It is a great big world out there for writers interested in publishing their books. So many choices stand before you and most times, you can feel like you’re standing at a fork in the road wondering, “Should I go left?” “Should I go right?” Traditional or Independent? Invest a few thousand dollars or Not? Another question that ends up in the minds of many writers is whether or not they should chose a literary agent.
In the traditional literary world, one of the most important and useful people to authors are literary agents, publicist and assistants. Over the coarse of the next few days, I’ll share my thoughts about each and if they are essential to your independent publishing needs.
Here are my thoughts about the role of a literary agent and if you should inquire about one as an independent author:
Literary Agents
When writers are interested in traditional publishing, they seek a literary agent. A literary agent works hand and hand with the author to land a deal with a traditional publisher. In the traditional publishing world, they are very helpful because most traditional houses won’t accept unsolicited submissions– meaning, if they didn’t meet you at a writing conference or already have met you prior to your interest in their publishing house, they are not interested in your material unless it’s through an agent.
I don’t have a literary agent. However, I have heard very different stories from different author’s about them. One award winning Christian writer shared how she has had the same literary agent for years. She’s helped her land great contracts with publishers! I love hearing stories like that. Unfortunately, not all stories about literary agents are successful. Some don’t work as proficient as others and aren’t that great at making deals with publishers. So, it’s very important to know that even if an agent is interested in your work, it’s no guarantee you’ll get a contract. And, there’s no guarantee that the contract you get will be what you are hoping for.
You can search for a literary agent by Googling “Literary Agents”. It’s the best way I know to do a great online search. Another way, is by going through a manuscript submission service. I’d caution you here because some charge outrageous prices to “help” you get an agent. I wouldn’t pay a red cent up front, in my opinion. Here are two ways I suggest looking for a literary agent:
1. Sally Stuarts Christian Writers Marketing Guide. It’s a great book worth investing in. Tons of great resources!
2. Writers Market. (www.writersmarket.com). This is a great website I frequently visit. It gives you the ability to search for a literary agent, magazine or publisher. You can save query letter’s and book proposals on site and send them from there. This is a place I highly recommend.
In my opinion, a literary agent is not necessary for independent publishing. They do serve a great purpose for traditional publishing, though. If you are seeking traditional publishing, you should explore this option.
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