THE EDUCATIONAL MARKET:
INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR MARCIE ABOFF
1. What attracted you to the idea of writing children's books for the educational publishing marketplace? (Tell me any and all factors in your decision…creative, financial, etc.)
When I was relatively new to the children's book market, my main concern was getting published. I had some short stories published in children's magazines, but that was about it. I also wanted to build up my publishing credits.
2. How did you make your initial contact with educational publishers? (Referral from another writer, editor contact at conference, cold call by email or phone, etc.)
Sometimes, I call and speak to the receptionist who will give me names of editors to contact. Other times I'll check out an educational market guide (ex. SCBWI) Once I get an editor's name, I will send him/her a cover letter and some writing samples. When I first started out, I had a few magazine pieces, so I mailed copies of those, as well copies of newspaper articles I had written. As I built up my educational credits, I also was recommended.
3. What materials were you asked to submit to publishers before getting a contract? (writing samples, project proposal, book outlines, etc.)
Writing samples, my interests (ex. writing fiction or nonfiction, what grade levels I prefer to write for, etc.)
4. What publishers have you worked with so far and on what type of books? (Be sure to give me title and publisher for your latest books so they can be included. If there's a series that your work is in, make sure to mention this, too.)
I've worked with many educational publishers including Pearson Education, Zaner Bloser, Picture Window, Mondo. Many of my books are part of guided reading programs or reading assessment programs. Some of my series include I-Openers, Book Treks, Paired Reading (Pearson), Math Fun, Math Content Readers, Country ABC's (Picture Window), Voices Reading, Benchmark Reading (Zaner Bloser)
5. From a creative standpoint, how is writing for this type of publisher different from writing projects for the traditional trade publisher?
Some educational projects have strict guidelines about what needs to be included in the books – ex. certain vocabulary, sentence structure, comprehension skills; lexile level, etc. Others are much more loosely-based. As far as creativity, many of my books are fiction and I feel I am definitely using my creativity and imagination to write the stories.
6. From the publishing process standpoint, how is this route to publication different from traditional trade publishing? (Do you have more or less input on layout or illustration choices, is it faster or slower to finished book, etc.)
You have less input on illustrators and layout, although many educational publishers ask you for art specs on each page. You do not design or illustrate the pages, but you still tell the illustrator what to put on each page.
7. Personally, what do you find is the best thing about writing for this market?
It's a great way to build up publishing credits and it can be a nice steady flow of income. Most importantly, schools are familiar with my books and that helps when trying to get school visits.
8. Conversely, what is the worst thing about writing for this market?
Publishers/projects with extremely short deadlines. I had worked with one publisher (none of those publishers that I've mentioned above), whose criteria and guidelines changed throughout the project. It was very disjointed, and was not a pleasant experience. But all in all, I've been very pleased with the publishers and editors I have worked with.
9. What is your best piece of advice for other writers wanting to try this type of book-writing experience?
Go for it! Some authors do not want to write for the educational market because many educational publishers keep the copyright (most times.) However, I have other trade books that are my "own." Working with educational publishers is a great way to supplement my income, and I have a finished book, with my name on it, in my hands. I get some great feedback from teachers and students who really enjoy my books!
10. Where can readers find out more about your books?
Website is best place – www.marcieaboff.com