How to be a Writer

In this exciting book I'll take you through all aspects of what it takes to be a professional writer in the publishing and media industries today.

Like all jobs, the role of the writer has evolved over recent years. Technology has made things quicker and easier, royalty payments have changed (mostly downwards) and the potential markets in which writers in every genre can sell their work have exploded exponentially in number. Now is a good time to be a writer and the professionals who are already out there are reaping the benefits of the new opportunities. It's a highly competitive industry to break into, but that's no reason not to give it a try. There will always be a hunger for new literary voices, new ideas and new talents.

I founded a publishing company in 1990 and have since published hundreds of books. I've also written lots of books and written for other media including television, radio, stage and film. It's given me a broad experience as a writer in the various aspects of the writing business. In particular, I've been able to see submissions from over 10,000 writers (that's about 3 per working day on average) that I chose not to publish. That's right: I've rejected 10,000 manuscripts. Sometimes reluctantly, sometimes with relief, or shock, or despair or frustration. But always for a reason. I don't like to reject a manuscript. No publisher does. It gives us no pleasure - indeed, it's finding that rare diamond of a book in the slush pile that we get excited about (among other things, of course). I want to help writers, but I can't give a detailed critique of every book I reject. There wouldn't be enough time left in the day to get on and publish the ones I actually want to print.

That's why I wrote How to be a Writer. I wanted to explain the essential difference between the authors who get rejected, time after time, and those who end up on a short list for further consideration and ultimately get accepted. In fact the difference isn't a vast, uncrossable gulf between amateurs and professionals. It's something that any moderately competent writer can fix with the simple ten stage plan I've outlined in my book. Together with industry secrets and insider tips designed to give any writer a leg-up the ladder of success, this book is essential reading for anyone who wants to see their name in print, on TV or the big screen, or mentioned on the radio.

There are some harsh truths exposed in this book and many myths will be shattered. The reality of writing is not what many people believe it to be. Some of these chapters may surprise or disappoint you. My aim in revealing the secrets of the writing game is not to destroy your ambitions and dreams, but to empower you to be able to achieve them. Use this book as a reality check before embarking on a career as a writer. Use it to inspire you to achieve high standards, greatness and professionalism. Without those you have nothing. With them you can conquer the literary world.

Want a sneak preview of How to be a Writer? It's just hit the UK bookshops, and you can download a free sample right now:

Download some sample pages (PDF) of How to be a Writer now - it's free!

I've included the first 19 pages of this 160 page book in a free PDF which includes the first couple of chapters.