How to Get Your Letter Published in a Comic Book
Four Tips that Will Land You a Spot on the Mail Page
Nov 21, 2008
Whether you've been reading comic books for twenty years or two months, there’s nothing like the thrill of opening the latest issue in your comic book subscription and seeing your name in the letter column. Getting a letter published shows that comic book writers are interested in your opinions. It gives you something to brag about at the comic book store. And on occasion, an idea in a letter might even inspire a new character or future storyline.
But before you seal that envelope or send that email, take a moment to read the following suggestions for getting comic book letters published. They might affect what's included in the letter column next month.
1. Include a Name, City, State, and the Phrase “Okay to Print” in All Letters
No matter how well-written a letter is, according to guidelines in most Marvel Comics letter columns, if it doesn’t include a name, city, state, and the phrase “Okay to Print," comic book publishers cannot print it. Unfortunately, fans can get so caught up in praising the artist for a great fight scene or threatening to cancel their comic book subscriptions if the writer doesn't bring back a favorite hero, that they forget to give the comic book publishers the necessary information and permission to print their letters.
When sending a letter via email or by message board, type “Okay to Print” in the subject line before starting the letter. Sounds obvious – but this could determine whether a letter sees print or not.
Note: If you request it, comic book publishers will withhold your city, state, and other mailing information.
2. Send Letters Through Comic Book Message Boards and Email
These days, many comic book creators frequent comic book message boards and solicit letters via online requests. Former Marvel Comics editor-in-chief Tom DeFalco and long-time Spider-Man penciler Ron Frenz regularly visit the Spider-Girl Message Board to interact with fans.
When sending letters via a message board that lets fans correspond with comic book creators, post a letter on the board (with the phrase “Okay to Print” in the subject line) then send the same letter to the email address provided by the comic book. Often, letters on message boards can get a response from creators even if the letter doesn’t wind up in the comic book.
3. Express Opinions – But Explain Them Too
Contrary to popular belief, comic book publishers and writers will print letters that criticize their creative choices – but it’s easier to respond to someone who articulates why he hated or loved a story as opposed to someone who just rants and raves. According to Tom DeFalco, comic book writers enjoy reading letters that explain why a reader arrived at a certain opinion.
Hate that Spider-Man’s not married to Mary Jane any more? Reflect on current and past comic books and explain to the writer how the book has suffered without her presence. Love that Eddie Brock’s become Anti-Venom? Write a letter explaining why his new powers and status make him a better character.
Remember, a comic book publisher includes letter columns to help creators connect with fans – so by articulating the reasons for liking or disliking a story (rather than just threatening to cancel all your comic book subscriptions) there’s a greater chance the creators will see your point.
4. Write Often!
Let’s face it – not every letter you send is going to see print. Comic books can find themselves deluged with letters, especially after a controversial storyline. But by writing – and sending – letters often, you'll not only increase your visibility among comic book publishers but also improve your ability to express your opinions.
And on that note, remember – spend time writing and editing that letter! If all goes well it could be seen by thousands of people!
Interested in publishing your own independent comic book? Read Independent Comic Book Publishing, Comic Creator Shares His Upcoming Projects, and Writing for Comic Books and Animated Cartoons.
