Should You Submit Your Work to Agents or Editors?
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.
Tag Archives: literary agents
A Definition of Author Platform
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.
5 On: April Eberhardt
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.
Shepherding a Self-Published Picture Book to Success: A Conversation with Literary Agent Brenda Bowen
Sangeeta Mehta interviews agent Brenda Bowen about the success of the children’s picture book Sweet Pea & Friends: The SheepOver.
How to Write a Query Letter: Nonfiction and Memoir
Learn how to pitch your nonfiction book to agents and publishers—whether you’re writing memoir, narrative nonfiction, or prescriptive nonfiction.
The Agent’s Role in the Digital Age: A Conversation with Jessica Faust
Literary agent Jessica Faust discusses how she helps authors self-publish.
3 Ways You’re Sabotaging Your Chances with an Agent
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).
Interview with Chuck Sambuchino: The Keys to Publishing Success
Author and editor Chuck Sambuchino discusses promoting books, the talent writers need, and good writing advice.
The Value of Agent-Assisted Self-Publishing
Read my feature article for Writer’s Digest magazine that explores the intersection of literary agents and self-publishing
5 On: Sandra Gulland
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.
5 On: Mollie Glick
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.
Why Your Non-Disclosure Agreement Is Probably a Bad Idea
Asking an editor or agent to sign a non-disclosure agreement is not part of traditional publishing business practice.
How to Find a Literary Agent for Your Book
A step-by-step guide to finding literary agents, plus how to select the right agent for you and your work.
Why Authors Walk Away From Good, Big 5 Publishers
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: August 2013
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.
Agent-Assisted Self-Publishing and the Amazon White Glove Program
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.
How Do You Know If Your Agent Is Any Good?
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 […]