Murdock manuscript editing: the best resources for writers seeking publication

The best resources for authors seeking publication

Type “author” or “writer” or “publishing” into Google, and you’ll find, well, everything. Here are a few key resources for writers, both on the web and in your bookstore.

Why choose Murdock Editing?

n Personal attention. There are hundreds of editors available to writers, but none so friendly, personal, and attentive as Murdock Editing. I recognize that my clients are important, unique, artistic spirits with important stories to tell, and I make it my mission to work with them to make sure that those stories get heard. There is nothing more important to me than my clients and their writing.

n Experience. Editing and evaluations are based on years of experience in the publishing field. I continue to work with top agents, and draw upon newspaper, book publishing, and academic editing positions, plus years of freelance work.

n One editor. Many editing services employ multiple editors—which often results in the “too many cooks” problem. Corporate editing services farm your work out to inexperienced editors. I work directly with you at all times on everything, from proofreading to proposals.

n Success. My clients see results—and requests! Clients are often amazed with the difference in their writing and the responses they receive from agents and editors. See what clients have to say.

n Recommended Reading

Books to get you on your way to becoming a published author:

Writer's Guide to Queries, Pitches & Proposals

Moira Allen

The best guide to writing queries and synopses out there. Allen walks you through the process, generously explaining the ins-and-outs of the industry along the way. She also provides extensive examples, references, and additional web pages to access for additional info. If you want to write a great proposal and aren’t quite sure how, this is the book to read. One note to authors: this book is geared to all sorts of writers, including magazine writers and newspaper columnists. Although you can easily skip those sections and go right to the chapters that apply to you, I recommend that you go back and read the book cover-to-cover; you’ll find all sorts of useful tidbits from start to finish.

The Chicago Manual of Style

Although not all publishing houses use it, this is far and away the most commonly used reference in trade publishing. Check any grammatical or mechanical questions you might have with this book; even if your publisher uses a different style guide, you won’t be far off, and you’ll never be wrong.

Rotten Rejections: The Letters That Publishers Wish They'd Never Sent Andre Bernard

Pushcart's Complete Rotten Reviews & Rejections

Andre Bernard and Bill Henderson

These two books are the yet-to-be-published writer’s chicken soup for the rejected soul. Filled with rejection letters addressed to Faulkner, Dickens, Joyce, and Emerson, these books will have you chuckling and help you rest assured that you’re in good company.

Jeff Herman's Guide to Book Editors, Publishers, and Literary Agents 2005: Who They Are! What They Want! How to Win Them Over!

Jeff Herman

Writer’s Market

Kathryn S. Brogan

Literary Market Place

These are the key reference books for finding good agents and publishers. Although they can be a bit overwhelming to dig through, they are extremely comprehensive and well worth your time. Most listings include not only up to date contact information, but also the types of books they accept, short interviews, and submission preferences. One thing to watch for: publishing is a constantly changing industry, and the information in these books becomes out of date rather quickly. Make sure you get the most recent edition and check contact info on websites.

Note: Occasionally bad publishers and agents get into good books. If you have any doubts, run the name through the Preditors and Editors database.