How to Submit Your Original Story for a Star Wars Book or Novel: A Comprehensive Guide

In the vast and expansive universe of Star Wars, the journey of creating your own original story within this legendary franchise can be as thrilling as any lightsaber duel. However, the process of submitting your manuscript for consideration as part of the Star Wars canon is a bit more rigorous than one might imagine. In this guide, we'll walk through the essential steps and provide some important pointers to increase your chances of success in the highly competitive world of Star Wars publishing.

1. Prepare Your Manuscript

The key to a successful submission starts with the quality of your manuscript. When it comes to pitching your story, it's critical to make sure your writing is polished and professional. Here are a few tips to polish your manuscript:

Rigorously Edit Your Work

Ensure your storyline is compelling and engaging. The Star Wars universe is rich with characters and worlds, so make sure your narrative fits within this expansive framework. Proofread for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. A clean manuscript speaks volumes about your dedication and professionalism. Make sure your story aligns with the established Star Wars canon and, if you're targeting a specific era, deeply research that time period in the franchise.

2. Research Your Audience and Standards

The Star Wars universe is not just a setting but a community with strict standards. Understanding these standards is crucial for a successful submission:

Understand the Type of Stories the Publisher is Seeking

Research the recent publications and author interviews to understand what kinds of stories are currently popular. Topics like new perspectives on familiar characters, different species, or entirely new worlds are often sought after.

Studies show that the Star Wars community is particularly interested in diverse storytelling, intricate world-building, and original takes on classic themes. Tailoring your submission to these interests increases your chances of success.

3. Craft the Perfect Pitch

A solid pitch is the first line of attack in selling your story. It should introduce your concept and demonstrate your understanding of the Star Wars universe.

Professional Pitch Letter

A well-written pitch letter is a must-have. It should include:

A summary of your manuscript, highlighting the key themes and characters The appropriate Star Wars novel or book format (e.g., starter novel, tie-in, standalone) Your experience as a writer, including any previous publications or academic awards Contact information for follow-up

Sample Pitch Letter

Here’s a sample pitch letter to help you craft an effective one:

Dear [Publisher's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am excited to present my original manuscript, "The Role of [Character or Specie] in the Republic," as a potential entry for Star Wars publishing. This book introduces [brief summary of your story], weaving together [key themes or elements]. Drawing insights from the diverse cast of characters and expansive universe of Star Wars, my work aims to offer fresh perspectives on [a major theme or concept from the franchises]. I hold a [relevant qualification or experience], and my experience in crafting compelling narratives within the genre has earned me respect among peers. Please refer to the synopsis and full manuscript enclosed for your evaluation. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the Star Wars lore. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

4. Navigate the Submission Process

Once you've crafted your pitch and polished your manuscript, the next step is to submit your work. Here’s how to proceed:

Identify the Right Publisher

Several publishers work on Star Wars books, including Stable Press, Atria Books, and Baen Books. Research which publisher is best aligned with your story and manuscript style.

Follow the Submission Guidelines

Every publisher has its own submission guidelines. Follow them meticulously to increase your submission's chances of evaluating. Common guidelines include:

Length of manuscript (e.g., up to 100 pages for a synopsis and 10,000-20,000 words for the actual manuscript) Format (e.g., standard formatting, no chapter numbers, double-spaced) Submit electronically via email or online submission portal

Send Your Manuscript and Follow Up

Send your submission and a polite follow-up email. Most publishers have a lengthy turnaround time (sometimes up to six months), so patience is key.

5. Stay Patient and Persistent

Rejection is a common part of the writing journey, but it's not the end. Here are some strategies to help you keep your spirits up:

Constructive Rejection

Many publishers offer specific feedback along with rejection emails. Take this feedback seriously and use it to improve your work.

Continue Writing

Keep honing your craft and writing. Each rejection is a learning opportunity to refine your skills and prepare for the next submission.

Seek Feedback

Become a part of writing communities or writers' workshops. Feedback from peers and mentors can help you identify areas for improvement and boost your confidence.

Conclusion

Submitting your original story for a Star Wars book or novel is a challenging yet exciting endeavor. By ensuring the quality of your manuscript, understanding the audience and standards, crafting a pitches, and navigating the submission process with care and diligence, you can enhance your chances of success. Remember, even if it stinks initially, and even if it doesn't get accepted, it's a step in the journey of becoming a successful writer.