Writer's Handbook 2001 Book

When The Writer's Handbook first appeared in its crisp yellow cover 14 years ago some people queried the need for it since the rather more wide ranging Writers' and Artists' Yearbook, which deals with some of the same ground, had been around since 1907. Actually, any writer who is serious about getting as much work as possible into print probably needs both.Where The Writer's Handbook scores is in its detailed concentration on WRITING. Whether you're established or aspiring, journalist or poet, copywriter or playwright, speech-writer or novelist, if wordsmithing is your thing there's useful current information here to help you get some--or more--work published.Most UK publishers, large and small, are listed with full contact details, for example. So are a large number of UK newspapers, magazines, film, TV and video companies. But use these with caution. Any yearbook is out of date even before it goes to press because editors and other factors change continually. Use the postal address, phone number or e-mail given in the handbook to check the name of the person you want to approach before you start. It could well be a different man or woman today from last week and by tomorrow the situation could have changed again. That's why it pays to replace your copy of The Writer's Handbook annually with the new edition.Then there are the addresses of literary societies, UK agents, professional associations, among other invaluable points of contact. And, as always, these lists are interspersed with some interesting advice-filled essays. This year there's a good one by Peter Finch about setting up your own Web site and a succinct and witty gem entitled "Freelancing-- A survivors' Kit" by Donald Trelford, former editor of The Observer. "Here are three guiding principles for freelance wannabes: know your market, find your niche and never give up," he declares.--Susan ElkinRead More