Q. Do you charge a
fee for reading my work?
No. This is a free service.
Q. How much will it cost to publish my book?
We cannot answer this until we have seen your manuscript. Every book presents its own
special, technical problems that affect its cost. An exact estimate can be made only when
the manuscript is actually before us.
Q. Must my manuscript be finished before you will consider it?
Not necessarily. We'll be glad to see it before it is completed. But we will not be
able to make a publishing proposal until we have read the entire manuscript.
Q. If my book requires illustrations, do you supply them, or do I?
There is no standard rule about this. Sometimes the author includes them with the
manuscript, and if they are competently executed, we accept them. If they do not measure
up to our standards, we suggest that new illustrations be submitted. Artists associated
with us are available, if necessary, to take over this assignment for a fee.
Q. If I sign your contract, will I have to pay the entire fee in a lump
sum?
No. You will be offered a flexible installment plan of payments; however, the entire
amount must be paid by the time your book is produced. We shall do everything we
reasonably can to accommodate you.
Q. You say that the author receives 40% of the retail price as his
compensation. Who gets the other 60%?
The average dealer gets 20% to 40%, and Vantage Press receives what is left.
Q. In addition to your limited promotion budget, may I spend extra funds of
my own for advertising?
Yes, and we would be glad to cooperate with you by preparing the copy and artwork,
designing the advertisement, and taking all other necessary steps to place your
advertising in the newspaper or magazine of your choice.
Q. When you publish my book, am I required to buy any quantity, and sell
them?
No, you are not required to purchase any books, or to sell them, unless you prefer to
do so. We assume the entire job of selling and distribution. You do get a certain number
of books, free of charge, on publication.