For a general rule it should be kept in mind that corrections in the galley proofs cost much less than corrections in the page proofs where remake-up of pages involving a large expense may result from the addition of a single line, or even a few words. But it is most important of all for the author to realize that every correction made after the manuscript has been set up in type is time-consuming and expensive, and that such delay and expense are reduced to a minimum when the author submits a clean, carefully prepared manuscript which embodies his final judgment of content and style.
V
WHEN THE BOOK IS PUBLISHED
Within a short period after the author returns the proofs of the index, the book is ready for publication. The author's work is then practically done.
Immediately upon the arrival of the bound books from the bindery, the publisher places the work upon the market, copyrights it in this country and abroad, and undertakes campaigns for its distribution.
This section of the Suggestions is intended to show the author how he can help in this work and to answer certain questions which are asked constantly.
Marketing a Book.—We take pride in the thoroughness with which we seek the market for all books bearing our imprint. The spirit of the agreement which we make with the author is that each book is a separate business venture into which we have entered as a partner of the author.
In marketing his book the author can be of material assistance to us. He knows the subject better than we can ever know it, and he knows the type of man to which he intends his book to appeal. For these reasons we always welcome the assistance and suggestions of the author.
At the time when the author begins to receive page proofs of the book, we are outlining our campaign for its distribution. At that time we like to receive from the author, first, a brief but exact definition of the scope and purpose of the book. This we use, not for our advertising, but as the basis of our advertising. Second, we find distinctly helpful a list of points to emphasize in our circular and periodical advertising, and for such a list we look to the author. A cut-and-dried table of contents often fails to give as good a picture of a book as do a few well-selected points.
At the same time the author's suggestions of special periodicals to which copies should be sent for review, and of special lists which may well be circularized, will also be helpful. These we generally know about, but sometimes we overlook obvious points of attack in our campaigns.