For Jeff King: Literary Agents

Jeff King asked: Does getting a literary agent help with the odds of getting published? And would you recommend getting/using one?

Again, as I've mentioned before, I have not been published (and don't have an agent at the moment), but I feel comfortable in saying, yes. Why?

First, having an agent opens up markets that are not available to the unagented writer. Publishers that accept unagented submissions are flooded with (no offense) a great deal of garbage. Because of this, several publishers don't even look at a submission unless it comes from an agent. Why?

Because most agents are nearly as selective as publishers (and are also looking for salable clients and work), an agented manuscript is effectively "screened." When a publisher receives a manuscript from an agent, he should be confident that the caliber of the submission will be a few steps above the bulk of the slush pile. Additionally, especially if he's worked with the agent before, he should have some expectation that the work he's been forwarded is appropriate for his publishing imprint and market. So, not only is the publisher more likely to look at the manuscript, he is also more likely to expect something and might, perhaps, give it a more thorough or open reception.

The agent also brings her contacts and expertise into play by only sending accepted manuscripts to markets he think are a good fit, reducing wear and tear and increasing the chances of making a sale. In my experience, an agent is a little more likely to work with a prospective writer with promise to fine-tune their work or at give a little feedback if they reject it (though certainly not always).

But, aside from increasing the chances of making a sale, they also bring expertise in making sure you get the best sale possible, best terms, best options for you. Truth is, being even an exceptional writer doesn't make you an expert in the publishing business and, having someone knowledgeable in your corner can make a difference.

But it costs you in terms of some of your profit and it's yet another hurdle on your way. There are ways of "becoming your own literary agent," but, if you're confident you have a publishable work, an agent can definitely increase your chances of getting published.

As for where to find them, I can't improve on Richard Perkins' article here . He's giving precisely the sort of advice and links I would give you.

One word of caution (and you'll find them in links to reputable agent sites). Do not use any agent that charges you up front. Time after time, prospective writers find out, to their sorrow, that it's all a scam. A good agent will get the payoff when you do, by making sure you get a sale.

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For MA Fat Woman: Agent or Editor?

MA Fat Woman asked: I'm been shopping around trying to get an agent to represent me and my proposed MA Fat Woman book, should I continue that or try what you are doing, perhaps to find an editor? What do the cards say?

There's an element of uncertainty in every question like this. Some people are successful without the "middle-man," many people aren't. But that's true of those with an agent as well.

I don't write non-fiction and I know the markets are different. I'm also unpublished (at least with books), so I'd take anything I say with a grain of salt. I urge you to get advice with some of the folks down at Agent Query or Writing World or Writer's Digest. I'm a relative amateur.

I think there is a distinct advantage, when trying to sell an idea or a finished work, to having an agent. Publishers tend to see you as prescreened. Some editors won't even look at unagented work, so you have more options. But there are still editors out there that will look at unagented work, or so I've heard. Marketing is sadly not my strong suit.

I will ask the cards for their opinion, though. Since this is a specific question, I'm changing things a bit.

Where you are now - 0 The Fool - Don't be fooled by the name. This card is all about beginnings, naivete rather than stupidity, innocence, great potential. It's a card that talks about taking chances and making changes, starting off on an adventure. Really, a propitious card.

Best course of action - Coins VIII - Coins VIII is all about craftsmanship and skill, building your work effectively. It also clarifies with leadership and career knowledge. What this argues to me is that searching for an agent is a good course for you, not only for their expertise in marketing but to provide you with the tools you'll need to write your best book.

End Result - Wands III - trade negotiations, agreement, travel, contracts. Clearly, the cards are thinking this path is the path that is most likely to lead you to what you seek. It's a path you're already on.

Ironically it mirrors my own advice (that should be taken with a grain of salt, remember) - keep looking for an agent, use reputable information and, when you find one, you'll have your best possible chance of success.

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