Willie Said:

Is there a dummies book on how to write a novel?

We Answered:

Haha

I want to write a novel and was just scrolling through the books and authors section when i saw your Q.

The funny thing is, next to me is a book called 'writing a novel and getting it published - for DUMMIES' haha

So yes, there is :) I got mine from waterstones, it's helping me loads!

Donald Said:

What are your favorite "for dummies" books?

We Answered:

The Anarchist Cookbook for Dummies

Beatrice Said:

is there a 'writing handbooks for dummies' for dummies?

We Answered:

Yes it exists believe it or not!!!!!!!!!! Hahahahaha

Technical Writing for Dummies (For Dummies)
by Sheryl Lindsell Roberts
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Technical-Writin…

Not that I have read it though!

Everett Said:

writing for ...DUMMIES"?

We Answered:

If you don't have a working knowledge of how publishing works, maybe you ought to learn that before you jump into book-writing?

To get an agent, you first must find one that represents your genre. I recommend starting at http://www.agentquery.com.

Choose a list of agents that are perfect for you. Research them. Make sure they have sales, that their backgrounds are clean, etc. Many agents out there will scam you for money, so be informed.

Then you have to write a query letter. That's a little out of the scope of this post, but AgentQuery does have a page that tells you how to do it.

Send out your query letters. Always follow the agent's submission guidelines because some will want a synopsis and/or sample pages, or they may have their own particular way they wish to receive letters and manuscripts. Failure to follow submission guidlines will usually get you rejected out of hand.

Wait. . . .

And wait. . .

And wait some more.

It can take up to six months to get a reply to your query, depending on how big and/or busy the agency is. Usually, though, the time to reply is between 1-3 months, unless otherwise stated. After three months, if you haven't gotten a reply, you can try sending another letter asking if they received your query. Note that some agencies are so busy they won't reply to you if they reject your manuscript. They'll give you a timeframe and if you don't receive a reply by then, assume you're rejected.

Brad Said:

Is There A Creative Writing For Dummies Book?

We Answered:

There is no quick way to writing well. It takes years of practice, and lots of study. If you are interested in writing, I highly recommend taking literature classes as well as writing classes. Sometimes, local libraries hold free classes on basic writing technique. Check out what your community has to offer, and find someone who is an experienced writer to proofread your work. No matter how good you get at writing, you will always need a proofreader. The most important thing is practice. Keep writing. If you write something that you end up not liking, re-write it. Try writing in different styles. You may find that you are better in an area you would have never guessed before you tried.