Chapter VI: Act I: , Scene i

[Sidenote: _Preliminary Announcements_]

After the manuscript of a book has been accepted, the author should send to the publishers a description of the book, comprising two or three hundred words. This should outline its scope and contents. The author may also send a brief sketch of his life and work and his portrait in photograph. The photograph should be a “silver print,” not a soft-toned carbon or platinum print, from which good half-tones can not be made. A negative, however, is even better, because from it as many prints may be made as are wanted.

[Sidenote: _Type and Binding_]

The selection of the size of the book, the style of the type page, the kind of paper and style of binding, is usually left to the publishers, who in these matters are guided by the tastes of book-buyers and by the cost. The form of the book is a part of the publishers’ contribution to its salability. Suggestions from authors, however, are of great assistance, particularly as to illustrations and cover design.

[Sidenote: _Review Copies_]

The author can often point out to the publisher legitimate ways by which the interests of the book may be advanced. He can make suggestions as to sending out copies to reviewers by giving the names of those from whom the book is likely to secure attention. The names of teachers who might be interested in educational works would also be of value. Lists of various organizations, such as clubs and societies, whose members ought to know that the book has been published, might be supplied. These efforts should aim to place in the hands of all such persons the information which they might desire to have in connection with their work or which might relate to their personal interests. Accurate and definite information alone should be given, laudation being carefully avoided.

[Sidenote: _A Partnership_]

The publishers are always ready to co-operate with the author in these matters. The two have virtually entered into a partnership in a book, and the interests of the one should be the interests of the other.

INDEX

“For, by the way, I’ll sort occasion
As index to the story we late talk’d of.”
_King Richard III._