I spent most of this week doing agent/editor searches. I checked all my sources, did all my homework, made sure I only picked those who represent my type of work. Once I had a list, I checked with other writers for recommendations. I made notes and narrowed my list down. Now it's time to send out queries. I sent two out a couple of days ago but I want to send several more.
Doing all this research takes a huge chunk of time out of my workday, but it is worth it in the end. I do not waste my time or theirs by sending stuff to any and all agents when they may not even represent the type of writing I do. I would never send fantasy romance to someone who only reps contemporary mystery. It doesn't make sense. And yet, a lot of new authors do just that. I see the notes over and over again from agents. Don't send me stuff I'm not interested in representing.
So, for those of you just starting out, I have one tip - do your homework. Go to these websites and check out the agents listed. Go to their websites and see what they represent and if they are accepting new authors or not. Ask around. Note, these are only a few places to go. There are many more.
RWA - www.rwanational.org (you must be a member to access info here)
AAR - http://www.aar-online.org/mc/page.do
Publisher's Marketplace - www.publishersmarketplace.com/search.html
Preditor's and Editors - http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitors/peala.htm
Agent Query - http://www.agentquery.com/
Good luck!
Today's author birthdays: Paul Ferris, George Mikes, Jo Clayton
Today's thought: "I think best with a pencil in my hand." - Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Today's teaser: On February 15, 1946, the first digital computer, ENIAC was dedicated in Philadelphia, PA. Many of us have a love/hate relationship with technology. Imagine you will be moving to a place where you are allowed only five electronic devices. What can you not live without? Remember, stoves, refrigerators and other appliances are electrically based - even gas powered ones since they have electronic starters. Also, electric pumps bring in water from private and public wells. Think carefully.
No comments:
Post a Comment