Interview with Chuck
Sambuchino
By Theresa Rizzo
Date: November 2011
Bio: Chuck Sambuchino is an editor and a writer. He works for
Writer's Digest Books and edits GUIDE TO LITERARY AGENTS
as well as CHILDREN'S WRITER'S & ILLUSTRATOR'S MARKET. Besides that, he is
a produced playwright, magazine freelancer, husband, cover band guitarist,
chocolate chip cookie fiend, and owner of a flabby-yet-lovable dog named Graham
Which
categories do you currently acquire?
Which category has a special/constant place in your heart?
Answer: As an editor for Writer’s Digest Books, I only acquire
articles and books that have to do with the craft or business of writing.
In terms of submissions, what are you
sick to death of and what would you like to see more of?
Answer:
The field of writing book ideas is pretty narrow. Concerning book submissions,
there is virtually no book I see a query for that I haven’t seen before. That’s
why platform and marketing are key. You don’t have to
new idea or even a particularly intriguing one if you have a platform and can
sell books.
Does meeting an author face-to-face at
a conference make a difference in your response time, the submission process,
or the rejection process (ie. Form letter vs a few
sentences of advice)?
Answer:
Sure. When you contract a book or article from someone, you are, by definition,
entering into a business deal with someone. And it always helps to meet the
writer in person to see they’re a fine person to work with.
Besides the writing, the story and the
talent, what are the most important elements you look for in an author, ie. contest wins, cooperativeness, affiliations to writers
organizations, knowledge of publishing industry, promotability, etc?
Answer:
In my world (nonfiction), I look for platform, an understanding of the
business, past writing credits, organization involvement, drive, and, frankly,
how much they cost to work for me.
Do you have any pet peeves?
Answer:
If a writer has an ego, that’s an issue. Writing is difficult, and writers can
sometimes get bitter regarding things—and bitterness is a big turn-off for me.
Or if a writer feels the need to argue with me, that is an immediate bad sign.
For example, a while back, a writer queried me with an article idea, which I
ended up passing on. The writer wrote back and asked why I passed. (Please know
that the reason editors and agents don’t give personalized rejections detailing
their thoughts is because they simply don’t have time. It’s really that
simple.) Even though I was busy, I threw out a few reasons why I said no to the
query. The writer then responded with a long e-mail detailing why I was wrong
in my assessment. I didn’t even read past a few sentences of the e-mail. All
the writer had to do is say “Thank you” and then send me a different query some
other time for my consideration. Instead, they wanted to argue. I don’t have
time to argue with anyone. I want writers who are easy to work with.
What are you addicted to?
Answer:
Refined sugar and caffeine. 90s rock as well as trashy pop music. Making fun of
my dog. Oh yes—and, of course, writing.
What have you always wanted to do?
Answer:
Write a screenplay that is produced as a major motion picture.
Do you have a favorite quote?
Answer:
I do, but it’s not to be repeated here. Ask me in person.