The Insider's Guide to Getting Your Book Published

5) Writing A Proposal
This is the longest, most important and most useful chapter in the book. Your proposal will make the difference between publication and rejection, so it's important to get it right. Whether you're writing fiction or non-fiction, Stock has good advice for you and if you read only one chapter, this should be it. In particular it covers the art of pitching, structuring a proposal and selling yourself to an editor.

6) Sending It In And Following It Up
Stock advises you on how to submit (however the publisher or agent wants you to), how to follow up your submission and protecting your copyright.

7) Negotiating A Contract
Copyright is again covered in this chapter on negotiation, as well as advances and royalties, licensing, warranties and indemnities and options.

8) Working With Your Publisher
Making sure it goes smoothly is the aim of this chapter, with guidance on handing over the manuscript and handling difficulties with the publisher.

9) Dealing With Rejection
The advice here is short and sweet - take it on the chin and learn something.

10) Self Publishing
Self-publishing is another option that many authors consider. Stock highlights five reasons to think about self publishing as well as five disadvantages to this DIY approach.