Mslexia

Mslexia, the magazine for women who write | www.mslexia.co.uk

Essentials

Q: How can I avoid scams?

A:

◊ There’s nothing wrong with paying to get published, but be aware that with most so-called ‘vanity publishing’ the only people who will read your book, or collection of poems, will be family and friends – fine if it’s what you intended.

◊ This is not to say that there are not bona fide companies producing books for clients; but some are little more than cowboy outfits, taking sometimes considerable sums from hopeful writers who want to see their book in Waterstones, which in practice will never go near the shelves of even their local bookshop.

◊ First, vanity presses usually prefer other names (e.g.‘joint venture publishing’, ‘subsidy publishing’, ‘self-publishing’). Often you’ll have to read between the lines of company claims. Don’t be swayed by those that send you a glowing report on your writing – ask yourself, is it a professional assessment? Be aware that it is hard even for mainstream publishers to get their books in bookshops, and most outlets don’t deal with vanity publishers. Small companies won’t have the marketing capability to promote your book – so the chances of sales is pretty slim. And if your book is listed on Amazon, it doesn’t mean it’s going to be browsed by potential customers.

◊ In addition, avoid writing competitions in which prize money depends on entries received. Also, watch out for those that require you to buy an anthology of ‘highly commended’ runners-up.

◊ If you want to get a book produced outside the mainstream, do as much as possible yourself. Use book production services listed in the Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook, which are vetted. If uncertain about a particular company, contact Johnathon Clifford, 01329 822 218; see, www.vanitypublishing.info

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