Writers caution that I’m embarking on mission impossible: Republishing Unearthing Christmas, my first novel. And securing a literary agent for a previously published book? Fuhgeddaboudit! I even posed the question of signing on an agent and/or new publisher at a recent zoom webinar with literary agents. The advice? Write a new book and query agents with that one. I’m left even more resolute to seek a new publisher most likely not with the assistance of an agent.
In August, 2023, I had secured a literary manager, a freelancer who I met on a social media zoom “meet and greet.” She requested a copy of the depublished (as referred to by my inherited publisher who merged with my publisher) Unearthing Christmas to review for possible interest in representing me. Well, she loved the story, but especially the idea that a producer acquaintance of mine had shown interest in developing the book into a movie. Her selling point to potential publishers would be the movie angle. My intention, movie or not, was to republish a revised version and supersede used paperbacks available on Amazon and other bookseller sites. Over the next few months, we talked about strategies including where to send the book. By early 2024, I sensed a dropping off with her commitment to getting the book in the hands of publishers, i.e. all talk, no action. By the end of the contract year, my agent had not submitted Unearthing Christmas to any publishers. We parted ways amicably, and I’m grateful we had signed a one-year contract.
So, it’s now fourth quarter 2024, and I thought I’d have a deal for a republished book. I’m back to square one. I know there’s lots of work in getting signed on with a publisher, especially with a formerly published novel. Interestingly, when my initial publisher of Unearthing Christmas went bankrupt in 2017, I thought I’d never find another one! To my total surprise, the first publisher I approached signed me. She later told me, upon meeting, that she was intrigued by my follow-up phone call and the passion I expressed for my story.
Comments abound on the topic of republishing a book. Generally, it’s considered “… a rewarding experience that allows authors to reach a wider audience… However, it requires time, effort, and investment.” I’m ready for the challenge!
So, I consulted online resources for considerations when republishing a book.
- Quality and relevance: Is the original work still relevant and high quality?
My answer: When the book was depublished in August, 2022, I check the Amazon page on Halloween night in between giving out candy. To my surprise Unearthing Christmas was an Amazon Bestseller in the subgenre of Teen and Young Adult Christian Sci Fi. Who knew? Obviously not yours truly! I’m not even sure how it got categorized in the subgenre and concluded it must’ve been chosen by a staff member from my latest publisher. I checked again on December 1, while waiting for car maintenance, and it had moved up to No. 37 in the same subgenre. Used copies still sell on Amazon although I have no control over any third-party sales. But it certainly gives me hope for expanding to a larger audience!
- Changes: Are there ways to improve the book, such as revising writing, adding value, or sharpening the focus?
My answer: Yes, yes, yes! I’ve done some meaningful revisions to Unearthing Christmas, and I’m happy with the results. My proofreader had worked on my second novel, The Years In Between, and I was delighted she was available to proofread Unearthing Christmas! Let the presses roll!
- Marketing: Can you significantly expand marketing and promotion?
My answer: Aye, here’s the rub. I’m not the marketing guru by any stretch! The usual social media platforms are in place with intermittent Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest ads. When Unearthing Christmas was published a second time, I scheduled several book signings in local bookstores. My first publisher had created a press release and scheduled book signings for me. Ahh, did I love the collaborative process which draws me back to seeking a publisher that will work with me on book signings, press releases, and advertising in general. I embrace the work of marketing, but prefer a partner in these endeavors!
- Expectations: Are you willing to start over fresh and reset expectations?
My answer: Good question! I’m most definitely willing to start over fresh with a new cover and adjusted expectations. If there’s still a potential movie deal down the road, I believe a republished book will further spark interest!
- Reasons why an author wants to republish a book. (NOTE: AFFIRMATIVE TO ALL!)
- The rights to publish have reverted to the author (or the author’s estate): YES!
- The publisher has gone out of business: YES, in that my first publisher went out of business and my second publisher merged with the one that eventually depublished my book!
- The author and the publisher wish to part ways: YES! The depublished thing creates head-scratching with agents and other writers. They’re not familiar with the term!
- The author wants to release a new edition or change the cover: YES, the book is revised!
What follows are republishing tips for any authors who wishes to tread this path too!
- If the book is out of print, consider the copyright to the cover, the need for a new ISBN, and what happens to the book’s reviews. (NOTE: When Unearthing Christmas was depublished the publisher informed me that all Amazon reviews would disappear! Whew, I’m grateful that the reviews are still there!)
- When referencing a republished book, include the original date of publication at the end of the reference list entry. (NOTE: Didn’t know about this one!)
- Secure a signed reversal of rights from your former publisher! (NOTE: That’s one task my literary agent insisted on, so that’s done!)
My republication journey begins with perseverance, patience, and prayer! I’ll find a way to get Unearthing Christmas back on track, and hope I have good new to report this time next year! Happy writing!