It's actually a lot harder than you think. Researching the publishers is really important. The first step is to choose the publisher. Forget about Random House, Harper Collins, Scolastic, and their various imprints for now. Unless you have an agent or know an editor personally, you have no hope of getting into them.
Go to the library and look at the books from independant publishing houses, and look at their websites. See if they have submission guidelines and look at their booklists. If your book seems like it would fit it, read at least three of the books on the list. That will give you a better idea as to whether or not yours is suitable for them. When you have chosen, follow the guidelines exactly as written. Get a copy of the most recent Writer's Market or Jeff Hermans Guide to Editors, Agents and Publisher. They will outline exactly how to write quiry letters, which is usually the best way to make first contact, and all the other things you need to know.
But before you go getting a book published, try to get short pieces into journals, anthologies and magazines. The more of these credits you have, the more likely you are to get a complete book published. If they like the work, a magazine will publish anyone because there is a lot less risk involved than in publishing a book by someone who hasn't published anything yet. One place you can try is www.teenink.com.
PM me if you have any more questions.
Please, sit down before you fall down.
Belloq, "Raiders of the Lost Ark"
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