"Will you recommend me…"

I was over at Monica Jackson's blog a few days ago and read this…

I actually spent my personal time three years ago replying to an e-mail to somebody who asked me to read their work and recommend my agent–somebody I didn't know from Eve.  I encouraged her to write queries and wished her good luck.   I JUST got an e-mail back saying what a bad and unhappy person I am because I wouldn't do what she wanted.

Hmmmm.  Monica's a smart lady.  I would have responded the same why.

Okay, so… yeah, writers do get asked those questions.  Generally from people who are fairly new or who are frustrated and trying to get an 'in'.  Have I been asked that question?  Yes.

What's my answer?

No.

Why?

Point blank… unless I know the person really, really, really well…it's not smart.   If I recommend Author Sally Sue to my agent, and author Sally Sue turns out to Godzilla in Pink Leather and becomes the Biggest Pain in The Ass my agent has ever met, just how well do you think that's going to reflect on me?  Not well.