READY, GET SET, SUBMIT

A good way to publicize your book is to sell an article to a magazine. It's also a great way to build your bio. So how do you do it?

You need a query letter: Start with a hook, include the pertinent information on your story (i.e. word count), tell why it will appeal to the readers of that particular magazine or why you think such a publication is a good fit for your work, then end with information on yourself and why you are the right person to write such a story.

Enclose/Attach: In the top left hand corner of your manuscript, include your name, address, email, and phone number. Word count goes on the top right. Then, halfway down the page, type your title in all caps. You'll also need the title/your name in the header on the left. Page number goes on the top right.

When you find the publication you want to submit to, make sure to check their guidelines online. Some prefer printed submissions through the mail, in which case you will want to send a self-addressed stamped envelope. Others will have an email address and either want you to attach your file or include it in the body of the email. Whatever you do, make sure to follow particular submission guidelines.

A good place to start is actually Chicken Soup for the Soul. They let you know which editions are looking for stories, and you can submit right there on their website. Pays $200 a story. You'll also want to check out our IDAhope Anthology.