Everyone gets a rejection letter at one time of their life or another. It's normal in the publishing world. Even well known writers receive rejections. Bob Hostetler (who writes books with Josh McDowell) received 106 rejections for his first novel, but he never gave up. The 107 try got him a publisher.
(This is a seal, not blood)
When the letter comes in, all we writers want is praise and promises of further publication. We want to be recognized for the hard work we put into our craft. Instead we get replies saying something like this:
Hello Jamin,
Thank you very much for giving us the opportunity to read your synopsis and sample chapters for The King of the Reid. We appreciate your considering Bethany House in your search for a publisher. The editors here were impressed by your creativity as a writer, as well as your passion for this project.
However, I’m sorry to tell you that we must pass on The King of the Reid at this time. I wish I had the time to offer you specific feedback, yet the current stack on my desk prevents this.
But I encourage you to continue to fine-tune your manuscript. Perhaps another
publisher is better able to take on your project.
God’s best to you as you search for a publishing home.
The gentle talk hides the hard fact; you've been rejected buddy!
It's easy to sulk and never want to submit anything again. Who wants to hear this all the time? So what do we do after getting these? I do my best to take them seriously, but not personally. I evaluate WHY they rejected something I sent, but I know no editor is waiting for my name so they can reject it. It's all business.
One thing you can do that eases the burn a little is to anticipate an enthusiastic reply, but brace for the worst.
What separates good writers from amateurs is being willing to be rejected. Learn from your experience and move on.
Does anyone have something to add?
