Little Red Riding Hood Syndrome

How to successfully navigate online platform publishing opportunities as a new writer

Photo by the author (eMuse)

Once upon a time, there was a young author named Little Red Riding Hood who dreamed of publishing her work. She searched the internet for publishing opportunities and stumbled upon a promising offer. Little did she know, she was about to fall prey to a writing-for-publication scam.

Many aspiring writers have fallen victim to such scams that promise to publish their work for a fee, but in reality, provide little to no actual publication or promotion. To avoid falling into this trap, there are several things that writers should keep in mind.

Firstly, it is important to research the publishing company or literary agent thoroughly before submitting any work. Check if the company has a website, read their reviews and testimonials from other authors, and find out if they have published any notable works.

It is also important to understand the difference between traditional and vanity publishing. Traditional publishing houses do not charge authors to publish their work, but they may take a percentage of the royalties. In contrast, vanity publishing requires authors to pay for the publication and promotion of their work.

In addition, be wary of any publishing company that promises to publish your work without first reviewing it or providing feedback. Legitimate publishers will always review your work and provide feedback, even if they ultimately reject it.

Another warning sign is when a publisher asks for a large sum of money upfront or requires you to purchase a certain number of copies of your book. This is a red flag, it’s the publisher’s responsibility to market and promote your work, not yours.

Here are a few additional tips that can help writers to avoid writing for publication scams.

1. Look for warning signs in the publisher’s communication: Pay attention to the way the publisher communicates with you. If they are vague, unclear or seem to avoid answering specific questions, this could be a warning sign that they are not a reputable publisher. Honest publishers will be transparent and clear in their communication with you.
2. Beware of unsolicited offers: If you receive an unsolicited email or letter from a publisher, be cautious. Genuine publishers typically do not send unsolicited offers, and instead, rely on submissions from authors or referrals from other industry professionals.
3. Check for industry affiliations: Legitimate publishers often have affiliations with industry organizations, such as the Independent Book Publishers Association or the Association of American Publishers. Check to see if the publisher you are considering has any affiliations or memberships in these types of organizations.
4. Consult with industry professionals: Seek the advice of other authors, editors, or literary agents to get their perspective on the publisher you are considering. They can offer valuable insights and help you avoid scams.
5. Trust your instincts: If something seems too good to be true or you feel uneasy about a particular publisher or agent, trust your instincts and proceed with caution. It is better to err on the side of caution than to fall victim to a scam.

While writing for publication scams can be common, there are steps writers can take to protect themselves. By doing research, being cautious of warning signs, and seeking the advice of industry professionals, writers can avoid falling prey to these scams and achieve their dream of publication.