Navigating Rejection: What to Do When Your Publisher Wants a Severe Rewrite
Navigating Rejection: What to Do When Your Publisher Wants a Severe Rewrite
Dealing with rejection is never easy, especially when it comes to publishing your book. If a publisher asks for a severe rewrite before accepting your manuscript, you may feel discouraged. However, this does not mean you should throw in the towel. Here are steps to consider and strategies to help you succeed in getting your book published.
Strategies for Moving Forward
When a publisher requests a severe rewrite, it is important to consider multiple options before deciding how to proceed. Here are some strategies to help you navigate this challenging situation:
Revise and Resubmit to the Same Publisher or a Different One
One option is to revise your manuscript and resubmit it to the same publisher, or you can explore other publishers. Before making a decision, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the feedback provided by the publisher. If the rewrite is significant and the feedback is constructive, revising and resubmitting may be your best course of action. However, if the publisher's demands are unreasonable or the feedback is not helpful, it may be time to consider alternative publishing methods.
Self-Publishing: A Viable Option
Another option is self-publishing, which can be a bit challenging to start but doesn’t have to be. After publishing 200 books on Amazon and running 120 million Amazon ads, I discovered the secret to getting books self-published easily and selling. The key is to break down the steps into easy-to-follow bite-sized chunks as I detailed in my free self-publishing secrets checklist.
Solicit Feedback from Other Writers, Editors, or Writing Groups
Getting feedback from other writers, editors, or writing groups can provide valuable insights that you might not have considered. This external perspective can help you identify areas for improvement and offer suggestions for better presentation and structure. Engaging in writing communities can also boost your confidence and provide motivation to refine your manuscript.
Consider Changing the Content or Approach
If revisions are needed, it’s important to carefully consider the nature and extent of the changes required. Changing the content or approach of your manuscript can significantly improve its quality and marketability. This might involve restructuring your book, focusing on specific themes, or refining your writing style to better align with market expectations.
Keep Writing and Work on Improving Your Craft
Finally, it’s essential to keep writing and improving your craft. Writing is a skill that improves with practice and experience. Continuously seek opportunities to hone your writing skills, engage with the writing community, and learn from other successful authors. This will not only make you a better writer but also increase your chances of success in the publishing industry.
Conclusion
When faced with a request for a severe rewrite, it’s important to carefully consider all your options and take a proactive approach. Whether you choose to resubmit to the same publisher, self-publish, or seek feedback from others, the key is to remain persistent and focused on improving your manuscript. With the right mindset and strategies, you can navigate rejection and successfully get your book published.