Write And Polish

• It is crucial to write the book you intend to publish. Though this may sound intuitive, there are some people who think they can find a publisher prior to writing. Writing the book will require research and in some cases, interviews. You also need to read books that are similar to what you are writing.
  
  Additionally, you should read the current top ten bestselling books so as to have some understanding of book trends and what readers are buying. Completing the book, however, is only the beginning of the process, as you need to edit and rewrite it continuously and ensure that it is as close to perfect as possible. Another option is to hire a professional ghostwriter.
  
  

Research Agents

• Agents are an essential part of the literary world and can help writers find the right publishing house. Unfortunately, finding an agent is a grueling process. To find a list of agents, visit websites like writersmarket literarymarketplace or agentquery. Certain agents prefer to work with children's book authors, while others specialize in non-fiction. Determine which agents best suit your needs and contact them with your query letter and whatever else they request, which will depend on their specific requirements.
  
  

Research Publishers

• Agents put writers in touch with publishers but you can find a publisher on your own. Consider other books in your genre and who published them. You can contact those same publishers about your book. Sites like the writersmarket.com also provide useful information about publishers and their contact information. Keep in mind, however, that certain publishing houses will only accept manuscripts submitted by agents.
  
  

Self Publish

• If you are unable to find an agent or a publisher and choose not to wait any longer, there is always the option of self-publishing your work. You must determine how many books you want to publish, whether you simply want books for your close family and friends or you want to sell hundreds. Once you know how many books you want published, you can use an online self-publishing website such as blurb, lulu or xlibris..
  
  You also have the option of turning your book into an e-book that is sold digitally and can be marketed to the growing number of e-book readers. This can be achieved by creating a website for your book and advertising it heavily or selling your e-book on Amazon.com.