THE CAREER NOVELIST
Changing publishers is also sometimes possible. In fact, it is
sometimes the only option. If you have been stung by lousy num-
bers, though, making a switch can be difficult. As I mentioned in
Chapter 10, when I pitch a previously published client to a new edi-
tor the first question I am usually asked is, "What are his numbers?"
If they are awful, the new editor may be stymied regardless of her
enthusiasm for the author's writing.
Switching formats can also help one get unstuck. A "perished"
hardcover author can try a move into original paperback, and vice
versa. There are drawbacks here, too, and it is a good idea to con-
sider whether the new format really makes sense.
Finally, the most difficult advice of all to follow: if you have been
marked to perish, keep alive your sense of adventure. You started
writing because it is fun and highly fulfilling. If you lose that joy and
let bitterness overwhelm you, believe me you will compound your
troubles and slow your rehabilitation.
You need for your creative juices to be flowing. Why? Because
creativity and confidence are what you are going to need to survive.Damage Control ChecklistWarning Signs-.- Low advance
- High advance unsupported by royalty earnings
- Bad cover
- Bad reviews
- Low "ship-in"
- High returns/low sell-through
- Genre switch/new style
- Crossover novel
- New publisher
- Novel "orphaned" by editor
- Publisher a "career-killer"
- Poor distribution
- Backlist quickly out of print
- Option book declined