Includes index

Introduction
Nonfiction. Memoir/autobiography ; Biographies ; How-to books/self-help ; Nonfiction book proposals
Shorter books. Poetry ; Anthologizing ; Humor and graphics
Fictionalizing. Adult fiction ; Genre fiction
Children's lit. Picture books ; Middle-grade ; Young adult - Selling your book. Figuring out genre ; Querying literary agents

Hundreds of thousands of books come out every year worldwide, so why not yours? Shapiro reveals the best and fastest ways to break into a mainstream publishing house. Unlike most writing manuals that stick to only one genre, Shapiro maps out the rules of all the sought-after, sellable categories and explains the differences in making each kind of book. Shapiro includes information on crafting a winning proposal or cover letter to get your work considered. This valuable guide will teach both new and experienced scribes how to attain their dream of becoming a successful author. --
Adapted from back cover.