Choosing a publisher probably seems like a complicated task, however, you may find the process somewhat less challenging if you consider the following five suggestions.

1. Research the legitimacy of your prospective publishers. Consider factors like: how long they've been in business; how many books they've published; what types of books they seek; how successful their published books are. etc...

2. Do not assume that the giant publishing houses, which put out more than 200 books annually, are your best option. The competition is obviously arduous with these organizations.

3. Refer to industry bibles like: The Writer's Market.

   These respected resources will provide information like: what kinds of books each publisher prefers; contact information for editors; tips on how to submit your proposal and more.

4. Find books similar to yours and make a note of each publisher's name, address, website etc... Search for related books online at amazon or barnesandnoble.

5. Consult other published authors for their personal advice. You easily do this online by joining a professional association - you can find a list of numerous such organizations on this page.

   You can also use the web to seek help from other writers by enrolling in a writer's group, participating in discussion forums, or asking for feedback in critique circles. You may find writing groups and professional associations for writers in your local community as well.

Danielle Hollister

Danielle Hollister is a single mom of a seven year-old son, who is her personal assistant in their home office, where she has been working as a freelance writer, editor and researcher for more than 10 years. Danielle?s work has been featured in online newsletters, like Briefme.com's Books & Literature ezine, on various websites, and in print publications. Before expanding her career focus to the Internet, she worked for more than three years as a freelance reporter for The Patriot-News, the only daily newspaper in her hometown of Harrisburg, which is the Capitol of Pennsylvania. She also spent two years as the assistant writer to the Director of Public Relations at Penn State Harrisburg, after graduating with high honors from the University with a Bachelor's Degree in Humanitites/Communications. While in college, she worked part-time to pay for her education as a Special Events Coordinator for the Central PA Chapter of The National Multiple Sclerosis Society and as an Editorial Assistant for Stackpole Publishing in Harrisburg.