All Writers need the press, especially new writers. As a new novelist, I know I need name recognition. The best way for me to get the public to learn about my novel, The League, I figured, was to get some reviews in major magazines and newspapers.

Now, being unknown, this might seem like a tall task. It really isn't. In fact, I was shocked by how simple it really is.

In looking for media coverage for the May 2005 release of my novel, I first decided to approach magazines that focus on the area that is most closely related to the plot of my novel. So, I started with fantasy football magazines and websites, since my novel, The League, is about a group of wealthy men who play fantasy football for $30 million prize.

My approach was simple but effective. I e-mailed the editor or publisher of as many magazines and web sites as I could find that focus on professional football and fantasy football. I sent them the synopsis of my book, and I told them that my book has major appeal, because it is the only work of fiction of its kind. Then, I asked them for a review in their magazine or just a quote that I could put on the dust cover of my novel, with a tagline that would also promote their magazine or web site.

I found this method of self-promotion to be a lot like sales. I got about a five percent return -- that is five percent of the people I contacted actually gave me a review or a quote. All, just because I asked.

So, when you write your article, short story or novel, don't hesitate to ask people to review your work. You'll be shocked at the results.