FAQ
For Writers
What services does ALCG Books provide?
Our services include:
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Professional manuscript evaluation and feedback for novels and short stories.
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Book coaching for writers who need support during their writing process.
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Query letter writing, Literary agent search assistance, and platform building for writers with finished work.
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Cover design and formatting for self-publishing writers.
Is there an application process?
Only writers seeking book coaching are required to submit a writing sample (7 - 15 pages) for an initial evaluation. Since our service guarantee is to help you write a publishable book, we want to make sure that we're setting you up for success from the very beginning.
How does ALCG Books prioritize supporting diverse literary voices?
Diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of our mission. We actively seek out and champion diverse voices, especially those that are underrepresented in American fiction. In addition to cultural diversity, we want to work with writers who bring a multitude of perspectives based on their socio-economic background, ability, and other identities.
Can ALCG Books help me get published?
Absolutely. Our team combines industry insight with creative strength to help skilled writers produce original, publishable manuscripts.
Do you work with writers pursuing self-publishing?
Yes, we do! We work with writers pursuing traditional and independent paths to publishing their books. If you're focused on publishing your own book, we help you develop a polished manuscript that you can publish and distribute on your own.
We also assist with publishing navigation, platform building, and book marketing, if you're interested.
What value does ALCG Books' manuscript development and consulting services add to my work?
ALCG Books' services are invaluable to writers who want to enhance the quality and marketability of their work. Professionally edited manuscripts are more likely to be accepted for publication. By relying on ALCG Books' expertise, writers can refine their work to meet industry standards, significantly boosting their chances of getting published.
How does ALCG Books redefine literary consulting for the benefit of writers and publishing professionals?
We offer a unique blend of industry expertise, creative support, and personalized guidance that's primarily driven by our desire to diversify the American literary corpus. We're more driven by creative ingenuity than we are by profits.
For Publishing Professionals
How can my agency/publishing company benefit from "first read" privileges with ALCG Books?
We offer "first read" privileges to literary agents and publishing companies by providing access to manuscripts from a diverse pool of emerging writers. This opportunity allows agencies and publishers to discover fresh voices and unique stories that may be less accessible through traditional submission channels. Diversity Baseline Survey results (2019) found that 76 percent of publishing staff are white, indicating a lack of diversity in the industry. By partnering with ALCG Books, agencies and publishers can tap into a more inclusive range of literary talent, enrich their catalogs, and broaden their readership.
What types of diverse voices does ALCG Books support, and how does this align with the publishing objectives of my agency/publishing company?
ALCG Books supports a wide range of diverse voices, including BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, differently-abled writers, and other underrepresented voices in American fiction. This aligns with the publishing objectives of agencies and publishers striving to promote inclusivity and representation in literature. Partnering with ALCG Books makes it possible for agencies and publishers to actively address this disparity by promoting diverse voices and stories.
How does ALCG Books collaborate with literary agents and publishing companies to nurture and promote diverse authors?
ALCG Books collaborates closely with literary agents and publishing companies to nurture and promote diverse authors through a range of initiatives. These includes offering tailored manuscript development services, facilitating introductions between authors and industry professionals, and advocating for diverse representation in publishing.
What value does ALCG Books' manuscript development and consulting services add to submissions received by my agency/publishing company?
ALCG Books' manuscript development and consulting services add significant value to submissions received by agencies and publishing companies by enhancing the quality and marketability of manuscripts. This ensures that agencies and publishers receive submissions that are polished and compelling.
How do you envision the partnership between my agency/publishing company and ALCG Books evolving to support diverse voices in the industry?
Partnerships with ALCG Books hold immense potential for supporting diversity in the publishing industry. By working together, we actively promote inclusivity by seeking out and supporting diverse writers. Partnering with ALCG Books empowers agencies and publishers to building a more inclusive American literary landscape.
What criteria does ALCG Books use to evaluate manuscripts for potential representation or publication?
We conduct a comprehensive evaluation process to assess manuscripts that are shared with our publishing partners.
Our criteria encompass several key factors, including:
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Writing Quality:
We evaluate the writing style, prose, and narrative structure to ensure a compelling and engaging story.
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Originality:
We look for fresh and innovative storytelling that offers a unique perspective or approach to familiar themes.
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Character Development:
We assess the depth and complexity of characters, their motivations, and their arcs throughout the story.
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Plot Cohesion:
We examine the coherence and pacing of the plot, ensuring that the narrative unfolds logically and keeps readers engaged.
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Theme and Message:
We consider the thematic depth and relevance of the manuscript, looking for stories that provoke thought and resonate with readers.
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Market Potential:
We analyze market trends, reader preferences, and potential audience appeal to gauge the manuscript's commercial viability.