What Do Publishers Want? Ah, that’s the magical question and the golden ticket for someone like me who is self-publishing my work.
Like so many of us, we put in the hard yards: promoting, reaching out to our target audience, staying active on social media, booking Book Week readings, pitching, getting manuscript assessments, entering writing competitions—the list goes on.
Receiving rejection after rejection from the mainstream part of the industry can be overwhelming and daunting, but it's absolutely part of the process.
I loved working on
my latest book, The Postman’s
My Mate. It was so much
fun to work with Natalie Herington, the illustrator, who had so many great ideas that made
it a better book. Her illustrations really captured what I was thinking when I
originally wrote it. The experience with The Postman’s My Mate, even
pitching it earlier when it was a completely different concept, has made for a
better book. I pitched the original version to a publisher, who gave me some
great advice, and I’m grateful for that interaction. Sometimes what might feel
like harsh criticism is actually a blessing in disguise; we just don’t see it
at the time. Despite the challenges, self-publishing allowed me the freedom to
create my story the way I imagined it.
Recently, I pitched my latest manuscript to three different publishers, thinking I knew what they wanted. I received three different sets of advice. What one really liked, the other rejected. I was so lost. My mind went straight to a vision of that emoji with the wide eyes and literal smoke and fire coming out of its head🤯. That's exactly how I felt—mind blown.
I've spoken to countless authors who have sent off their stories for costly manuscript assessments, taken all the advice on board, and spent more money getting them checked by an editor, only to learn later that they had it right in the first place. The important tip here is to really do your research.
Know what kind of books the publisher you are pitching to sells. Otherwise, the feeling of being in a giant hamster wheel, going around in circles, will burn you out, wondering if you'll ever reach your destination.
On those days when I’m feeling sorry for myself and imposter syndrome vibes, I just have to remind myself how far I’ve come. I could say I did it on my own, but really, without the illustrators, marketers, editors and other supportive authors whom I can now call my friends, I’d be so lost.
So, how do I get traditionally published? Am I trying too hard? Do I just keep going and self-publishing my own work? I mean, my books are selling well and kids are reading them, so why am I trying to get traditionally published? For me, the answer is simple: to prove to myself that I can do it.
Publishers are
professionals who know what sells, what they want to put their brand on, and
what is on trend. They showcase talent, and I have immense respect for
publishers who champion new authors. They play a crucial role in the literary
world, and their expertise is invaluable.
However, self-publishing has its own rewards. It offers freedom and control over your work, allowing you to stay true to your voice. The journey might be challenging, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling. Every author knows the joy of holding their book in their hands, knowing they brought it into the world.
For those of us
navigating the dual paths of self-publishing and traditional publishing, the
key is perseverance and staying true to our passion for writing. Embrace the
rejections as part of the journey, learn from every piece of advice, but never
lose sight of your unique voice.
Keep going, keep writing, and believe in your story. Whether you find success through self-publishing or with a traditional publisher, the most important thing is that your words reach readers who will cherish them.
Kelly Louise Jarris is the author of several picture books. Her first book, Wonderful Wishes, is a rhyming bedtime story that encourages child-parent discussions about sleep and dreams. Her title, Imagine Our Special Place, is an invaluable resource for parents in discussing issues around palliative care with children. Kelly's other books include Cheese On Toast and Seasons of You, with her most recent, The Postman's My Mate. Kelly writes from her experiences with her own kids and from the heart.
Find Kelly Jarris at her website, via Instagram or Facebook