Cindy Pon, debut author of Silver Phoenix [Greenwillow Books 2009 ISBN 9780061730214], a Young Adult Fantasy containing just the right amount of Chinese folklore and imagination to weave a compelling story with words, talks about her break into the publishing business.
Cindy, what was it like during the query process in search of an agent for Silver Phoenix?
I queried 121 agents between the end of January and early April. When I heard from an agent on a weekend, I had just sent out more queries. I approached the process a little like war – it was something I had to win, for Silver Phoenix's sake. I had many close calls, and a few agents who liked my story – but didn't believe there was a place in the market for it. I chose not to believe them.
The submission process can be just as grueling. How do submissions work (including acquisitions and the like).
We sent out to eight publishers in the first round. When there was interest, the editor would have to bring your manuscript to the editorial board and get their input and approval. Then if all agree, it goes to acquisitions which is composed of sales and marketing and the like – who decide if your book is marketable.
I made the joke that everyone and her dog needs to like your novel in order to sell. But it does happen, obviously! That route may not be the way of every publishing house, but it's not uncommon.
Once there is an offer on the table, the process goes by super fast. Silver Phoenix went to auction and I spoke with each editor that was interested, to get a feel of the editor as well as her vision for my story. And a better sense of the publisher as a whole. I couldn't be happier as an author with Greenwillow books!
What about author publicists? How does it work? How much do you give with your own sweat in getting the word out there about your book?
My publisher did a great job in giving me a fantastic cover and making a bunch of arcs and making them available to reviewers as well as major conferences. They've done many things behind the scenes, but as a debut author, I still did a lot of promoting online. I'm signed on to do local library and school events and I arranged all my conference attending throughout the summer – to try and get the word out for Silver Phoenix. I also hired a private publicist because I wanted that extra boost and help!
Do you have any suggestions to other debut authors or soon-to-be about social networking and building a readership via the web?
I think a website is essential. I'm on Facebook and twitter and my blog – they have all helped me network for my debut. But I would suggest you only do what you can handle. There's nothing worse than an outdated blog or an empty Facebook wall. Not all authors have the personality to network online – it's the easiest thing for me.
Silver Phoenix follows the tale of young Ai Ling, who leaves home in search of her father (not to mention escaping an arranged marriage she'd rather have nothing to do with) only to have some strange, perhaps magical, force following her. On her journey to the Palace of Fragrant Dreams, she meets Chen Yong, a boy who luckily finds her just before something evil is trying to drown her. Ai Lings adventure continues with Chen Yong at her side as they battle strange creatures, greedy imperials and their own confusing feelings for each other. Pon masters descriptive writing in this book with mouth-watering detail on food, and the beautiful imagery she creates in this ancient, far away kingdom is breathtaking.
Silver Phoenix has a sequel scheduled to be released in the Fall of 2010.
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