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Hi, Hellen,

Congratulations on completing your first book! I know the feeling, and it’s a wondrous one!

I did not self publish, and therefore I know less than nothing about it. Sorry to be so bankrupt of ideas. If I were in your shoes, I would probably first try to find an editorial service and interview a possible editor — you’d want someone who was familiar with the genre in which you write. Once your manuscript is properly edited and copyedited, that editor might be able to put you onto a) a self-publishing company, or b) a publisher who might possibly purchase your work if he/she thinks it has promise.

I’ll tell you what I tell the writers who ask me how to go about finding a publisher: go to the library and find a book on writers’ markets. That book will list all English language publishers, contact persons, and the kind of manuscript they’re looking to purchase. Then pack your ms. up with a covering letter (short) telling a bit about your self and your book. If you want the ms. back (and chances are they will reject it, although I was lucky!) enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope for its return.

That’s it. Good luck!                                                                                     —–Gordon Korman—–