Do I want an agent to represent me as I grow my writing career, or not? This question is foremost in my mind at the moment because there are now two agents who have expressed interest in my work.
The first is Mary Beth Chappell from Zachary Shuster Harmsworth Literary Agency, and the second is Steve Laube. Both these agents are of good repute and if I want an agent then I should decide on one or the other.
Zachary Shuster Harmsworth is a large agency based in NYC and Boston, so they have wonderful connections. Steve Laube is based in the south west part of the country and he also has wonderful connection.
I will have to commit this to prayer
8 comments:
We'll be praying too. What would be advantages and disadvantages of having an agent? Forgive my cluelessness, but what is an agent? What does an agent do?
Kelley
Steve Laube has shown interest in your work? Wow. I am very, very impressed. He is one of the toughest agents out there. If you ever have the chance to go to the Florida Christian Writer's Confrece, you will find a number of running jokes concerning him and just how hard he is to impress.
A great guy, overall. I had the privilege of hearing him speak for us once in Teen Track.
Congratulations on the interest shown by AMG, and by the two agents!
Kelley,
To answer your question: a literary agent represents a writer and their work. They know the market well and are on a first name basis with the most important individuals (if they are a good agent). They would stake their reputation on their client's work, thus publishers take a second look, knowing that the writer has something viable to offer because the agent says that they do.
Thanks for the info, Kare!
I did not know he was a hard one to get.
His correspondence has been pleasingly quick thus far and I've sent him the material he requested. We'll just have to wait and see where God opens the doors.
This is wonderful, Scott! Having an agent approach you is very wonderful!
I would just cation you to be careful when signing that contract. Make sure you know the role of the agent and writer clearly--where will he/she be pitching your work if AMG doesn't pick it up?--that sort of thing. Do your reseach. I've heard some horror stories recently.
Best of luck! So good to see you succeding!
It's good to hear from you, Rachel!
Actually, I haven't decided wether or not I want an agent. If I land a contract with AMG without an agent, then it might not be necessary. However, Bryan Davis advised me to send the material and I trust his judgement. Steve Laube used to represent him.
How is your writing coming along? Have you finished the fairy novel?
Aye, Mr. Laube did. Doing your research is always wise, but he is a man of integrity. I would be honored to secure him as my agent.
Once, of course, I finished my novel and have started on its sequels.
That's wonderful that you have two agents showing interest in your work. If, after praying, you feel led to work with an agent you already have those options open to you. Good luck.
Post a Comment