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I
founded a publishing company in 1990 and have since published
hundreds of books. I've also written dozens 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.
I
wrote How to be a Writer because 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.
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