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New and Nervous

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jonascat

Jan 1, 2010, 4:32 PM

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New and Nervous	Can't Post

Hello! I'm currently in the process of attempting to publish and I don't mind admitting that I'm scared to death! My current piece is a narrative nonfiction about what goes on behind the scenes in a thriving veterinary hospital and the little blind cat that changed my life. It follows in the footsteps of books like Marley and Me but hopefully offers a new and interesting viewpoint.

I've been writing all my life, but this is my first attempt to get published. When I say my first attempt, I mean it- I have zero knowledge of the real world of publishing. I have no contacts in the industry and no articles in my name. I've researched all I can about finding an agent and crafting a proposal, but everything I read seems like it's written for someone with a history in the industry. I'm starting to get quite discouraged and depressed. Hopefully I can get some advice about hiding my "newbie" status and presenting myself in the best light.

JoanneMerriam
Joanne Merriam

Jan 2, 2010, 12:47 PM

Post #2 of 5 (1487 views)
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Re: [jonascat] New and Nervous [In reply to]	Can't Post

Welcome to the Speakeasy! You should be able to find answers to your questions here. Try reading through the posts which look interesting in the Non-fiction, Sending Out Your Work and Literary Agents forums for starters and then ask any questions you have left.

Editor: 7x20 * Upper Rubber Boot Books
Most recently: Apocalypse Now: Poems and Prose from the End of Days (Atwood, Bacigalupi, JCO, etc.)

Writer: joannemerriam.com * The Glaze from Breaking (poetry)

sunny red

Jan 2, 2010, 6:57 PM

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Re: [jonascat] New and Nervous [In reply to]	Can't Post

Welcome, jonascat! You've come to the right place to get un-depressed. I feel so much smarter and writer-ish after hanging out here.

ericweinstein
Eric Weinstein

Jan 3, 2010, 1:51 PM

Post #4 of 5 (1455 views)
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Re: [jonascat] New and Nervous [In reply to]	Can't Post

Welcome, jonascat. There are a number of industry blogs (mostly written by agents) that I think you would find useful, including Nathan Bransford's blog.

Also, you might want to read Homer's Odyssey as part of your research, since it sounds very similar to the book you're writing.

Hans Landa: You'll be shot for this!
Aldo Raine: Nah, I don't think so. More like chewed out. I've been chewed out before.

LesbiFicLover2
Angelique

Jun 30, 2010, 4:52 PM

Post #5 of 5 (362 views)
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Re: [jonascat] New and Nervous [In reply to]	Can't Post

Is ok I am nervous too and even worse because English is my second language so I am not too good at it. I am here to learn what I can so when the time comes I know what I should do and hopefully it will go well. Your idea sounds awsome and I love it especially sense originally when I was little I wanted to be a vet sadly I couldn't be because I get sick too often due to Chronic Bronchitis but either way love the idea for your story I hope it gets published.

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