I am 13 years old and I am writing a book and is wanting to get published?

[Jasey Rae]

You have to go through the process like anybody else. Age doesn't matter, in fact, a lot of agents and publishing houses like younger writers.



How to get a book published:
-Finish it. Then do several editions after editing it. Make it as good as you can.
-In general books are 80,000-100,000 words (that's about 400 double-spaced pages)
-1inch margins all around in Times New Roman or Courier font
-You need to have a hook for your novel that is about 100 words long. (Like a summary that explains the whole plot and is catching. If a potential agent doesn't like this, they won't even bother with the sample pages you send). It needs to be clean and concise.
-You need to find a literary agent. To find one you need to send a query letter

How to write a query letter:
- Write a 1 page letter. In it you need to introduce yourself, explain why you would be a marketable author, etc.
-In the first paragraph state your name and that you are writing to tell the agent about your book called "--"
-Second paragraph needs to be your pitch. This is where you say why your book is great and give the plot. It needs to be 6-10 sentences long. Write all character names in capslock, state the plot and divulge the ending. This is like your hook. It is really and important and matters the most. If the person doesn't like it then they will just toss your letter in the trash. Also, talk about who the audience is and why it would appeal to certain people. State stuff that is unique about you that would make you right for their business.
-Third paragraph needs to be about you. What have you done in the writing world? Where have you been published? What have you participated in literary wise?
- If the publishing house has published a book that is similar to yours you can use this fourth paragraph to say "I understand you have published ___. My book is similar and has as much potential because..."
-In the fifth paragraph, thank them for their time spent reading your letter.
-Last, sign your name. Add your email, address, a phone number, etc.

How to find agents to send your letter to:
Look online: everybodywhosanybody.com.
Look for books: Jeff Hernan's Complete Guide to Literary Agents. Find books similar to your story and look in the acknowledgements. Most authors will thank their agent.
Look in stores: the writing and publishing section of bookstores.

Also:
You need to send out your letters in batches of 20. Don't give up! A lot will reject you and some won't even reply. But there will be someone who wants your story.
And make clear in your letter than you are young! Publishing houses love younger authors.