Not The Slush Pile: Unsolicited Manuscripts Advice

Navigating the Path to Publication: Understanding Unsolicited Manuscripts

In this episode, we discuss a range of topics pertinent to aspiring authors, from differentiating between types of publishing (trade, educational, and self-publishing) to the process and challenges of handling unsolicited manuscripts. Jane shares insights into the evolving landscape of publishing, the digital transformation, and offers practical advice for writers seeking to get their manuscripts noticed.

The conversation includes personal anecdotes and professional strategies for making a successful pitch, as well as an emphasis on the importance of resilience and mental health in the writing journey.

We use the term unsolicited manuscripts these days, and it is a good time to be sending them in. Publishers do not want to miss out.
Aspiring writers are seen as an opportunity for publishers. However, the reality is there are few spots each month for new writers.
How Jane manages unsolicited manuscripts at ventura and the sticky issue of whether publishers send rejection emails, or just don’t bother.
Seana’s experiences of sending in unsolicited factual book pitches.
Jane discusses the opportunities that arise when publishers build a new list.
How to keep up to date with the traditional publishing companies.
The importance of sending submissions exactly to the publishing companies’ specifications.
Agents in the USA versus other parts of the world.
Virginia Lloyd’s service to help polish an agent pitch.
Seana and Jane’s experience of literary speed dating as writer and publisher.
The skill of managing rejection and writer self-care.
Strategies for sending out manuscripts and pitches to agents and publishers.
Routes from self-publishing to traditional publishing.