Welcome back writers and readers. I've been updating and writing in my other blogs for the last week or so and seemed to have neglected this one. Some days the writing fever hits me and others it's gone. That's been a problem for me while working on my baseball novel. Editing and restructuring is a part of writing that I don't really enjoy, but it must be done. All writers learn to get better in that area. If anyone would like to post any writing samples of short stories, scripts, jokes, informative articles, or just comments about writing feel free to do so in the "comments" section. I can then paste such works on the blog in my next post. If you need writing resources go check out my links section.

Getting a book published is a strenuous, difficult task these days. Believe me I know since I'm in the process of doing so. Finding the right publisher takes a overwhelming amount of time. Finding someone you can trust and has a proven track record for success is easier said than done. Then you must have the type of manuscript a book publisher is looking for to pursue a deal. Actually submitting a query letter that wows or stimulates publishers' interest enough to request a manuscript is even tougher. There are several options to publishing:

1. traditional publishing- submitting proposal and/or story to large publisher or chain for consideration.
2. self-publishing- paying out of your own pocket to publish your book through professional services of a small or large print operation.
3. vanity press- submitting query letter or manuscript to a printing press. They charge your a upfront fee and pay little or no royalty on book sales. They don't cover a national market for selling books.
4. E-publishing- books that are accepted get published only online. These books appear on websites for customers to buy at a low cost. Also sample pages of these E-books are available for a small fee or free depending on publishers' costs so readers can find out if they really like a book before making a purchase. Royalty fees range from 15-40%. Author is responsible for almost all promotion.

It's good to know what your choices are as a writer. Learning the advantages and disadvantages can make all the difference in who you wish to do business with in embarking on a publishing venture. *Beware of frauds and scams. There are plenty out there. Look up companies in the Better Business Bureau or visit informative writing sites that post such information if uncertain. Hope this helps some hard-working writers who are determined to be published or those unaware of the process. Keep the writing spirit alive!