My favorite message from this book, which I first read in the late 90's, is, "Figure out how to reach them physically, intellectually and emotionally."

This is a wonderful and easy book to follow that should be part of all aspiring and seasoned author's library, along with "How to Write a Book Proposal," because Ms. Appelbaum started from the bottom, if you will, in the publishing industry. And throughout this book she shows that she is anticipating the questions that future authors have both about the business of becoming published and the art of writing that book.

I especially like her level of optimism, where although she talks about some challenges of the publishing process, she focuses more on how to turn those challenges into getting what you want.

When I first read this book, years ago, I was preparing myself to be published in magazines and newspapers. And now that I have that down to a fine science, I am ready to write books.

I am grateful to Judith Appelbaum's contribution to my realizing my dreams.

No more rejection letters? Maybe not, if you follow the sensible advice in Appelbaum's masterful bestseller. She explains that publishing must be treated as a "rational, manageable activity ... in which knowledge coupled with skill and application can ensure success." Also shows how to get the best deal from the publisher, legally retaining as many rights as possible and how to promote the book once it's published. If you are a beginning author, my advice is to simply write one page per day, but first read How to Get Happily Published. It's also a great resource for experienced, published writers and publishing firms.

This book gives the reader options in simple to understand terms. Afterall, a first time adventurer into the field of writing and publishing has to learn a whole new business. After reading many books on the market, I was about to give up. If you are as committed to seeing your book published as you are to writing it- then this book is for you. It has resources galore, insider knowledge, practical facts and enthusiastic encouragement without the questionable "pie in the sky." If I had only one book it would be this guide.