{Entering the Lists}[17th February 1990]

[Redbook7:55-58][19900217:1832]{Entering the Lists}[17th February 1990]

19900217.1832

‘... Your novel has been considered by several colleagues here. We enjoyed reading it, but I’m afraid that in the * we didn’t feel it could be something for this list. (– Fabers). ‘Our readers enjoyed the unusual approach of this book and thought it well written, with moments of sparkle.** Ultimately, however, we are not convinced it is one that would work for us.... (– Bloomsbury). ‘... I do not think this book is suitable for the Headline list. We are a highly commercial publisher and […] Hunter’s book sits in that rather uneasy category of ‘general fiction’ in which it is notoriously difficult to publish successfully. I’m sorry about this but much appreciate your sending it to us.’*** (– Headline). Century Hutchinson sent a postcard; Duckworth’s letter must have been standard – ‘... this is not something that would fit into our publishing list....’ – likewise Jonathan Cape / The Bodley Head: ‘it does not fit happily onto our present list.’)

And today? ‘Dear [W], Thank you for sending me [2] by […] Hunter. I’m afraid this won’t be one for me; I found it a rather unhappy cocktail of campus novel and spiritualism. I think the author would be better off along more straightforward lines. I wish you better luck with another publisher.’ (– George Weidenfield & Nicholson Limited).

*end? <920920>

**(Hmm....)

***[[W] had submitted the ts as if from a literary agent, hoping thereby to have a better chance of (a) getting read, and (b) getting a considered and truthful, not merely anodyne, reaction.]

[continues]

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