In this 5 On interview, author and publisher Ian Thomas Healy shares what he learned from his experiences with literary agents, what to look for when submitting to small press publishers, his feelings about Amazon KDP Select, and more.
A step-by-step guide to finding literary agents, plus how to select the right agent for you and your work.
Is it better to look for a literary agent first, or to approach editors and publishers? Much depends on the commercial potential of your work.
Author platform is one of the most difficult concepts to explain, partly because everyone defines it a little differently. Here’s what agents and editors mean by platform, plus a clear definition of what platform is NOT.
Literary agent and publishing consultant April Eberhardt discusses effective book promotion, what makes writing exceptional from a publishing perspective, her preference for representing women’s fiction, and more in this 5 On interview.
Sangeeta Mehta interviews agent Brenda Bowen about the success of the children’s picture book Sweet Pea & Friends: The SheepOver.
Learn how to pitch your nonfiction book to agents and publishers—whether you’re writing memoir, narrative nonfiction, or prescriptive nonfiction.
Literary agent Jessica Faust discusses how she helps authors self-publish.
Editor and writing coach Rebecca Faith Heyman discusses three ways you might be sabotaging your prospects with an agent (and how to improve your chances).
Author and editor Chuck Sambuchino discusses promoting books, the talent writers need, and good writing advice.
Read my feature article for Writer’s Digest magazine that explores the intersection of literary agents and self-publishing
Sandra Gulland discusses the delicate process of blending of fact and fiction, the allure of unhappy endings, the publishing industry then vs. now, preparation for public readings/signings, and more.
Literary agent Mollie Glick on what drew her to being an agent, what kind of query letter gets a quick delete, thoughts on chick lit, and more in this 5 On interview.
Asking an editor or agent to sign a non-disclosure agreement is not part of traditional publishing business practice.
UK author Harry Bingham describes the four stages of his career, and why he’s decided to self-publish after good experiences with traditional houses.
Best Business Advice for Writers is a monthly link round-up where I share the best online articles focused on the business of writing and publishing.
There are no “rules” for agent-assisted self-publishing, but the biggest drawbacks are usually loss of control and loss of royalties. All authors should negotiate a contract beforehand that protects their rights and lifetime earnings.
I recently received the following question from a writer who wishes to remain anonymous: Every new writer wants to know how to get an agent and everyone seems to write about that topic. But I want to know how to assess my agent. How do I know if I have a good one? I’m trying […]