More than Writing

Okay, so I haven't checked in about my writing and it may have seemed to disappear completely but I can assure you it hasn't. Currently due to querying and feedback, my first novel is going through its umpteenth rewrite while in the meantime, I've made it near a third of the way through my second novel. In addition to this I've begun to research agents and various ways of publishing (specifically e-publishing vs. print and print-on-demand) as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. I've come to one conclusion, I know wayyyy too little about the publishing business and the process of publishing a book; therefore, I've gone on a mission to know more.

Why? Well, as much as I enjoy writing, it is only part of an author's job. Sure there are those who believe you can just get an agent to handle the rest for you but I believe it is the writer's job to contribute to the process as well. So, for the next few weeks I will be blogging about tidbits of information I gather. Today we'll start with agents. All in all, it depends what you as a writer are looking to do with your work. If you write as a hobby and prefer to keep stories within your household, you most likely aren't looking for an agent; however, if you want to make a career of writing, here are a few reasons why you might consider an agent:

Many big-time publishing houses do not accept unagented submissions. Their purpose is not to be snotty but this is a business and they are out to make money. Without a first line of defense, these publishing houses would received an immense number of submissions- hence their and your need for an agent
The right, knowledgeable agent can be a valuable coach. I stress the word right because it is very important for you to find an agent who fits you and vice versa. Sometimes we spend so much time looking for a big name when really we should be searching for someone who understands our visions as writers and can enhance them.  Most important is they have to love your work as much or more than you do.
Contracts and rights. Admittedly, most writers like to write and that is about it. While I do believe it is important for us to become familiar with some of the intricacies of contracts and rights, we certainly aren't experts and should look to our agents for guidance in this area.
A buffer.  While we'd like to think that once we sign a contract everything will peaches and cream, that is rarely the case.  There may be disputes about the occasional royalty statement, late check or your ability to meet deadlines.  While much of this is your concern too, an agent can work as both a coach and buffer through these issues.

Despite these great reasons to have an agent, I do stress this is a two way street. Agents have a livelihood as well and as much as they get picked on for being harsh and rejecting our queries, the truth is none of us would want an agent who wasn't quite sure about our work. Think about it, have you ever tried selling something you didn't like?

Now, I will state these tips have been gathered via research and others' experiences so if any of you out there have other thoughts, please share. Happy writing!

Filed under: Toni Kelly, Writer's Life, Writing Topics