Lately, lots of WEbookers have been asking me: Is it better to submit to projects that are already in progress, or should I start my own project? My answer: It depends on what you’re writing, and what your goals are – but if you want more readers sooner, submit to one of WEbook’s many active projects.
Active projects come with a big bonus: A built-in audience. If you’re looking to get feedback and improve your writing, there’s no better way to do it than to get involved with a project where WEbookers are already working hard to create something great. You can read the other submissions, get to know the other writers, and give feedback. Other project participants are bound to return the favor. Active projects are also more likely to have interested readers who are already engaged with other submissions – and ready and waiting to read yours.
To tell if a project is accepting submissions from WEbookers far and wide, take a look at the “Book Info” box for the project. If it says, “Participants: The WEbook Community” and “Who can write: All Participants,” you’re good to go. For regular tips on my personal favorite active projects, visit the Featured WEbook Projects section of this blog.
Of course, if you’re writing a book all by yourself – say, The Great American Novel, or a how-to guide for left-handed chess players, or a complete history of pre-modern Bavaria – you’ll probably need to start your own project. Even then, it’s a good idea to get involved with some active projects, either by writing or giving feedback. If people like your writing, they might visit your other projects. Before you know it, you’ll have more feedback for that Great American Novel than you know what to do with.
-- Melissa
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