Content
We’re looking for true tales of courage, ingenuity, perseverance and inspiration on the part of companion animals that have become disabled either through birth defects or injury. Whether it’s a horse who can’t see, a dog who can’t walk, or a cat with missing limbs, we want heartwarming stories of animals who have overcome physical handicaps to live happy, productive lives with their human companions.
Of course, stories of special animals who have not only overcome their disabilities, but have also managed to perform heroic deeds as well, are especially welcome. We don’t discriminate against species: If you consider it a pet, we’ll accept it, regardless whether it’s a common pet animal such as a dog or cat, or whether it’s an iguana, zebra or snake. The only requirement is that you (or your human subject) considers the animal a pet, and that no laws or ethics have been broken in the relationship.
We are currently accepting submissions of cleanly edited stories, either about the author’s own experience or in an “as told to” format from a writer sharing another’s story. The latter will require a written release by the person whom the story is about.
Format and Who Should Submit
Manuscripts should have a word count between 1,500-2,500 words, submitted on CD-ROM formatted for cross-platform readability. No hard copy is necessary – please, save yourself some postage and save a few trees. Limit three stories submitted per person. Previously published pieces will be considered, but let us know if that’s the case. Simultaneous submissions are not accepted. This would be a great submission opportunity for veterinarians and vet techs, groomers, farmers, zookeepers (because we know some of you love your charges like pets), and anyone else with regular contact with animals. Remember: It doesn’t have to be YOUR story; you can tell someone else’s if they’re interested. Previously unpublished writers are encouraged to submit. Writer’s age is not a consideration, as long as writing quality is high.
Submission Package
Submissions will be accepted through AUGUST 31, 2007. Accompanying your disk should be a cover letter stating the author’s name and contact information (please include email if available), name of the subject)(s) of the story, and a brief 1-2 paragraph summary of the piece. Also include a 1-2 paragraph author bio, including how the author became connected to the story. Please state the availability of good, clear photographs of the subject(s), and whether those shots are color or black & white. Do NOT send any original photos with your submission, as we cannot guarantee the safe return of materials not yet part of active projects. However, we would appreciate seeing photocopies if possible.
Send your package via Postal Mail to:
Word Forge Books
Att: Acquisitions, Almost Perfect
PO Box 97
Ferndale, PA 18921
No email submissions will be accepted, but if you have any further questions about submitting, please send them to acquisitions AT wordforgebooks.com.
Judging
Submissions will be judged solely by:
- the quality and appropriateness of the content
- the quality of the writing
- meeting the requirements set forth in this Call. Those not following these guidelines will be not be considered.
Notification
Writers will be notified either via email, postal mail or telephone of their story’s acceptance for publication by October 30, 2007, so be sure to provide all this contact information. We will try to notify even those not accepted in a timely manner. If you would like your submission returned, please include a self-addressed envelope carrying sufficient postage for first class mail. All other packages not accepted for publication will be destroyed. No unaccepted materials will be retained.
Payment
Writers will be compensated for their submission with a flat fee of $200 per story accepted, which plus 10 free copies of the book. They will also be offered unlimited copies to purchase at the wholesale discount of 50% off the book’s retail price (shipping not included).
Writers of accepted anthology pieces will become Word Forge Books authors, but will not be required to have their own websites, as full book authors are (though we strongly recommend that serious writers make this investment in their careers). They will receive full promotional support from Word Forge Books, including help scheduling bookstore appearances and other publicity events in support of the book.
Thank you for your interest in becoming part of the Word Forge Books family, and we wish you the best of luck. |
