Dear Nanay,
I’ve been following your column in the Philippine STAR the past few weeks and I’m happy that you are answering queries from aspiring book authors. I’m happy to learn that there are lots of aspiring book authors out there like myself.
I am writing to ask you for some tips on writing non-fiction. Do I use the same approach like the ones you suggested to those who are interested in publishing fiction, photo books, etc. in your previous columns? Or do I need another approach in pitching my work to publishers?
Lorenz
Dear Lorenz,
Your letter comes at a perfect time. In case you did not know, today (Sunday) is the last day of the Manila International Book Fair at the SMX Convention Center. At 3:30 p.m. in Rooms 5 and 6, National Book Store will be hosting a panel interview of three internationally published authors – Alexander Yates, Samantha Sotto and Andy Mulligan. The topic will be: “The Life of a Novelist: How to Get Published by the World’s Largest English Language Trade Publisher.” You can ask our three distinguished guests all the questions you might have regarding how to get your work published not just here in the Philippines but internationally as well.
Having said that, as a rule, I think non-fiction writers would have to go through the same process as fiction writers. You still have to meet with potential publishers, show them your material and possibly convince them that you are worth investing in. If you are interested in getting your work published internationally, then you will need an agent. Of particular interest in the panel might be the experiences of Samantha Sotto who is a Filipino based here in Manila who was able to find an agent to represent her in the US and sell her book to Random House.
If you (or any other aspiring authors) have time this afternoon, it might be worthwhile to drop by and listen to what our guests have to say. It is not every day that we are privileged to have 3 internationally published authors in one room sharing their experiences and learning with us.
Sincerely,
Nanay
Is it better to wait for a good deal or jump at the first business deal that comes along?
Dear Nanay,
I have been reading your helpful and insightful column and would like to seek your advice. I am concerned because a friend of mine, with a good product in a niche market, received an offer for nationwide distribution of the item with a large company. The contract offers him an unclear, commission-based payment arrangement, which grants complete control of the final output to the large company. The contract is very one-sided, and yet my friend seems to want to deal with the company. Is it advisable to enter into a contract of this nature or should he continue to look for a contract that benefits both him and the distributor?
James
Dear James,
I think you answered your own question. If there is something in your gut that is telling you that this is not the distributor you want to work with — walk away. Many times, you will find that your instincts are correct. And even if it looks like a “good deal,” if you are not comfortable with the contract, or how your potential partner conducts their business, you really should look for someone else. Being comfortable and getting along with your business partners is often just as important as what each party brings to the table.
However, the problem is that you are not the one making the final decision. It is your friend. The best that you can do is to offer your advice. Baka puwede mo sabihan na “hinay-hinay muna tayo.” (maybe you can tell your friend to take it slow). Tell your friend to continue looking around because there may be better offers out there. Sometimes the first offer you receive is not the best one.
My other piece of advice is especially true for people who are entering into a business that they may not know too much about. Read the contract, all of it. Many times we get too lazy to read what we are signing. If you cannot understand it or have any questions, consult a lawyer or someone who you trust who is experienced in similar contracts. If the contract has a problem or is too one-sided, it is better to know early than to realize it after a problem develops two or three years down the road.
Sincerely,
Nanay
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If you have a question, e-mail us at asknanay@nationalbookstore.com.phor just drop your letter at drop boxes in all National Book Store branches nationwide.