General question about reaching the editors at S&S

[Timothy J. Bradley]

Hi, all--

First post here, so let me know if I'm asking something out-of-bounds for this forum. I don't want to be a Denebian slime-worm.
I'm a published, agented author of nonfiction science and science fiction books for middle-graders (6th to 9th, say). I have what I think would be a fun idea for a young adult ST:TOS-based story that I'm chipping away at presently. Right now, seeing how difficult it is to get to an editor at Simon & Schuster (and I'm not even clear on who the current managing editor of ST books is at present), I'm wondering if it's worth trying to get to someone at S&S, or just write the story and upload it as fan fiction. Both approaches have their pros and cons. I'd appreciate any writers out there giving me their opinion on what makes the most sense for them. Thanks!
--Tim B.

 

[Dayton Ward]

Given your background, you likely know the biggest con to publishing your work as fan fiction.

The current editor overseeing the Star Trek line is Ed Schlesinger, and your agent should be able to submit your proposal on your behalf (the only way they'll look at an unsolicited submission, these days). However, Pocket isn't currently publishing anything Trek/YA-related. That's not to say they won't, if the right idea/proposal grabs them.

Good luck!

 

[Timothy J. Bradley]

That's awesome, Dayton--thanks very much for the info!
Yeah, I realize that the odds of actually landing something with Pocket Books is a longshot, but it's one of those things where I'd kick myself if I didn't at least give it a shot. Thanks again!!