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Reader's Forum » General Topics » WHO TO TRUST TO PUBLISH MY FIRST STORY
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September 15, 2025 at 09:28 pm Reply
Natalie MurphyHi,
I am 17 years old and have written a children book. I don't know who to trust to publish it. I had it copy righted and now I am getting request from companies who want me to send them my story. My parents are worried I might get my idea stolen. Who did you trust to publish your first story. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lia Mara
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September 16, 2025 at 02:46 am Reply
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Thanks for posting, and congratulations on producing your book! I know how much of a kick that can be!
My first book was published by Scholastic Canada, a reputable publishing company. I still publish through them and their US head office, and several other publishers, and it's more than 40 years later.
Your manuscipt is now copyrighted, so no one can "steal" it if anyone is so inclined. If you wish to sell your book, you should send it with a covering letter to the reputable publisher of your choice. Get a library book on Writers' Markets. It will list all the publishers and the kind of material they're looking for. It lists literary agents as well, which might be a cautious way to proceed. I had no agent at th start, but I'm represented now.
You don't mention if you are hoping to sell your book or self-publish it. I think I would avoid the publishing companies that are asking for you to send your story -- they probably got wind of its existence via the copyright, and are going to want you to pay to have them publish your work. I'm presuming that self-publishing is not what you have in mind. I have never self-published, so I know nothing about it.
First you have to decide how you want it published. Then by all means go for it! Good luck, Lia!
Best wishes, -----Gordon Korman-----
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Thanks for posting, and congratulations on producing your book! I know how much of a kick that can be!
My first book was published by Scholastic Canada, a reputable publishing company. I still publish through them and their US head office, and several other publishers, and it's more than 40 years later.
Your manuscipt is now copyrighted, so no one can "steal" it if anyone is so inclined. If you wish to sell your book, you should send it with a covering letter to the reputable publisher of your choice. Get a library book on Writers' Markets. It will list all the publishers and the kind of material they're looking for. It lists literary agents as well, which might be a cautious way to proceed. I had no agent at th start, but I'm represented now.
You don't mention if you are hoping to sell your book or self-publish it. I think I would avoid the publishing companies that are asking for you to send your story -- they probably got wind of its existence via the copyright, and are going to want you to pay to have them publish your work. I'm presuming that self-publishing is not what you have in mind. I have never self-published, so I know nothing about it.
First you have to decide how you want it published. Then by all means go for it! Good luck, Lia!
Best wishes, -----Gordon Korman-----
