book proposals|
Jun 08
2009
|
We are always looking for new book projects which fit into our niche. Particularly, we are interested in regional cycling or hiking titles which will have the potential for ongoing sales. We do not publish fiction, children's books, or travel stories -- our focus is on how-to fitness books. We like to work with authors early in the process so that not only do we start off with clear expectations (no, you’re not probably getting on Oprah) but also jointly develop a product that will be commercially successful. We look at publishing as a partnership involving ourselves and the author. Although it states in our publishing contract that we reserve the right to make the final decision on the selling price, cover design, etc, we always work closely with authors throughout the project.
Basic Material
Tell us what the book is about in a few paragraphs. Why is it important that such a book be published? When you submit a proposal, it should not only have a summary of the work, a table of contents, and perhaps a sample chapter, but you should outline your qualifications and knowledge of the market. What’s the audience? What’s the competition? What do you plan to do as an author to promote the book. It’s essential that authors recognize that their role in marketing, along with excellent writing and content, is the key to successful book projects.
Existing Books
If you are the author of a fitness book that’s finished its publication run and your publisher has no plans to go back to print, run it by us if you feel it still has commercial appeal. We sometimes revive dormant books that have a market -- as a small publisher we can live with small steady sales if the book is still viable.
The Package
I recommend email queries to dick@vitessepress.com with enough information to make a decision on whether to explore the project in more detail. There’s no need to send the whole book but err on the side of too much rather than too little. Anything additional you can tell such as whether you have maps or photos, how far the manuscript is along, what the page count is, helps us get a sense of how ready to go you are.
So, look over our short list of titles. Do you have a book that might fit? Let us know.
Basic Material
Tell us what the book is about in a few paragraphs. Why is it important that such a book be published? When you submit a proposal, it should not only have a summary of the work, a table of contents, and perhaps a sample chapter, but you should outline your qualifications and knowledge of the market. What’s the audience? What’s the competition? What do you plan to do as an author to promote the book. It’s essential that authors recognize that their role in marketing, along with excellent writing and content, is the key to successful book projects.
Existing Books
If you are the author of a fitness book that’s finished its publication run and your publisher has no plans to go back to print, run it by us if you feel it still has commercial appeal. We sometimes revive dormant books that have a market -- as a small publisher we can live with small steady sales if the book is still viable.
The Package
I recommend email queries to dick@vitessepress.com with enough information to make a decision on whether to explore the project in more detail. There’s no need to send the whole book but err on the side of too much rather than too little. Anything additional you can tell such as whether you have maps or photos, how far the manuscript is along, what the page count is, helps us get a sense of how ready to go you are.
So, look over our short list of titles. Do you have a book that might fit? Let us know.