Friday, June 1, 2007
Option
I’m in a good situation—I think. My publisher has an option on my next book. Here’s the catch: I got excited because I found a publisher that I think might fit well with a manuscript I’ve been holding on to. I was getting ready to send it to them. But wait, I can’t send anything out to anyone (within the definitions of the option) without first giving my publisher a look at it. This particular story is not one I think would fit with my publisher. What to do? Send a manuscript to my publisher, right, but which one? I can’t seem to choose. I want it to be a good one. A story they will like and want. I don’t want to waste my chance at another book. Should I ask my editor what they’re looking for? But, what if I don’t have what they’re looking for? I can’t just sit around in manuscript limbo forever. That would be dumb. And I’m starting to get antsy with nothing sitting in a slush pile somewhere. I just need to choose the one I think fits best I guess, polish it, and cross my fingers. And hey, an actual publisher wants to see my next book. That’s pretty darn cool.
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I can only wish I had your problem. lol
ReplyDeleteIt's a tough choice, but I say go with your gut. Good luck with whatever you decide.
Did you get an agent, Heather? Decisions, decisions. Wish I had those kind.
ReplyDeleteHeather,
ReplyDeleteWow- I've been gone for awhile and now you've got another possible book deal going? You're on fire! Congrats!
Dawnelle
Nope. No agent here. Believe me, if I ever get one you'll know! More and more I'm wishing I did have one. I have one in mind that I'm going to query asap.
ReplyDeleteThe option was a part of my contract. From what I read it's a common contract clause and something writers need to consider before signing. It's actually advisible to get the clause removed and at the least get it whittled down to being as specific as possible, i.e. next picture book under 500 words with a consideration period of thirty days or something like that. I think for a first timer without an agent it's not bad. If I could just decide what to send.
Sounds great to me, Heather. If you get yet a third book deal I'm sure an agent will snap you up. I attended a workshop with Tamora Pierce last year at an SCBWI conference and she said you don't need an agent for picture books. Still, an agent has access to closed houses and if you're a prolific picture book author, why not?
ReplyDelete