So for those of you who don’t know, a literary agent is an intermediary who pitches your book to editors. While not all writers need one, many of us want one.
Literary agents are busy people. While working with new clients, they also respond to queries of aspiring authors who would like representation.
If an agent likes your writing they may ask to see more of it and if they like your book, they’d ask you for a phone call.
Now many of you are daunted by the idea of the phone call, but trust me, it can be pretty scary for the agent too.
If you decide to sign with the agent, they may go over your work editorially and may even suggest points for improvement. For instance, could you believe that J.K Rowling initially made Ron swear a lot. It was only Christopher Little, Rowling’s agent, who removed this as parents wouldn’t really buy books with expletives for their kids.
Then, agents pitch to editors at publishing houses. It’s important to keep in mind that while not all publishers require and agent, most large publishers consider an agent as absolutely essential.
Agents also negotiate with acquisition editors in order to give writers the best deal they can get. They may also handle promotion, extending deadlines, translation and film and TV rights.
And all they require is a (on average) fifteen percent commission.
So what are you waiting for? Get querying.
Apsara Rodrigo 