Hi Stephanie, you'll do fine! You can definitely open it in word, and just make sure you keep saving your work as the rtf file and not a word file. If you've picked something that is a little difficult for a first timer then release it and choose something easier. I can put up a short children's book for you to get started on, if you like. It won't be today but I could do one tomorrow. And yes, once you submit the book for approval, Carrie or someone else will look it over and either approve or reject it. -- Jamie in Michigan Currently Reading: While My Pretty One Knits by Anne Canadeo Earn cash for answering trivia questions every 3 hours: http://instantcashsweepstakes.com/invitations/ref_link/49497 See everything I've read this year at: www.michrxtech.com/books.html