Author, screenwriter, and producer Brandyn Cross knew late actor Gary Coleman because they shared the same agent. Coleman struggled financially for years, and Cross was always hoping that Coleman would write a book to help with his financial troubles...

Authors often struggle with knowing when their manuscript is ready to be sent to an agent or publisher. Cyndi Hughes, president of Cynthia Hughes Literary Consulting, gives tips on ensuring your manuscript is ready to be published. She stresses the...

Believe it or not, but there is a way for authors to help in the process of selling a book's subsidiary rights, such as film, audiobooks, foreign rights, and other sub-rights. Judy Klein, agent and rights consultant, talks about the importance of getting...

Bill Gladstone, agent at Waterside Productions, offers motivation for aspiring authors. He shares his perspective on how positive thoughts and pure motivations can bring goodness into your life, including your publishing efforts. The Law of Attraction...

Ever thought of public speaking as part of your author platform? Publicist Marika Flatt explains what role media outreach and speaking engagements can play in your PR campaign. Publicists are focused on garnering media attention around the speaking...

An important step in the book writing process that is often overlooked by writers is the self-editing . Before you send your manuscript off to an agent or publisher, it's critical that you take the time to do at least some basic proofreading. Even if...

Publishing contracts can be confusing and intimidating, especially for first time authors. How do you make sure you're getting a fair deal? By working with a professional that knows how publishing contracts work. This may be a literary agent or attorney...

Literary agent Steve Hutson recommends authors pretend that if they get a publishing deal with a traditional house, the publisher will not put any time or money behind the book's marketing efforts. Like most businesses, publishers have tight budgets...

The road to getting your novel adapted for film or television can be a bumpy one, as writer and producer Craig Miller explains. If you have worked with a traditional publisher or have an agent, they may have relationships with agencies or studios in...

The first rule of thumb in negotiating a book contract with a traditional publisher is that the contract can be a veritable minefield for the author. So, step one, don’t sign anything until you are sure you understand exactly what you’re signing, which...