Book Query FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Fox Chapel Publishing Company publishes books for woodcarvers, scroll sawers and a variety of woodworkers. The majority of our books are "how-to" in nature. They feature step-by-step photographs, patterns and projects. The editors at Fox Chapel are always on the lookout for talented artists who are willing to share their tips and techniques with others.

Is Fox Chapel the right publisher for my book?

The first step in submitting a book idea is to make sure that you are submitting it to the "right" publishing house. Fox Chapel specializes in books for woodworkers. Occasionally we will consider a book outside our primary niche, such as Doug Lindstrand's Drawing Big Game or Lora S. Irish's Great Book of Dragon Patterns. However, more often than not, we want to see manuscripts about woodcarving, scroll sawing, turning, furniture making and other wood-related projects.

Review our online catalog to see if your book idea fits with our current market before submitting your idea. If you are unsure, please call. We'll be more than happy to speak with you about your idea.

How do I submit a book idea?

There are several items an editor needs to see in order to consider a book idea: a query letter, a book outline, information about you, photos of your work and sample patterns.

What is a query letter?

A query letter is a letter you send to a book editor telling the editor about your idea for a book. Your query letter should include several paragraphs about how you developed the idea, who your audience is and what qualifies you to write the book. (Please see our sample query letter.)

What is an outline?

A complete outline of the book showing the information that will be included in each chapter should accompany a query letter. This outline should be as specific as possible. Also include a description of the photographs, illustrations and patterns that you plan to use in each chapter. (Please see our sample outline.)

Do I need to include any information about myself?

Include a resume or brief biography. Note other books and magazine or newsletter articles that you have written. Explain what kind of artwork you do. Have you ever exhibited your art or won any awards? Do you teach others?

Should I send any original artwork?

Please do not send any original artwork with your query letter. Photographs and sample patterns are all the editor needs to see at that point. If, after reviewing your submission, the editor would like to see actual samples of your work, he or she will request them at a later date.

What happens next?

The editor will acknowledge the receipt of your materials as soon as they are received and will review your query letter. He or she may ask for additional photographs and patterns or call to find out more about you and your idea.

Your query will then be evaluated for publication. Please allow 6–8 weeks for the editor to review and discuss your query with the staff at Fox Chapel. They will evaluate the materials you submitted, conduct market research, and establish the book's sales potential. If your idea is approved, you will be awarded a contract and the book will be scheduled for publication. Please keep in mind that submitting a query letter and talking to an editor about your idea does not constitute a promise of publication.

To whom can I direct any questions?

Please direct questions to the editor listed below. We at Fox Chapel look forward to reviewing your submission and thank you for your interest in our company!

Peg Couch

Book Acquisition Editor

Fox Chapel Publishing

1970 Broad Street

East Petersburg , PA 17520

717-560-4703, ext. 20

peg@FoxChapelPublishing.com