it's not about "traditional". It's about team work. It's about allowing others to be a part of something they feel is greater than them.

That feeling of excitement and buzz when you've got a team that believes in you is what I want. If you label it as sliced cheese, I'd want to be a sliced cheese author.

Wow, really went into left field with that...

Once I finally finish my novel, I'm hoping to pursue traditional publishing because of the inherent affirmation, if it is publihed, that somebody thinks the work is good enough for publication. I also want a professional's opinion on my work, plus the wider distribution traditional publishers provide, particularly in bookstores, as print books are still alive and well. I also like the idea of having an agent to help me through the complex world of publishing.

I should proofread my comments more thoroughly in the future...

I'm pursuing commercial publishing (self-publishing is traditional, too), because

1) I don't want to do every job the publisher does (editing, cover art, marketing, distribution, publicity, etc.) plus my own (writing). Most self-pubbed titles, regardless of the quality of the writing, have absolutely horrid covers. I don't trust my ability to create a good cover, and I'd rather not shell out the hundreds to hire a good artist.

2) I want to know when I'm selling my product to a buying public that it's had some level of gatekeeping to make sure it's worth readers paying money for

3) I want to know I'm good enough to publish. Anyone with a credit card can self-pub, and in the vast majority of cases, it shows. I'd rather be shelved next to Dan Brown or Stephenie Meyer, who are generally considered poor writers but at least made it through the gatekeepers, than have my book "shelved" (in the figurative sense since a literal shelving isn't likely to happen) next to the majority of self-pubbed titles that's out there.

4) I don't read self-pubbed titles.

I am pursuing the traditional route because I think it gives my book and future books the best chance to be best books they can. I have critique partners who help me polish my work but I'd like the chance to Work with a professional agent and then editor to make sure I'm putting out the best work I can.

I think self publishing can be a great alternative for many. And I can't say I haven't considered it seeing that others can have success at it but I'd really like the chance to try the traditional route.

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because I didn't dream about being self-published as a kid.

On another note, I recently downloaded a self-pubbed eBook by a well-established, respected author. It is so full of errors and inconsistencies I didn't make it past chapter three.

I love my agent and my editor and there's no way I could write the books I do without them.

Thank you for pointing out that publishing isn't dying. I think there is a threat to publishing, but I also know there are some smart people at the helm who will manage to figure things out, or at least salvage something from the disaster if they don't.

In college I'm a business major and seeing the publishing companies make highly strategic maneuvers in this rough time is very interesting.

I'm happy to see as many paths to 'published' as the market can handle. Big houses and small houses all have their purposes.

As for me, I'm definitely of the entrepreneurial persuasion and will not likely be taking traditional publishing myself, but don't demonize it the same way some of my peers do.

Traditional publishing offers a professional level of support for authors. I want to do more than publish a book; I want a career in writing, and I know I'll need the guidance of a good agent, the skills of experienced editors and quality publishers to help me accomplish that.

3-second answer: I want to pursue traditional publication because I'm a lazy introvert. I don't do self-promotion. I'm uneasy with strangers.

Longer answer: you can get anything and everything off the internet nowadays, even surgical equipment. Search YouTube for a surgical procedure and you can do it yourself! Question is, will people come to you for help?

For the moment, it's the same with the publishing world. Physical books are still in demand, and major bookstores are still filled with customers. People (like me) still love the scent of books, the texture of paper.

True, some bestsellers should not have been released in the first place ("The Lost Symbol", anyone?). But I still much prefer to pick up a book with a beautiful cover, an intriguing opening, and an interesting page 69 sneak peek.

Validation. More than anything, there's something satisfying about getting an acceptance letter, especially from a tough professional market. I'm a published short story writer (plus an unfinished novel or three), and waking up to an acceptance waiting in my inbox is awesome. It tells me I'm not really as sucky as I thought, while waiting for the editor's reply.

I trust editors and publishers to know what they're doing. And I hope one day I'll get an agent who's as enthusiastic about my work as I am.

I want the editorial support and accountability that comes from traditional publishing.

And self-publishing to me will always have the stigma of attracting even crappier writers than those who are published through the traditional route.

I'd rather fail at trying to be traditionally published than have a self-published novel.

My first novel, The Covering, will be out soon with White Rose Publishing. I took the traditional publishing route for several reasons. Here they are in no particular order.
* It’s how I always saw myself doing it.
* I need to be pushed in some areas and pulled in others. I’m not a great self-motivator and I do much better when coaxed.
* I need an editor and there’s no edit fee with a traditional publisher, lol. If there is you might want to see just what you’ve gotten into.
* Self-published (SP) books usually (not always) aren’t as well written as those going through a traditional publisher. In SP there’s too much room for “No, I’m right,” “It’s great the way it is,” etc. That’s not to say all SP is bad. There is some truly wonderful stuff out there. I may do it myself one day, who knows? But like it or not, the prejudice exists that if you’re SP, you have too much ego and not enough talent.
* Because of those prejudices I might not be given a fair read or taken seriously.
* I have no clue how to format my own stuff, buy cover art, etc and frankly I don’t have the patience to learn. I’d rather spend my time enjoying my passion – writing.

I'm going the traditional route because I don't want to have to deal with cover art, hiring an editor, and convincing stores to stock my book.

And I want my book to be awesome, and I recognize that no matter how much I read books and study craft, most editors have probably read more books and studied craft longer. They DO know how to make my work better than I can make it on my own.

I definitely want to pursue the traditional route when my ms is ready! I want professionals to tell me that they love my work and think it's saleable. I want to work with people who know the industry and can help me make sure I'm putting my best foot forward. And, I know that authors always talk about how anti-climatic having a book published actually is, but I still think it's pretty exciting.

I'm pursuing traditional publishing for several reasons. Regardless of the growing popularity of ebooks, I still want to see my book in hardback/paperback form in real bookstores. I also want to be able to focus more on writing, so I would prefer that the professionals deal with producing the book and marketing it (though I understand the growing role of authors in the marketing portion). Lastly, I am still relatively new as a fiction writer, and though I believe I am talented, I know I still need the help that a professional editor can give me. I don't want to self-publish if it means a second-rate quality job.

i'm pursuing traditional publishing because i want to, in some way, compare myself to the famous authors of our time and feel great that i made it too ~

I pursued traditional publishing because:

1) I want a traditional publishing house behind me lending me credibility as an author.
2) I want my book professionally edited.
3) I want a cover designed by a team of experts who know what will help a book sell.
4) I'm not a marketing whiz and want a publisher's promo pros getting my book into stores across the country.
5) I want my mom to be able to walk into her local bookstore and see my book on the shelf.
6) I want to walk into my local bookstore and see my book on the shelf. =)

Because as a self-published author, either you are limited to ebooks (which are still only a minor fraction of sales) or you have to pay a lot of money up front - on editing and professional-quality cover art - to produce an attractive print version which you probably won't be able to get into the bookshops anyway. You can do it on the cheap, of course, but the end result will not be pretty...

My publisher takes all of that financial risk and will be selling my books into bricks'n'mortar stores across the US and UK, whilst paying me a not insubstantial sum before the book is even out. Meanwhile I can get on with writing the sequel!

Self-publishing success requires an enormous amount of time and effort put into marketing, and that's on top of the normal self-promotion (blogging, tweeting, etc) that even commercially-published authors have to do these days. I admire those who make a go of it, but it's not for me.

I am waiting while my agent shops my MS, and every month that goes on I wonder if I'm on the right track persuing this--but it's my first, best choice for my books to get the best possible accessibility and visibility.
I will self pub if they aren't picked up, but it's by far my second choice. I want my books in stores,in stands in airports, AND on little handheld devices!
Aloha
Toby
http://www.tobyneal.net/

Maybe I'm simply old-school :) but I like traditional publishing!

I didn't seek to self publish but I got caught in a publishing scam with Publish America. When they said "Traditional Publisher" I thought that meant that they were a publisher like any other. I thought Traditional meant that they followed the standards and practices as other publishing houses. Boy was I wrong! These people prey on people like I was, that were excited to write something and believe in it with their whole hearts, and were "green" about publishing. There should be laws-which there aren't! These places are parasites to the publishing world! I'm not downing anyone for self-publishing their books but these "traditional publishers" I have a problem with. They don't pay their authors-instead they suck money out of them with lures of book expos and having big time authors endorse their books with the dream of making it big in the book world.

Although I'm delighted my first novel (historical romance) is coming out in May with a small Canadian publisher, I'm seeking a mainstream traditional publisher for my other books. And an agent. I want the validation of my work being good enough, and to see my books on shelves, as well as on e-readers.

I'm doing lots of promotion at the moment and have a great cover from the publisher's artists, but I won't be able to walk into a store and see my book! And that's what I've always dreamed of for years.

From the heart, I long for my traditionally published book. I dream of the day I walk into a bookstore and hold it. However, the bookstores from my dreams have both closed their doors. There is still one I frequent that seems stable for now. And I do have it in me to wait patiently for the traditionally published method to come to fruition, but in the meantime it would be great to have a real reader or two, something or someone to pass the time between point A and point B.

Is everyone going to make money in self-publishing? No. Is everyone going to make money in the traditionally published marketplace? No. I think at the end of the day this is about what it's always been about, connecting with readers. In the old model you had the biggest distribution possible through the big six because they could launch your novel all over the states and the world for that matter-- the internet does the same thing.

The only thing standing between a writer and his/her potential readers is brilliant marketing, or a miracle, either or.

It's been surreal watching my friends self-publish left and right (and most of those were in the last month alone)! Some of my blog followers are openly announcing they're no longer looking for agents. It's a scary new literary world.

I'm prolific. I love to dream up new ideas. I'm already a decade ahead if my publisher allows me to print one novel a year. And that's if I had a publisher, that alone can tack on a timeframe all its own. That's a hard pill to swallow, but the ultimate trophy in my eyes is traditional publishing.

And on a lighter note, I miss the days of writing for my friends in school and having their immediate feedback. I felt so much more like a 'real' writer back then. It's so hollow in this space between here and publication.

I suppose writers will do what they've always done, write.

I am pursuing traditional publishing because I need all the help I can get. I think I am a good writer (but I would say that) but the rest - the editing, the marketing, the contract negotiations... Oy. Don't get me wrong, I am trying to learn it all, but it helps to have a few people help me along the way.

I am an ordinary, unknown girl from Australia. My agent is an intelligent, well-respected and amazingly connected professional in New York city. Without her I'd still be printing copies of my first novel for my Mum's book club to read.

Thank God for agents and publishers. They make us look good.

Self-publishing? Writing is edits, edits, edits, and how far would a narcissist like me get if I only had to answer to myself?

Traditional book vs. E-books? No contest! You can find a world between the pages of a book. With an E-book it's just not the same.

Hey! My blog readers and I just talked about this!

My answer (from the post):
I'm still aiming at traditional publishing because it's not (strictly) about chance, and I believe I can do it. Because I wouldn't be the writer I am today if I had self-published the first thing I wrote, and I want to see how much better I'll be in the future. Because I'd rather hold the novel for some point in the future when I can make it better, than make a couple hundred dollars today.

But that's today. Who knows what the future holds?

There are a lot of reasons, first of which is time. Yes, I know that even in print publishing authors are expected to do a lot of the marketing, but a publisher and agent aid in navigating the rest of the process. Book covers, editorial process, and even a little bit of marketing are done via team effort with the author, meaning I don't have to spend as much time arranging all of that on my own. I don't have to hire a graphic artist for a cover. I don't have to locate an editor that I can work with.

That's not my primary reason, though. I consider myself a smart guy, a very smart guy. I can pick up numerous disciplines both technical and academic, but the publishing world is very confusing. I don't really get it, and in order to become skilled in that world would take a lot of time and failure. I want to give my writing the best possible chance to succeed, and that means going with the experts. Agents and publishers know what they're about, and I would be foolish to think that I can pick up the nuances of the industry by simply self-publishing. While blogging, tweeting, and other social networks of the day have given a good amount of transparency to the publishing industry, there are still facets that are unrevealed to the public. Those are the areas I believe are most important to the success of a book.

Lastly, faith. I believe that the publishing industry evolved the way it has for a reason: it works. There are so many factors to consider when it comes to publishing, it's simply too complex a system to believe that self-publishing can be panacea and elevate all authors to bestseller status.

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because there are no guarantees. And somehow, that makes the journey a bit sweeter for me. It makes me pull from a deeper place within myself. I just realized this when you asked the question. Maybe that makes me like those folks on American Idol.

But for the record, I can't sing. :)

Self-publishing for e-readers has been very lucrative for a small a small group of authors in the last few months. However, for the vast majority of authors trying to sell books, self-publishing won't bring much exposure and it won't earn them much money.

The case-studies for self-publishing success are  J.A. Konrath and Amanda Hocking.  These two authors have been very good at self-promotion and their books are better than virtually all their self-published competition.  These authors distinguish themselves from commercially-published authors on the basis of price; their books cost $3 or less.

Amazon pays a 70% royalty to authors who self-publish on Kindle and sell their books for between $2.99 and $9.99.  By contrast, a hardcover royalty is usually 10-15% of the cover price and a mass-market royalty is usually 6-8% of the cover price.  That means a royalty on a $3 e-book is close to the same as an author earns selling a $15 hardcover (which has a $25 cover price).

$2.99 was a great opportunity when very few people were selling books in that price range.  This high royalty made it very easy for self-published authors to undercut the price of commercially-published books, because these authors were able to keep a much larger percentage of their readers' money.  This arrangement was also very beneficial for Amazon and BN because it attracted a huge cadre of value-conscious consumers to e-reader platforms.  However, Amanda Hocking's success story is now common knowledge, and everyone with an unpublished novel believes they can replicate that success.

These authors don't have the imprimatur of New York publishers.  They don't have authoritative praise from critics or famous authors.  They don't even have professionally-designed book covers.  So they use price to compete.

That means it's very hard for an unknown self-published author to price a book at $2.99 right now; most other self-published books that are ranked high in Kindle sales are priced at $0.99.  But if you sell a book at $0.99, you get only a 30% royalty, or 33 cents per copy.  It's very difficult to earn a substantial amount of money at that price, with that royalty, and the 70% royalty is no longer the game changer it seemed to be six months ago because most authors can't earn it.

E-book growth has been huge in the past few years, but we shouldn't overstate its market-share.  For a published author, bookstores are still roughly 70% of the market, and e-books are only about half of online sales.

That means that, while a $.99 cent self-published John Locke title may be selling as many e-books as the new Michael Connelly, the Connelly book is selling the same number in hardcover as it is in e-books on Amazon.  And brick and mortar bookstores represent nearly triple the total online sales.

Meanwhile, the attractive 70% royalty rate doesn't benefit Locke, because that rate only applies to books priced between $2.99 and $9.99.  An author of a bestselling hardcover like Connelly makes ten times Locke's per-copy royalty, and sells five times as many copies.

Locke claims he sells an e-book every ten seconds.  If that's true, he'll sell about three million copies in a year and he'll earn a million dollars.  That's ten times as many copies as a commercially published author has to sell to make the same money.

Nearly everyone who can publish with a commercial publisher goes that route, especially in fiction.  And there are good reasons why this is the case.

I am within two weeks of holding my self-published book in my hands. The company I am working with is a print-on demand publisher and offers access to all markets. My book will be available in three formats--hardback, paperback, and e-book. I have been more than pleased with the work this company has done, and if the physical book is as nice as the electronic files are, my book will be beautiful. I have had complete artistic control, I own all rights, and the whole process has taken less than four months. By the way, I've been writing for twenty years and am an English teacher.

My book is about God's absolute love and is far enough away from traditional theology that I believe agents and publishers probably would have rejected it. And to add to that, I don't have the requisite degrees after my name to take on a theological discussion, so I'm not qualified to write a book like mine. Oh, well, we'll see what happens.

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because I trust its process the most.

Part of it is affirmation. Part of it is wanting my books to be available in places like Barnes and Noble. Part of it is my competitive nature - anyone can self-publish, not anyone can get a deal with a traditional publisher. Maybe not the most noble reasons....but there they are.

Oh - and also, I want to work with a team of professionals on my book and I don't want to have to pay them all in order to do it.

I want to peacefully pursue traditional, commercial publishing.

I know I am a good writer. But good writing is not good enough. I want my books to be excellent. With the help of a good agent, and publisher who gets my work, we can all shine. And give more glory to God.

I hope to continue to be traditionally published because:

1. I need an editor
2. I need a marketing expert
3. I need the affirmation of my work
4. I love being one of a team
5. I need sales people
6. I need a lot more brain power than just mine in the whole book creation process

Guess I'm just a very needy person. (And these are also the reasons I love to work with an agent!)

I’ve got to admit that after reading some of your recent posts, I couldn’t see a compelling reason why anyone would want to be involved with traditional publishing. The thing that would make me want to get involved with traditional publishing is if that it would free me to focus on what I’m good at and let others handle the other things. It is really hard to keep that attitude when we read so much about the publishing industry that says that isn’t happening.

I self-published my first book and made all the classic mistakes with it. I want to go the traditional route this time because I learned a lot of lessons (helpful to either approach), because the traditional path still offers the largest network of personal contacts, and because this path still holds a lot of weight/clout as a recognizable achievement that few people attain. That latter distinction still means a lot in the publishing world. The self-pub world is becoming too much a "me too" path. I want my work to stand out.

It’s primarily about trust and teamwork for me.

And I hate math.
~ Wendy

It's all about the libraries for me. I write MG, and I want my kids (and their friends)to be able to check out my books from their school libraries.
Oh, and the advance checks aren't bad, either. ;)

Professional agents and editors can help me improve more. I want to share my books with a wide audience, and I want them to be as strong as possible when they do that.

For me, writing is NOT a solitary pursuit. It takes a village-- I mean a publishing house to help my little book grow up into something I hope many people will love and appreciate.

I'm still a "wanna be", but I'm working hard to hook an agent because I still feel that's what will bring me validation. Plus, I don't know all the ins and outs of this business and it would be nice to have someone on my team who could direct me when needed.

I hope to traditionally publish one day because that is where my audience resides. I am sure some of my readers own an e-reader (I do) but the bulk of them still buy books in paper form.

I also don't want to travel the road alone. I want an agent who can see the bigger picture, while I am deeply involved in the next book. I want an editor who can take my book to the next level. And ideally, I would want a publishing house who believes in me.

I wouldn't be a good writer without my beta readers and mentors. I consider the traditional publishing route as part of that team that elevates my work and others.

I'm sticking with traditional publishing for now because I'd like to learn from the pros. But, I've noticed a shift. Many agents are less responsive. I used to get a mix of form and helpful rejections dotted with requests for fulls or partials. Now, many agents don't respond at all. Sorry, but that's just rude. I know agents are flooded, but becoming a locked gate rather than the gatekeeper will only drive writers to the path of least resistance, self publishing. That means many books will never reach full potential and that is a shame.

"I want my book to sit on a book shop shelf, because professionals have confirmed that my novel is worthy to sit there."

Do you people even hear what you are saying?

I'm sure this has been mentioned, but I want to be traditionally published because I'd rather have a team of people helping me with my book than just li'l ol' me. I think by wearing the name of a well known house opens doors that self-pub can't. I want to be pushed to be my best, not settle because I can. Because, as a homeowner, sometimes DYI just isn't worth it.

I want to be traditionally published because while I'm willing to work hard I don't want to go it alone. I'd like to have that "stamp of approval" from a traditional publisher as well as the marketing and distribution. Although there have been a few big successes with self-publishing, I think self-pubbed authors are going to have a much harder time being taken seriously by readers, reviewers, etc.

Several years ago, my husband and I self-published a gift book for daddies, called I Can't Wait to Meet My Daddy. A hardcover glossy with dust jacket. (We didn't mind the investment.) It's doing great but took a GIANT effort in getting it distributed. It took years to get it into stores. We went through all the right channels--B&T, B&N, Amazon, etc.-- and yet it was a frustrating challenge.

I come from traditional publishing, as I was once an editor, so I know that for the big guys it merely takes a phone call to place the book in stores all over the country. And there's a team that puts together the catalogs, writes the copies, sells the books to major distributors, books the book tour and so on.

For the book I'm working on now, I would be more than happy to hand over the responsiblities of design, printing, binding, and especially distribution to a traditional trade publisher.

Wow, Rachelle, you've gotten a lot of comments already today. And I didn't read a single one, b/c I wanted to comment w/o being influenced by others. The absolute first answer that popped into my head was this:

I CAN'T DO THIS ALONE. AND AT THIS POINT IN MY LIFE, I DON'T WANT TO.

Traditionally publishing says not only do I think I have a well written book, but so does the "establishment." They think it will appeal to the masses.

I also like having someone with experience to lead me, tell me what to do, and when to do it. I like the support system.

Great post to get us thinking this Friday.

Traditional publishing still has something to offer, a wider distribution than I get with self-publishing. However, that does not mean I will not pursue self-publishing until and unless a traditional contract is offered. Any contract would have to offer me more value than I can get with self-publishing, and it would be nice to get the kind of recognition that one still finds with traditional publishing. It's not all about money.

For me, it's about creative freedom and getting my name out there. I can have both by self-publishing and pursuing traditional publishing.

For me it’s a matter of achieving a personal goal. As a child I dreamed of writing a book and having it published, and I’ll be disappointed in myself if I don’t accomplish that. Doing it all myself, though, isn’t part of that dream—I want guidance on legal matters, cover design, and marketing. I want the thrill of telling my family I have an agent, and I want the peace of mind that comes from working with a respected publisher.

I believe there is a time and place for self-publishing but in all honesty..I am pursuing the *traditional* means because I believe in going back to basics to build a foundation THEN you use other means AFTER the foundation is established. That goes for anything in my life, not just my writing.

There are definite reasons for all the steps in traditional publishing and I feel I need to follow those steps BEFORE I can pursue other means.

I don't think I can answer this the way I'd originally intended without offending someone. I am a huge supporter of the traditional publishing route, even after all the rejections I've received thus far. In fact, it may even be *because* of the rejections, and the feedback some agents were so graciously willing to give. Let's just leave it at that.

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because most of the self-published books I've seen are not well-written or edited.

I attended a Get-Your-Book-In-Print seminar a while back about self-publishing and all of the examples looked hastily-produced and mediocre. The conference director was pretty much selling copies of her book from the trunk of her car.

And I'm sure that without a traditional publisher - and real editors and marketers - to back me, my book will end up the same way. The message is so important to me that I'm willing to wait for a publisher who feels the same way.

Off the top of my head (or heart, as it were):
1. Validation
2. Confirmation that my book is good BEFORE it goes to readers, because if a bad book with my name on it goes out, my future works will have a harder time.
3. The thought of doing it all myself is overwhelming. Even hiring out the parts I know I can't do, like cover art.
4. I'm currently being pounded on what seems like all sides to self e-pub, which makes me more resistant and, frankly, angry.

Looking back at those, I'd say #3 is the main reason, and #4 a distant 2nd.

I learned so many things when I pursued traditional publishing over the last ten years. I don't think I would be the writer I am today if I hadn't tried. I learned to write 25-word log lines, short and long queries/back cover blurbs, short and long synopsis, and how to edit my writing (with the help of writer friends, CP's and beta readers). I became a better writer . . .

BUT I decided to self-publish my middle grade story.

Why? Editors and agents simply weren't interested. Most thought it had 'potential' (std query rejection lingo), but it wasn't post-apocalyptic, vampire, "boy", (insert current 'must have') book.

My previous books (5 of them) were practice books. THIS book spoke to me. I HAD TO GET THIS STORY TO READERS.

Electronically self-publishing has its drawbacks when trying to sell to the younger market, and I believe I'm slightly ahead of the curve. Technology is advancing rapidly and so many kids have various electronic devices, so it's only a matter of time.

My local paper (500+ K distribution) featured me in an article about the emerging publishing technology, but I was more excited when a young 11-year old boy REVIEWED my book.

Why? This was my target audience, plus it was a boy reviewer to boot, since my MC is a girl.

Am I making money at this? No, not yet. I paid for my cover art and I'm giving away more books than I'm selling. What I hope to gain is readership, since I have five more books finished and will be releasing them throughout the rest of 2011.

I'm in it for the long haul. Very few writers are overnight successes and those that are have been working hard at their craft for years.

Is print publishing dead? I don't think so. I do think publishers need to rethink how they do business though.

Should everyone self-publish? NO! It's not about 'paying your dues' so much as 'learning your craft'. Most first books written are dreck, I know mine were--heck, even my current first drafts are dreck! It takes time and a million words to learn to craft a good story. Anyone on the street can write a novel, but telling a story is a whole 'nuther pony trick.

M. A. Golla

Simply put, I want a strong, able team to help me get my book to market. I am only the "gifted" writer. It takes a village.

I want to work with a fabulous editor! Also, I do not want to be the only party interested in marketing my book.

I refuse to go the self-publishing route, because if I'm not good enough to be accepted by traditional publishers yet, I'd rather keep working on developing my skills than fool myself into thinking that I know better than an entire industry of professionals!

For the smell of the binding. The feel of the paper. The imprint of a real, live publishing house on the spine. For the knowledge that without the agent and editor(s) my book wouldn't be half as good. For the thrust of traditional marketing that may someday land my book in the hands of someone who otherwise would never have picked it up, and whose heart may be touched forever because of it.

That's why. :)

Credibility.

Wow! Lots of comments! I'll just slide my comment in here with everyone elses! :-)

Why do I want to be traditionally published? It's always been my dream, but I guess when you get right down to it, I want to excell at my writing until I find a publisher willing to publish my work. When I DO, then I know my writing has finally improved enough to be "read-worthy"! :-)

~ Katy

I considered going traditional. I even have the query letters written. I was even planning on waiting things out and seeing how (if?) the publishing contracts adjust to reflect e-book sales.

But then I started, y'know, looking at where the few book 1's I was revising would lead to, later in the series. I realized that my books seem similar to all those books I hear about and fall in love with only after the publisher has canceled the series because it didn't sell well enough. It makes me nervous.

Yes, I've stepped into the self-pub waters, but only for one project, right now. I have more. I'm planning on trying trad route first for one project. I even have another penname picked out and domain name reserved.

I will pursue traditional publication...

...to offer my characters and stories the opportunity to be the best they could be under the tutored direction of seasoned editors and agent.

...to avoid blending into a miasma of mediocre e-books that are flooding the market without sufficient editing. It's embarrassing for every writer, the crap being passed as "published" right now.

...while the publishing industry as a whole is tooth and nail, my limited engagement with it has shown me there are individuals in the industry who are, themselves, kind and encouraging and amazing. I look forwards to meeting those people.

...the day I can gift my book to everyone in my family, and every person I've ever met, wrapped with a bow and stuffed in a stocking...will be a dream come true.

...because I have faith that the traditional publishing model will grow and adjust to our new world. I also have faith that e-publishing or self-publishing will also grow and adjust to our new world. So that both models will be worthy of the creative output of so many amazing authors. That I'm proud to count myself amongst.

I want to pursue traditional publishing because I want the "writer's life".

I want an agent. I want someone in my corner that will help me make career choices and improve my writing.

I want an editor, publisher, the exposure. It's how I've always thought of my writing career. If I am rejected I will assume that means I am not quite there yet.

I want to be published traditionally because I want people to see my book when they go to the grocery store, to the mall, to the pharmacy, to the airport, and not just when they're online.

I also want a well reputed publishing company brand on my book.

And most importantly, I want professional, experienced help going into this, which I know I can't or don't know how to find if I were to do it on my own.

In addition to the reasons above, I will seek traditional publishing because I feel like the audience/readership for the book I'm writing deserves to have a book that is validated,worthy of being published.

It's on a difficult subject and there are only a handful of self-published non-fiction (memoir) books on the topic. So I feel like if a novel came out, backed by a traditional publisher, that these particular readers/writers would feel like their own stories (their life stories) were finally validated.

I'm not sure if that makes sense to anyone but me, but that's my reason.

Because I'm of the old school, I guess. If I can't write well enough and then persistently pursue a contract for those books, then I've not reached my ultimate goal. Enduring all the challenges of achieving traditional publishing is a journey of persistence, commitment and growth that I don't want to miss.

My traditional publisher (Tyndale) and my team there are like a family. Honoring that relationship blesses me and my book-writing. But it also stretches me--to listen and to learn.

I'm pursuing the traditional route of publishing because I want to work with professionals who will help me make my stories the best they can be. It's also a form of validation for me that someone thinks my work is good enough to take a chance and pay money for it and publish my books.

Thanks for this reality check: the post and the great comments. I saw more of my own reasons than I realized in there.

For me, it's mainly about the huge and talented team that worked on my book. I did one central job. They did so many others.

I had been following the biz for 20 years and fully expected some version of this. But I was shocked at the number of people at Hachette who got so involved, and how good they were at their jobs.

Beyond the obvious ones, the chief counsel for the company did a thorough legal vetting--just the conference call to discuss her list lasted four hours. (It was grueling and kind of scary, but I felt so much more secure afterward.)

The copyediting went so far beyond what I'd expected. I estimated there were about 10,000 individual corrections in blue pencil, plus I think 800 margin questions I had to respond to. She found things like: On p. x you say the killers spent 4 minutes outside, page y you say this many minutes in the hallway, page z so many in the library, and that adds up to 16 minutes and on this other page you say 17 minutes. Wow. There were countless examples like that. And I'd already had it vetted by several people, in different ways, but no one came close to how good she was.

I learned later that the whole approach to how position the book to publishers and the public developed over a whole series of consultations between my editor, the sales staff and especially the national accounts rep for Borders--and by her pitching it to several influential people at Borders six months before publication, getting them to read it, getting their reactions to that approach, refining it . . .

(con't)

Then I had a brilliant publicist, who built on that, got me onto network TV, all sorts of NPR shows and print. All that came together to land the book (Columbine) on the NYT list its first week out.

No one person could have done even the marketing. Certainly not me, but not anyone. It took a whole team of people, all at the top of their game.

And long before any of that, was a great editor and great agent, who helped me figure out how to cut 500 pages, over four major passes and several minor ones. (After months on it with my editor, the last pass was his assistant reading it fresh and making margin notes in one color pen. Then my editor read his suggestions and commented on the comments in another color ink, so I could see two more points of view on every item and decide.)

There were so many more steps. It all lasted about 15 months, from my first submission to them until pub day. And then my publicist and his assistant were still in overdrive. People were working on it that entire time. Sometimes several teams at once.

It was amazing.

I want as many people as possible to read my writing - I think traditional publishing is the best way to make that happen.

Acceptance, legitimacy & affirmation that I am good enough to do it the old-fashioned way. Anyone can self-publish.

I have been offered a number of self publishing opportunities, but I chose to persue the traditional route for a couple reasons. I don't possess the resources required up front for a first class publication, and second I prefer to focus as much as possible on the writing elements and as little as possible on all the other details that self publishing a quality product requires. Authors have to market their work regardless which route we chose, but the help of an established respected publisher helps move everything forward more efficiently, especially for the first time project.

I am looking at both traditional and self publication. I have enough connections to create a novel with professional artwork and editing without a company. I am confident I can sell it pretty well too (not like a big name company however). I'm not shy, and I'm not really broke. And to not intentionally sound arrogant, I have a gift for writing I discovered at a young age and spent the last 20 years "perfecting" my skills and talent. I am my biggest critic. Why I would pursue traditional publication isn't because I want to feel successful, or be validated. I will feel that once I'm published either way, and I make my first sale. What I'm looking for is someone to assist me and direct me as I do what I do best. I just want to write. And I've been told the best editors work for companies. My debut may be done through self-pub, just to build my platform. And even though I'm tech savvy, I still buy nothing but paper books. And will continue to read more paper than e-books, even after I get my kindle tomorrow.

I want the traditional publishing for three reason:

1) I want validation. I want someone other than myself, my writing mentor, my crit partners saying, "This is good!" All those people have some kind of personal investment in me. I want to hear from a totally non-biased professional.

2) Following on #1, I want the completely non-biased, professional help from everyone involved in the process.

3) I want to be pushed to bring my novel to the best I can achieve. Somehow, unless I spent tons of money, I don't think that would happen with self-publishing.

I go back and forth on this one. I don't need validation, necessarily. I should be a self-starter, able to set and keep deadlines. I should know by gut instinct whether my work is ready for publication. My problem is a lack of knowledge and training in the area of publishing. And, honestly, writing itself is such a difficult process that I don't know if I have room in my life to study publishing in depth. I have limited funds and limited time. Therefore, I choose to pursue the traditional route, regardless of whether traditional publishers ever choose me.

Every time my novel encounters someone from a new and higher level of the publisphere, it gets a little better. I want to publish traditionally because I believe that will be the best possible form of the book. I'd rather go through the rejection, revision, and perseverance and end up with a book I can be really proud of than rush to self-publishing with something that's not totally-awesome-to-the-bone.

In short, I'd rather embarrass myself in private and hold out for glory in public. The world doesn't need to see my drafts.

I want somebody to sell my books who has some skin in the game. I want real marketing and real distribution (which doesn't necessarily mean a printed book). Your chances of getting noticed without a publisher is slightly lower than your chance of winning the lottery.

I want an advance.

I want a professional product in every way.

But mostly it's the marketing and drive to sell the book because the publisher has an investment in the product.

As an author who has struggled for many, many years for his talent to be recognized and has finally broken throigh with a traditional publisher, I can understand why so many flood to the self-pub industry, especially at the urging of certain high-profile writers who already possessed a well-known name going in. But the titanic majority of people self-pubbing are getting a wakeup call the size of Gojira to learn that they're not going to perform as well. Not nearly as well. A new successful elite has formed within the self-pub world, a very select few, many of whom are previously traditionally published authors and already have a name and a platform, so anyone going that route had best be very, very well aware of that fact. But the real reason I pursued so long the traditional route without giving up or self-pubbing is simple: it was the path the Lord Jesus Christ desired me to take, and upon which to remain. Had I departed from that path, this blessing would not have come my way. For all of you out there, there are only 3 doors: do nothing, refuse to give up writing and persevere with traditional publishers, or do it yourself. Door 1 answers itself. Both Door 2 and Door 3 require commitment, perseverance, hard work and risk. Regardless of the door before which you stand, follow the heart the Lord has given you, and stay on the path. Enough said.

For me, it has to do with validation. I have a story that I believe should be told. I want someone else to believe that too. Someone who will believe in it so much they will fight for it.

I know that there are a lot of really good self-pubbed books out there, but there are also a lot of not so good ones. (Poor grammar, poor writing) I want someone to take a look at my work and say, "Yeah, this is really good. Let's show it to others...together."

I want a writing career. Right now, self-pub is a workable option, but it feels like the Wild West--some people succeed, some people fail. And who knows when the gold rush will die out and leave all the self-pubbers out there in ghost towns? Sure, trad pubbing is a risk, too, but it feels like the safer route for someone who wants to spend a lifetime writing and publishing books.

I feel like self-pubbing right now, especially with e-pubbing now an option, is a free-for-all. It's the dizzying, uncharted, unboundaried world of the very, very new. It won't stay that way forever. It will either remain a very open frontier where anyone can succeed with some luck and lots of work...or it could end up closed off as e-pubbing is controlled further by traditional publishing. My bet is on the latter. So I'm sticking with the stodgy old-fashioned way because I think the stodgy way is going to win out over the frontier. Frontiers never last forever.

Because I want to write and let the editors and agent handle the money and the details and organization. Besides, creating a book is best when it's a team effort between dedicated individuals who all love the book, but can bring their own skills to the table--writer, agent, editor, designer, printer.

But mostly--I don't want to have to pay for publishing. If a publisher has that much faith in it, I'm more than happy to let them pay me an advance and front the costs.

Self-publishing must be held as a viable option, and while those (like the previous Anonymous contributor) continue to attack it, we (writers) as a whole must embrace it and support it. Don't be afraid that it might get lost in the masses of other books...would you rather hope and pray you get accepted by the ever shrinking traditional publishers, or see your book in print and then let the market decide, not a line of "gatekeepers". For me the choice is obvious.

I would much rather go the traditional-publishing route because I know that I can't do it all alone. I can write the story, I can punch it up and do everything I can to get it publishable (with some help and input). But as far as the marketing, the advertising, the publicity? That is more than I feel like I can handle. So I feel like I need a traditional publisher to handle those chores for me.

I want traditional publishing because:

1. I get help/tips/support with how to be a Published Author

2. Several someones who aren't related in any way with me has approved of my writing - and these have seen a lot of writing and I trust their opinions.

And a some various other reasons.

Basically, I wouldn't try my hand at start up a building business on my own just because I'm good at making doors. I'd love to work for a building business, but not run it. I understand that some want that, but it's not for me.

Publishing is a trade - and I don't have time or interest to become an EXPERT in it. Not when I have a day job on full time, and write on "full time", and want a family.

I want to be a traditionally published writer for the validation. If an agent thinks I'm good enough to represent then, Yea Me. If that agent finds a publisher that thinks my book is a worthwhile project then, Way to go Me! And if readers actually find it a good read then, Good for Me! Can you tell I'm insecure? I feel the process of working in a traditional system would be best for a newbie like me.

A fool can spend his own money to self publish garbage. I don't think agents and publishers are foolish enough to spend their money publishing some one elses garbage

For me, it's also validation. I KNOW I'm a good writer - but I feel like a publisher/agent would help me make it better accepted--and a better book.

I also can't afford to put the necessary money into self-publication.

So far, I've only managed to get through half the responses to your question about why we'd still choose to go for traditional publishing and, at the risk of sounding sappy, I agree with everything everyone's said in favour of traditional publishing.The word 'validation' comes up a lot. We work hard at staying buoyant, but the insecurity demon is always lurking. For me the 'v' word is key.

Joanne, much of Mark Twain's work was self-published. Do you view him differently because of that? He also hired a team of door-to-door salesmen to sell his books.

Because I want the validation that I'm good enough, and I'll never know if I was good enough if I didn't do it. And I'm the kind of person who is patient enough and willing to keep working enough, and who believes determination will help me accomplish my goals, so I have no problem if it takes years to get there.

If I self-published first, I'd never know if I was good enough. I'd be embarrassed at the possibility that I might be putting out substandard work, and more than anything, I wouldn't feel like I'd actually succeeded at this goal I've worked at for so many years.

For less emotional reasons, because I can't afford to self-publish, I don't believe I have what it takes to successfully market myself to the extent that I could sell well, and because I want my book to be carried in bookstores and be available to a wide audience. I also am not comfortable taking that kind of risk on a book I've worked so hard on. If I self-publish and fail, that book is basically dead in the water (unless I can manage to get famous at some point in the future, and really, how often does that happen?). I'm pretty confident in my skills, but I don't want to start at a disadvantage. I'd rather give my book the best chance it possibly has first, and if I can't manage that, then I see it as a statement that my book isn't good enough or professional enough yet, so I need to keep working and learning until it is.

I want to be published in the traditional sense because anyone can self-publish. I (perhaps vainly) want the affirmation that comes from having an agent/editor say - you're good enough for me to take a chance on. I need to go through those gatekeepers to know that I've reached that level of professionalism that means I've 'made it' so to speak.
I know people who have self-published for really great reasons and done very well with it, and others who self-publish because they're afraid to send it and possibly be rejected. That's fine for them - but for me, I want to be published as a marker that I'm good enough to call myself a novelist or author.

I am pursuing traditional publishing for several reasons. Sure, it's partly validation that I was able to make it through the slush. But it's also because after my first novel was out being rejected, I moved to a new book and in that process saw tons of mistakes in my first. The process of rejection has made me a stronger storyteller, and I would not have had it with the self-gratification of self publishing.

Also, it's for the team. Agents know the business, they know their job. Some people are capable of self-publishing and breaking out quickly with a platform. I am not one of those people.

As an analogy, I'd rather make the jump tandem with an experienced skydiver, than go it alone.

I am pursuing publication through the traditional route because I want the chance to have a print distribution, and I think it's somewhat easier to develop a following since you have the stamp of approval of a name house. BUT I don't need a traditional publisher to "validate" my writing.

Traditional publishers go for the books they believe they can sell. Not the one's that are necessarily the highest quality. I believe in my writing, and for the first time, I believe indie publishing may become a real option for me if the NY houses reject my work.

I'm pursuing the traditional route with Rachelle as my agent because I want my career to be a marathon instead of a sprint and as much as I thought I knew everything, I don't. A guide (an agent) through the process who can help me where I'm weak and applaud where I'm strong has helped me to focus and raise my game. Self-publishing, for me, would have indulged my weaknesses and I would have wondered why I kept hitting a ceiling. It's not just about the writing.

Because traditional is legit. Anyone can self-pub. I want to be counted among the few (or many) that find a house.

J.M. Cornwall: It's not relevant to compare today's "self pub" with writers of the past such as Mark Twain who started by self-publishing.

In their case, history has proven the enduring quality of these writers' work. Validation has come from generations of readers.

We can safely assume that many other writers self-pubbed in Mark Twain's day. We don't know about them because their work didn't prove itself popular with thousands (now millions) of people like Twain's did.

In the end, it's still all about validation and whether the readers like our work and choose to buy it, read it, and recommend it to others. Whether we are pursuing traditional or self-pub, we each choose the route we think will be most effective at helping us reach these goals.

"We can safely assume that many other writers self-pubbed in Mark Twain's day. We don't know about them because their work didn't prove itself popular with thousands (now millions) of people like Twain's did."

I think, Rachelle, the above refutes your comment to me about self-publishing. Many writers self-published in Twain's day and do so now, but the good writers will be remembered. It takes time, good writing, good stories and a lot of perseverance to get to the top. The real validation, for all that traditional publishing offers, is in being read and remembered, and having thousands, and hopefully millions, read your work. However that happens, it counts.

The traditional route is my first choice for many of the reasons already mentioned. I want my product to be the best it can be. It is nonfiction and hopefully will be used for ministry. Having skilled sets of eyes making sure it is on the level both technically and spiritually is key for me. Also I like the benefits of being on store shelves, and book stores having easier access to the book. The downside for me is the "back of the room" sales which I believe will be huge and perhaps less of an advantage financially for me. But this first one is not about the money. Thanks for asking the question. more to think about!

Why I am pursuing traditional publishing:

1) It's the best fit for my project, in terms of market, material, editing, packaging, distribution, and audience.

2) It's the best fit for me. I work extremely well as part of a creative team; it's what I do every day.

3) I very much respect professionals - agents, editors, graphic artists, PR experts, etc. - and I know I simply cannot do their jobs (or even supervise/ project manage their jobs) and still produce my best writing. Noooo way.

That said, I'm very open to innovations in publishing, such as e-books and/or books with more web integration. And who's to say - someday, I might come up with a different project and self-publishing will be the right route for that. You don't ever know.

My main goal is to continue building a solid, professional career in the company of other professionals whom I admire and respect, and in the service of an industry that I very much believe in... the art of telling stories.

I think my reason that I'm pursuing traditional publishing boils down to this: there is a level of quality that comes from that team effort where everyone has a vested interest that rarely shows itself in the self-publishing world.

Think of some of your own posts. When does a writer's work really start? Often when a manuscript has been accepted for representation or publication. No one produces a perfect manuscript, and as soon as you get feedback from others, you're going to have to change something to make it better. When you self-publish, you miss out on this honing process. Plus you miss out on all the team experience available for a person who is going the traditional route.

Self-publishers get a fee. Since they have their money up front, and there is little incentive for them to give you a selling cover, a selling interior, etc.

Plus, I like the challenge of making the cut. That means something.

Personal pet peeve (by the way): It really bugs me when an author tells me she's a published author, but then I find out that she's a self-published author.

There is a vast difference, in my eyes, because I've found very few self-published books (if any) that meet with the quality of the traditionally published books. I've found some I liked, but I could see huge flaws in the content and also the presentation. The only thing that saved them was the writer's voice.

I want my book to be the best that it can be. And I know that traditional publishing will help me achieve that goal. I can't do it all by myself, and I'm certainly not going to try.

1) I have certain personal standards of professionalism that I want to be sure are met. Having an agent or publisher take me on serves as an objective sign post that my work is finally ready. Gatekeepers are there for a reason.

2) I want to prove to my extended family that writing is a job to be taken seriously. Traditional publishing shows that someone believes my work is valuable enough to invest money and time in. As sad as it is, I hope that will earn a modicum of respect for what I do.

3) I’ve read too many self-published books with a great concept but poor writing, and it makes me sad to think what they could have been if they’d waited.

There are plenty of traditionally published writers who go on to self-publish for many reasons. For me, after having thirteen books traditionally published (anthologies and novels), I wanted to see how the other half lives.

I like having more control and being able to choose my cover. I had no say in any of the covers for the traditionally published books. I did, however, have one thing that most beginning self-published writers don't have and don't take the time to get, a good editor, one I've worked with for years.

Not all self-published books are poorly done and badly put together, as evidenced by the proof of my new novel, which looks as good as any traditionally published book. And not all traditionally published books are without errors or problems, as I can attest from my own experience as a reviewer for Authorlink, and I have reviewed nearly 300 books in the past 7 years.

However, that wouldn't stop me going with a traditional publisher who saw merit in my work and offered me the right deal. I decided I was tired of waiting after too many personal rejections that included comments where the agents/editors were really enthusiastic about the book but not enthusiastic enough, or they loved the book and the story, but just didn't see it as a good fit. I was complimented on my writing and the story line, as well as the execution (plot, characters, etc.), but no one wanted to take a chance, so I took the chance for myself.

Sometimes the validation isn't enough when people like Snooki (SP?) and an MTV reality TV star get the star treatment and good books written by authors with solid track records are ignored. Validation comes in many forms, including self-publishing.

I agree about disagreeing with those two disagreeable statements, Rachelle. ;) Back when TV was invented, many gloom-and-doomers predicted the death knell of movie theaters. More than half a century later, we still have movie theaters all over this country (even though we did eventually lose most of the drive-ins). So, sure, things always change, but not as drastically as the forecasters think.

Why do I like being published in the traditional way? I stand with those who understand that the Good Ship of Publishing is far from sinking. It hasn't even hit an iceberg. Some wannabe passengers who can't earn the ticket have opted for sailboats, speedboats, or even rowboats as alternatives on their personal voyages, but for now I'll stick to the tried and true cruise liners, thank you.

After going through the publishing process for the first time, I cannot imagine trying to do big revisions, line edits, copy edits, proofreading, cover design, and marketing alone. And beyond all that, there is no way my work would be what it is without the careful prodding and praise of my editor and the many hands that have had a role in the process.

Rachelle,

I am pursuing traditional publishing for one main reason and for one secondary reason.

Primary: I care more about getting my 'message' out to the broader Christian audience than I do about making more than 10 percent per book purchase. My dream is not about making big bucks, if that was the case I would have gone into a profession that isn't pastoral ministry :-)

Secondary: I believe that with a publisher comes credibility. It means that they have chosen to partner with someone they believe in. There are too many self-published titles out there that are well... no good. Unedited. Uninspired. And the "un's" could go on. But I believe that credibility goes a long way.

Great post and no... publishing is not dead, for if it is... one of my dreams may die as well!

I have every sympathy with most of these comments, and have seen some truly terrible self published books. On the other hand, I have also read some seriously badly written traditionally published books. I can only comment from my personal experience as a writer, and friend of the writer whose book I decided eventually to publish myself. This after doing the round of agents and publishers on her behalf (she is incapacitated by a stroke) Kathleen is a former prize winning historical novelist, so I thought that it would be easy to find her an agent. Not so- and I was assured by the various agents I contacted that this was nothing to do with the quality of her writing. In the end, I decided to form my own publishing company, using PoD but a scaled down model of traditional publishing: I invested the money and time- employed an editor and a designer and undertook promotion and some very limited local distribution as I live in the area which is the book's setting. After just over a month, I have nearly covered my outlay, although I am unlikely ever to get paid for my time! This isn't SELF publishing, strictly speaking, as I am not the author, and am able to be a gate-keeper for what Trifolium Books UK publishes, but it isn't really traditional publishing either. PoD made it financially viable for me to do it is all! I do understand the desire of a writer for external and disinterested validation, but it is with books, reading and publication as with everything else- we are grown up now, and can make our own judgement: just as I can now read Lady Chatterly's Lover and judge it to be a not very good book- in fact somewhat dull and over-written, certainly not DHL's best, so can we all judge each book, self published or traditionally published, on its merits. For Kindle e-books, you can and should always download a sample three chapters. You will at least find out if the author can write. Many print books also have a see inside option on Amazon too- this is more reliable than reviews as far as quality of writing goes. "Caveat emptor"- at least emptors now have a real choice, not one decided for us by nanny publishers!

Fatboy said: A fool can spend his own money to self publish garbage. I don't think agents and publishers are foolish enough to spend their money publishing some one elses garbage

For the record, I didn't spend a dime "self-publishing." Plus, before you consider calling it garbage, please read it.

As for agents/publishers foolishly spending their money on "some one elses (sic)" garbage...well, I read enough trad-published books to know better.

I did NOT intend this post to trash self-publishing or start having cat-fights across the aisle. The sole purpose here is for people to talk about the reasons they're pursuing traditional publishing, and I don't think you have to demean those who choose self-pub to do that.

Getting published "traditionally" is my goal for three reasons: getting space on bookstore shelves, the possibility of a little bit of help with marketing, and the perceived credibility of having been published. Self-published books are sooo difficult if not impossible to get into bookstores. I know that getting a publisher is no guarantee but it still is a better shot than self-published.

And as for the quality of books being better if they are published traditionally, I think that's utter nonsense. I have read quite a few books from traditional publishers that were garbage. Look at some of these books by celebrities or politicians - ugh! And established writers come out with some dogs too (sorry for that analogy, my canine friends) which we know were published just because of the writer's name and reputation.

I believe that there's a place for both traditional and self-publishing and it's up to the author to determine which best suits him or her and the project.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Sorry, Rachelle. I didn't think my reply constituted a "cat fight" -- just responding to someone who was obviously "demeaning" self-publishing. But, not to worry. I'll just continue to lurk and keep my "disagreement is welcome" comments to myself.

1) I'm already self-employed in another field. I want to use that experience to help my book, but I don't want to be the only one on the team.

2) My best writer-buddy spent TWO YEARS significantly revising his book, first before his agent would take it, then before his agent would submit it. I read it in several incarnations, and it's a better book now. It's the best book he could write at this time in his life. A major publisher picked it up, and guess what? Almost no revisions from them, because he'd already made it as good as possible. Charlaine Harris blurbed it. It's getting released at a good time of year. The cover is beautiful. AND IT'S GOOD.

I want that for my book. I want someone to push me - someone who has the power to say no to me - to make the best book I can, and complement my best efforts with theirs, so that my book will be the best I can write at that time.

My buddy's agent died, and he's not screwed, because she set up great things for him and it was easy for him to get another agent and his publisher's committed to him. I want that, too.

It's all about having someone with the power to say no, not good enough yet. I've read comments (here and elsewhere) from people who express strong resentment that the publishing world is a world of no. But that's what makes yes so worthwhile. And it's hard to accept that our best efforts may not be good enough to get to yes, but it makes the yeses sweeter for those who get them. (Life's not fair and neither is publishing)

I think those who are slamming self-pubbing haven't read very much outside of the box. I've recently been reading several indie authors and LOVED them! The books were well written and well edited.

I am pursuing traditional publishing because I want my books to be in stores across the country. I want people who actually still read PAPER books to have access to them. As hard as it is for "us" to believe, everybody isn't glued to FB, twitter and the interwebs all day everyday! I am a newspaper columnist and I meet readers consistently who don't know that I have a blog or even know what a blog is. They want BOOKS. They want to be able to tell their friends where they can buy my books.

That said, if my agent (and I do have one) came to me tomorrow and said she couldn't sell my books traditionally, I would pursue self-pubbing with gusto. I believe in myself. Go big or go home! :)

Once my manuscripts are ready to be published, I plan to pursue traditional publishing. I have numerous reasons why--many of them listed by posters above.

Perhaps the primary reason I plan to seek traditional publishing is the wide perception that self-published books are not up to the same standards or as respected. Whether true or not, I don't want my hard work thought of in such a way.

I feel there are exceptional authors in both categories. Labels can be unfair and hurtful.

Thanks for the thought-provoking question. Fabulous post.

I want the validation. To know that someone besides my husband and my mom thinks I should write books.

An awful lot of what I see that is self-published/e-book is a lot of awful.

I cannot count the number of self-published books or e-books that are well-constructed stories, because I have not come across one yet.

There are a lot of published novels that are not beautiful or lovely or great, but they mostly meet the bar of consistency and form.

I don't see much difference between self-published book or e-books and fanfic.

Now, the caveat is that the self-published or e-book that stands on its own has been, in my experience, uniformly bad.

The e-book that is based upon an existing, published book is, of course, as good as the original.

The "traditional" publishing process serves to be a gatekeeper between the truly awful and the merely unwanted.

I've carefully considered both options, weighing the pros and cons. I have opted to pursue traditional publishing, but I also have great respect for anyone pursuing self-pub. It's hard work. Honestly, if they can succeed at it, it is an admirable achievement. I'm not knocking it. There's more than one way to do something right.

It's not about validation for me, but an extra set of eyes is always welcome so that I can put out my best work. I don't read e-books...yet, but I can tell you that there are plenty of books in print that have errors in them. I'm eager to touch readers with my writing, but I'm a writer, a storyteller, not a publisher. Let's keep it that way. I'm also a team player. I like having someone at my back helping out with the dirty work and sharing in my joy.

Times are changing, so is the quality of writing. Sadly, I see more of that with texting taking over. Kids are completing job applications in text form. Huh, I cringe if I can't locate the puntuations marks on my phone.

Marketing. Editing. Promoting. Distributing. Le's see, with day job, family, writing, why don't I just give up sleep?

My queen bee of all reasons: I have been "co-published," and I am far less than pleased with the results.

I prefer traditional publishing because I don't want to navigate the publishing waters alone. I want someone who's in my corner and who has my best interest at heart. I also think the final product is more tangible.

I urge anyone who considers self-published books uniformly bad to read literary agent Jenny Bent’s take on the subject:

http://jennybent.blogspot.com/2011/04/think-of-me-as-conduit-not-gatekeeper.html#comment-form

A lot of those “bad” self-published eBooks you see may have been written by authors who came really close to getting published. However, for some reason, a publishing house decided that their book didn’t have mass appeal (and I think that Bent summed up the reasons very nicely – these books were either too “quiet” or too quirky). If you dismiss these authors, you could be depriving yourself of the best book you’ve read this year. ☺

There’s room in the publishing business for everyone. IMHO, self-publishing should be a business decision, nothing else.

I'm bad at marketing. I'm bad at selling. I'm quiet and have a small voice.
This is why I write, it's the only place my voice is loud and bold and uninhibited. My voice finally matches my ideas.
In fact, the hardest part of traditional publishing is selling myself to an agent.
I need help. My big ideas and big thoughts need a big voice. Mine won't do.
(Now I just need to find that one agent who can hear my voice and give it all I've got!)

Kathy T- Cynthia H and many others- having someone on your side, but also looking in a cool critical way at your work is certainly one of the advantages of traditional publishing, and I have to say that my decision to "go indie" was taken after I had looked at, and rejected various self-pubbing channels, from YouWriteOn, through Lulu to extremely exploitative and expensive "packages" presented as if they were real publishing. In the UK, you HAVE to be a publisher to buy isbns and to use Lightning Source. And as one American correspondent warned me- it wasn't for the faint hearted. The amount of sheer hard work involved means that I would not take on any book which I didn't believe to be very well written, well constructed and of weight and quality. I suppose in that respect i am like any other publisher, except that, working on a smaller scale, I can afford to take risks with more unusual books, which perhaps have a minority readership.

I was always one of those super shy kids who had to be invited to a party formally before I would consider going. I could never, ever invite myself. That has carried over into adulthood, especially as it pertains to publishing. The traditional route means I'm being invited to the party.

However, I absolutely respect people who choose to self-publish. I read two short story compilations this year that were both self-published and they were quite good.

Thank you for keeping up such an awesome blog, Rachelle. First time commenting, but I read every day.

BTW- thank you to Rachelle and all commentators for stimulating ideas. This has certainly made me think hard about what I do, and has made me define it to myself more exactly. Good luck to all of you out there, and er-- my list is full!

I want to produce the best books I can and get them to as many readers as possible.

There has been so much on the Internet lately about self-publishing. I wouldn't rule it out for myself, if I don't make it in traditional publishing and IF (only if) I could guarantee the quality of my books.

I am sure there are good self-published books out there, but I haven't read them. I'm NOT trying to be snarky. I simply have a huge TBR pile. I don't have a problem finding more than enough good books through traditional publishing venues, so I'm not looking elsewhere. (If one of my fave authors self-published something, sure, I'd take a chance. As others have said, it's about platform. Also, I would hope it would be the highest quality.)

As a former book reviewer in the mid-2000s, I received many self-published books. The best of them were what I would call "sort of okay," and that's not good enough.

As I've followed various debates on this issue the past few weeks, I keep coming back to this: I'm afraid that many (not all) self-published authors simply do not realize what it takes to write and revise a good novel or nonfiction work.

Again, I'm not trying to put anybody down and hope that I'm not misunderstood, but I've read comments from people who say "I've worked really hard" and "this is my dream." I don't think they're lying, I just don't think they have anyone in their lives pushing them to do better; perhaps they haven't had the experience of having someone push them beyond what they thought they were capable of. I had this in graduate school, and am grateful. However, I will be paying off my MFA student loans for many, many years. (Do I think you have to have an MFA to make it? Absolutely not. Of course, that's a whole other topic. But it does show that I am committed, not just to random publishing, but to craft.)

Many of us who want to break into traditional publishing also are working hard to make our dreams come true. Sometimes it can seem as if some self-published people are just looking for a shortcut, and that rankles. Why? Because books and stories and literature are important.

A few years ago when I was working in electronic games, I walked into a store and saw on the shelf a copy of the game I'd just worked on.

I did that, I told myself. That's my game.

Then someone came by, took the box off the shelf, and bought it.

There's no cooler feeling. That feeling paid for months of long hours and frustration on my next project.

That's what I want from trad pub. It's not the supposed mark of quality (I mean, Snooki?) or the marketing team I probably won't get or the relationship with an editor I probably won't have. I want to watch a real person not related to me take my book off a shelf and plunk down real money for it. It's a better rush than crack, and it's legal.

Lance, I thought you were going to say something about "...and then I didn't earn as much as if I had produced it myself," or something. Anyway, yes, cool.

Melissa: Thank you for the link to Jenny Bent's blog. It's a great companion piece to Rachelle's post and all of these comments.

I agree with Jenny Bent in that I hate that elitist attitude. (I'm a Midwestern Girl who spent 10 years writing for New York magazine editors, where I experienced a bit of that.) When I think of the gatekeeping role in publishing, I think of it more in terms of quality. (Even when a Reality Star publishes traditionally, you hope that there won't be tons of typos or grammatical mistakes.)

I'm also excited about all the new things happening today--with traditional publishers and others. I think there are a lot of cool opportunities for writers and readers. Again, the bottom line for me is quality. Every story isn't for every reader, but I believe every book (e-book or paper) should meet certain standards for grammar, story-telling, formatting, etc.

Kellye- thanks for that! I agree; the bottom line IS quality- impeccable sentence construction, appropriate vocabulary, and good spelling and punctuation

Traditional publishing appeals to me because I don't want to feel like I'm in it "alone." I like the idea of having a team of experts supporting me and helping me to make my book its best.

I'm pursuing it because I want to know my work is of professional quality. I want to know that I meet the standards required by professional publishers. If I don't make it, I will have learned a lot and if I do make it, I will know it's by God's grace and a lot of hard work.

Since I had a book that appealed to a niche market, I have already tried self-publishing (with WinePress, a great company). However, I am pursuing traditional publishing now because I am writing books with broader appeal and because I am not good at marketing my own books. I need help in the areas of marketing and distribution.

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because:

1) I will not feel fully validated as a writer until I have published a novel with a traditional publisher. For me, self-publishing would be an admission of failure.

2) I want my work to be professionally edited, designed, and marketed, and I cannot afford to pay for those services myself.

3) Related to (2), I want a team on my side. I don't want to be all alone out there in that dog-eat-dog world.

Traditional publishing...what's that?

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because my genre (Regency romance) is glutted...and I don't have the time to do all my marketing myself, without the name of one of the big 6 behind me. I'd just feel much more comfortable calling stores and doing marketing for myself if I can say it's published by (*wishful thinking*) Avon or Berkley.

I don't mind doing marketing, but the self-promotion is just that much harder if you're self-published.

So I post my reasons for wanting a traditional publishing deal on Twitter/Facebook, and am immediately told I need to follow two well known authors who advocate self-publishing.

*sigh*

Hmmm! Excellent question.

Traditional publishing for me because
1. I want to be that good. I may have a longer journey because of it but I want to learn what I need to know and apply myself to the discipline as well as the creative process.

2. I am not the best at marketing and sales so I want support in that endeavor.

3. I would like accountability. Someone (my agent and/or publisher hopefully) who knows me and can challenge me as well as enourage me and maybe even help me see outside of my own little flashlight circle. Two flashlights are always better than one. :)

However, I am intrigued by the small publishing houses (one I'm thinking of is recognized by ACFW- not a vanity press but a small corp.) that publishes books by demand not in mass. It targets online booksellers (which is the direction book sales seem to be going) and a target audience.

The reasons I would consider going that route are
1. because there is still the accountability, the need to write a good book etc.
2. I actually like the fact that you don't get a bonus for yet to be sold books. Instead you make only what is sold. I don't like the idea of a book bonus (I know I'm nuts) but it makes me feel like I'm indebted.

I guess this is just me thinking out loud. I'll stop. Thanks for asking the question, Rachelle

In all honesty, traditional publishing is my dream. It always has been. I want the backing of a professional team (agent, editor, publisher) behind me...or in front of me for that matter. I need the wisdom and guidance of such a team. It would take too much away from my writing to go it any other way.

I prefer traditional publishing to validate my writing and receive support and promotion of my book.

I regret publishing with a vanity publisher (POD) a few years ago, but didn't know much about publishing a book at the time. Since then, I've researched and also find your blog interesting and informative.

Because I equate self publishing with being fleeced by dishonest agents and publishers. The field has zero governance, and authors, new and old but especially new, are prey to scams.
Writer Beware can only do so much, and they are up against it, in many ways.
Also, what do you mean by self publishing? Ebooks? The ones for 99¢?
Well, shut my mouth.
Why bother working for months or years writing a book? Create something funny, frightening, insightful, useful, only to discover it's valued at less than one dollar. That increasingly, readers begrudge that 99¢. Like tunes after the napster era, books should be F R E E.
The lure of self publishing is the cachet of the word "published." Sounds much nicer than saying, "Oh, I write a blog! You want my website address?"
Please.
Publishers, by and large, will not accept unsolicited manuscripts. So newbies need an agent. That's why we read blogs written by agents or staff, thinking free advice and suggestions might help us get published.
As if ...
I would want an agent who isn't writing a blog (with an eye to getting published one day).
Meanwhile, agents are overwhelmed, jaded, cynical, or playing Farmville.
There are less and less readers. That ain't doom n gloom, that is fact. Getting published has become an ever diminishing game of musical chairs to see who becomes this years Grace Metalious, Harold Robbins, Jacqueline Susann.
Authors we don't read any more.

So many reasons. Number one, I LOVE BOOKS, I do not enjoy the e-readers other devices, I prefer to hold the real thing. Books meant life and escape to me, and I spent most of my childhood with my nose buried in a book. The smell and feel of books have not been emulated by e-readers.

Number two - I've read a lot of bad self-published books, there are very few professional books that are self-published.

Number Three - If you have a good story, it needs to be well told. Dealing with agents and publishers and their guidance will help my story evolve to the best it can be.

Number Four - There is still way to much that I don't know about publishing and using professionals will help me to get my material to a wider audience.

Number Five - don't re-invent the wheel.

Besides, I think it would be awesome working with an agent and sharpening the words in a book.

I hope you have an awesome weekend.
Heather

Would you consider Tate Publishing self-publishing or traditional--even though they do require you obtain a marketing agent?

I've been offered a contract by them, twice (about a year ago & then today I was contacted again). I'd like to be published traditionally. For the same reasons mentioned--good quality editing, an agent/publisher (other than me) who love it, and wide marketing opportunities.

With my partner, I've self-published two books reasonably successfully (before the e-publishing revolution). Marketing and selling were the aspects I disliked the most. I self-published a magazine (print) for seven years. Selling advertising was the most difficult aspect.

I'm e-published by The Wild Rose Press and have found their editors to be wonderful - particularly the most recent editor who worked with me to polish an 11,000-word Regency. I learnt so much during this process.

With e-publishing, marketing is once again the most difficult aspect, although I do enjoy online marketing much more than cold-calling in person or by telephone.

I've been traditionally published with short stories in magazines and two series of oral histories for children.

So I've had a go at everything. Do I want to be a traditionally published novelist? Yes. It still seems the most credible way to be published. I'd love to see my novels in retailers, to receive my package of complimentary books, to sign them and give them to the people who've helped me along the way, to stack them on the bookshelves beside my desk.

I love printed material - books, magazines, newspapers - even junk mail. I can no more imagine a world without books than I can a world without bees or frogs. If some of those books could be written by me and stacked on readers' bookshelves I'd feel validated as a 'proper' novelist.

I'm still going for the trad publishing route, but if my agent doesn't find me a publisher, I'll self publish on ebook.

I want to publish with a traditional house because I am not a sales person. oh I can promote my books and do but I do not want 200+ boxes showing up on my door step waiting for me to go door-to-door pushing my wares. I believe editors, agents,illustrators and me, an author all do our jobs to our very best, working as a team we will produce the best possible book.

When all's said and done, mainstream publishing still carries a hard-won, well-deserved credibility and acceptance that self-publishing, no matter how good the material within, will never achieve.

When someone tells me they have a book published I go," Wow!" But when they add that they published it themselves I mutter, "oh," and lose interest. My dog could self publish-if I lent him the money.

I want, "Wows!" for my novels! And "Wow!" in my own heart.

Thank you for this post, Rachelle! :)

I'm pursuing traditional publishing because, if it is God's will, I want to share this story He has given me with others, for His glory and to remind others of His love for them. :)

~Amber

I definitely admire anyone who self-publishes his or her writing, because it requires a lot of work. But I don't think that I could do that, especially because I don't really know anything about publishing; I'm afraid I might do something wrong and it would have a negative impact on my book.

One word: Validation.

Kellye,

I totally agree on you on the quality concern. It irritates me to no end that some “writers” are treating self-publishing (e-Pub) like a get-rich scheme. Flood the market with masses of sub-par books (penny dreadfuls), and cash in on people who don’t know any better? That’s so unethical. And so is this:

http://www.publishingtrends.com/2011/03/the-kindle-swindle/

(BTW, I’m amazed that no agent or legitimate self-publisher has blogged about this topic; it’s relevant. Highly relevant – to all of us who purchase eBooks.)

When Amazon, et. al figure out a way to prevent people from “gaming” the system, only then I would consider e-publishing a viable method of delivery. That hasn’t happened yet.

I originally planned on self-publishing, but I realized that it is not the proper route for my novel. I would like the message in my work to reach a wider audience, and since my professional job is not in publishing I know I need help with it.

Although I have not shut the door on self-publishing, it will be my last resort.

I want my novel published by a traditional print publisher, so I can be sure it's deserving of publication. I'm totally happy if the publisher decides to digitally publish it too, but I still believe that a traditional publisher will not put anything to their imprint unless they're satisfied it's of the highest merit and quality.

I'm sure many self-published books go through rigorous editing too, but I think a traditionally published book offers an implied level of quality and editing.

Walking into a bookstore and seeing my novel physically on the shelf is the stuff of dreams. Also my novel holds broad appeal, and I could never market it adequately myself by self-publishing, and couldn’t guess how anyone would find it as an e-book without a name or publisher backing.

I’ll feel much more validated and supported in getting out there and promoting my book for all I’m worth with the blessing of a traditional publisher behind me.

I don’t believe publishing is dying. Changing, definitely. Publishers/traditional publishing will change to meet the needs of readers, but I think it is far too premature to sound the death knell yet.

I am pursuing publishing because I respect publishers and all the expertise there. I want my book to be published by those experts.

I am pursuing traditional publishing for the credibility it brings, and the opportunity to reach other audiences than I could on my own. I also would enjoy being a partner with a traditional house in promoting my work.

Really interesting to read the varying viewpoints and reasons for them. Thanks for inviting this conversation.

I am pursuing traditional publishing because as both a librarian who purchases books and an author, I see a higher standard of quality in the writing, marketing, and general design of traditionally published material. I have been burned more than once with self-published materials that were full of errors and poorly constructed. Now I only purchase traditional materials. I want my own book to hold up to those standards as well.

Because I want to make a business of it. Traditional publishing gives me the best chance of that, because an agent will know the ropes. Also, with self-publishing, there are a ton of marketing decisions that have to be made, and I'm not an expert on that. Publishing houses have marketing departments that will pick a better title (because mine isn't so great) and a fantastic cover, and my agent will give me invaluable advice about, well, everything.

Oops. Long post, but self-publishing just isn't an option for me. Thanks!

Marie

Melissa, thank you for that link to "The Kindle Swindle." That is amazing, and you're right: It's an important topic for people in publishing to be talking about. This is the first I've heard of it! Going to post where I can. (would love to get in touch with you...if you're on twitter I'm at @kelcrocker)

Anybody can self-publish. Not everything that is self-published is good. Not everyone can traditional publish. Not everything that is traditionally published is good.

As a first time novelist, who doesn't understand the business of publishing very well, I need a strong support network. I want a professional helping me with the process, because I've worked really hard and I don't want to screw this up! I think if you are a seasoned author and you know the business very well self-publishing is a great option for you, especially if you already have a loyal fan base that will follow you along to the digital world. But for a new author, I'm not sure that putting my book up on Amazon and seeing it as #120,000 in their ranking would do for me.

And then lets talk about my ego. I want to walk into a bookstore and see my book on the shelf. I want my kids to pick up a physical book with Mom's name on it and be proud of me. I'm just not sure I will get the same sense of satisfaction seeing a digital thumbnail of my cover online.

I grew up in a town without a library or a bookstore, and I longed for books. I still do. I love them. I love holding them, reading them, seeing them in my home. Books are my favorite decorating item. I spend a lot of time at the computer. When I relax, I want the friendship of a printed book. I love working with an agent, an editor and the joy of book signings where you meet new people who appreciate what you've written.
Last but not least, I would like to lend my support to an agent by writing a book he/she can sell and my bookstore or library can add to its shelves.

I just attended the Florida Christian Writers Conference and the best advice I received about self publishing and traditional publishing from an editor was to let God guide your decision. That way you will never go wrong!

Rachelle - I sent a message to WordServe re: your response to my comment. Hope you get it; if not - in essence - it is a heartfelt "thank you"...:-)

Quality control. Traditional publishing means the book has been 1)approved by someone who knows a little something about writing.
2)edited by someone who knows a lot about writing
3)printed/marketed/placed so that it has the best chance to be sold to a wide range of readers, everywhere. (as in not just on the internet or from my garage)

It used to be that writers had to put some effort out to earn the right to the title of author. I've put that work out. I've cried over crappy manuscripts and studied until I understood these rules that seem to be optional to others. To self publish, to me, is taking the easy way out. "I don't want to wait, the editor will ruin my book, I want all of the money and not just a fraction, etc" are all just excuses for "I don't want to wait until I'm good enough."

It's frustrating and yes, I'm about fed up with this agent hunting. after 100 or so rejections, it wears on a person. But I know I can write, I know what I have is worth reading, and I'm not selling myself short by publishing it myself.

Despite the current trends to e- and self-publishing, I need to try the traditional publishing route for my own personal goal. I feel like jumping right to self-publishing without going to traditional route first is a cop out. It's like you (general you, not directed to anyone here) don't have enough faith in yourself or in your work, so you just get it out there however you can.

I've tried self-publishing and I didn't like it. I want a publisher behind me and professionals who know what they are talking about.

Holy Canoly!! I hope you've take a week off to read these comments, Rachelle. Did you have any idea you'd pushed such a Hot Button? (Sure you did.)

I hope for traditional publishing because I want "smart friends" to help me make my book the best it can be and then stick their foot in the slamming doors, shouting my name!! : D

In addition to the fact that traditional publishing is... well... just plan cool, one major reason I'm pursuing traditional publishing is that I'm seeking the support and covering only a publisher can provide.

My thinking is that if I can't find a publisher, my book is probably not yet ready for the market.
-Ashley Clark

see the validation comment here, and I agree with it. But I wonder if people really understand the implications. We want validation, because we consider self-published novels 'not validated' - not up to scratch.

I've read through the slush pile of Authonomy and OWW and other online writing groups. There's an awful lot of dreck out there. We all know, we've all read it. So the bottom line is, we as readers rely on the publishing industry to sort through that dreck and find the nuggets of gold. I don't know about you, but I'd rather pay $10 to $20 for a published novel that I know has been through the process than lay down .99c for dreck.

And because of that reasoning, I want my work to be gold, not dreck. I want my work to be good enough to be paid for - to have the rush someone else was talking about when someone laid down good money for my hard work.

I don't want to call myself 'published' because I practically gave away my work in desperation. I want to call myself published - and actually be published by a big house - I want to be good enough for that.

I would like traditional publishing because of what it offers me. I don't know all the grammar rules (GASP!) and sometimes I need someone else to look at my piece and critique it. I like the fact of people behind me, whether or not its an Agent/editor/publishing house. I need the reassurance that my book is actually publishable and not something that I want published. I suppose it just comes down to what others think. If I wanted the book to be published just to be published that would work, but I want people in the business to respect my work.

I want to be traditionally published because when I say I've had books published it will seem more worthwill. No offence and I'm NOT saying it's all bad because that isn't true but ANYTHING, no matter how poorly written, can be self-published.

I want to be traditionally published because I want the professional affirmation and sense of "legitimacy." Also because I don't have the time to do it all on my own. Sure, I know I'll have to devote a lot of time to publishing and marketing even with a traditional publisher. But at least there will be some resources to help me, more resources than if I self-published.

If I was a killer heavy metal guitarist I wouldn't want my biggest venue to be YouTube.

If I painted in oils I wouldn't want my work stuck in thirty dollar a night hotel rooms.

I don't get into things to lose or to get that 'good enough' badge.

I write. I'm not a salesman, marketing consultant, editor, imaginary entourage or any of that. Other people are better at those tasks anyway, probably with the same degree of focus as I have with my preffered life.

I don't want a book I could have run off a copier, stuck to my fridge with a magnet like a grade school arts and craft project using macaroni, glitter and construction paper.

I want that immortal foot print left behind.

Call it ego, call it exhibitionist, call it narcissistic...I do love it so, though.

I'm going to agree with comments. I don't want a self-pubbed book that seems unedited or isn't even a decent product. I've read pieces of Amazon self-pub books, and they would NEVER make it in a real bookstore. Obviously, this isn't for every book out there, just what I've read. I want a career, not a one-hit-wonder Amazon thrill of a try.

Ok, so I'm not going to read anyone else's comments so I'm being perfectly honest with WHY I'm pursuing traditional publishing. I have several reasons:
1. They know how to market the book to the readership it suits
2. Traditional publishers can get the book into more hands, more places
3. They make WAY COOLER book covers (I'm a sucker for a good cover)
4. But my primary reason, is working in the traditional industry opens a network of people who KNOW the industry, KNOW writing, KNOW good editing and can enhance my book and make it and its message better.

What a great post and thank you for sharing your story. It's really wonderful to get some insight and also to really learn about how writing is as much about faith as it is about talent and hard work. Shannon Hale, author of children's and adult books, also just posted about rejection letters over at her website, and this post speaks to that one, I think: http://tinyurl.com/3dz8l2y

You had me at "female journalist."

And your book trailer made me cry. In a good way, though. It was just so poignant. I think my mom would love your book -- this is right up her alley.

As a little girl I wanted to be a war reporter so I will definitely be buying this book. Thank you for the great post.

Very helpful post. I think many of us can relate to the struggle to let manuscripts go, especially if it's something we've been working on for years. I've definitely become attached to the stories I've written, which would make it even harder for me to shelve them. But like you said, sometimes it's necessary to let them go or rewrite them.

That's so encouraging, thank you. What a great story to share for those of us embarking on getting published for the first time. I've stored this story away in my head, for whatever lays ahead for me.

sallynapthali.com.au

Splendid post! Thanks.

I've written three and a half novels which are 'different' - try to explain 'christian-ghost-love-story' to an agent. One sent a rejection which was the equivalent of laughing at me (not at the book, this was personal).

But no matter. I've had fun writing them, and some day they'll find a market.

That was such a valuable post, Catherine, thank you. My heart sank at the bit when you had to leave your novel on the shelf and get on with another. Yet you've shown us why this is sometimes necessary. I cheered when I saw it has finally been published! I'm glad you never lost faith in it, even while you waited and learned.

That sound you hear is 15,000 writers sending their manuscripts to OakTara Publishers.

I would love to read Andrews Christian ghost story.

OakTara did a great job on the book trailer. I am eager to read your story.

What an encouraging post! Love the line "too busy chomping on sour grapes". :-)
Thanks for sharing your story, Cathy!

Very encouraging. Thank you.

Cathi, This all has to feel so rewarding. I loved learning more of the details of how it played out behind the scenes.

Thanks for sharing. I'm excited to read this story that your gut and your agent fought for.
~ Wendy

Thank you for sharing this story, Cathy. Your and Rachelle's determination and your willingness to look toward new possibilities are inspiring. Although I'm sure the book's title is a reference to the story within, it is also the perfect description of its journey on the way to publication. I'll be reading it!

Cathy, Thanks for sharing your story. Most of us have experienced the disappointment of a "no," whether from an agent, editor, or even a crit partner. It's great that your journey has a happy ending. Congratulations on staying the course. And kudos to Rachelle for believing in you.

The trailer was actually done by a company called Pear Creative. So cool!

http://www.pearcreative.ca

Thank you for sharing your journey. As a writer who also has an agent who loves the work that is yet unsold, your words are speaking to me...and terrifying me.

I was so thrilled to get an agent from a wonderful firm. It was such a validation. We are now four months into the submission process and all the glowing rejections have, I'm ashamed to say, taken a serious toll on me.

Not in public, of course. Believe me I know enough to post this anonymously and I certainly never breathe a word of my heart wrenching anxiety on my blog. I don't discuss it with co workers, or family and I certainly don't want to burden my agent.

And I feel silly getting so wrapped up--it's a quiet, private obsession. Check, check, checking email. And when something does come in "Such and such loves your writing and so did the entire editorial board...but the house says no."

"Oh," I shrug. "Okay."

But it eats you, privately. Because you must be professional, and centered, and happy, and just so above it all.

But I'm not, and it hurts, and I feel stupid all at the same time.

It's not brain surgery and no one is going to die.

But sometimes, it feels like I might.

Anyway, Rachelle I love your blog and its honesty. Thank you.

It bothered me I spelled your name wrong. So I'm back to fix it.

Cathy.

Ah, I feel much better.
~ Wendy

Wendy! LOL!! Thanks!
Anonymous 8:05 - I hear ya!! I think we all feel this way a LOT of the time, especially when the rejections do say they 'love the writing...but...' It's SO hard to keep going at times. Don't give up, but do find someone to share your frustrations with, it's really important to be able to talk it out.
Thanks for reading, everyone!

This post was very helpful. I think it's always good to remember these truths Catherine provides here. Sometimes it is hard to stick your baby on a shelf but that's where a good literary agent and good ole' common sense come in, I suppose. Thank you for your wise words, Catherine! (And now I have a new book to add to the "Must Read" list because it sounds simply fascinating!)

Michelle

Cath, Can't wait to read your debut novel! The cover is stunning, the trailer one of the best I've seen, and your story of perseverance a true inspiration. I love the way you and Rachelle were able to keep communicating about this book, and the give-and-take that occurred between you over a period of time. And now--it's HERE. Thank you for sharing with us!

You're an inspiration, Cathy!

One of my books is to me as this one was/is to you. Mine stays with me always, and as hard as I try to just let it be, it keeps calling me to peel back another layer--prime it some more.

After a couple years of obsessing over it I did force myself to write other stories in between each new edit of that original story. So at least I'm accumulating stories along the way, but my obsession with that first one is still stong. I've just learned to control its pull better through the years.

I've often wondered if it sticks so close to me because it holds a message that one person in particular is going need some day, and when that day approaches, I'll finally feel it's ready and start shopping it.

Perhaps Yesterday's Tomorrow was written for someone special too, and they weren't ready to read it until now!

A bit of a romantic view, but then I do write romances, so I come by it honestly. :)

All the best with your book, Cathy, and may there be many more to follow!

Thanks, Eileen! Obsession? Yeah, somewhat! Once you read it, you'll get it. :0) There is a line between emotion and common sense, one just has to find it. And I think you'll know when the time is right.

Thanks, Michelle! Look forward to yours and everyone else's thoughts once you read. You can also find me on GoodReads - join my Author page if you are on there!

Such wise thoughts, Catherine! Some of what I thought was my best material I had to "let go." Not the right time, right market, whatever. I have sinced moved on to the series I'm creating now, and while I've moved on, it's still a little difficult to look back at those early days...

I think we literally mourn the shelving of projects we believe in, but when we move onto something else that we spend just as much time emotionally investing in, it takes its toll, as well.

It's a delicate balance sometimes, isn't it, when to let go and when to continue forging ahead.

Blessings to you, Catherine,with the success of your book! And a tremendous "thank you" for sharing your story and your determination. : )

So good to read this post this morning. Thanks for being so encouraging, Cathy. "I’ve been learning, writing new books and simply enjoying where I am on my writing journey." This is where I'm at right now, while I wait to see if two novels will sell, and am working on a third. Most of the time I manage not to fret and speculate, but take those worries and hopes quick to God in prayer. But it takes constant tending to retain that attitude of "it's all in God's hands and timing," and remain content. Posts like Rachelle's last one, and all the responses to it, help me cherish my writing journey NOW. :)

Congrats Catherine!
Way to be persistent.

Thanks for sharing your journey--it's exactly what I needed to hear today.

SURE glad you persevered, Cathy! It's a wonderful novel!

"There is a time and a season..." Thank you for that!! And thank you for sharing your story of perseverence and trust in yourself. I shelved a book several years ago after a few rejections but it's still nagging at me. I've been pondered ways to weave it into one of the three books Im currently working on. Can't wait to read your book (I grew up during the Vietnam years and wore POW bracelets). Thanks for the inspiration and best of luck!

Thanks for posting your story, Cathy, and I appreciate your having made the decision to go with a smaller publisher, because I'm in that situation right now and have been reluctant to take the small press route.

I wrote a novel that quickly found an agent who loved it, but it's apparently on such an oddball subject that she's found few editors to agree even to read it. So I started working on something more mainstream and in the meantime rewrote the beginning of the other novel so that if any major house editor shows interest, it'll be a stronger candidate, and it'll be a better book for the small press that's already expressed interest in publishing it.

The agent doesn't want to go small press because there's no money in it, and I'm reluctant because my own marketing skills aren't good enough to make up for the small press's lack of juice. So the revised manuscript sits on the shelf while I work on the new project. But since I think it's a publishable and worthwhile story--as do the agent and the small press editor--I'm giving more thought to the small press (thanks to your piece, Cathy) if the agent can't sell it elsewhere.

That was lovely and highly inspirational to many young writers. If our story doesn't sell now, there's always tomorrow. It has been engraved in my brain that the business of publishing is subjective. Change is constantly under way. Live and hope and keep on writing.

Thanks for your encouraging post, Cathy.

I too have a book that sat on the shelf (mine for nearly 4 years) but tugged at my heart the entire time. I recently picked it up and started revisions. My writing has improved since I tucked it away the first time, and now I can see where changes need to be made and scenes cut.

I was too involved...too close with the characters, and needed to separate in order to make it a better story in the end.

Thanks for your post and congratulations on your success!

What a fabulous, inspiring post, Cathy. I'm eager to read your book and heartened by your story! May God continue to lead you on your journey.

THis is another book on my must reads list. Sounds so wonderful!
Blessings.....Joy
ibjoy1953{at]yahoo[dot]com

I know what you're saying Cathy, it's hard to let a project sit on the shelf and work on a more marketable project. I'm glad you listened to your agent. I had to do the same thing, and am glad that I did.

What a beautiful story and a testament to hard work!

When my agent took me on, it was with a middle-grade historical novel-in-verse. Hot seller, right? I was told by some editors the story was too quiet and that this "plugged-in" generation wouldn't be able to relate. Thankfully, my agent kept shopping until my book found a home.

This whole writing business is risky, scary, and exhilarating, isn't it?

Guess what I just purchased for my Kindle? Can't wait to curl up and start reading it!

Congratulations on all your success Cathy! Your story is amazing and inspirational. I hope you enjoy this magical season of your life, my friend!

Fantastic post, Cathy. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, fears, determination and exciting outcome.

Love the cover and the premise of your novel. I'll check out the trailer. Congrats!

P.S. I haven't yet queried Rachelle but I plan to very soon. She sounds like a wonderful agent.

If you're reading this, Rachelle, I love your blog. It's the best in the biz and I'm not trying to butter you up. It simply is. The writing and publishing tips are beyond helpful.

There's a Kindle version of this book? Did not see that -- doh! I am spending waaay too much money on eBooks this week.

ITA, Beth. Rachelle is possibly nicest agent I've come across. I'm not even querying (anymore), but she'd be the one I'd want in my corner.

Thanks for posting this. It's great to have an agent give you feedback and help you make a decision on leaving your project. The market is such a mysterious entity it's like looking at an alien lifeform and trying to decide what its intent might be with regard to life on earth.

Great post and very enlightening.

But, somebody should slap your publisher over that cover art.

You have a picture of a UH-60 Blackhawk on the cover. The Blackhawk didn't start flying until the 80's and was never used in Vietnam because it didn't exist then.

So, unless your story starts out in Vietnam but ends in one of the Gulf wars, then you should see about getting that cover art changed. Anybody who knows anything about military helicopters will pass right over that book because of the cover art.

Cathy, congrats on having your instincts pay off for you. It sounds like a wonderful book.

Cathy - Way off the book subject: Your Noah looks just like my Maggie (except Mags is short-haired). In any case, aren't BCs the best? Well, to be honest, I love them all...that's why my writing/books are all centered around that fabulous creature, the dog. And, without a doubt, I know God agrees with my sentiment...

Eric,

So are you offering to slap me? (Nice you meet you, I'm the cover designer)

FIRST, on a personal note: I'm shocked by your statement. I'm sure you don't make it a habit to make violent statements like that towards women, or people in general. But honestly, I find it unacceptable behaviour.

SECOND: We KNEW that it was the wrong chopper. (Wheels vs Skid landing gear gives that away quickly even to the untrained eye) But the reality is that the Vietnam choppers weren't photographed in high res color in flight back then, or if they were, the images aren't readily availble as royalty free images. So we had to use the closest thing. And since 90% of romance book buyers are women without intimate knowlege of Blackhawk anatomy, and frankly don't care...we made a judgment call. :)

And actually, God told us to use that particular helicopter...
:0)
Yes, Rebecca, dogs are awesome! I love mine and he doesn't talk back. Well, not all the time anyway!!

Cathy,
I am so glad you persevered. When I read your book months ago and it made me cry, I knew there was something special about this story and it had to get out:) So happy for you!

Hi Cathy -

Thank you for this post. I've been dealing with a similar situation, and finally started work on another project.

Blessings,
Susan :)

This was a wonderful post to read Catherine and I can relate. I'm having my own struggle to find an agent courageous enough to take on my memoir because the format and content have never been done before. I think it's especially important for any writer who is innovative to be patient. The dynamics are completely different when you are a mold breaker regarding subject matter and/or format. It takes time to find the right person to take you on and it does require a bit of a maverick in many cases to see the merit of certain stories.

I'm so happy you've found a home for your own innovative novel and hearing about someone else successfully knocking a brick from that gigantic wall called publishing, inspires me to continue with my own work and to keep the dream alive for one more day. Thank you for sharing your story Catherine.

Great post and reminder about things happening in God's time which is often not ours.My story is a bit similar with Streets on a Map.

Yvonne,

First, on a personal note, I assume that people understand hyperbole, I guess that's my mistake. You don't know me, so I'll pass on the rest.

Second, if you knew it was wrong, and you knew what the difference was, why do you assume your audience doesn't know the difference? Are they less intelligent or knowledgeable than you?

The Huey is one of the most ubiquitous helicopters in the world. I understand that they used film "back then", but that's pretty darned high-res. The Huey is still used today. I flew them up until 96. I understand about the royalty free issue and sympathize. But I do find it hard to believe that there are no royalty free, High-res Huey pictures out there.

The image of the Huey is quintessential Vietnam conflict. I find it odd that getting the correct helicopter was seen as unimportant.

It's your call though, and as long as you're aware, then there's no more to say.

PS: your dog is adorable! I wrote a Border collie into my last WIP. I love them. I've attended many sheep dog trials, National, International, just to watch those dogs work.

Appreciate your honesty about lessons learned along the way to publication. Looking forward to reading your book.

I'm still on the path to finding an agent for my novel, and I really appreciated what you said about timing and following your gut. I've written articles for magazines across Canada and the US and have definitely found this to be the case there. An idea I couldn't sell one month, six months later an editor loves. It's encouraging to know it's the same for fiction. It means I'll be on familiar ground :)

I've noticed over time in your blog that one of the most wonderful things your clients can say about you, and that includes me, is that you guide us through the publishing process with such an even, honest and informed hand. In the end we're successful. It may not look like what we expected or be on our timeframe but it all works out and we have a solid publishing career underway. A base to build on because we were willing to listen. Thank you from a grateful writer.

A great post, Cathy and sincere congratulations on the book! I so identify with your not wanting to put that manuscript aside. How I wish over 20 years ago I'd had someone tell me to write another book while I kept getting rejections on my first effort. When it was God's timing for the book to become a Heartsong Presents novel I could have had so many other manuscripts finished ready to revise. Although I believed that book was one God wanted me to write, I simply didn't have enough confidence in my writing ability or trust HIS timing! Of course it is a long story of over 13 years and 13 rejections in the days before the computers we have today, but it did teach me much about faith and increase my intimate walk with Christ.

Ha! I'm the example. Promoting #one, getting edits on #two in the next week or so, six chapters into #3. And, as you can see, I am instead up tonight commenting on blogs to avoid the pressure. :-)

I think I'll feel better after Fairer than Morning actually releases in a couple of weeks. The weeks just before a debut novel's release are especially high-pressure--at least that's what other authors have told me.

Off to do some promotional work...

I'm trying to keep in shape for My Coming Success by keeping up a high workload -

1 - Editing #4 while outlining #5 (and querying #1)

2 - Writing short stories for a magazine that really LIKES me! (Move over, Sally Field)

3 - Keeping up with my day job(s)

I hope that operating at a killing pace now will help me deal with the future, but time will tell.

Newbie author over here. Overwhelming is the word that I think fits best.

So.Much.To.Do.

But, I wouldn't trade this wild ride for anything.

You are so right. It does become harder once you publish. I’m only an e-published author, so I can’t relate so much to traditionally published authors. I’m sure they are busier and there is more work involved. However, right now I’m promoting book #1, editing book #2 (set to release in a few months), anxiously awaiting edits on book #3 (set to release in a couple of months), working on the second draft of book #4, writing first draft for book #5, while mentally plotting book #6. Needless to say, my kitchen is a mess and I’m way behind on doing laundry.

WHAT? Life gets HARDER? Geez, I'm ready for some good news Rachelle...

I was just wondering what happens to the creativity with the deluge?

Oh, well. Like anything new, if it's what you want, learn to juggle.

That's why today's commercial publishing is ultimately incompatible with the art of writing a novel.

Once you give up the Stephen King Dream (see my current blog post, up in about 20 minutes), you are free. You won't need an agent. You won't need a publisher. But you will be able to realize the actualization of your life's purpose.

And just to grease the skids a little: The Stephen King Dream is over for everyone. It ended in November 2007 with Kindle and the Digital Text Platform at Amazon.

Not to mention travel/time away from home, promos, interviews, book signings, etc. And if you have a spouse/sig.other, they'd better know what they are in for as well and be on board.

I am aware of the pressure through the MA course and my published friend's experiences, but for some reason I hope to get my work out there and read by folk who like history. But YES; I value the time I have at the moment. I am going today on a charity Mountain challenge, something I would never have had the time for in the past, (and hope not to in the future). I will be on the hills from now until midsummer. What a glorious luxury. But I will, of course, be thinking about my writing and making notes each evening.
Anyone who loves Nepal can help, here; http://www.justgiving.com/john-jennings2

Thank-you, Rachel for the breakfast reading, I'll be back in June to catch up with all your posts.

I'm having a little taste of this busyness just now, but on a smaller scale, as my first novel comes out as an e-book in May. Keeping up with all the online interviews and promotion is so time-consuming.

My crime writer friend (with a mainstream publisher)is more like your example and I can see how much she has to do. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way, given the chance!

My first book comes out tomorrow - this week I am doing 10 radio interviews, I have had several feature commissions already with more to come, and a run of speaking engagements, interviews and photo-shoots. I am a bit shell-shocked, frankly, and am having to put down my pen on my work in progress for weeks if not longer. But I am not complaining, I guess this is what I have been aiming towards for all those years of writing in obscurity and without reward.

Whoo! It sounds crazy. But I think I'm up for the challenge. I mean, I already work a 60+ hour a week day job, run a family with young kids and find time to write books, so adding a little more pressure isn't going to phase me. I'll just cut my 5 hours sleep to 3 or something, right?

Okay.... maybe more thought needed on that one.

Yikes. I don’t envy any of you published writers who have to do promotional stuff. It sounds like a whole lotta not fun. I hope that it is, though – I’m sure that fans want to meet you and interact with you. I’m always excited with my fave author comes to Book People so I can meet him/her and perhaps hear a reading. That’s just not my cuppa. I’m a publisher’s nightmare in that respect.

I’ve been a freelance writer since … well, college, when I was a news reporter. Some people work better under deadlines, and I’m one of them. Usually. I did have one wretched ghostwriting experience that I obviously cannot elaborate on, but the book had to be written in A MONTH. (1) I must have looked like the slowest-moving target to the “writer.” Or the most naïve one.

Is the promotion angle really necessary?

This is one of the biggest reasons that I chose self-publishing--no one is hanging over my shoulder insisting that I meet their deadlines. Add to that complete artistic control and I am one happy person. I just approved my interior to print, so within two to three weeks, I will hold my book in my hands--the whole process lasted less than 4 months--and if the book is as nice as the electronic files are, I am going to be one very happy person.

By the way, another big reason that I chose to self-publish is because I may never write another book and I don't want to be pressured to produce something that's not on my heart.

I am finishing a manuscript this month for a book that will be published in 1/2012, as well as writing for two ongoing blogging jobs (one paid, one not), doing speaking engagements (locally for now, will branch out when I have a book to sell), and always seeking new markets for my work. For me, getting a book contract was great for my working life and discipline because it gave me a reason to hire a babysitter and proactively carve out time to write...something I never felt I could justify before. That said, I could (and would love to) spend 40-50 hours a week working, but reality means I can usually only spend 20-25. Whenever I sit down to work, I have this moment of confusion and panic as I try to figure out which of the pressing tasks I should focus on in my too-limited time. But too much work is a problem I love having. Now if only too much money was my other problem...

Ask me in May. The month of May scares me.

And I like what you said - about how we're so focused on what being a published author will FEEL like that we don't give much thought to what it will BE like. So, so much truth in that!

You just described my dream job! Spending my day working on a book for a deadline, doing edits on another and helping promote my book that's out sounds like a bliss day to me :-)

Now all I have to do is get there...

It's so true. And the other demands of life don't stop. I still have a full-time job and a two-year-old running around the house. It's scary, but it's definitely worth it.

Whether we self publish or traditionally publish we have to push ourselves to do our best work. We must consider it a real job.

Thank you Rachelle for your posts. I appreciate all of them.

I'm not currently under contract but my second book just came out, so I have promo work associated with that (lots of online interviews and guest blogs along with keeping my current blog looking loved).

I only work 2 hours a day from home, but I have a new baby. The idea of completing even a proposal in the near future seems out of reach. Right now I'm concentrating on background research and outlines. Easier to do that in my short bursts of free time than write actual sentences and paragraphs and chapters.

When my debut book released this past fall, I was completely overwhelmed with all the work--writing interviews, responding to emails and blog reviews, keeping up with my own blog. AND I was in the middle of intensive in-house rewrites on my second book.

You're completely right. Published author life is not easy! It's not only a lot of hard work, it's always very time-consuming. And even though most of us often put in full time work, the pay is usually part time.

However, even without the glitz and glamor, being published is a dream come true. For all the hard work, nothing compares to hearing from readers and knowing people are enjoying and connecting with the words you wrote!

I don't have a novel published, but I do have a nonfiction (short) book for families about celebrating Advent, and I freelance a lot. In between taking care of home and kids, that means I have to juggle up to a dozen different projects at a time, in short increments. Something's got to give; the priority list shifts depending on whatever is on deadline or seasonal.

This is something that occurred to me in the first few weeks after finishing my memoir manuscript. And frankly, I feel a bit torn -- which is why I've been just sitting on the ms and book proposal rather than aggressively sending it out. I know I'm not in a position right now (and definitely will not be in a year or two -- in fact, now would be better than then) to be traipsing around all over creation promoting my book. With my husband's work in the Navy that has us moving often and him leaving for long periods of time, I'm literally the one constant in my kids' lives. And I've realized that that's my number 1 priority, too, though I'd love to have a book out that people enjoy (and pay me for).

What do you recommend? I noticed some people here are really excited about self-publishing, and I've had others tell me in person how great an option it is. I just don't know, though... I don't see how that means less time and effort in promotion.

While it's still early days for me, I probably didn't anticipate the amount of time promoting a book actually takes. I have spent hours answering questions for bloggers who have been kind enough to feature me. I then go back and comment several times a day when that blog is up and running. Visiting places like GoodReads and Shelfari, creating Author pages there and interacting, finding book clubs who may be interested in my book, writing my own blog and interacting with folks who are reading my book - the list goes on. And for me, the cost has been high because I've had to cover all my marketing, like bookmarks, posters, sending books out, etc... myself. It's exhausting and there is always that little voice inside my head that keeps asking "What if it bombs?" Fortunately, that doesn't appear to be the case at the moment, so I don't feel bad about the money spent. But then you also have to deal with trying to keep up with writing. I don't have the pressure of a three book deal or anything, but I do now have people saying they loved my first book when is the second one coming...again, it's the pressure of ohmigosh I need to get something else out there now! Totally self-inflicted and rather silly.
I think the best thing to do for us newly published authors, whilst juggling all the plates, is to take several moments a day, pick up that book you created, thank God for the blessing of it, and enjoy that crazy stomach-twisting that sends a smile to your lips. The hard work has paid off. You have achieved the dream! That's what I've been trying to do, otherwise it's easy to lose focus of why you're doing it at all.

If that day should ever come when I am a published author, I am ready to take on the challenge.

Rachelle, Thanks for pointing out that there's not a pot of gold at the end of that rainbow, just a lot more work (but a great deal more satisfaction).

I'm trying to continue the "buzz" for novels one and two. Novel three just came out this week. And I have the edits for the next book yet to do. Oh, and I need to get back to work on the next (uncontracted) novel. Other than that, it's been a walk in the park.

And as for the absence of the pot of gold to which I referred, I continue to quote James Scott Bell: If you're writing to make money, you'll make more as a greeter at WalMart.

Thanks for the dose of reality. Final thought: I wouldn't trade my situation for anything. Unpubbed authors--keep on trying. And good luck.

Let's face it, nothing worthwhile is easy.

• Marriage is hard work, much harder than being single, but I'd never advise against it.

• Having children is stinking hard work, but I'd never advise against having them.

• Homeschooling my children has been one of the more challenging experiences of my life, but I'd have it no other way.

The negatives of the published life can't outweigh the positives. Besides, only a select few can quit their jobs and write full-time; who says you have to juggle ten books? Many authors publish one book or fewer a year.

You're right--it's HARD. But it's the best kind of hard there is. It's been two years since my last book was released and I am SO READY. Bring on the hard!!

I think my problem with finishing my book is that I don't have a deadline! Being on my own schedule means I can edit and re-edit to my heart's desire before I deem it query-worthy. Whether I worked as a videotape editor for "Nightline" or as a columnist for the Roanoke Times I thrived on deadlines. We called it "crashing" and some of my best pieces emerged from that frenzied state. This writer actually looks forward to the possibility of being under one...

I'm glad I decided to step away from teaching before my book deal. Many people successfully work a traditional job, write and parent, but I am not one of them. Thankfully, I was in a position where this decision was realistic.

I'm amazed at how some of my newly published blogging friends manage all the stress of this career. They're an inspiration to me that one day I may actually be ready, not only in writing abilities, but also in juggling responsibilities to succeed in this business.

What am I doing now to prepare myself? I know who I am, and if I can avoid dead-line pressure at all cost, I will, so I'm determined to finish my five-book series to the best of my ability before shopping it. If it never sells, it's still been instrumental in helping me grow as a writer and I'm sure enjoying the fictional world it provides along the way.

Amen, sister! My book was released last week and I feel like my head is spinning. I'm in marketing mode big time. Thankfully, I had time to finish the sequel before the book came out or I wouldn't be finished.

And I'll just say, I previously self-published and now I'm with one of the big six. If you're not a bestseller or they haven't sunk a bunch of money into your advance, you're gonna have to hustle just as hard if not more.

Pimpin' books ain't easy... :)

Bring on the deadlines and the stress! I can't wait!

Great to read the above accounts. Yeah, Rosslyn!!!

I'm ready to hear a voice beside my own saying, "Mush. Mush!"

~ Wendy

I have yet to be published, but I've been at this a long time. If you're serious about your passion for story crafting and writing, the additional workload shouldn't be too far from where you started. This is all conjecture, but what I've read sounds pretty much where I am already. MS#4 with beta readers and in final edits, chapters 1&2 and synopsis submitted to writing contest. MS#5 plotting and outline finished, first draft under way. Ms#6 in plot mode, MS#7 throwing stones at 4,5 & 6 to get out of the way. Blog and website up and running, active in forums to garner great advice and build a platform, facebook and twitter up and running. Everything I read says to be proactive and build a plaftform before publication. Publishers want authors "serious about their business." So that's what I work on in between being a wife, a mother and my day job. Promotions, interviews, deadlines...it all sounds great. I'm looking forward to it.

PS. To everyone saying life is pushing up roses when you self-publish...I have to wonder how much time they spend wearing all of the other hats (marketer, editor, digital design artist, web administrator, file formatter, PR rep, etc.) vs. writing. If it looks too be good to be true...*cough* I've been reading what I can on self-publishing. Blogs by Konrath and Hocking. Articles from publisher's weekly, etc. I seriously considered that route. Until I started to read my share of self-published books from Amazon. Full of grammar, spelling, etc. errors. Plots that needed serious reworking. Sure, you can get your manuscript out there quicker. And write what you want to. But if you go that route, PLEASE put out quality work. I would never put my name on a box of crap. The benefits of traditional publishing are a polished, professional novel with wider access to readers. Someday I may try self-publishing. Not until after I've cut my teeth with the big boys and can see quality vs. quantity as a positive attribute and a way of life. ;-)

Have you ever had anyone throw in the towel and say it's too hard? I'm betting there are quite a few who don't go on to great success because they can't hack it--but does anyone ever just quit?

Harder?

Before I was published my friends who were said, "It gets tougher! Deadlines, expectations, down time will vanish ..."

I thought they were exaggerating. Uh, no.

But is it worth it? Without question.

I was talking to an author friend the other day about the pressure and politics of being published and she said, "But still, can you believe we're getting paid to do what we love?"

She's right. Yes, there are shards of sand in my shoe as I climb this mountain, but most of the time I don't notice them.

Oh my goodness, this is so true! My debut novel just released last year. My next book will be out in the fall. I'm deep into edits, but in the back of my mind, I'm thinking about that 3-book contract I'll be working on in the next 18-months all releasing 6 months apart. Like you said, I'll be writing book 3, editing book 2, and promoting book 1 all at the same time. And yes, I still have a full-time job, I'm still mom and wife.

I knew this coming into the game b/c I've been hanging out in the publishing industry long enough to know, but now that I've had the trial runs with my first 2 releases, it's even harder than I imagined. I'm going to need God holding me up and keeping me my feet every step of the way.

I just blogged about this today - this week my to-do list is manic, and yesterday was just a mess work-wise. There are sooooo many balls to juggle.

But I remember what it was like before selling, and wishing I had the problems that published authors have. So I can't complain too loudly!

In the wise words of Brer Rabbit, "Pullleeez don't throw me in that briar patch!" wink wink.Or in the more sophisticated musings of Frost,

"But yield who will to their separation,
My object in living is to unite
My avocation and my vocation
As my two eyes make one in sight.
Only where love and need are one,
And the work is play for mortal stakes,
Is the deed ever really done
For Heaven and the future's sakes."

The warning is duly noted, Rachelle! Thanks!

Thanks for the wake up call. Although....I can't wait! Bring it on.

On June 1 I will turn in a manuscript that is the beginning of six books with two different publishers over the next two years. (Three manuscripts are complete.) I'm well aware of the challenge ahead of me when they all start flowing through the publication process, but immensely grateful to be in this position. In the past, I've done a lot of work-for-hire projects. When it was over, it was over and I moved on to the next thing. The juggling act ahead of me is an entirely new stage in my writing career.

Be careful what you wish for indeed. :) I'm in much the same situation as Rosslyn. It's both exciting and scary. I'm constantly trying to juggle my full-time and very demanding day job with my new writing career. I LOVE both. It's not easy though and there are days when I wonder what I got myself into. But it's hard to explain.

It's like someone telling you what it's like to give birth and what the first year will bring when you've never had the experience, but you think you know what it will be like. :) Do they have epidurals for writers?

So is it hard to do? Yes. Very. Is it worth it? Ask me that after I'm holding my baby. Her name is, Secrets of the Heart. :)

With two books coming out next year, one written under contract, working on another proposal, I'm finding myself busier than ever. Though I am grateful for this "year of preparation" as I call it and hope I can learn some things about the business of writing before things become to crazy.

Okay ... count me IN!

I managed a dog show business for several years where responsibilities always overlapped for multiple upcoming shows: creating the eight-page advertising/entry brochures for one event, while doing the mailing for another, processing incoming entries for yet another, while designing a catalogue, handling all the finances, filling out judges' sheets, planning judging schedules, etc. At the same time the constantly ringing phone had to be answered, the business promoted and the actual shows attended.

Survival meant finding a system and staying organized, and I suspect it was good preparation for life as a published author. Reality says the business side of publication has to take its place alongside ongoing creativity and be balanced with our other daily commitments.

I was asked how I found time to run my own business, be a pastor's wife with all that entailed, and have time for home and family. My answer was usually, "You do what you have to do. I learned to juggle."

My thrill is when people read and enjoy what I write. It's nice to create something that adds to people. Their smile and tears make all the tweets, graphics, writing, editing, bleeding worthwhile.

It's hard joyous work to be a publisher author, but I don't think any of us work harder than you do, Rachelle. I've never had 200 queries in my inbox or a yard-high stack of manuscripts to read!

I'm in!

I've reached one goal...Now preparing for the next one. Thank you for the "wake up call," Rachelle! I can see that prioritizing will be a word that I'll definitely need to remember one day! : )

Excellent comparison to having a baby! Love it. (Although I've had a couple of real life babies but not a published "baby" yet.) Whew, I keep reading about this kind of thing, that it's not easier. I'm up for it though. And really glad that I'm older with an empty nest so I have more time for a busier schedule some day!

Since I have only published non-fiction, I haven't had their money in hand... but I have stared at the blank page after a proposal was excepted.

My hope is - that I will be prepared by all the pressures of multiple articles and deadlines... and that someday I really will finish my first fiction book.

I love this post. There have been a couple times on my publishing journey that I actually sat and considered life after publication. I started to stress out, my heart racing my head swirling. Aggg, what am I thinking? What if it actually happens?
Then I calm down and remember that all the what if’s and maybe’s mean nothing if I don’t try.

It’s a lot like any other job. You see an ad, send in your polished resume, wait for the call, stress over the interview, then egads… you actually get the job offer. Leading up to starting the job you go back and forth over your decision, wonder if you can handle it, and generally freak out. But you know what? You’ll show up, you’ll get through the first week, you’ll start functioning, and five years later you won’t be able to imagine not being where you are.
I can do this. I don’t know how, but then again, I’ll never know unless I actually attempt it.

I have found I've had to become quite the businesswoman. After writing 4 parenting books, I've been able to establish a pretty good freelance writing career. As an author, this is good for me because it allows me to promote by books, but it means lots of deadlines, fresh ideas, pitching, searching for queries and more. Always having to come up with new insight on a common topic is difficult.

Going with your comparison; even though the labor and delivery were hard, not to mention the nine months of pregnancy. I would do it over and over again to hold that precious bundle in my arms. Actually, I did.

This is so true! The absolute hardest part is your point that the writing becomes more challenging once you're under contract. SO much harder. For book 2, I'd break out in a cold sweat whenever I found myself stuck at a scene or having a bad writing day. The pressure is ten thousand times worse when you know someone's money is now betting on you.

My faith grew as I worked through my own anxiety. I've written 6 books now (two ghost-written)and it's easier because it's no longer about me so much. I can break it down into a process. Frankly, having a calm, thoughtful agent like Rachelle helps as well. It's not magic, maybe a little talent but mostly it's about accountability and sometimes asking for help.

That's definitely something to think about. I am unpubished for now and am working on project #3, so I suppose I have a small head start.
Even with that little warning, my bubble has not popped. As long as someone out there wants to read my writing, I want to work hard to get it out to them!

Honestly, I prefer to keep my head in the sand on this one. I figure if it comes to that and I do get my book published, I will rise to the challenge of what's expected. But until then, I know my Triple Type A self will worry about something that hasn't even happened yet...and may never, so I'm not going to think about it!

@Angeline

I understand what you're saying about so much self-publishing crap. BUT, I just read a trad-book and here's an example of just one of many errors I found: Husband was asked when he'd be returning home. He said, "I'll be there as fast as a can." If it wasn't so pathetic, I'd have laughed out loud at that one.

So, obviously, "polished" it was not. Yet, on the other hand, I'd like to hear from anyone who found more than a couple typos in any of my self-published work.

Yep, marketing yourself is an eye-rolling time/brain drain. But, as you mentioned, you'd still have to do the same with a traditional publisher.

Bottom line: As I see it - as an avid reader/writer - I know what constitutes quality. So I take great pains before I self-publish anything. The difference is that I'm "out there" now vs. waiting two/three years for approval that may never come.

Ha-ha, I was just going over this in my mind today! You are right on target, Rachelle! Most days, I'm not sure what I'm supposed to be doing because I'm pulled in so many directions. I work three days a week and the remainder of my time is divided between marketing my published book, DVD and documentary; writing my blog; reading other blogs; keeping up with my Facebook page for my products; writing three more books; and learning about e-books. I also do volunteer work at animal rescue groups because I love the animals and it's good for networking (my books are about animals). Oh yeah, then there's a personal life... My head is spinning most days; it's a wonder I can get words on paper.

I like your analogy of having a baby and not knowing what it's like until you have your own, even if you heard all about it from your friends.
But I guess it's like everything else. You take one step at a time and try to juggle what comes your way. Challenges always change with your growth and development, but they're always there in some shape or form.

Not published yet here but still dreaming of it. I just want to share with others my work not really wanting lots of fame and fortune. Although money is always a good thing. As far as the it getting harder well that is the story of my life LOL. I can relate to stressful and chaotic life. And true that publishing has changed with the new technology.

Bring it!

BRILLIANT blog post! I can relate to the busy, busy, busy! Bracing myself for more chaos...but loving it! ;)

~Melissa
Reflections on Writing

So true!

@Angeline,

Ditto what Rebecca said. I will not argue with you that there’s an abundance of really bad self-published books on Amazon. Then again, the last three books I’ve purchased were self-published. Why? Because these are books written by authors who came really close to getting accepted by agents and publishers, only there was not a big enough market.

I abhor anything mainstream, so I checked out some of the books these writers had to offer. And wow! Here are the books I’ve been looking for. Something about the recession has changed my way of thinking. In most traditionally published books, the characters and their plights seem outdated, like they were written … I dunno, during the last administration. I bought a “chick lit” book that featured a profligate shopaholic and found it odious on so many levels, I couldn’t even finish the first chapter. Amazon reviewers agreed. Not sure who gave that book the greenlight, but … whoa. Bad judgment call.

I personally would never discourage a writer friend who spent years writing, querying and pitching to just put his/her manuscripts in mothballs if he/she didn’t gain industry acceptance, especially if the author had good feedback. The economy is tough. I can’t blame publishing houses for being super-selective. However, that means we’re going to see our choices pared down more. That’s the one thing that I don’t want to see happen.

The baby analogy brought your point home to me better than you can imagine!

And - just as I'm crazy about my daughter and willing to restructure my personal priorities around her, hopefully I will someday have the opportunity to restructure my professional priorities around the challenges and opportunities of being an author.

Thanks for the post.

When I first started to write I didn't even consider publishing. I did it for the love of the art, and I kept on going until I completed a series. It means I gave myself a head start before querying, but I'm not fooling myself into thinking it'll be easy. Succeed or fail, one thing will remain certain. I will always be a writer, a wife, and an obsessive dog lover. If anything, I'm having a blast just living my life.

After reading all these comments I need a strong drink and somewhere to lay down. Writing one book is difficult enough let along multiple books and all the things that come after publication.

Breathing in... breathing out...

;)

sallynapthali.com.au

It sounds like the only thing worse then not being published is to be published!

The worst thing is trying to keep up with your creative writing when the publisher is editing and hounding you for another copy of a manuscript you gave them last year. "Grrr...leave me alone!" I want to scream but know I won't, editing and rewriting is part of the game I know so well. Sigh. And I go on with more corrections... Shake my head, it never ends.

This was a timely post for me. It seems like for every success as a writer, it is followed by doubt and uncertainty about the process which is basically regular assessments of your talents by people who you don't know. When the process is slow or comes to a standstill, there is a powerlessness that is quickly followed by a sense of failure. I'm not sure why. Thanks for the post-- some attitude adjustments might be in order.

Rachelle:

Beautiful post! And one that each of us, regardless of our calling in life, would be well served to remember and follow.

I found it interesting that you quoted Churchill. One of my favorite stories involves him giving a commencement address. He is introduced, all eyes are fixated on this leader of the free world as he is about to speak, and all he says are seven words. "Never, never, never, never, never give up." Then he sits down without saying another word. Powerful stuff.
I try to remember that in my work, my family life, and my walk with God. Again thank-you for the positive words!

This whole writing jag is full of obstacles that could be perceived as 'failure'... but I'm reminded of a conversation I once had with a very wise woman about relationships:

It only has to work once.

Or, in the writer world: everyone says no until someone says yes.

And then you're a success.

"Failure" is actually just the learning curve.

I've come to see that true failure is not trying. I hope/plan to be published someday, but if that doesn't happen, I won't be on my deathbed saying, "Gee, I wish I'd given it a shot." I'll be saying, "I did the best I could, and I feel pretty good about that."

It wasn't till I was in my twenties, oddly enough, that I first heard about the concept of REwriting. Until then, I'd thought that all the great authors simply said down and write masterpieces from the first dip of the quill into the inkpot. When I found that they changed, deleted, and switched things around in their work, I realized, I can do that!

These days I have felt like a total failure I was recently told I've lost 30% of the feeling and reflexes in my right arm and leg because of multiple sclerosis. That same week I given the option of be fired or quit because I missed over ten days of work while my son was in the hospital and sick. So I decided to send query letters to different agents and all 6 of them were not interested. I am reading happy quotes everyday I hope this helps my mood because as of right now I feel like a total failure

Don't go it alone, April. Some people call it "need time," I call it "knee time." My best to you

Get back up is good advice. I find it interesting how one quotation is that the definition of insanity is to do the same thing over and over expecting different results. But if you change something slightly and keep going then consider the making of the light bulb. It took so many fails before one success but look where that one success has lead.

::Smile::

I trained as a concert pianist. Before my first season, I studied with a very formidable woman. “She of the Seven Fulbrights” terrified me. I made a stab at playing Schubert for her. Such a bad idea. My university instructor favored the French school, which encourages more equal hand balance, so I botched that ostinato in a big way. Formidable exclaimed, “When I see your left hand do that, I just want to smack it!” She then went on a vent about how I was “improperly trained.” I’d studied for seventeen years and adored my instructor at university, so it felt like one big NO FAIR! I promptly burst into tears. Formidable let me cry for a while. Then she passed me a hanky (smelled like mothballs) and quietly said, “It’s good that you cry, dear. It shows you care about the music.”

I had to play Schubert (yuck) all summer. But at the end of it, I felt like far less of a failure. Sometimes when somebody busts your chops and makes you feel like a failure, it actually means they care about you enough to make you better at what you do.

I get that now. ☺ (Still don’t like nor will I play Schubert.)

Rachel,
I've never commented on your blog because I've always felt like a huge failure. Like reading agent's and publisher's blogs and writing advice were the only remnants of my pipe dream to be an author. Thank you for this post.
Fia

Failure - such a scary word - and an even scarier experience.

But without ever experiencing it at all, would we even know how to appreciate success?

"~Reframe the failure and look at it as simply part of the process."

Thank you for that. It heals acres of hurt, and puts things in perspective.

Fantastic post.

It's not so much that I'm losing as it is that everyone else seems to be winning. I take rejection postively, knowing that my writing and that particular publication wasn't the best fit, but when people around you keep winning...when really, they shouldn't...makes one wonder how much of writing is really politics?

I network, I study my craft, and yet, I'm still sitting at the cyber table alone.

TO APRIL:
I am praying that God will quickly bring you relief, and your family restored health, and a better job, etc.
I hope all other readers will do the same.
Thanks to Racheal for showing her own feelings.

I can't imagine that anyone has never failed at something. It's what we do with the failure that matters, although I guess it's slightly easier for those of a more optimistic nature to get up and start again. One of my favourite quotes is: 'The strong are strengthened by defeats' by Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

Or what about this very positive verse that was printed on a birthday card a kind person gave me many years ago. I always read it at the beginning of every new year (it would normally be set out in lines): 'Each day is a new beginning... another chance to learn more about ourselves, to care more about others, to laugh more than we did, to accomplish more than we thought we could, to be more than we were before.'

~Realize that if you're not failing sometimes, you may not be taking enough risks or pushing yourself hard enough.

That should be a smack up side the head for all of us.

Thanks, Rachelle.

Failure is only the opportunity to begin again more intelligently. ~Henry Ford

I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work. ~Thomas Edison

Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts. ~Winston Churchill

Great words to live by.

Thanks.

It's so refreshing to see such transparency in a post. Thanks for being human, Rachelle. No quote here, but I do try to keep in mind that I'm simply one more example of an imperfect person born into an imperfect race. As much as I would like to be perfect, there are no vacancies on God's throne--I can't be Him in all his perfect glory. So, I will rejoice that He loves me despite my flaws and uses me anyway.

Great quotes. I'd add Samuel Beckett's classic to the mix: "Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better."

And then, of course, there's always chocolate. :)

Great post. It is good to be reminded that we're all human. Too often I feel sorry for myself, as if I'm the only one struggling. Thank goodness for people like yourself to help all of us burst that bubble.

To Erin Cole:
Don't worry, your not alone at the cyber table. I've been there for a long time. I know a lot of people in my writing group that are great writers, but they're sitting there too! I just have to keep in mind Winston Churchill's immortal words "Never, never, never give up!" Keep moving forward. Your time will come!

I’m going to Dr. Seuss this because that’ll make it fun to write.

I feel it as a mom. I feel it as a writer.
I feel it as a sister and when I give up as a fighter.
I feel it in the morning. I feel it in the night.
I feel it when I believe the lies and ignore the saving light.
I feel it in my house. I feel it trapping a mouse.
I feel it deep down. I feel it walking all over town.
Having pervading thoughts like these is not what I’d call the bee’s knees.
It’s wrong, I say, to feel this way.
But I do it anyway.
Because feeling is easy and fighting is not.
But now that I know the truth, fighting’s all I’ve got.

(I promise not to rap that little ditty. I just made my children very happy w/ that promise.)

Now, time to guzzle tea.
~ Wendy

Someone once told me that it doesn't matter how many times we fail, but how many times we get up after the failure. I always try to keep that in mind. Also... whenever I start feeling sorry for myself, I remember my grandma. She had an extremely hard life, but she lived it with a smile. Even when she was dying, she was the one comforting us. That gives me strength to go on. Thanks for this post.

This may seem simplistic, but I try to tell myself that everything happens for a reason. All the failures in my life have turned out to be big opportunities for learning and growth and change.

I may feel differently once I really start putting myself out there as a writer and the rejections start rolling in every day, but for now, this works.

APRIL, my heart goes out to you!! Praying for you!! But please know that, to me, none of what you described sounds like failure on your part! With the writing, you tried! That's the toughest!!

This post is (again, *sigh*) so perfectly timely. I think every time I get a rejection, it's hard not to see it as failure. And in the rest of my life, it's the same (my kids acting opposite to what I've been trying to teach them, for instance). I am reading Anne of Avonlea to my kids, though, and I have to add this Lowell quote from the very chapter we read last night to the great quotes above (love the Edison one especially): "Not failure but low aim is crime."

Wow, do I feel like a failure right now. After four years and no sales, I finally made the decision to leave my agent. I wonder if I'm even meant to be a novelist like I thought. I wonder a lot of stuff, mostly to do with how terrible a writer I must be.

And yet...I'm all right. It's an awful feeling, falling off my wooden horse so close to the brass ring, but no matter how crappy I feel about it right now, I know there is a future for me that involves writing in some form. Sometimes failure is just a nudge in the right direction.

It's easy to feel like a failure in every part of my life, so I won't get into all that. But as a writer in the querying process, it's definitely difficult, and I have days when I just want to give up the whole thing and "get a real job."
I try not to think of it as failure--that word is too strong. The hardest part isn't rejections, it's when I have days where I have no inspiration and I can't write anything. That's much scarier than a form rejection! Even if I never get published, I always want to be a writer. And the only way to 'fail' as a writer is to stop writing.

I am right in the sludge of that 'loser' feeling. Yuk. Words come out of me as easily as teeth and the process is just as excruciating. I've been focusing on my art for a bit to avoid these feelings, but maybe it's time I restarted scrabbling for a handhold on the wordsmith rockface.

Thank you for being so open and honest! I think we ALL feel like this at times, it helps so much to know we're in it together. Hey, I figure God mentioned trials as often as He did becuase He knew we'd have plenty of them.

James 1:2-4 - Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Still a little bleary-eyed (up late to finish a good book), I read "Get back up" as "Get back-up" as in "Get reinforcements." I laughed at myself, but quickly realized that's good advice, too. Hugs help!

Johnnie

What an encouraging post.

Winston Churchill is a favorite historical figure of mine, and I love his quote.

Years ago I received news that an editor decided not to publish a work-for-hire project for which they had already paid me. They decided it was not up to snuff after all and were not inclined to ask me to rework. That felt like failure and dismissal. But a few months later, when that same editor put out a call for pitches on a new project, I jumped into the fray just to prove I could, and I got the assignment. This time I was more determined than ever to write something that sparkled. Growth as a writer comes from all sorts of places, even failure.

The quote that sustains me is from Randy Pausch (The Last Lecture) "Brick walls are there for a reason. The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to show how badly we want something. Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want something badly enough."

Thank you for this post. My favorite is a take on an old saw: Fall down six times, get up seven. Fall down a hundred times, get up a hundred and one.

JoAnn

When I encounter numerous failures, I'm reminded that sometimes God wants to eliminate all options within my control so all that's left is to depend on Him.

Thank you for a wonderfully encouraging post!

Yes - I said encouraging, for all the quotes in the world (though many are fabulous) won't inspire us as much as knowing we are not alone.

*Smiles*

great encouragment on a day when I was feeling like my writing was NOT all that - but I won't stop ... :)
Thanks, Rachelle, for your faithful encouragment.

Hi Rachelle,
I think I recognize you. No, not literally you, but the spirit of hope and optimism you spread.Let me explain.
Not long ago I was prostrate on the ground with my face in the dirt of a gravel driveway. Bruises all over my body while I watched my just abducted five year old daughter disappear around the bend in the road. After nearly five years of abuse her father had finally kept his word and taken her away. That was failure. Failure to protect my child and failure to see this horror approaching. Many women I encountered from that moment on carried the same spirit of hope I mentioned above, the ability to be the reminder of the power and purpose of light in the darkest moments. They helped me through the shelters and to survive on the street. Ultimately they reassembled my soul with their love allowing me to stay together enough to recover my child.
Because I've always been a writer I recorded every gritty emotional battle and each observation of those who lived in that gutter with me. As always, the words reminded me to keep breathing and to navigate the chaos. Later, after my baby and I returned home to safety, I took those words and I wove them together into a memoir of letters.

I send out queries for this memoir nearly every single day. I get rejected at least once a week if not more. I keep querying. Why? I do it for the same reason I persevered through the above mentioned anguish: My daughter. I feel this is the only way to cope with the word no. You must have a noble reason, an inferno of an inspiration to keep you going. If not, defeat by default is certain and that is truly the only failure there is.

I come here for the hope and optimism Rachelle, because on this earth that is in such short supply. Thank you for being a light keeper.

I often feel like I've failed (with writing). I like what someone said in my Weight Watchers meeting: think feedback not failure. So if I'm not getting a response to query letters, I will rewrite it, change the title etc. Deep down I believe in my novel, but I have to pay attention to the feedback, too, in a way that helps me but doesn't crush my hopes about it.

Thanks for this, Rachelle. It seems to me that publishing has more ways of making folks feel like a failure than other industries! Not by any fault of its own; that's just the nature of the beast. Perhaps because it's more personal than other pursuits... I get nasty notes regularly from readers complaining about this or that in an article I wrote (plus lots of nice notes), but those easily roll off my back, I suppose because I'll write another article the next day, and have another opportunity to rock it. With a book, you've put SO much of your effort into ONE project that it can be difficult to take the rejections in stride.

This is why it's so important to have a positive voice like you around!

I deal with failure with a whole lot of prayer and faith. I know that I Am A Child of God!

Not that I've taken the time to look up the source or anything before I posted this, but I know I've heard before:

Failure is an event, not a person.

Works for me.

Thanks for telling us about receiving rejection letters from editors every day. It gives me more insight into your work and the resilience that each of us must develop.

I figure God gets my attention through failure. I'm always more ready to listen after He's pruned away deadwood.

I'm not much for inspirational quotes, but here's one I like:

"Up from the ashes grow the roses of success."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GND10sWq0n0

Well this rings all too familiar...especially the rejection letter part. I wrote a humorous post about a time I failed in my writing career (one of many) today -- we are on the same page with this topic!

Rachelle, last summer I emailed you with some questions. You were so kind to respond. You were honest, transparent, and encouraging. You have such amazing gifts and talents. Thank you for sharing your insights and for being "real."
----
April and Val: I'm praying for you today!

Great post, Rachelle!

Every Monday on my blog, I post a motivational quote, whether it's about writing or about life in general. I hope it helps give others a little lift - I know it helps me. :)

"They sound like platitudes until you’re in that place where you feel like an epic Loser … and suddenly they make sense."

I've been there! They're so cheesy...until you're there. I've tried to tell people how that is, that the "inspiring quotes" have real meaning, but it's not something you can tell someone. You just have to experience.

Those are good quotes, by the way! :) *saves*

Thank you for sharing! And, the picture cracked me up, because my husband will say "I am such a loser," and do that L thing with finger and thumb on his forehead. Always makes me laugh. I dunno - the only time I feel like a failure is when I stop trying...

Rachelle & Bryce, Thanks for this wonderful post, & I love the 2 Churchill quotes too.
April, You're not a failure. But IT'S OK to feel like a failure. Don't believe the self-help gurus (even Christian ones) who say you must be happy all the time. The way out of the darkness is through it--& maybe extra vitamins, acupuncture, etc.
"Despaired of life itself." That's St. Paul. If he's allowed to feel that way, you can too. Look what he accomplished, anyway!--by God's grace.

The best way to deal with failure is to encourage someone else, so here goes - to April, re her comment...

Dear April - I think you're very, very brave. Most people, having that diagnosis (and a true rat of a boss) would run and hide.

Not you! You sent out six query letters!

Okay, those got turned down...but between the lines you have written I see six more, and then six more...until one will get a positive response.

And between those lines I see a woman whose daily courage must stand as a beacon to her family and friends.

May God be with you, April

I flunked out of law school. It was my first F and the first time I really felt like a huge failure. Then again I didn't really want to study law in the first place and I spent study week watching the then newly released Harry Potter 5 on DVD over and over while my roommate actually studied.

I heard this quote somewhere: Fail forward.

Essentially, fail and keep going. Don't stop to dwell just take the next step forward. Use every failure as a lesson in life.

I gave up writing this Lenten season, and God has changed my perspective on everything--failure, success, writing, what makes me whole as a person. Lent is LONG this year, too, so God has a long time to work with me. He keeps giving me little epiphanies, one after another.

It's good to know that somebody like you, who seems to sell books left and right, feels like a failure. No, I'm not happy you feel that way, just good to know that those who appear to be successful experience the same feelings the rest of us do. Thanks for posting this. God bless.

This is such an uplifting post. I think we can learn from our failures, but sometimes it is hard to see the big picture at times. Once we pick ourselves up and start all over again, we can be successful.
Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom.

I just read and reviewed Andy Andrews' latest, "The Final Summit". Churchill is one of the characters in the book and has even more to say about failure. That book has me one step closer to overcoming.

I think my view falls under reframing. All the things we are successful at tend to become easy and unnoticeable as successes. We notice the failures because they stick out.

I try to focus on the little things that I AM good at that I AM doing well with. I wasn't always good at those, and I'm always getting better. That makes the stats on success:failure look a lot better--and more realistic.

It's important to keep up the batting average, but you have to really look at the batting average--not just the strikeouts, right?

Is this buttering us up for the day we submitt a query to you? Or are you looking to moonlight in motivational speaking?

But let me see if I can get with the program here: Failure.

Here's the truth: in the end, we all fail. We never get what we want, even though we strive all our lives for it. And if we try to bow out and spend our days smoking weed along a perpetual road trip in a VW bus, we still lose.

I would like to quote Melvin Udal as he's banned from his psychiatrist's office: "What if this is as good as it gets?"

So, get over it (not just you, Rachelle, but everyone). We're not going to win. We're not going to be rich; we're not going to be famous, and even if we were, we'd find that to be its own kind of losing.

You can read platitudes about failure, but I suggest a good poem or story by Charles Bukowski instead--and a bottle of Jameson.

I don't know how a person can be in this industry and NOT feel like a failure at some point (or multiple points). Sheesh, everytime I hit "publish" on my blog, I worry it was an epic failure. I'm a sensitive soul.

Failure is no fun - but I find it encouraging (in a weird way) that we all experience it - even editors and agents!

I’ll borrow a page from America's favorite pastime. Failure is a huge part of what makes baseball so wondrous and beautiful. Any sports fans out there, here you go:

“Baseball is a game of failure because the all-time highest career batting average, held by Ty Cobb, is .366. That means that arguably the greatest hitter in the history of the game succeeded in getting a hit only 36 percent of the times he stepped up to the plate…. Ricky Henderson, the career leader in stolen bases, was also thrown out more times than anyone else who's ever played the game.

Baseball is a game of failure because as a pitcher, you are automatically given room for error; you only need to throw three strikes before you throw four balls in order to get somebody out….

Baseball is a game of failure because most people are not strong enough inside themselves to play it. To even begin to understand the game you must not only be okay with failing, you must expect it, accept it, and even at times embrace it. If you step into a batter's box in fear of striking out...if you take the mound afraid to pitch inside...if you ever hope the ball doesn't get hit to you, do not play baseball because you will not stand a chance.

Baseball is a game of failure because baseball is difficult--perhaps the most difficult sport one can play. Baseball players are the toughest athletes in the world. For they play a game they cannot beat. Instead they work to minimize their failure--they compete to fail at it less than their opponents. And while one man finds victory over another, the game of baseball always wins. We are all left humbled by the greatest sport on earth.”
– Shaun Grantski, 2009
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=172203767300

You know, it's good for writers to see we're not the only people who feel this way. Thanks so much for this inspirational post.

Everyone fails on occasion, especially in the writing world. It's part of the process. The thing is to not let it weigh you down. Never permit it to break you. I believe we can accomplish anything we set our hearts to.

I hate failure as much as the next person. It does help to view it as an opportunity for growth. It can be a learning tool, a practice ground, an incentive to do things a little differently.

Still, it is nice to know agents feel it too. ...^-^...

Quote from a book I'm reading for Lent, Barefoot Disciple by Stephen Cherry:
'No one learns to walk who does not learn how to try again after falling over'

I know everyone feels failure at one time or another…and we get up again.

I read lots of good advice and inspiring words here today. Thanks for this post.

I quit a very lucrative career in information systems to start my own business working with animals. It was not profitable enough to support me (a failure?) yet through this experience, I learned so much that I now have one book published and three in the works. Yes, I could look back and say that my business was a failure but I'd rather see it as a learning experience that brought me to where I am today. My two heroes had several significant failures in their careers: Milton Hershey and Walt Disney. But they persevered and created empires and a lot of happiness for a ton of people! :)

One of the best managers I ever had taught us to "fail fast." Validate early on to make sure you don't waste energy on something that needs re-working, re-framing or a jet pack to zoom over the brick wall.

I have failed to keep a promise to myself for the last three years to go to a conference. This year? Going! Write to Publish in Wheaton--woohoo!

Thanks Rachelle for the encouragement.

The problem with being human is that you have to deal with emotions such as the feelings of failure. Here is my solution:

• Make a decision to stay on top of thoughts of failure by counting your blessings and think about the good instead of the bad.

• Keep perspective. Your life is probably a million times better than some of the people on the planet. Be glad you're you.

• Focus on what produces good in your life rather than what feels good. You'll end up okay in the end.

: ) Beth

I'm in loser mode right now so this post is a gift to me today!

Thank you, Rachelle!

I'm holding this quote from you close to me now. "Realize that if you're not failing sometimes, you may not be taking enough risks or pushing yourself hard enough."

Onward I venture to get my words to mesh once more.

It seems like I only feel like a failure when it comes to parenting. Nothing else seems important enough to spark that feeling of not having done enough. The stakes are never so high as when you're responsible for another human being. I just keep on trying my best -- and loving them tons, hoping that makes up for all my failures.

I've been away from the computer all day so I haven't been able to chime in to the comments, but I really love reading everyone's thoughts! I appreciate you sharing your stories, your disappointments, and your own words of encouragement.

Judy (Watching the Game) -- I love the baseball quote! It really helps put things in perspective.

I am SO GLAD that my book didn't take off when I first began querying. Looking back, I now know that the manuscript was TERRIBLE. Yes, it was. Thank goodness I failed back then. Hopefully, when I'm ready to query again, the book will be ready for success. But the waiting stinks.

I have a sing-along in my car to Gloria Gaynor, I Will Survive. Always makes me feel better

You touched a chord with this post, Rachelle. As a homeschooling mom and a writer, some days feeling like I failed is my close companion. Other days, the fear of failing can paralyze me. I'm learning not to let that fear hold me back. If I don't try, I'll never know what might have been...or not.

You touched a chord with this post, Rachelle. As a homeschooling mom and a writer, some days feeling like I failed is my close companion. Other days, the fear of failing can paralyze me. I'm learning not to let that fear hold me back. If I don't try, I'll never know what might have been...or not.

This post speaks to me as a writer, a publisher, and a parent. My new book Parenting with Soul hits the shelves in two days and I'm feeling kind of vulnerable (as well as excited!). Thanks, Rachelle, for such a timely and eminently practical post.

I've been thinking a lot about failure this year too, not because I necessarily have been acutely feeling like one, but more from feeling the effects of our culture's obsession with success. There can be a lot of pressure to feel like a winner all the time! Sometimes I just think it's good to embrace failure and the beauty of imperfection for a second, and then get back on that horse and keep trying.

I bought Natalie Goldberg's The Great Failure and am looking forward to reading it. Not sure if you came across it in your failure studies. :)

I've 'failed' times over. Keeping everything in perspective is my cure. So I fell down - did anyone die? was anyone permanently injured? does everyone hate me? Not so far. Just get up and keep going. I'm never sure what 'success' means because whenever we achieve something like it, we still want more.

Great topic, Rachelle! Here’s another favorite quote that gives me hope to keep fighting when the going gets tough. It’s by Teddy Roosevelt, and I think it’s good advice to live by no matter what side of the publishing table (or life table) you’re on:

"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better.The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."

Oh, gosh, yes. I'm a person who works very hard at avoiding failure, sometimes to the detriment of my greater life.

What helps, though, is personal history. I failed at several things that really mattered to me in the past. From the vantage point of another decade, I see how much those experiences enriched me. I'm a better parent, spouse and human being for having been humbled. I remind myself that when I learn to look at present-day failures differently, I'll see the value in them, too.

@ Rachelle,

I've been away from the computer all day so I haven't been able to chime in to the comments, but I really love reading everyone's thoughts!

Yeah, I like the way you deleted mine. I guess you just loved it too much.

You know why I keep coming back? I can't help it. You are the greatest hypocrite, I think, in the publishing industry, especially with the whole Christian thing. You maintain this cult of syncophants, and you have for years. (excuse me while I gnaw a bit of meat off this chicken bone--belch--okay, where was I? )Oh yeah, you have these women who all seem to make their avatars up to look like--you.

What am I doing here? This isn't about agenting or publishing at all, is it? Admit it, you can't sell an unknown to a big six publisher, and you know it. This is about you getting your butt kissed while there's still time to get it kissed--isn't that true?

And these women? You know who they remind me of? Bunny in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf." George tries to show her that her husband is cheating on her and she refuses to look up at the window where her husband and Martha's shadow is cast.

I try to point out the illogic in the things you post, and they just ignore it. "No!" they say like Bunny slurring her words from too much brandy, "I don't want to know."

Well, let me close with this: Writers: if you can't publish your own work today, don't expect anyone else to. I mean seriously, don't you see even yet? Traditional publishing is over for new authors. Even some of the popular ones are now self-publishing. That's a fact.

I feel like a squashed failure all the time. Especially when I play Scrabble. But really, it's just about finding 'piece' and trusting the right letter will come at precisely the right time. Even in the grand game of life. :)

It's a pleasure working with you on the new book and I'm learning as many positive things from the journey as I'm sure I will once it's sold. Wouldn't want to miss any of it.

I once applied for a high level job. I was the #2 candidate, and they hired #1. About 1 year later I got a call back, #1 hadn't worked out. I got the job, and worked there 5 years, until the birth of my first child. The moral of the story is that just because THEY didn't think I was the best person for the job, did NOT mean I wasn't the best person for the job.

While I try to always learn & grow from my failures, the bottom line is sometimes you don't get it, even tho you should. Writing, art, job interviews are all opinion based. So choose to that even if you aren't selected, you still may have been a good selection.

I'm an adult figure skater as well as a writer. In skating, when you stop falling, you've stopped growing as a skater. Same in writing.

Good analogy, LeAnne. And if you ever need someone for the "human-curling" team, I'm your man.

When I embarked on my writing journey, I knew from my experience working for a publishing company that success takes hard work and time. I did my best to enjoy each high point along the way but not to let them delude me into thinking my turn was around the next bend. A writer has to climb a lot of hills on the road to publication, but hanging in there can pay off in the ultimate joy ride.

You have an as-gentle-as-possible way of delivering depressing news, Rachelle...and on a Monday morning, too.

I haven't allowed myself to get my hopes up with the publishing goal yet, and I've got to say after reading this post I'm very thankful for that.

I need to take to heart though your thoughts on relishing the mini achievements along the way. If I follow that advice, hopefully I'll be emotionally prepared to weather the storms should I make it that far some day.

Even when they're dashed, I think my hopes are higher than most. It's just my nature. The other day my husband stopped me in the kitchen and said, "I think your book will be published because it's how you share your witness." Then he hugged me and went on about his business. You know, that right there is almost enough.

That's also why I keep champagne chilled at all times. A glass shared with my husband is great whether it's for celebration or consolation!

Each time an agent has asked for a partial or a full. Each time I have had a short story accepted. Each time I finish another work, I think, this is the time. Finally. One could say I was being unrealistic, but the joy of those moments, even if ephemeral, spurs me on to write more, to write better, to keep going.

Wonderful post. I'm so focused on finding my agent that I haven't even looked ahead. HALF the projects don't make it through committee? Yikes!
I survive for the little wins along the way though. As long as I keep seeing progress, and keep breathing, I'll get there eventually!

I love unrealistically high hopes! They make life fun. While you have that unchecked lottery ticket in your pocket, you can dream of being a millionaire, even though you know the odds are vanishingly small.

For me, the key is to recognize the difference between unrealistic hopes and unrealistic expectations.

Hopes bring you joy. Expectations set you up for disappointment.

I try to be positive about what I do, the contests I enter, the writing I send to freelance editors, but at the same time I try to be realistic.

Like you said, I've been watching this enough and have listened to enough conference recordings to know you WON'T get in on the first try. Even with this contest I just recently entered, I don't expect anything from it. Doesn't mean I don't WISH something good would come from it, but I am trying to look at it first and for most as a learning opportunity. :-))

Rachelle, I'm to the point where the door has been opened from an inch to a crack...a fairly big crack. I feel so blessed, though I know there is still much work ahead.

I've been writing for many long years, and during that time, I was asked for several "completes" along the way. I believe it was God's way of honing my writing, improving my skills, "seasoning" me.


I continued to write through our child's chronic illness, two tornadoes, and various other life events. Those things made this "Pollyanna" stronger because I realized that if I could write my way through the bad, then I could, by George, write my heart out during the GREAT!

Oh yeah, high hopes, crashing lows -- I do it all. My husband calls me "red light, green light" for a good reason (he's known as "flashing yellow," by the way).

Speaking of lows...I had no idea more than half of all projects get rejected by the pub. committee. Frankly, I don't even know what a pub. committee is, but it (they?) sounds daunting!

For me, the worst is when I've come so close and then it hasn't happened. Last year my novel went to editorial/acquisitions three times--and three times it got shot down. In one of those instances, my agent had called to say it appeared to be a sure thing and she contacted the remaining houses that had it to let them know an offer was imminent. And then... the offer wasn't made after all. I had one day of thinking I really, truly was going to be a published author, so it was devastating to find out I wasn't going to be after all. It was really, really tough to keep going after that. But I have, and I've become a stronger writer since that time. And I'm grateful I have such a terrific agent in my corner who still believes in me and my writing.
(Interesting to hear that fewer than half of the projects that get to editorial are actually acquired...)

Great post. The very first time I ever queried, nearly 10 years ago, I got a request for a full.

I really didn't have the knowledge of the business and thought that this was "a piece of cake" {finger snap}

I fully expected an offer of representation within a week.

Needless to say, I didn't get that offer. When the rejection letter came, I was crushed. It was a real humbling lesson for me...which I needed at the time.

When I look back, I can't believe how cocky I was. Who was that person?!?!?

After having the wind knocked out of me, I took some time to learn more about the publishing business and got back up on my writing horse. I've had other rejections since but none like that first one.

I'm now thankful for that experience. It's made me a better writer and person.

The first time my hopes were raised was at my first writers conference with a fairly early draft of my first novel. A well-respected agent read my 20 pages, raved over my writing, and said she was seriously interested in representing me--if I could fix a couple of flaws. I'm positive I was higher on that meeting than anyone could ever be on drugs. It didn't work out, but the utter joy of that moment stays with me--not because I almost got an agent, but because it was the first time someone in the industry told me I really could write. On the strength of that I felt I could come out of the closet and tell the world I was a writer, even if I never published a word.

Since then I've had my hopes raised and dashed more times than I care to count, and I really try to keep my hopes in check these days. With response times so long and so many agents choosing not to respond unless they're interested, I feel very fortunate to get any word from an agent at all!

In the beginning, I did a dance and told all my friends whenever an agent or publisher requested a partial or full.

At one point, I had a double revise & resubmit with an agent that ultimately ended in a glowing rejection, and that really burst my bubble.

This business is indeed a roller coaster. And with each rejection and each tiny success, it gets easier to loosen up and stop clenching the handrail. I'm still enjoying the ride.

I just hope I don't fall off!

I've had the same agent request my full manuscript three different times over three years and still hasn't read it even once.

Haha!! Love the pic!! Great post!! As always, so timely.

I would say I haven't gotten my hopes unrealistically high. Rather, my life has taught me not to count my chickens, that's for SURE! Being married to a Navy pilot, and having our orders for moves changed, for instance, right before we were supposed to leave...? Yeah, I don't count on getting somewhere till I'm there! I got a positive response to an essay query on Friday from a publication and... well, I'd be over the moon if they actually published it!! But I know that I'm still a loooong ways from that!! I'm just trying to be thankful for the nice things they said, though, about the clips I used, because hand-written compliments from an editor are so wonderfully unexpected.

Great post. It's not all rainbows and butterflies, and to think it's in the bag will only hurt more when we find it's not. Keeping a level head keeps us strong. Thank you.

A couple days ago I went to part of an event at the local library, the fifth annual event about writing and publishing. I only slipped in for the last hour to hear a particular author I was interested in. I was amazed at how packed the room was with people who had been there all day listening to panels and asking questions. I wondered how many of them would be disappointed confront the business realities of writing and publishing. Disappointment is a fact of life in the industry, but something inside us compels us to stay at it.

I think I would die w/o hope. Hope is an important part of reality--the two aren't necessarily in opposition, but hope must be tempered by patience.

I can't believe that - in this digital day and age - writers put themselves through such gut-twisting emotions. I agree with one of the above posters: Do it yourself! It is not difficult and, at least, your work is out there immediately instead of waiting years for a marketing committee's yay or nay. And, btw, I continue to read a few agent's blogs simply to remind myself why I went ahead and self-published. Life is too damn short...

Because of enlightening blogs (such as this one) I have always had realistic goals and expectations. These posts have given me more insight that when I get published I feel I'll be well prepared! Thank you Rachelle!

When I get a really painful critique, I go read a book off the NY Times best seller list. There is almost always something in whatever I'm reading that I was just told was aweful and would block my path to publication. I don't use that as an excuse to not improve. I still try to improve my craft, but it takes the idea that I have to be a perfect writer out if my head.

Not giving up may not mean success but the opposite absolutely does.

These days I'm trying to get off the roller coaster and on to a gentler ride--otherwise it's too difficult. I smile and feel good if an agent wants to read a partial, but I don't scream to the heavens about it as I used to. I usually don't tell people about my ms and I keep my expectations low. But you have to keep hopeful and given how difficult it is to get published, these hopes have to be somewhat unrealistic.

Hope for the best but prepare for the worst--but it's not really the worst, because you can still keep trying.

(Am I the only one who finds that dog pretty cute despite the snarling?)

This was a perfect post for today, and exactly what I needed to hear. :-)

@ Rebecca

I can't believe that - in this digital day and age - writers put themselves through such gut-twisting emotions. I agree with one of the above posters: Do it yourself! It is not difficult and, at least, your work is out there immediately instead of waiting years for a marketing committee's yay or nay. And, btw, I continue to read a few agent's blogs simply to remind myself why I went ahead and self-published. Life is too damn short...

Very well said. Personally, I believe Rachelle is whipping a dead horse. Not only are the odds of every being published traditionally very high, but the contracts tend to suck, the return on investment just isn't there, and I frankly can't see how a major publisher could ever take on a new untested author--unless they just want to flush money down the drain.

My question is what role an agent has in this new age of publishing?

Edward
http://independentauthor.blogspot.com

My question is what role an agent has in this new age of publishing?

Agents aren't running scared as you apparently think they should, because we know that our years of expertise will be even more valuable in the new age of publishing. We already have experience in the many functions a self-published author must either become good at, or hire others to take care of: editing, titling, recognizing great cover design, learning the potential markets for a book, promoting the book, etc. etc.

We've always been here to help authors find readers, and in the new age of publishing, most agents will continue doing that same thing, if perhaps in different ways.

I got attacked and bit by a dog once and it was really unpleasant. That picture reminded me of that experience.

@ Rachelle

Agents aren't running scared as you apparently think they should,

I didn't say you should run anywhere, but...uh...Nathan Bransford sure did. Hey, if you have celebrity authors in your stable, great. Traditional publishing will always be there for celebrity authors, but in the next five years, I think even they will start self-publishing. Then what?

because we know that our years of expertise will be even more valuable in the new age of publishing. We already have experience in the many functions a self-published author must either become good at, or hire others to take care of: editing, titling, recognizing great cover design, learning the potential markets for a book, promoting the book, etc. etc.

Now that's something I find curious. When did you all suddenly become editors? That used to be a highly valuable skill that one went to school for (Journalism, English majors). My guess is you became editors and publishing consultants around November of 2007 when Kindle came out. Just a guess. We could go on about that forever, however, because even that landscape has changed. Of course everyone needs a good copyeditor and cover artist, and if you're all that and a bag of chips, then I stand corrected. I was always under the impression that an agent was a literary salesperson and contract negotiator. I always imagined their schooling would be more centered around law.

We've always been here to help authors find readers, and in the new age of publishing, most agents will continue doing that same thing, if perhaps in different ways.

I just posted an article on my admittedly Charlie Sheen-esque blog about three easy steps to being a successful novelist, and in writing that, I still couldn't find a place for an agent.

Having said that, there would definitely be a place for an agent selling celebrity work, especially in selling movie rights. But then, if a book is popular, somebody's probably going to offer a movie deal anyway, and I wonder if a lawyer wouldn't be more appropriate then.

I don't mean to drink the last drop of wine at the party, but you keep pushing the traditional paradigm. And I just wonder why anyone still thinks that way.

I got attacked and bit by a dog once and it was really unpleasant. That picture reminded me of that experience.

Hey, some things you just have to get over or heal over. I have a little dog just like that, her name's Morticia. She rules the nutered black lab with an iron fist.

I am hopeful because a publishing co has asked for my manuscript. It is in their hands as I write. Am I excited, of course, but I am taking one step at a time. Yes, it is a process.

Hi everyone,

Great discussion.

Edward - I just wanted to address a couple of your comments.

When I was researching agents, I was surprised to find that many agents have worked as editors at publishing houses. They have completed their journalism or other relevant degrees, or they have completed internships. On top of this, they have their sales experience and negotiating expertise to bring to the table.

There is such a lot of synergy between agenting and editing that they cross back and forth, something that makes them even more valuable if they are representing your book - their contacts.

Now, don't get me wrong, I think self-pub is a wonderful resource for authors who choose to take that route, and if you do, kudos to you. It is great to see the world of publishing evolve, and mostly, it is great to see books become more accessible to people.

But I see writing as a business. In self publishing, you are the business owner, marketing person, writer, graphic designer, accounts payable clerk etc etc. In traditional publishing, you are still the business owner and as such you keep an eye on the big picture and do your part to help ensure the business is a success. However, in traditional publishing, you have a team of experts working for / with you, with inside knowledge and connections, leaving you to concentrate on your area of expertise, which for me, is writing the book.

Unrealistic expectations are better than none at all, and long as you don't let them take over.

If that happens, you've just become Lindsay Lohan.

In my Bible, page 976, scripted in ink beside the verse "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life" (Proverbs 13:12) are these words:

"Writing rejected 2/07."

I think that particular rejection was the worst I've known as it pertains to my writing. A publisher held onto my manuscript for six months before declining. I remember closing my door and sobbing my guttural ache. Moments later, I see tender hands reaching beneath the crack at the base of the doorway and my little son saying, "Mommy, here's two quarters. I'll buy your book."

Although my heart was sick, it also soared in that moment. A seed was planted by tender love, and I knew that all would be well.

There have been a few other heartsick kind of hopeless moments since then, but I have never forgotten those tiny hands and that huge heart.

It's a stone of remembrance I keep in my pocket, reminding me of all things sacred.

peace~elaine

My twin sister and I (co-authoring a book) are quickly learning that investing in yourself might be someone's best option.

I guess I've been at this writing thing long enough that today's post didn't even make me blink. It happens. Twice I was disappointed when agents at conferences asked to see a proposal. One I never heard from again, despite our shared love of Bassett Hounds, and the other turned me down because another agent in her firm had already signed a deal for a book with a similar topic as mine. Hey, you either get over it and move on, or you find another passion!

And I'd like to give you a great big THANK YOU for not using the stereotypical Pit Bull as the angry dog. A much misunderstood and sadly maligned doggie.

Great comment, Sally.

I beg to differ with those who claim that self-publishing is easy and inexpensive. If it’s easy and cost you nothing, you’re doing it wrong. From what I’ve read on the blogs of moderately successful indie authors, they spent between $1000 and $2000 **at minimum** to make their novels as professional as they could. You must hire an editor; preferably this person is someone with actual experience in the publishing industry who is freelancing on the side. Those folks don’t come cheap. Nor do really good graphic designers and proficient eBook bundlers. Then there’s the marketing aspect. I’d definitely consider hiring someone who markets digital products to take that on.

I am preparing to query my first novel. I am optimistic but I am also preparing myself for rejection. I know it will need more editing and rewriting before it's publication worthy, but I also know that I have to try. Not trying = failure to me. I'd rather know than wonder what if. In the meantime, I continue writing and reading and learning and doing the best I can.

Whoa now - I'm just here for the rainbows and butterflies.

And let’s not forget, once you have an agent (yay!), once the agent has submitted your project to publishers (yay!), once editors have said they love it and they’re taking it to pub committee (yay!)—well, less than half of projects that go to committee get approved. It could all end in heartbreak.

So there must be at least ONE other person on the planet in this boat right now? Because this post hits eerily close to home, Rachelle. :-)

I have long been a girl who keeps her hopes down so low that anything is a treat. While it's fun to ride the wave of positive response, I generally live under a rock until I hear news the sun is shining, and even then, I don't dare tell anyone until I see it for myself. But thanks for the reminder to enjoy the little bits of encouragement while they last, instead of tucking them away in the "I'll take this treat out and look at it when I know it's mine" file. Because when you write from under a rock, sometimes you just need a little inspiration to keep you going. :-)

May I borrow your handkerchief?

Turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones, that's all we can do.

Love "your" dog, Rachelle. Reminds me of my dog, though she usually doesn't make that face!
It's such a balancing act. If you focus on getting published, you can't write. But getting published--or e-publishing & selling lots of books--is WHY we write. (OK, personal growth, yada, yada, yada.)
I've just started a blog, because that's what you have to do. A huge distraction from revision, which is what I also have to do.
Ivana, your English is just fine.
Andrew, keep amazing everyone, especially the doctors.
Edward, so you self-pub., but how do you feel if you don't get customers? Same diff. (Hope it doesn't happen to you, though.)
Elaine, your "2 quarters" story is so sweet, I might quote it on my blog. Thanks.

Elaine, your words are up on my blog (ibischild.blogspot.com)--with a link on my FB page. Thanks to you & your son.

I always struggle with picking myself back up after I have reached a goal. I have to remind myself that goal is not the only thing in my life. There are other goals to meet and work towards. This is the first time I have really admitted this problem in writing... maybe writing about it will help me to really admit it and look for solutions to my issue. ...moving forward one step at a time. :)

This post and the comments have given me much to think about. This is a complicated issue, the world of publishing. And writing is intertwined with the core of who we are as people. It is our joy and we all want to retain that joy through the ups and downs, whether we are ever published or not. I just received a letter from a friend today. Though she has never written a story, she writes the most amazing letters. She took a chunk of time out of her busy schedule to do it and blessed me immensely. There are so many ways of blessing others with our words. Publishing will happen or it won't and that's just one chapter in the story of our lives.

This journey toward publication has certainly been a roller coaster ride of highs and lows ... and yet, the ride is thrilling enough that I don't want to get off anytime soon ... if ever.

After a nine-month relationship, my agent and I mutually agreed to go our separate ways. She didn't feel she was the best agent to represent my book. I was crushed for a day or two, and then started querying again. I refuse to give up, and I believe that the right agent is out there somewhere.
Thanks for the post, Rachelle.