RESOURCES FOR WRITERS
There are many excellent books on the publishing process. Here are some that are highly recommend. You can find these titles where ever books are sold, or at your local library. Also, Preditors and Editors is an excellent site with a myriad or links and resources to help move you forward. Another good site is Writers Beware. This organization offers a lot of good cautionary news to writers with good links and other reputable agents. A very good industry blog is Authorlink. And, you should be sure to go to Association of Author’s Representatives (AAR). The AAR will give you good information on what agents can do for you and a full listing of other reputable agents.
DEVELOPMENTAL EDITORS Given the current climate inside publishing, most agents want to offer acquisitions editors projects that are as close to "production ready" as feasible. One advantage from which any writer can benefit is to invest in an independent developmental editor. A local writer's group can offer wonderful support, and a social experience, and advice (both good and bad). However, when you hire a quailified developmental editor, you are getting professional editorial guidance, feedback, and polish. A few recommended places to start would be The Editor's Circle, or The Consulting Editors Alliance.
GUIDES TO AGENTS & PUBLISHERS
WRITER'S GUIDE TO BOOK EDITORS, PUBLISHERS AND LITERARY AGENTS by Jeff Herman. Extensive and up-to-date annotations make this annual a fine resource – and it’s reasonably priced.
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GETTING YOUR BOOK PUBLISHED by Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry. Considered by insiders one of the better books on the subject.
WRITING SKILLS
WRITING FOR STORY: Craft Secrets of Dramatic Nonfiction by Jon Franklin. If you want to write nonfiction narratives, this book is essential reading. Trust us; this is a book every nonfiction writer should read and reread.
ELEMENTS OF EXPRESSION by Arthur Plotnik. This book will help any writer add snap, crackle and pop to the page.
ON WRITING WELL: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser. If you haven’t read this book, you’ve missed one of the best books ever written on the subject.
SPUNK & BITE: A Writer’s Guide to Punchier, More Engaging Language & Style by NEPA client Arthur Plotnik. This edgy book encourages writers to put Strunk and White back on the shelf if they want to make their writing sparkle. Art practices what he preaches, making for a fun read.
LEGAL STUFF
THE COPYRIGHT PERMISSION AND LIBEL HANDBOOK by Lloyd Jassin et al. A modestly priced basic, plain-English introduction to issues such as fair use, permissions, etc.
EVERY WRITER'S GUIDE TO COPYRIGHT AND PUBLISHING LAW by Ellen M. Kozak. A succinct guide with a slightly broader scope than Jassin.
GETTING PERMISSION: How to License & Clear Copyrighted Materials Online & Off by Richard Stim. This Nolo Press book offers clear and excellent guidance not only about the legal basics when it comes to both text and illustration permissions but also on how to research permissions and negotiate the lowest fees. It includes a disk with forms and agreements. Well worth the investment.
KIRSCH'S GUIDE TO THE BOOK CONTRACT: For Authors, Publishers, Editors, and Agents by Jonathan Kirsch. Too short to cover every issue, but worth owning.