Guide to Literary Agents

A Cincinnati chapter of SCBWI invited Chuck Sambuchino, Editor of 2009 Guide to Literary Agents, to speak tonight at their monthly meeting. Here are a few highlights from his presentation:

What can an agent do for you?

• a reputable agent is familiar with the needs of the current market and will evaluate your manuscript accordingly
• they should determine the quality of your piece and whether it is saleable
• when your manuscript sells, your agent should negotiate a favorable contract and clear up any questions you have about payments
• agents have limitations - representation does not guarantee sales - it only recognizes potential in your writing
• some agents may offer criticism or advice on how to improve your work

Chuck shared terrific information about writing queries and novel synopsis. You can find his notes in his blog through the link below: 

•  "Breaking Down the Query Letter" 
  
• Finish your novel before submitting

Have these 5 things ready

1. Logline: 1 sentence summary 
2. Pitch: 3-6 sentence summary (also known as book jacket pitch)
3. Short synopsis: Front to back telling of the story. Introduces characters, conflict, and includes ending. Told in present tense. 1 page single spaced, or 2 pages double-spaced.
4. Long synopsis: General rule of thumb - one page summary per 30 pages text
5. Full (spotless) manuscript

You can sign up for the free Guide to Literary Agents newsletter, which provides information on literary agents, script agents, writer' conferences, playwriting and writing opportunities in general at www.guidetoliteraryagents.com 

Chuck's blog contains great information about where and how to find the right agents to represent your work.

• check out the new GLA blog at www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog