General Notes: The Proposal Itself
- The Table of Contents is important – editors may look there first.
- You need a compelling point to justify a book.
- Ask big questions beyond just your narrow focus.
- Mention comparable books.
- Need at least two decent chapters to pitch.
Contacting Editors
- For every press, you have to find the right editor for your area.
- Make things as easy as possible on the editor – send everything in one big go, not multiple emails. No separate query. Include the proposal, CV, sample chapters. Include contact info in the email.
- Set up meetings at a conference about 3-4 weeks in advance.
Timeline
Varies by publisher, but one example:
- The proposal goes out for review along with two completed chapters (you can recommend reviewers or those to be avoided).
- Then it goes to the editorial board. If approved:
- Write the Book.
- The book goes out to review (typically different reviewers but this varies).
- Revisions.
- Production (9-12 months).