I am putting the final touches on the page proofs for my next book "Sundowners." This is just one step in the book making process. Years ago I came across a very helpful diagram for "The Life Cycle of a book." If you are interested in how a book goes from a thought in my head to a finished product, it goes something like this:
Proposal (depending on the press and the subject; this is typically an 8 to 10 page outline of what you propose to write). Each press has their own submission guidelines and proposal formats.
Write the book.
Submit the manuscript to the press.
Manuscript is sent out for peer-review. This is typically two experts in the field reading, commenting, making corrections and suggestions. The process is "blind" meaning you should never know who reviewed your book unless you as the reviewer choose to release your name.
Revise and resubmit based on peer review comments. Beware reviewer # 2 !
Completed manuscript goes before press board for final approval
Sign your contract.
Book is launched into the editorial process and things get fun!
Copyediting. and author review. A "professional" grammar person destroys your writing. Despite having been through two peer reviews, probably an editorial review, and you've polished it as much as possible, the copyeditor still destroys it...
The "final" product is typeset and goes through design...it starts to look like a book
Page proofs: proofreading, editing, and final chance to make small changes or correct mistakes. BTW, at this point there is a good chance that at least seven people (including yourself) have read this book and made corrections, but this is the last chance to make minor changes. However, a mistake or two in grammar or content always slips through. Amazon reviewers will find these mistakes and remind you in your 3-star review, the book "needs a good editor."
Cover design and final title. Trust the experts. You may have ideas, you might even have a concept, but trust the press and their designers. Oh, and this book that you have lovingly named is probably going to change its final title. As an example, my first book was called "Red Flag" through most of the design process before the press decided "The Air Force Way of War" was a better fit (they were right). Of my six books, only two of them have their original titles.
Book is sent to the printers.
Marketing.
Publication.
So, there you go. The life cycle of a book
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