Working editors share inside information on how book publishing really works Based on penetrating interviews with 44 experienced editors, this essential guide gives you the lowdown on everything you need to know to get published faster and easier. No matter what publishing category you want to break into—fiction, cookbooks, self-help, computer books, science fiction, mysteries, reference, or children's books—you'll find the information you need from an editor who specializes in that area. Here's the inside scoop on: Book proposals: Create the kind of query letter or book proposal that editors prefer Agents: Figure out if you need one and how to find the best agent for your work Bestsellers: Is it luck or are they "made"? Publishing decisions: Who really has the final say Book packagers: What they do for authors and editors Publishing lingo: understand terms like "slush pile,""backlist," "remainders," etc.