First published 2003
The American Society of Journalists and Authors opens its vault of professional knowledge in this comprehensive manual for writers at every stage. Samuel G. Freedman compiles wisdom from twenty-six top freelancers who share the strategies they use to build sustainable writing careers. The book tackles practical challenges like crafting magazine queries that sell, finding fresh story ideas, and mastering web writing. It covers business fundamentals including contracts, tax deductions, and working relationships with editors and agents. Writers learn how to develop specializations, promote their work effectively, and transition to full-time freelancing. The guide explores diverse revenue streams from op-eds to essays while revealing research techniques that separate professionals from amateurs. Each chapter delivers actionable advice that helps writers avoid costly mistakes and accelerate their progress in a competitive field.
Genres: reference, business, writing, non-fiction, academic
Vibes: informative, practical, thought-provoking
Tropes: career-advice, professional-expertise
Setting: America, United States
Period: 21st Century
336 pages · Kindle Edition · St. Martin's Griffin