Are you an aspiring writer?

[Desdemona]

Occasionally, I think about writing a book. But what discourages me is not so much the writing, which I know is very hard work, but the publishing of the finished product. How in the world does one get published? It seems like such a crap shoot. Because I can believe that some people write bad books, but I can't believe why anyone would publish them. Especially because I know there are very talented unpublished writers who deserve the opportunity so much more.

Also, even if you do get published, will your book get read? It depends on your publishing house, their distribution power and their marketing expertise.