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Write Through It: An Insider's Guide to Publishing and the Creative Life
Discover what every new and aspiring author needs to know about the publishing industry and how to navigate all the complicated feelings that come with writing a book in this no-nonsense guide from literary agent, author, and creator of the popular newsletter Agents & Books Kate McKean.
Writers all want the secret to getting the magic formula for a query letter, the list of agents who will instantly say yes, and the perfect marketing campaign to hit “The List.” But writing is about so much more than the intellectual act of putting pen to paper—writers also deserve reassurance that the emotional highs and lows of writing is a normal, valid part of the process. And it might seem easier to focus on the nuts and bolts of writing books—word counts, query letters, and author platforms—than the messy feelings that accompany writing like doubt, fear, and hope, but the two things are inextricably linked.
Write Through It is a candid, actionable guide to navigating the rollercoaster ride of writing and publishing, both on and off the page. Literary agent and author Kate McKean has been educating authors and demystifying publishing for years in her popular newsletter Agents & Books, and now, in these pages, she walks writers of all genres through every stage of the writing and publishing process and its accompanying emotional moments. From the uncertainty of knowing when you should stop fiddling with your book and start pitching to agents to how to deal with the sting of rejection and the elation (and fear) of getting a book deal, Write Through It covers it all.
Drawing from her own extensive experience, McKean goes beyond the practicalities of writing and publishing to address the less-talked-about emotional side of the journey. This book is a must-read for any writer looking to understand the full spectrum of the writing life.
Writers all want the secret to getting the magic formula for a query letter, the list of agents who will instantly say yes, and the perfect marketing campaign to hit “The List.” But writing is about so much more than the intellectual act of putting pen to paper—writers also deserve reassurance that the emotional highs and lows of writing is a normal, valid part of the process. And it might seem easier to focus on the nuts and bolts of writing books—word counts, query letters, and author platforms—than the messy feelings that accompany writing like doubt, fear, and hope, but the two things are inextricably linked.
Write Through It is a candid, actionable guide to navigating the rollercoaster ride of writing and publishing, both on and off the page. Literary agent and author Kate McKean has been educating authors and demystifying publishing for years in her popular newsletter Agents & Books, and now, in these pages, she walks writers of all genres through every stage of the writing and publishing process and its accompanying emotional moments. From the uncertainty of knowing when you should stop fiddling with your book and start pitching to agents to how to deal with the sting of rejection and the elation (and fear) of getting a book deal, Write Through It covers it all.
Drawing from her own extensive experience, McKean goes beyond the practicalities of writing and publishing to address the less-talked-about emotional side of the journey. This book is a must-read for any writer looking to understand the full spectrum of the writing life.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published June 10, 2025
42 people are currently reading
2838 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 26, 2025
This is a guide of traditional publishing norms for authors in today's market. This author was a literary agent before she published her first book, and with knowledge from inside the industry, she gives advice on editing, querying, publishing houses, working with writing professionals, and tells writers not to run their numbers of success, but to just keep writing.
With a pragmatic voice and a dash of humor, this book is perfect for helping authors understand what comes after writing a book and getting an agent. As genres change and the market shifts to keep up, this author staunchly advises writing what you love and enjoying the process over letting the desperation to just be published already influence your writing. -Megan K.
With a pragmatic voice and a dash of humor, this book is perfect for helping authors understand what comes after writing a book and getting an agent. As genres change and the market shifts to keep up, this author staunchly advises writing what you love and enjoying the process over letting the desperation to just be published already influence your writing. -Megan K.
August 1, 2025
Several of my friends are represented by the agent who authored this book, and I have followed her blog off and on so I definitely interested in checking out this insider's guide. I personally found the first two chapters pretty fluffy and skippable if you already have a completed manuscript; but chapters three through eight contained tons of valuable information on how to research and find agents to query; what that query should look like; realistic timing and tips on how to tell if an agent is a good fit. It has detailed descriptions of how book submissions work, how books sell, different types of auctions, and how to read the standard sections of a book contract. These are chapters I will absolutely be referring prospective authors to in the future. The last couple chapters are once again looser and more focused on feelings that might come up after either a successful book sale or the experience of a book never selling, and how to set it aside and begin again. I don't think you need to read this book front to back as I did; I'd recommend rather reading the chapter or chapter relevant to the stage of pitching you are currently swimming in and go from there!
July 17, 2025
I was given an ARC of this book by Simon & Schuster through a goodreads giveaway.
Lately, I have been reading a lot of fiction about a main character who worked somewhere in the publishing industry, be it in the author, agent, publisher, or distributor and without some insight into that very complicated world, I don’t know that i’d enjoy them as much.
I have done my own research on what it takes to publish a book of your own and I am confident in saying Write Through It is a great jumping off point for anyone interested in publishing a book themselves, or to just learn about the process.
The strongest theme of this book is persistence. Kate McKean shows that again and again through her own experiences in this industry.
Lately, I have been reading a lot of fiction about a main character who worked somewhere in the publishing industry, be it in the author, agent, publisher, or distributor and without some insight into that very complicated world, I don’t know that i’d enjoy them as much.
I have done my own research on what it takes to publish a book of your own and I am confident in saying Write Through It is a great jumping off point for anyone interested in publishing a book themselves, or to just learn about the process.
The strongest theme of this book is persistence. Kate McKean shows that again and again through her own experiences in this industry.
June 20, 2025
Kate McKean's Write Through It arrives at a time when writing guides flood the market with promises of overnight success and formulaic approaches to publication. What sets McKean's work apart isn't just her dual perspective as both literary agent and writer, but her unflinching honesty about the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies every step of the writing journey. This isn't another book promising to decode the "secret" to literary success—it's something far more valuable: a compassionate roadmap through the psychological terrain of writing and publishing.
McKean, who represents writers at the Howard Morhaim Literary Agency and writes the popular Agents & Books newsletter, brings seventeen years of industry experience to bear on a fundamental truth: writers aren't robots at keyboards, but feeling humans who have "unfortunately chosen to write." Her book operates on the premise that the practical and emotional aspects of writing are inextricably linked, a perspective that feels both revolutionary and overdue in a field obsessed with mechanics over mentality.
A Fresh Approach to an Old Problem
The book's greatest strength lies in its recognition that most writing guides focus exclusively on craft or business while ignoring the messy emotional reality of the creative process. McKean bridges this gap with remarkable skill, weaving together practical advice about query letters, manuscript formatting, and the submission process with honest discussions about self-doubt, rejection, and the peculiar vulnerability that comes with putting your work into the world.
Her writing voice mirrors the tone of her successful newsletter—direct, witty, and refreshingly free of the condescension that plagues many writing guides. When she admits that even as an agent, writing her own query letter made her "susceptible to the same pitfalls as anyone else," readers feel the relief of recognition rather than the sting of inadequacy.
The book's structure follows the chronological journey from first draft to publication and beyond, but McKean smartly acknowledges that writing rarely follows a linear path. Her chapter on "What If It All Goes Wrong?" doesn't read like an afterthought but as an essential part of the process—because failure, she argues convincingly, is not just possible but normal.
Strengths That Set It Apart
McKean's insider knowledge provides invaluable transparency about an industry notorious for its opacity. Her explanations of how agents actually work, what editors look for, and how book deals function feel like pulling back the curtain on literary Oz. The inclusion of her own query letter—imperfect and human—serves as both practical example and vulnerability badge, showing rather than just telling writers that authenticity trumps perfection.
The book excels in its treatment of platform building and self-promotion, topics that often leave writers feeling like hucksters. McKean's advice feels grounded in reality rather than fantasy, acknowledging that building an audience is work, not magic, while providing concrete strategies that don't require writers to become marketing mavens overnight.
Perhaps most importantly, the book validates feelings that writers often keep private. The admission that it's normal to hate your book a quarter of the way through, that waiting for responses feels eternal, and that professional disappointment is part of the territory gives readers permission to feel human in a process that often demands superhuman resilience.
Areas for Improvement
While McKean's dual perspective as agent and writer provides unique insights, it sometimes creates blind spots. Her advice occasionally skews toward traditional publishing paths, which may leave indie authors feeling less supported. Though she acknowledges self-publishing exists, her treatment feels perfunctory compared to her deep dive into traditional routes.
The book also suffers slightly from trying to be all things to all writers. While McKean addresses both fiction and nonfiction authors, some sections feel more tailored to one group than the other. Her expertise with nonfiction proposals shines through, but fiction writers might find some advice feeling less specific to their challenges.
Additionally, while the book promises to cover "every stage" of the writing and publishing process, some crucial contemporary issues receive minimal attention. The changing landscape of social media, the impact of BookTok and Instagram on publishing, and the evolving role of sensitivity readers and authenticity questions in modern publishing feel underexplored for a book published in 2024.
The Emotional Intelligence Factor
What distinguishes Write Through It most clearly from its competitors is its emotional intelligence. McKean understands that writers need both practical knowledge and psychological support, and she delivers both without condescension. Her advice about handling rejection doesn't just provide coping strategies but validates the grief process that accompanies creative disappointment.
The book's treatment of impostor syndrome feels particularly nuanced. Rather than offering platitudes about confidence, McKean acknowledges that feeling like a fraud is endemic to the writing life and provides tools for working through those feelings rather than simply dismissing them.
Context and Comparison
Write Through It fits into a growing category of writing guides that prioritize honesty over inspiration. It shares DNA with Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird in its willingness to discuss the darker aspects of the creative process, but McKean's industry expertise provides practical weight that purely inspirational books lack.
Compared to more tactical guides like The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman or platform-focused books like Platform by Michael Hyatt, McKean's book feels more holistic. It doesn't promise to solve every problem but rather to help writers navigate problems more skillfully.
Final Verdict
Write Through It succeeds because it treats writers as complete human beings rather than just aspiring professionals. McKean's combination of industry expertise and emotional wisdom creates a resource that writers will return to not just for information but for reassurance and perspective.
The book doesn't promise to make publishing easy or guarantee success, which is precisely why it feels trustworthy. Instead, it offers something more valuable: the tools and emotional framework to survive and thrive in a challenging industry while maintaining both sanity and creative integrity.
McKean, who represents writers at the Howard Morhaim Literary Agency and writes the popular Agents & Books newsletter, brings seventeen years of industry experience to bear on a fundamental truth: writers aren't robots at keyboards, but feeling humans who have "unfortunately chosen to write." Her book operates on the premise that the practical and emotional aspects of writing are inextricably linked, a perspective that feels both revolutionary and overdue in a field obsessed with mechanics over mentality.
A Fresh Approach to an Old Problem
The book's greatest strength lies in its recognition that most writing guides focus exclusively on craft or business while ignoring the messy emotional reality of the creative process. McKean bridges this gap with remarkable skill, weaving together practical advice about query letters, manuscript formatting, and the submission process with honest discussions about self-doubt, rejection, and the peculiar vulnerability that comes with putting your work into the world.
Her writing voice mirrors the tone of her successful newsletter—direct, witty, and refreshingly free of the condescension that plagues many writing guides. When she admits that even as an agent, writing her own query letter made her "susceptible to the same pitfalls as anyone else," readers feel the relief of recognition rather than the sting of inadequacy.
The book's structure follows the chronological journey from first draft to publication and beyond, but McKean smartly acknowledges that writing rarely follows a linear path. Her chapter on "What If It All Goes Wrong?" doesn't read like an afterthought but as an essential part of the process—because failure, she argues convincingly, is not just possible but normal.
Strengths That Set It Apart
McKean's insider knowledge provides invaluable transparency about an industry notorious for its opacity. Her explanations of how agents actually work, what editors look for, and how book deals function feel like pulling back the curtain on literary Oz. The inclusion of her own query letter—imperfect and human—serves as both practical example and vulnerability badge, showing rather than just telling writers that authenticity trumps perfection.
The book excels in its treatment of platform building and self-promotion, topics that often leave writers feeling like hucksters. McKean's advice feels grounded in reality rather than fantasy, acknowledging that building an audience is work, not magic, while providing concrete strategies that don't require writers to become marketing mavens overnight.
Perhaps most importantly, the book validates feelings that writers often keep private. The admission that it's normal to hate your book a quarter of the way through, that waiting for responses feels eternal, and that professional disappointment is part of the territory gives readers permission to feel human in a process that often demands superhuman resilience.
Areas for Improvement
While McKean's dual perspective as agent and writer provides unique insights, it sometimes creates blind spots. Her advice occasionally skews toward traditional publishing paths, which may leave indie authors feeling less supported. Though she acknowledges self-publishing exists, her treatment feels perfunctory compared to her deep dive into traditional routes.
The book also suffers slightly from trying to be all things to all writers. While McKean addresses both fiction and nonfiction authors, some sections feel more tailored to one group than the other. Her expertise with nonfiction proposals shines through, but fiction writers might find some advice feeling less specific to their challenges.
Additionally, while the book promises to cover "every stage" of the writing and publishing process, some crucial contemporary issues receive minimal attention. The changing landscape of social media, the impact of BookTok and Instagram on publishing, and the evolving role of sensitivity readers and authenticity questions in modern publishing feel underexplored for a book published in 2024.
The Emotional Intelligence Factor
What distinguishes Write Through It most clearly from its competitors is its emotional intelligence. McKean understands that writers need both practical knowledge and psychological support, and she delivers both without condescension. Her advice about handling rejection doesn't just provide coping strategies but validates the grief process that accompanies creative disappointment.
The book's treatment of impostor syndrome feels particularly nuanced. Rather than offering platitudes about confidence, McKean acknowledges that feeling like a fraud is endemic to the writing life and provides tools for working through those feelings rather than simply dismissing them.
Context and Comparison
Write Through It fits into a growing category of writing guides that prioritize honesty over inspiration. It shares DNA with Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird in its willingness to discuss the darker aspects of the creative process, but McKean's industry expertise provides practical weight that purely inspirational books lack.
Compared to more tactical guides like The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman or platform-focused books like Platform by Michael Hyatt, McKean's book feels more holistic. It doesn't promise to solve every problem but rather to help writers navigate problems more skillfully.
Final Verdict
Write Through It succeeds because it treats writers as complete human beings rather than just aspiring professionals. McKean's combination of industry expertise and emotional wisdom creates a resource that writers will return to not just for information but for reassurance and perspective.
The book doesn't promise to make publishing easy or guarantee success, which is precisely why it feels trustworthy. Instead, it offers something more valuable: the tools and emotional framework to survive and thrive in a challenging industry while maintaining both sanity and creative integrity.
August 11, 2025
Learn the basics about traditional publishing and how to try to get from writing and editing your manuscript to signing with an agent to getting a book deal. What makes this book tops for its genre and subject are the humor and insight the reader gains since the author is a literary agent and author herself. She can relate to the feelings of impatience and frustration but also excitement and hope. It is highly recommended to anyone who wants to understand the traditional publishing process and manage their expectations.
July 30, 2025
do i technically already know most of what’s in this book? yes.
is kate my actual literary agent and therefore would tell me any of it for free? also yes.
but is it a wonderful overview of publishing and a great book to have on hand so i send her one or two fewer unhinged emails? still yes!
this is a book for anyone who wants to understand (traditional) publishing better and to be assured that yes, your feelings about it are normal.
is kate my actual literary agent and therefore would tell me any of it for free? also yes.
but is it a wonderful overview of publishing and a great book to have on hand so i send her one or two fewer unhinged emails? still yes!
this is a book for anyone who wants to understand (traditional) publishing better and to be assured that yes, your feelings about it are normal.
June 30, 2025
Writing a book takes an incredible amount of talent, persistence and patience. The dream is to create a best-selling novel and hand it over to an agent who will submit it to a publisher. Then all that’s left to do is to wait for the nice chunk of money.
Not so fast. Kate McKean is a writer and literary agent. She is upfront and describes the reality of book publishing for those new in the field. This book is a crash course of everything she’s learned over the years on how an author becomes successful. This is an organized layout of what it takes to make it to the next step after writing a book. First, there’s the search for a suitable agent and then there’s a huge time-consuming process that takes place with budget items outlined. Each part is described with an easy-to-follow format.
This is an excellent resource for aspiring authors with all types of examples at the end. However, we know that the goal for publishers is its earning power. The book is encouraging but it has to be difficult to break into the market when Facebook reports that an estimated 96 to 99 percent of manuscripts are turned down by major publishers. Writers need to be as well prepared as possible and this book helps.
I am not someone with dreams of making it in the book world. However, I was curious and I wanted to read this to get a solid perspective of the process. For readers like me, we see the final result when the books are displayed at retail stores and promoted on internet sites. Yet, now that I understand what it takes to make this possible. It gives me a renewed appreciation for the world of publishing.
Not so fast. Kate McKean is a writer and literary agent. She is upfront and describes the reality of book publishing for those new in the field. This book is a crash course of everything she’s learned over the years on how an author becomes successful. This is an organized layout of what it takes to make it to the next step after writing a book. First, there’s the search for a suitable agent and then there’s a huge time-consuming process that takes place with budget items outlined. Each part is described with an easy-to-follow format.
This is an excellent resource for aspiring authors with all types of examples at the end. However, we know that the goal for publishers is its earning power. The book is encouraging but it has to be difficult to break into the market when Facebook reports that an estimated 96 to 99 percent of manuscripts are turned down by major publishers. Writers need to be as well prepared as possible and this book helps.
I am not someone with dreams of making it in the book world. However, I was curious and I wanted to read this to get a solid perspective of the process. For readers like me, we see the final result when the books are displayed at retail stores and promoted on internet sites. Yet, now that I understand what it takes to make this possible. It gives me a renewed appreciation for the world of publishing.
July 23, 2025
It was pretty good! I'm happy to have a book to chuck at people who ask "how do I get published?", because this is a pretty comprehensive overview of all the steps involved.
July 21, 2025
I'm on a publishing book kick right now because my first book comes out January 2026 and I'm working on my next one and this book was legitimately helpful. I recommend it to anybody writing a book or thinking about writing a book.
July 14, 2025
Super helpful advice with a welcome dose of humor and humility.
February 23, 2025
I really liked the voice here! It was so warm and encouraging and accessible. For new writers battling the What Ifs and other publishing-related anxieties, this book serve as a gentle and wise guide back to what really matters: writing.
I think the audience that would most benefit from reading this book would be those who are new to the publishing industry and need a download of all the fundamentals. For debut and agented authors, there is not a ton of new information here.
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster for the e-ARC)
I think the audience that would most benefit from reading this book would be those who are new to the publishing industry and need a download of all the fundamentals. For debut and agented authors, there is not a ton of new information here.
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster for the e-ARC)
August 25, 2025
An agent gives us an insiders view of how the publishing industry works, what to expect, and all kinds of scenarios therein. Highly recommended read if you're thinking of trying to publish a book!
September 11, 2025
I've been fortunate enough to have eight books published. My window has now probably closed, but I still read Kate's book with great interest and wish I'd had it 25 years ago when just starting out. Cannot recommend highly enough for aspiring authors.
August 18, 2025
A handy guide for the aspiring author!
July 7, 2025
Summary
A valuable, no-nonsense book about the path of traditional publishing, from writing and editing to finding an agent to move a manuscript forward to a published book, self-promotion, and your next book! The author has years of experience as a literary agent, a newsletter writer, and author.
The author tells it like she sees it, and she’s seen a lot. No sugar coating. But she writes with authenticity and humanity, as if chatting with you over a coffee. Getting a book published is extremely difficult. But each time one writes, one learns more. Given the supply of manuscripts and traditional publishing limitations, the reality is most manuscripts do not make it into the traditional publishing system!
First-time writers at any stage of the process can benefit from this book. Also, those interested in the writing-publishing process will learn the key steps, writers’ anxieties, and chances of success. For me, the value was understanding the querying process from the author’s perspective (the stage I find myself as a first-time querier).
In short, I enjoyed and learned from the clear, no-nonsense approach to writing, querying, publishing, and carrying on in life and writing.
This book I’ll keep at my side in the future as I continue to write through it.
Context
Many years ago, I started a project that involved many other people. Early on, I had to decide whether I was a person who said supportive words or a person who actually provided support. I chose the latter. As the project grew, so did the responsibilities and commitments. Years later, I looked back and often thought, “Had I known how hard that was going to me, I might not have started.” But I am so glad I stayed with it.
I’ve had a similar experience in writing a manuscript and attempting to publish it. In the pre- and early-Covid period, I had an idea for a book and the words flowed from my brain to my fingertips. The characters were telling me what they were experiencing. I struggled to keep up with them. And I was happy as the story unfolded. Though I wrote mostly as a pantser (writer without an outline), I often paused to be sure the barely submerged mental timelines worked (so I had a temporal outline).
It was great to finish, to get feedback, mostly, “not too bad” as if surprised I could write at all.
Then reality struck. I needed to edit and revise and get more feedback and research. As I involved more people, I again bore the responsibility to make their contributions meaningful and respectful.
This was more work than I expected. Duh.
But I kept going. A total of twelve revisions, working with a professional editor, getting cultural feedback from people in the setting and from sensitivity readers to ensure I portrayed respectfully the culture I was writing about.
Then it was done.
But not really.
Then came the querying part. I had to summarize the 125,000-word manuscript into a 300-word sale pitch. That was hard. A different set of creative muscles.
Then came the next stage: to whom do I send it? There are many resources online to help with this.
Review
Now, in my third wave of querying, I discover the book by Kate McKean (just published last month). Her style and directness are apparent very early in the book.
“I can’t tell you how to write a book, the definitive way to get it published or if it will be successful. No one can…. Why this book, then? Because the only way out [PA: to find if your book will be successful] is through. You have to write the thing to see if it’s going to work and even then, it feels like you can see only as far as your own headlights.” (page 4)
This rings true! Her authenticity and directness are strengths of the book.
Writing improves with practice is a theme she returns to often. Her hope is that as we practice, we can use her book to inform us of the larger process of publishing.
Writing is a pre-requisite to becoming an author.
Publishing is a business. And today, the more the author knows about “the business of publishing,” the better she or he can anticipate and prepare for the next steps.
The book is about traditional publishing. She does not cover self-publishing, in part, she does not have the expertise, in part, it would be a completely other book.
The author draws upon her experience as an agent, who knows the traditional publishing business very well and over many years, now as a non-fiction author, and as a novelist without a published novel.
She focused on fiction and non-fiction, but also covers memoirs and picture books.
She covers all stages of the traditional publishing process: writing (remember, to publish, you need to write for the reader), editing (the way to improve the story), querying literary agents, the process of finding publisher, the book deal (and what might go wrong), promoting your book, as well as how to move on if the process does not result in a publication.
Her directness and knowledge are reassuring, even if the bottom line is unsettling.
• Finding an agent is messy. My experience is that while there are databases, they are not as useful as I had wanted, namely being able to query on genre, keywords. And the responses are vanilla, if you even get one. She explains the pressures agents are under.
• Getting published involves so many factors, many of which you do not control. For example, you do not control the marketplace; you do not control what others write; you do not control the interests of your agent, even if your book is in a genre they represent.
o So, not getting traditionally published is not all on the writer. A consolation.
o You do control what you write, how (well) you edit, whom to seek as beta readers, and when to query.
o And it begs the question: Why are you writing? Why do you want traditional publishing?
• Agents basically read queries in their free time. Chapter 3: All About Literary Agents reveals the life of an agent. Agents get several hundred queries a month. If they are not excited, they will say no. Very likely they will only request full manuscripts from less than 1% of queries—and no guarantee. And since agents also need to pay the bills, they will only accept to represent an author if they feel they can find a publisher… and get paid. Remember, they don’t get paid until they sell the book. [This point was brought home every effectively in a YouTube video by Tim Grahl, “Querying Agents? 99% Get Rejected. Here's how to do it RIGHT,” https://youtu.be/UVURbvZAwLE?t=6. He did the math. For a debut author, perhaps there will be an advance of $5,000. The agent gets 15%, so $750. For that money, she (mostly) will work hours, often helping to revise the manuscript, identifying possible editors, pitching your story, holding your hands through a negotiation process (if you’re lucky), and signing. If successful, she’ll get $750. But at any point in the chain, the deal could fall through.]
• Bottom line:
o For an author: getting an agent is hard. Some people suggest querying up to 100 agents. But after a point, something will need to change: query letter, manuscript, shift to self-publishing, or storing the manuscript in a drawer.
o For an agent: Deciding and betting on an author is hard, done in an agent’s free time, and for new authors, very low initial return on investment.
o For the first time writers: Tim Grahl makes the point that perhaps self-publishing is a viable option (he’d argue a better option depending on what you, the author, want. You’d trade the anxiety and work of querying into more productive aspects of self-publishing and reap other benefits).
A penultimate note. The book's format adds to the author’s no-nonsense approach to the process. Each chapter has clear subsections, making it efficient to recall points she made. Even the choice of cover states that this is a book to work with.
Learn as you go has been my approach to writing. At each stage of the writing and publishing process, I have learned something new.
• While originally writing, I heard many motivational speakers talking about the biggest impediments to writing: procrastination, fear of not being good enough…. Basically, you have to sit down and write. No other way. As this author says, write through it.
• When finished with the manuscript (draft 0), I had to learn about editing (there are good books about that), and asking others to read it. That was scary, but essential. I learned long ago, no matter how clear you think you are, readers are so creative in adding other interpretations.
• When getting to my limits, I knew I needed professional help, and had to find an editor. I was fortunate! Got a great one.
• When querying, I had to learn how to put together a letter. But then, with this book, I was able to see the world from the agent’s perspective.
• If I get to the point of finding an agent, the book will be at my side, with the author’s knowledge of the process, her advice, and paraphrasing her, with my heads on high-beam.
Dear Kate,
Thanks for writing this book.
A valuable, no-nonsense book about the path of traditional publishing, from writing and editing to finding an agent to move a manuscript forward to a published book, self-promotion, and your next book! The author has years of experience as a literary agent, a newsletter writer, and author.
The author tells it like she sees it, and she’s seen a lot. No sugar coating. But she writes with authenticity and humanity, as if chatting with you over a coffee. Getting a book published is extremely difficult. But each time one writes, one learns more. Given the supply of manuscripts and traditional publishing limitations, the reality is most manuscripts do not make it into the traditional publishing system!
First-time writers at any stage of the process can benefit from this book. Also, those interested in the writing-publishing process will learn the key steps, writers’ anxieties, and chances of success. For me, the value was understanding the querying process from the author’s perspective (the stage I find myself as a first-time querier).
In short, I enjoyed and learned from the clear, no-nonsense approach to writing, querying, publishing, and carrying on in life and writing.
This book I’ll keep at my side in the future as I continue to write through it.
Context
Many years ago, I started a project that involved many other people. Early on, I had to decide whether I was a person who said supportive words or a person who actually provided support. I chose the latter. As the project grew, so did the responsibilities and commitments. Years later, I looked back and often thought, “Had I known how hard that was going to me, I might not have started.” But I am so glad I stayed with it.
I’ve had a similar experience in writing a manuscript and attempting to publish it. In the pre- and early-Covid period, I had an idea for a book and the words flowed from my brain to my fingertips. The characters were telling me what they were experiencing. I struggled to keep up with them. And I was happy as the story unfolded. Though I wrote mostly as a pantser (writer without an outline), I often paused to be sure the barely submerged mental timelines worked (so I had a temporal outline).
It was great to finish, to get feedback, mostly, “not too bad” as if surprised I could write at all.
Then reality struck. I needed to edit and revise and get more feedback and research. As I involved more people, I again bore the responsibility to make their contributions meaningful and respectful.
This was more work than I expected. Duh.
But I kept going. A total of twelve revisions, working with a professional editor, getting cultural feedback from people in the setting and from sensitivity readers to ensure I portrayed respectfully the culture I was writing about.
Then it was done.
But not really.
Then came the querying part. I had to summarize the 125,000-word manuscript into a 300-word sale pitch. That was hard. A different set of creative muscles.
Then came the next stage: to whom do I send it? There are many resources online to help with this.
Review
Now, in my third wave of querying, I discover the book by Kate McKean (just published last month). Her style and directness are apparent very early in the book.
“I can’t tell you how to write a book, the definitive way to get it published or if it will be successful. No one can…. Why this book, then? Because the only way out [PA: to find if your book will be successful] is through. You have to write the thing to see if it’s going to work and even then, it feels like you can see only as far as your own headlights.” (page 4)
This rings true! Her authenticity and directness are strengths of the book.
Writing improves with practice is a theme she returns to often. Her hope is that as we practice, we can use her book to inform us of the larger process of publishing.
Writing is a pre-requisite to becoming an author.
Publishing is a business. And today, the more the author knows about “the business of publishing,” the better she or he can anticipate and prepare for the next steps.
The book is about traditional publishing. She does not cover self-publishing, in part, she does not have the expertise, in part, it would be a completely other book.
The author draws upon her experience as an agent, who knows the traditional publishing business very well and over many years, now as a non-fiction author, and as a novelist without a published novel.
She focused on fiction and non-fiction, but also covers memoirs and picture books.
She covers all stages of the traditional publishing process: writing (remember, to publish, you need to write for the reader), editing (the way to improve the story), querying literary agents, the process of finding publisher, the book deal (and what might go wrong), promoting your book, as well as how to move on if the process does not result in a publication.
Her directness and knowledge are reassuring, even if the bottom line is unsettling.
• Finding an agent is messy. My experience is that while there are databases, they are not as useful as I had wanted, namely being able to query on genre, keywords. And the responses are vanilla, if you even get one. She explains the pressures agents are under.
• Getting published involves so many factors, many of which you do not control. For example, you do not control the marketplace; you do not control what others write; you do not control the interests of your agent, even if your book is in a genre they represent.
o So, not getting traditionally published is not all on the writer. A consolation.
o You do control what you write, how (well) you edit, whom to seek as beta readers, and when to query.
o And it begs the question: Why are you writing? Why do you want traditional publishing?
• Agents basically read queries in their free time. Chapter 3: All About Literary Agents reveals the life of an agent. Agents get several hundred queries a month. If they are not excited, they will say no. Very likely they will only request full manuscripts from less than 1% of queries—and no guarantee. And since agents also need to pay the bills, they will only accept to represent an author if they feel they can find a publisher… and get paid. Remember, they don’t get paid until they sell the book. [This point was brought home every effectively in a YouTube video by Tim Grahl, “Querying Agents? 99% Get Rejected. Here's how to do it RIGHT,” https://youtu.be/UVURbvZAwLE?t=6. He did the math. For a debut author, perhaps there will be an advance of $5,000. The agent gets 15%, so $750. For that money, she (mostly) will work hours, often helping to revise the manuscript, identifying possible editors, pitching your story, holding your hands through a negotiation process (if you’re lucky), and signing. If successful, she’ll get $750. But at any point in the chain, the deal could fall through.]
• Bottom line:
o For an author: getting an agent is hard. Some people suggest querying up to 100 agents. But after a point, something will need to change: query letter, manuscript, shift to self-publishing, or storing the manuscript in a drawer.
o For an agent: Deciding and betting on an author is hard, done in an agent’s free time, and for new authors, very low initial return on investment.
o For the first time writers: Tim Grahl makes the point that perhaps self-publishing is a viable option (he’d argue a better option depending on what you, the author, want. You’d trade the anxiety and work of querying into more productive aspects of self-publishing and reap other benefits).
A penultimate note. The book's format adds to the author’s no-nonsense approach to the process. Each chapter has clear subsections, making it efficient to recall points she made. Even the choice of cover states that this is a book to work with.
Learn as you go has been my approach to writing. At each stage of the writing and publishing process, I have learned something new.
• While originally writing, I heard many motivational speakers talking about the biggest impediments to writing: procrastination, fear of not being good enough…. Basically, you have to sit down and write. No other way. As this author says, write through it.
• When finished with the manuscript (draft 0), I had to learn about editing (there are good books about that), and asking others to read it. That was scary, but essential. I learned long ago, no matter how clear you think you are, readers are so creative in adding other interpretations.
• When getting to my limits, I knew I needed professional help, and had to find an editor. I was fortunate! Got a great one.
• When querying, I had to learn how to put together a letter. But then, with this book, I was able to see the world from the agent’s perspective.
• If I get to the point of finding an agent, the book will be at my side, with the author’s knowledge of the process, her advice, and paraphrasing her, with my heads on high-beam.
Dear Kate,
Thanks for writing this book.
March 17, 2025
See my full review at http://michelleardillo.com/2025/03/17...
July 28, 2025
This is a much needed book in the opaque industry of publishing. It’s funny, it’s relatable, and most of all, it teaches me important information without setting off my anxiety, because as a writer who wants to seek some sort of success through the traditional publishing route, I already have an abundance of anxiety. For querying writers, it even has sample query letters in the appendix and Kate’s critique of them.
Like the author said, a book will never be perfect, and this book isn’t the exception. But it is a wonderful read that filled my knowledge gaps and soothed my self-doubting ass that I’m not the only one suffering through this journey, and everything is going to be okay, while giving me the honest truth of brutal reality.
I highly recommend this book to any writer who’s in the query trench, on sobbing submission, or lost on the way after the first book deal contract. You won’t regret spending the time with Kate. She’s a knowledgeable wiz, and she’s hilarious.
Like the author said, a book will never be perfect, and this book isn’t the exception. But it is a wonderful read that filled my knowledge gaps and soothed my self-doubting ass that I’m not the only one suffering through this journey, and everything is going to be okay, while giving me the honest truth of brutal reality.
I highly recommend this book to any writer who’s in the query trench, on sobbing submission, or lost on the way after the first book deal contract. You won’t regret spending the time with Kate. She’s a knowledgeable wiz, and she’s hilarious.
August 1, 2025
Very informative and approachable. The chapters about agents, contracts, and the requisitions process were especially useful, as those are elements of the industry less transparent for writers who haven't gotten there yet.
July 4, 2025
I read this for prompt 51. '300-400 pages long'
Summary: This is a writing/publishing how-to book that focuses mainly on the business side of actually publishing the book and getting it out to readers. It explains all of the steps, like getting an agent, editing, promotion. Its goal is to make a part of being an author that non-published writers wouldn't know about more transparent.
Favorite Quote: Katie Adams, a freelance book editor, says that she sees common mistakes in authors’ manuscripts, especially first novels. There, she says, “I often see a trauma dump, where the writer seems to feel they have to put all of their hard-earned insights about pain, all of their life’s worth of ideas, into this one book because it’s their big chance.” In nonfiction, she sees the writer’s “devotion to research that was fascinating to discover or hard to come by but doesn’t actually need to be in the book.” Both of these things prioritize the writer’s aims and desires over the reader’s experience. (pg. 45)
Review: I've read a decent number of writing books, but something that is unique about this one is that it's not really about how to write, it's about what to do after you've written something. It's focused on the mechanics and business of being a published author. It also gives guidance about who you should communicate with about different issues and what your agent's responsibilities are or aren't. It also deals with how to deal with emotions and anxieties along the way. All-in-all this is a very informative book if you're looking to understand how a book gets sold and published.
Summary: This is a writing/publishing how-to book that focuses mainly on the business side of actually publishing the book and getting it out to readers. It explains all of the steps, like getting an agent, editing, promotion. Its goal is to make a part of being an author that non-published writers wouldn't know about more transparent.
Favorite Quote: Katie Adams, a freelance book editor, says that she sees common mistakes in authors’ manuscripts, especially first novels. There, she says, “I often see a trauma dump, where the writer seems to feel they have to put all of their hard-earned insights about pain, all of their life’s worth of ideas, into this one book because it’s their big chance.” In nonfiction, she sees the writer’s “devotion to research that was fascinating to discover or hard to come by but doesn’t actually need to be in the book.” Both of these things prioritize the writer’s aims and desires over the reader’s experience. (pg. 45)
Review: I've read a decent number of writing books, but something that is unique about this one is that it's not really about how to write, it's about what to do after you've written something. It's focused on the mechanics and business of being a published author. It also gives guidance about who you should communicate with about different issues and what your agent's responsibilities are or aren't. It also deals with how to deal with emotions and anxieties along the way. All-in-all this is a very informative book if you're looking to understand how a book gets sold and published.
June 16, 2025
I’m a self published writer of two series. I went through querying decades ago when I first started writing, and again when I began all over after retirement. The first time I found an agent, but the book didn’t sell. The second time I was unsuccessful at querying, I gave up, and self published. I’m considering querying with the new book I’m working on.
Much of this book rang very true with me — if you’re starting out writing, and wondering how exactly the process of traditional publication works, (not self-pub, she’s very clear about that,) then read this book. There is an enormous amount of information, very worthwhile information. While I knew a lot of it already, I gleaned some very nice nuggets out of it. The chapter on query letters alone, with examples and dos and don’ts, was worth the price of the book. No, she doesn’t tell you how to write a best seller. This is about the business. (And if you’re thinking that the publishing industry is some kind of charitable arts organization, most definitely read this book.)
It was also an enjoyable read, well written, entertaining, and funny.
Much of this book rang very true with me — if you’re starting out writing, and wondering how exactly the process of traditional publication works, (not self-pub, she’s very clear about that,) then read this book. There is an enormous amount of information, very worthwhile information. While I knew a lot of it already, I gleaned some very nice nuggets out of it. The chapter on query letters alone, with examples and dos and don’ts, was worth the price of the book. No, she doesn’t tell you how to write a best seller. This is about the business. (And if you’re thinking that the publishing industry is some kind of charitable arts organization, most definitely read this book.)
It was also an enjoyable read, well written, entertaining, and funny.
September 22, 2025
As someone currently in the process of trying to get a book published, this book was GREAT. My general rule of writing advice is that I don't pay attention to it unless I think the person giving it really knows what they're talking about, but since the author of this is both an agent and a writer, it's clear she really knows her stuff. It's easy to read and informative, with a light enough tone that it doesn't feel like a chore, and I appreciated that in each section she includes a section about how authors typically feel during this part of the publishing the process (the answer is generally "very stressed but that's pretty normal.") I learned some good facts about the process of publishing and it was very useful to hear about things from the perspective of an agent who knows the ins and outs of it extremely well.
July 4, 2025
This book couldn't have come at a better time...I finished my own debut novel at the end of May, wrote my book proposal right when this came out, and started querying agents. Reading this book while being in the weeds of querying has been a godsend. Kate hits on every feeling I've had throughout this writing/pathway-to-market process while providing a much-needed roadmap of the publishing industry (as well as being super encouraging). Kate on my list to query but I have to admit, I feel like I know her so well by now that I'm kind of intimidated to reach out. Write Through It has made this entire process a little easier, though.
March 27, 2025
I loved reading this book. Like, first of all, it's a delight, just a fun and friendly read. And even though I'm not new to publishing, I found Kate's perspectives interesting, informative, and helpful. But for a novice author, someone entirely new to the field? THIS IS ABSOLUTE GOLD. Kate covers everything you need to know about how to write, sell, and publish a book, and, most importantly, how to survive it without losing your mind, and maybe even coming out the other end a better, more centered writer. A super useful and valuable book.
July 14, 2025
I've published three books and think I have a decent grasp of the publishing industry, but Write Through It surprised me, encouraged me, and demystified so many sticky topics. Kate McKean's voice is eminently practical and realistic, and it's so rare to get advice from someone who's deeply inside the business, both on the writing and agenting side. This will be the first rec to all my writer friends who want to write a book or are in the querying process. She makes it all feel *doable*.
September 9, 2025
A breezy read for this sort of text.
Highly recommend.
Lots of straightforward utility.
Example excerpt:
"Don't claim there are no comp titles for your book. This usually isn't true. And if it is true, it's not necessarily a good thing. Sometimes when there's a hole on the bookshelf, it looks to you like a perfect spot to fill with the new book. But to readers, editors, and agents, it's because no one is clamoring for that book."
Highly recommend.
Lots of straightforward utility.
Example excerpt:
"Don't claim there are no comp titles for your book. This usually isn't true. And if it is true, it's not necessarily a good thing. Sometimes when there's a hole on the bookshelf, it looks to you like a perfect spot to fill with the new book. But to readers, editors, and agents, it's because no one is clamoring for that book."
July 1, 2025
4.5 stars.
I had a great time with this one. It had so many interesting tips for writing a book. I appreciated that the author acknowledged that this books was focused on the traditional aspect of publishing and I really enjoyed the sort of insider information that she provided in here. Would recommend.
I had a great time with this one. It had so many interesting tips for writing a book. I appreciated that the author acknowledged that this books was focused on the traditional aspect of publishing and I really enjoyed the sort of insider information that she provided in here. Would recommend.
May 24, 2025
Kate Mckean has written an informative guide to publishing and a creative life.She guides you step by step the path to publishing your book a guide every new author needs and even published authors will benefit from.The author has a warm friendly voice which really drew me in.Thanks #simonelement
September 9, 2025
This has some really interesting insights on publishing a novel! I think this is one I'll return to if I get to the point of querying. I got it from the library, but am definitely considering getting my own copy to add to my writing book collection.
July 12, 2025
Maybe if I keep reading about the intricacies and etiquette of the publishing world, it will begin to feel less foreign and exclusive. Kate McKean is readable and credible ... and helpful. Thank you.
July 16, 2025
an enjoyable and informative audiobook about the publishing industry from the perspective of an agent who writes, too
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