Do you feel jaded against small press publications because they are new? Or maybe they haven't released many, if any, titles? As a writer, do you cringe at the idea of trusting someone new with your work?
Most writers dream of having lucrative contracts with the giant publishing houses. Let's face it, who wouldn't? Even established publishers had to start small in the beginning. Authors had to take a leap of faith with such places as
Doubleday,
Penguin, and
Harper Collins.
Using a small press is a chance. And unless you are
Anne Rice,
Clive Cussler, or
Nora Roberts; that small press is taking a chance on you, too. Is that such a terrible thing? They give you a shot and you return the compliment.
It's like seeing a classified ad 'Must have at least five years of experience.' No one is born with experience and if no one takes a chance on the unknown, how can anyone earn their experience?
If you're an unknown (at this time) author, such as myself, can it really hurt to build your portfolio with new presses? They can always say 'I knew him/her when...' once you become the next top selling, in demand author. And visa-versa, your small press could become the next big publisher and you were one of their first authors. It's a group project, each participant brings their talents to the mix and see if it blooms.
Working with a small press allows for more interaction with the editors and the opportunity to build a lasting relationship. Large houses are short on time, dealing with many authors, books, and deadlines. It could take them months or even a year to return any correspondence. Getting to know the business along side of your small press editor, is a lifelong lesson that any writer can benefit from.
Take a look, give someone small or unknown a try. I'd enjoy hearing from any one using a small press or who runs one.
My current small press chance: Jessy, editor at
Pill Hill Press.
