The Bottom Line
When I first started sending work out for publication -- before the Internet, if you can imagine it -- Writer's Market books were the source of information. While we now have easy access to much of the necessary contact information online, Writer's Market is still a reliable place to turn when researching publications or agents. In addition, it includes clear instructions on how to submit work in a professional manner and offers articles and interviews on publishing and craft.
Pros
- Lists over 1,300 book publishers, magazines, literary agents, conferences, and contests.
- Remains one of the most comprehensive resources for information on agents and magazines.
- Supplies instructions on how to submit materials.
- Now includes information on publishing graphic novels and comics as well.
Cons
- At $26.99, starving artists may want to purchase a new book every other year or use the library.
- Much of the information in Writer's Market is also available online, though not in one place.
Description
- Writer's Market offers all the necessary details needed to submit your work.
- Includes additional articles on the writing life and craft & technique.
- Interviews with writers and editors provide helpful insights into the world of publishing.
Guide Review - 2008 Novel and Short Story Writer's Market
For over a quarter century, the Novel & Short Story Writer's Market has been an indispensable resource for writers trying to publish their work. With 1,300 listings for literary journals and magazines, awards, agents, and conferences, the popular reference book provides the contact information necessary to submit work along with instructions on how to do so in a professional manner. In addition, articles on publishing and craft help writers do things like evaluate their novels, determine the credentials of e-publications, and manage rejection.
The 2008 edition also includes interviews with writers such as Sigrid Nunez, Lisa See, John Connolly, and Kelly Link, with a good balance of both literary and genre writers. For the first time, the 2008 edition addresses the needs of graphic novelists as well. Abbreviations and symbols are clearly explained on both inside covers, and all of the material is indexed.
As I mention above, starving artists probably cannot afford to replace the book every year; I pick up a new one every few years, double checking contact information online (this is a good idea anyway, as editors and addresses do change). Most libraries will carry it, but writers who submit regularly may find that they want their own copy for easy reference.
