New Year, New Book Idea?

January 14, 2012 in Blog, Query Process, Writing Platform | Tags: , , , | 1 comment

As many folks get back into the regular paces post the holidays, I’m confident there are people who’ve made a resolution of writing a book and getting it published. Maybe others plan on re-writing a previous book idea; either way what it’s absolutely essential that one prepares accordingly (vs. flying by the seat of the pants).

Things to remember:

1.       Will readers want your book? Specifically is there an audience who will clamor to read it? If the new book idea has a limited audience, the odds of gaining the attention of an agent (or editor) aren’t very good. This especially pertains to personal memoirs, of which there needs to be a guarantee thousands of readers would want to learn your life story. And that the individuals approached (in publishing) are interested in seeing a book of this nature.

 

2.       Remember beta readers, as well as population segments who’d be interested in your book idea. It’s one thing to write a book, it’s another to get the input of readers who represent your audience/market. If you haven’t found beta readers within your book’s target audience, it’s time to do so. Some of the best critiques can result from this part of the writing process. 

Ex: If writing a book for teenagers, then find a few teenagers who’d happily read your book. As we all know, most teenagers have no issues in expressing their opinions. Teens who read (and possibly write themselves) will provide much needed feedback on the strength of your book.   

 

3.       Do the necessary homework before approaching editors and agents. I sometimes feel like a broken record, in that I’m always saying this. Yet, it seems that many writers fall into the trap of putting the figurative cart before the horse. In Mike Nappa’s book, 77 Reasons Why Your Book Was Rejected, this is a constant reminder. DO YOUR HOMEWORK–it’s not a choice, this is a mandatory requirement. (Makes me feel better that I’m not alone here.)

Ex:  Sending a query to an agent or editor that is outside his/her book categories=an immediate rejection. A good publishing experience requires one works with individuals who share the same goal(s).  If your book idea doesn’t mesh with an agent or editor’s categories, it’s not a good foundation for a positive publishing experience.

 

4.       Remember that publishers are looking at the bigger picture (in publishing), as well as agents. Do you truly believe your book will sell thousands (upon thousands) of books? Do you have a large enough writing platform to turn the heads of editors and agents? Can you write and do it well? Do you have more than one book in you? Is the publishing process a long-term goal you’ll stay committed to, or is it just a hobby? As Mike Nappa aptly states, publishers need to believe they’ll make a profit on your book. If one is lacking a noticeable writing platform, the ability to write, and/or commitment to helping ensure a profit will be made, there’s a good chance it’ll be hard to win an agent or editor over.  So go back to points #1, #2 and #3. Then make a plan and prepare accordingly.

 

Questions? Thoughts? It’s always a treat hearing your feedback, your personal experiences.

 

The Writer’s Workout – Go check it out!

January 8, 2012 in Authors, Blog, New Books, Writing Platform, Writing Resources | Tags: , , , , | 3 comments

Title: THE WRITER’S WORKOUT
Author: Christina Katz
Pub date: Jan. 10, 2012

As many of you know, one of the books I consistently recommend is GET KNOWN BEFORE THE BOOK DEAL by Christina Katz. I personally believe it’s one of the best reference books for building a platform, let alone experiencing a good writerly experience.  From the first page of that book, it’s evident that Christina practices what she preaches;  that she wants to make sure other writers have the best experience possible with their own personal writing paths.

So imagine my excitement upon receiving her newest book, THE WRITER’S WORKOUT. Over the last week I’ve taken the time to read Christina’s book, and am extremely impressed with the thoroughness of its content. So much information is covered, with every single idea and suggestion very accessible.

You can read the book from front to back, open at random pages, or read the specific sections (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter).  It’s your choice.  One entry a day = the perfect addition to one’s daily writing routine. Yet another reason to add Christina’s book to one’s writing reference library.

There is much to be appreciated about THE WRITER’S WORKOUT.  The “sticky brain” approach, the 500-word dash, the suggestion of saving documents and blog posts that inspire you (to be read again later), honoring introspection (during the writing process), the benefits of “social artistry,” and more.  Christina even includes various exercises for developing one’s book ideas, one’s network, and more.  I especially like her “Take 25 Actions” exercise.  (A great idea!)

THE WRITER’S WORKOUT is an interactive book that only requires you the writer, and a willingness to learn and execute new practices to one’s writing routine.  In the long run, one’s writerly life will benefit from these exercises.

So, do know it should be no surprise that THE WRITER’S WORKOUT will be required reading for my future clients – and highly recommended to my current ones too.

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Last but not least, here are some pages I highly recommend from THE WRITER’S WORKOUT:

#14 – Solvency Plan
#19 – Culture a Body of Work
#21 – Writing Markets
#33 – Target Specific Markets
#38 – Dismantle Dismal Thinking
#49 – Awaken Your Senses
#62 – Lead Later
#81 – Serve Up
#83 – Unblock Yourself
#85 – Settle In
#107 – Prospect From Yourself
#110 – Dig Deeper Say More
#117 – Transform Impatience
#141 – Stockpile Resources
#144 – Stay Strong, Carry On
#177 – Don’t Rush Ripe (seriously folks, a must read)
#186 – Evaluate Your Visibility
#237 – Personal Not Egomanical
#266 – Keep it Professional
#280 – Benefits of Traditional Publishing
#285 – Benefits of Self-Publishing
#295 and #297 – Strut Your Social Side (pts. 1 & 2)
#308 – Go Global
#321 and #323 – Update Your Platform (pts. 1 & 2)
#364 – Flex Your Ideas
 

So enjoy!  And go find Christina’s book, as it hits bookshelves this week! :)

How’s your writing reference library looking?

December 28, 2011 in Blog, Industry News, Writing Resources | Tags: , , , , | 3 comments

Part of the job any person involved in publishing is staying aware of trends, constant research, and bringing a forward-thinking attitude. One way to ensure this happens is updating and adding to one’s publishing reference library. Hence, with every start to a new year I look for additional books to educate and inspire writers (and me). Forget New Year’s resolutions, I’m aiming to keep the publishing brain in sync with the industry.


Books I’d highly recommend you add to your library:

Spunk and Bite – by Arthur Plotnik

There are many reasons to check out this book. The primary reason being that its title is the perfect reflection of what one can gain from reading it. As an agent, I’m always looking for fresh, smart, NEW material. Writing with a little edge and “spunk” is the way to go about it.

One of my favorite discussions in this book focused on the element of surprise in writing; in that surprises are necessary; that they are part of being human. Plotnik goes on further to discuss how one accomplishes this feat; with very much an effective bit of advice for any aspiring author.

Other sections I appreciated in Plotniks’ book include: methods to avoid “geezer” writing, the avoidance of overusing words, the use of tenses (dead on!), and usage of tropes. In summary, Spunk and Bite should be required reading for anyone who claims to have aspirations of getting published. Especially if desirous of standing out amidst the many queries agents and editors receive.



Keep It Real – by Lee Gutkind

I couldn’t agree more with Lee Gutkind. As with anything one does, it’s better to be true to one’s self vs. manufacturing something that isn’t reflective of the creativity within. In addition, keeping it real means bringing a good business brain to a career of writing; which includes a meticulous plan and perseverance.

One bit of advice provided by Gutkind was the 5 Rs of Creative Nonfiction: a Real-life perspective, Reaching out, Research/Reportage, Reading, and ‘Riting. I won’t delve into all the details here, so check out this Keep It Real, let alone this section.



Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published – by Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry

This is a great collaboration between Arielle and David. So much that I ended up writing in the book AT THE BOOKSTORE. As it’s a natural tendency of mine to write in the margins of books. When that happens, I know the book has struck a note with me. There are so many good things about this book, that do know it’ll be a regular book I encourage writers to read from here on out. So much good advice, especially on writer/agent/editor communication. In summary, add this book to you reference shelf.


And stay tuned, as I’m reading Christina Katz’s new book (I’m SO excited!!!)–to which you can expect more later about it. . . .

A few of my favorite “things” from 2011

December 24, 2011 in Blog, Entertainment & Fun | Tags: , , | Leave a comment

Throughout the year, I am always searching for new fun artists, writers, and anything that appeals my eclectic tastes.  It’s not necessarily for the agency.  These outings are meant to inspire my ownself, to meet the people behind such an exciting local creative community, to find new readers and artists to follow, and more.

Now that I’m wrapping up a busy fall, and since it’s that time of the year to discuss “best of” lists, here are a few folks I learned about in 2011. People that I’m highly encouraging you to check out.  Why?  Just because I liked them.  It’s that simple.  Nothing more, nothing less.

And while you’re at it, remind yourself to take a moment to support your surrounding creative community.  Throw a few dollars towards those artists, and of course encourage others to check them out.



URSULA MURRAY HUSTED:

I met her at the Comic Con at the Soap Box Factory.  She was such a delight to meet.

Her website: www.ursulamurrayhusted.com















BIG TIME ATTIC: 

Kevin and Zander, the brains behind this entity are very talented artists.  Very approachable, professional, and guys you should keep your eyes on.  I see continued success for them.  I also met them at the event at the Soap Factory.

Their website: www.bigtimeattic.com

















D.C. ICE

Ever seen an artist, one whom you’d take all their pieces if given the chance? D.C. Ice falls into that category for me. I stumbled across her work at the A to Z Gallery while waiting for my dear friend Kara Hendershot.   

I enjoy her illustrations, her understated and dark approach to discussing larger themes, and the overall presentation when her pieces are on display.  So much that I can’t even choose which piece I’d want if I had to choose one.  She’s also someone to keep an eye on.

Her website:  www.dcice.com












BEIJO BRASIL

This is jewelry, and it rocks my world.  While running an errand at the Electric Fetus several months ago, I saw some of their pieces on display.  I’ve looked at their work many times since then.

The studio is based in Sonoma, CA - and there are many reasons I appreciate their work; the simplicity, the perspective brought to each piece, the unique designs & themes, and the gorgeous craftmanship.  Yes, this isn’t a book, but when  a book lover is willingly looking at these and inspired, it’s evident there’s something special here.

Their Facebook Page (as they are distributed at various places): Beijo Brasil












So with the new year, here’s my gentle nudge that not only should you shop local bookstores, but support your local and visiting artists.    If the true integrity of art is going to stay in intact, in any medium, get to know the people who are making it happen.    Here’s to a great 2012!

Magic squares and Easter Eggs. . .

December 3, 2011 in Authors, New Books, Writing Resources | Tags: , , , | Leave a comment

In September, Craig Thompson came to the Twin-Cities to speak at MCAD (The Minneapolis College of Art and Design).  His newest work, HABIBI, had just been published, and many of us had long been anticipating his follow-up book to BLANKETS.  To say this was a magical lecture would be an understatement.   I’m still reeling from this book event – even two months after the fact.  I know I’m not alone here.

This experience was so awesome, that I felt it would behest me share some of my notes regarding Craig’s thoughts on being a writer (& the overall experience), magic squares and easter eggs.  Yes, easter eggs.


His thoughts on the Writing Experience:

Craig Thompson emphasized how Comic Art can be the best of both worlds – writing stories and creating illustrations.   He reminded us that either would be a singular challenge; and that doing both would be doubly difficult.

Observing Craig’s process on how HABIBI came together was amazing.  He implemented calligraphy throughout the book, going as far to state it was “music for the eyes.” So much that comics can be the figurative sheet music when one adds this special touch.

I especially appreciated his commentary of pen vs. pencil during the illustration process.  He seems to prefer pen & ink, as it will “confirm” the words and images in one’s book, i.e. keeping the “mark” that’s been made.  Irrevocably this process will take a writer one step closer to finishing a work in progress.  Thereby, allowing the book (and art) to take a life of its own.

As one’s work-in-progress evolves, the next challenge is maintaining one’s personal life, of which Craig deftly handled that topic.  Being a person who gets to work with writers, it astounds me that ANY writer is able to accomplish such a fine balance.  From my point of view, creating a book (which is very private process) and maintaining life’s daily challenges amid the interruptions is an incredible feat.


Magic Squares

During his presentation, we learned that HABIBI was inspired by 1001 Arabian Nights.  Craig wanted to write a book that was more political, more realistic.  A book with a slight edge of fantasy.  A book bigger than himself.   He accomplished all of these goals; taking it a step further within HABIBI by reflecting “human ugliness and sacred beauty simultaneously.”

One of the tools in ensuring this success was the use of magic squares, otherwise known as mathematical narratives.  Showing the audience a 3×3 square, Craig stated this was how he laid out the laid out HABIBI’s storyline.  At that point, the crowd even seemed to do a breath intake.

Beyond. Amazing. 

I won’t go into how this method influenced Craig’s overall writing process – just know we all agreed it was sheer genius.  (I’m still in awe of this portion of Craig’s lecture btw)

 

Finding that “Easter Egg”

Have you ever attended a book lecture where the world seems to open up – and an entirely new perspective is imprinted on the brain?  If not, I hope that day arrives for anyone who is reading this post.

My moment happened of clarification happened at Craig’s lecture; for many others in attendance, they stated the same thing.  Yet again confirmation of the how incredible a writer Craig Thompson is; plus a piece of wisdom every writer should aspire to.

What is the “Easter Egg” in a book?  It is a special hidden element that some readers will recognize and connect with on a hidden level.    Maybe it’s a particular plot, character, theme, etc.  The end result is the narrative reaching the reader at an entirely unexpected new level; becoming a catalyst in regard to one’s life decisions, reading habits, creativity and more.

Since I’m going to put everyone on the spot about this concept, it’s important that I mention my Easter Egg experience, which happened at the age of 14.  The book was THE AWAKENING.  It forever changed my outlook on adulthood, on major life decisions, on what one wants (or doesn’t want), and on the effects of societal influences.  THE AWAKENING represented another important thing too; that the talented author, Kate Chopin, probably never imagined she’d polarize readers with her only published book– let alone never write another novel again.  I could ramble incessantly about this book, and how it forever changed her life – and my own.  Instead, I now realize it was my “Easter Egg” moment as a reader.

My question for you. . .

For readers: What are your Easter Egg moments with books? Did it happen in early childhood, or did it happen with maturity (as a reader, as a person).  What was that book?  What insights did you gain from it?  Did others feel the same way?

For writers: Have you been able to connect to readers at such a level?  Is your creative work reflective of only YOUR experience(s), or is there a universal appeal to readers?

 

I’m going to close out for now, as once again I have magic squares and easter eggs on the brain.  What are your Easter Egg moments?  And for anyone who has seen Craig Thompson speak, what was your experience like?

Thoughts on developing a strong network. . .

November 16, 2011 in Blog, Query Process, Writing Platform, Writing Resources | Tags: , , , | 6 comments

It seems that we’ve all had an extremely busy Fall – publishing and writer types alike. It’s hard to believe that even a few years ago there would be quiet lulls (in publishing) during any year.  Yet as social media has evolved into an everyday part our lives – the pace is always hectic, with infrequent moments to escape the grid.  Sometimes it almost seems that social media is driving the figurative bus vs. the folks it represents, but that’s another topic altogether.

Thus, I’m sending a gentle nudge (to everyone) to take the time in stepping away from this mad dash.  For writers, their books will benefit.  For agents and editors, our ability to think clearly and make sound decisions will continue.  This is precisely why writers’ conferences exist.  They exist to educate and inspire authors – and to remind those of us who love the publishing industry why we’re involved to begin with.

If anyone reading this blog has followed my agency for any period of time, it’s not required (on my part) that I confirm my belief that we all support and help grow our local writing communities.  The process is easily accomplished by buying books locally, attending book events, creating new book events and writing opportunities, and forming a strong alliance & network for anyone who loves books & writing.

This Fall I was extremely honored to participate with the Women of Words Conference and the MN Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators.  Both were wonderful experiences – and ones that I’ll never forget.    So much that I was reminded again of the strength and vitality of Minnesota’s writing community.  Plus, I got to learn a few new things myself!

After the fact, here are several things that come to mind:

1.       As a writer it’s 110% essential one builds a strong network of fellow writers and publishing types to collaborate and interact with.    

Any writer’s conference or writing organization can provide that needed opportunity. Especially since choosing any book publishing route can be a long, drawn-out process.   Attempting to get published without a network is never a good idea; as there will be hurdles to overcome, which can be discouraging for any aspiring author.

If you need an additional reason, you should remember that editors and agents have always tried to support and communicate with one another – as we too know that the overall publishing world can come across as overwhelming.   I’d hope everyone would follow our example.

 

2.       Constantly educate yourself.   

For anyone who has played a sport – or was involved in the creation of something – there is always a need to stay abreast of the newest information, newest ideas, and methods of perfecting one’s performance.

The same goes for writing.  Any of us would hope that we improve in the craft of writing over a noticeable period of time.  The best way to go about accomplishing this goal is participating (and even contributing) to writer’s conferences and organizations.    Every student needs a teacher.  And every teacher needs a refresher course – to which joining a strong writing organization or conference allows that opportunity.

 

3.       Celebrate the small successes.

We all know that Rome wasn’t built in a day.   If one compares his/her writing life to the growth of a large city, the overall general process takes time. . . and requires lots of patience.

Develop reasonable timelines for the goals you want to accomplish; whether it’s in regard to writing, building an author platform, and/or finding an agent.   Try to not panic during the process – and most importantly take a moment to celebrate even the smallest accomplishments.  I’d personally suggest a cupcake for each moment – but that’s me. :)

 

What has your experience been regarding writer’s conferences and being involved in local writing organizations? What have you learned from the overall process?  And most importantly, how are you sharing your experience with others?

I can’t wait to hear what you have to say!

 

Future Horizons: Teens and Publishing

October 8, 2011 in Blog, Writing Resources | Tags: , | Leave a comment

by Dawn Frederick

Right now I’m very excited about the 2012 happenings in my own literary/ publishing world. The mad dash begins in January – and I’m assuming the pace will be as equally interactive when 2012 rounds out.

To those who are saying “Hey it’s still 2011!?!” – I understand. Yet, in the world of publishing, one needs to think outside the present. Especially when determining when to take a book idea to publishers (who are usually buying books 1-2 years before they’re published), and being able to juggle the busy admin duties of “the sofa” during that time.

One of the newest additions to my calendar is teaching a class at the The Loft Literary Center next April. Instead of being a class intended for adults, it’ll be a class for older teenagers. The class will cover the business of publishing, as there’s an entirely new generation of aspiring writers. Many who  grew up reading Harry Potter, Twilight, Diary of Wimpy Kid and more. They are avid readers, know technology (better than most adults it seems), and already bring a discerning taste on what they want to read. . . or write.

Going back to the reference of bringing a forward thinking mind to publishing - this new generation is already preparing to enter our literary world. Do you hear me everyone? These smart young adults are getting ready to navigate the figurative publishing waters.

Several reasons why this is awesome:  Many teens are tech savvy. They also grew up in a time when the Young Adult sections doubled, sometimes even quadrupled, in titles offered. Plus, it’s normal for many teens to be running their own websites; some are already successful at it. (Do I even to start dropping names here?) And last but not least, these up and coming pre-adults are ready to learn how the cogs of publishing turn – ultimately hoping to  learn how a book is published, how it reaches readers, and how to successfully & skillfully put an idea on paper.

Yes, timing is everything. And right now the time is to give the teens a chance to learn how and why book publishing thrives. My theory is that this time/value investment will result in a larger segment of readers and more books sold,  as well as additional proof that publishing will never die – especially to some of the naysayers who believe such a myth.

Yes, I’m excited. But really my main goal is to share the same passion I had as a teenager. Forget zombie contagions. I’m all about the reading and writing contagion.

As Dr. Seuss aptly stated in “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!”

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.
You’re on your own.
And you know what you know.
And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go.

Are those of us in publishing (from any role) ready?   I know I’m excited to see what comes of these future adults.  What about you?

The Red Sofa Chats – Michele Wells

September 14, 2011 in Blog, The Red Sofa Chats | Tags: , , , | 12 comments

It’s hard to explain how excited I get with each new installment! So many smart and interesting individuals have already participated, to which I find myself fortunate to include Michele Wells in this month’s Red Sofa Chats.  I’ve long enjoyed her banter and insight on publishing in the Twitterverse.  Plus, Michele is a great editor, tech savvy, and makes sure to contribute to her community. Last but not least, I can’t help to encourage that you follow her on Twitter, as you’ll see she too agrees on its many benefits.

For anyone who comments or asks Michele a question, you’ll be eligible for nonfiction proposal critique.  The winner will be announced on Sept. 29th.




Bio: Michele Wells has fifteen years of experience in publishing, both in print and multimedia. Currently working as a senior editor for DK Publishing editing illustrated nonfiction for children and adults, she previously acquired adult nonfiction for McGraw-Hill and Penguin Group USA, and edited series nonfiction for children and young adults. The author of several nonfiction books, she holds a BA in dramatic writing and art history from NYU and is pursuing a master’s in adaptations and documentary film, also from NYU.  Michele is the founding chair of First Book-Brooklyn, a nonprofit organization focused on getting new books to children in need; she also volunteers regularly with the literacy and mentoring program Everybody WINS! Power Lunch. She lives in Brooklyn.

Twitter: @MicheleWells

 


1. Why did you choose to become an editor?

I can’t think of a time when I ever wanted to do anything but work with books. I’ve been reading since I was three years old, and still have some of the first “books” I wrote and illustrated when I was five, so it was basically a foregone conclusion that I’d end up working in publishing.

When I was 19 I applied to work at a temp agency that did staffing for Prentice Hall, which was at the time part of Simon and Schuster. I took an editorial test, was hired full-time, and went on from there. That’s why, whenever people starting out in publishing ask who you “need to know” and how to “break in,” I encourage them to try something a little different. Temping got me into publishing—and to this day every single editorial job I’ve gotten has come through simply submitting an application on the company’s website. I really do think it’s less of who you know than what you know, and how you present that information to showcase your qualifications for a given position.



2. Are there any projects you wish you could have edited?

I’ve edited nonfiction throughout my entire career, but tend to read fiction for fun. Two recent novels I’ve loved, and would have loved to have edited, are The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern, and Those Across The River, by Christopher Buehlman. Both are really fantastic reads—I highly recommend picking them up! In nonfiction, I would have loved to have worked with Mary Roach (Stiff, Spook, Packing for Mars), whose books are an absolute blast, or Erik Larson (The Devil in the White City, In the Garden of Beasts), whose writing is simply gorgeous.



3. What are you reading right now (for personal reading, for fun)?

I’ve just finally gotten my hands on an advance of Haruki Murakami’s 1Q84, and am devouring it. My all-time favorites (at least, for today) are Atwood’s The Blind Assassin, Chabon’s The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, Eugenides’s Middlesex, and Pamuk’s My Name is Red. I still haven’t yet gotten around to buying an ereader for personal use, so I still read almost everything in paperback. This means I’m either two years behind what everyone else was reading in hardcover, or ahead of everyone else if I’ve gotten my hands on an ARC. (Which adds another point to the ereader argument, of course—but there’s just something about a physical book that I’m not ready to give up for pleasure reading.)



4. How do you utilize Twitter? How do you believe it has changed the way we go about publishing books?

I’ve sourced everything from opinions on an idea I was developing, to experts for technical edits, to authors with niche experience and specific audience appeal on Twitter. You can put a question out on Twitter, and within hours—or sometimes even minutes!—you’ll have leads that you wouldn’t have found through other means.

In addition to the obvious network expansion Twitter provides and the ability to have a discourse with others in your field whom you might not have known otherwise, Twitter opens the door to quite a lot of give and take within the industry. And Twitter not only helps writers build a platform and a maintain a direct connection with their audience, but encourages concise, precise writing, as well. If you only have 140 characters in which to say something, your writing really has to be tight to be effective.



5. If you had a crystal ball, where do you think (or hope) publishing will be in 5 yrs?

I think in general we’re increasingly becoming more concerned about the global appeal of content, and the shifts we see now in publishing reflect that. I would imagine that as we continue to strengthen offerings with ebooks, book trailers, enhanced video books, and shared online content, paper books will become items that are to be collected and saved—but overall the content will have a much more global appeal. In addition to the obvious growth in all things digital, it may be that translation and foreign rights will be areas that will expand in the next several years.


Michele, once again, thank you!  For my readers, what are your thoughts?  Your questions?  Do you agree that Twitter will help bring a larger global appeal to books and publishing?    What has been your experience with writing, working with social media, or finding your niche in the publishing world?  Let’s discuss. . .

School’s ready, but is your book ready for the Fall?

September 1, 2011 in Blog, Query Process, Writing Resources | Tags: , , , , , | 1 comment

The clothes, books, and other random items have been purchased for the children.  Classes are confirmed, teachers have been met, and the after-school schedule has been determined.  Great progress has been made, but what about your book’s Fall preparation?  Is your book ready for publishing?  Is it already with an agent, and waiting to be sent to publishers?  Are you ready for the next step in your book’s life?

Here’s a handy checklist to assist with the process.

For those querying agents:

  1. Is your Query letter written? Is it succinct?  Does it describe the WHO/WHAT/WHY and more about your book?  Is it engaging, interesting?
  2. Is the list of agents narrowed down?  Does this final list of agents (to query) represent of a group of individuals who are looking for titles within your book’s category?  Have you visited their websites, and confirmed they are still taking submissions?  Has each agent’s specific submission guidelines been noted?
  3. Are all the materials ready?  The synopsis, the proposal, the sample chapters, and the full mss (if fiction)?
  4. Is your writing platform ready?  If you’re writing a nonfiction book, it’s better to hold off on sending queries until this portion of the preparation makes noticeable progress.
  5. Last but not least, what will you do while waiting to hear from agents?  Besides the logical suggestion of working on your book (that’s a given), find an outlet for that nervous energy.   This is a great opportunity to take up a new hobby, a new sport, or to focus on those things that need attention post the query preparation.

 

For those with an agent:

  1. Have you turned in all the necessary materials to your agent?  Has s/he confirmed receipt  and that the materials are publisher/editor ready?
  2. Has your agent confirmed that the book will be submitted to editors?  Fantastic!  Here’s where I kindly remind you that the agent needs to be given needed time & space to prepare & do his/her job accordingly.
  3. Is your website up to date?  How’s your social media presence?  Make sure to increase the activity of these profiles actively while your agent is doing his/her job.
  4. Are you reaching out to other writers and networking?  Have you considered submitting essays and articles to print and online zines?  It’s a great way to build on your writing platform, and to keep your writing fresh.
  5. And of course, find an outlet for that nervous energy as well.  Publishing doesn’t move as fast as our nerves do, to which the waiting time would easily drive any person crazy.  My personal suggestion?  Roller Derby.  But of course any other sport or hobby will do.

 

 

A Fall Announcement: Jennie Goloboy is an Associate Literary Agent

August 30, 2011 in Blog, Industry News, Query Process | Tags: | Leave a comment

I always get excited when there’s a chance to share new and exciting updates for Red Sofa Literary.  Please take a moment to congratulate Jennie Goloboy on her recent promotion!  Having worked as the solo agent at my agency for the last three years, it’s a treat to see Jennie evolve (and quickly no less) into the role of Associate Literary Agent.  I know without a doubt that she’ll bring her own sense of ownership and strong knowledge of books to this new role.

There are many reasons why I’m excited:

  1. Jennie is an aspiring writer herself.  So much that she penned a zombie romance with lots of spunk and her own brand of quirkiness (which we know I like in spades).    Anyone who works with her will appreciate Jennie’s empathy for the overall writing process.
  2. Jennie knows what she wants, and will communicate it accordingly.  This ability to be decisive will bring her far as an agent.
  3. Jennie loves fiction.   If anyone has followed me or my agency, fiction is not one of my representative categories – but Jennie is specifically
    looking for writers of paranormal and science fiction/fantasy.    Her knowledge of those categories is incredible.
  4. She’s a positive, smart, and extremely knowledgeable person.  And very resourceful.  On more than one occasion, Jennie has shown
    these traits.  Once again, I’m a lucky gal to have her on board!

This means that Jennie will now be building her own client list.  She is looking for YA and adult speculative fiction with a literary edge; especially books with well-developed characters, a sense of humor and perspective, and happy endings.  Plus she is a sucker for good romance, as well as noir-influenced narration and attitude. In regard to nonfiction, Jennie is looking for books in the biography and history categories.  Jennie brings a special love for American history, but will consider other projects as well.  (Please note that she won’t be representing memoirs).  She is available via email should there be any questions, or if you’d like to send a query her direction.  Her email: jennie@redsofaliterary.com  Her Twitter:  @JennieGoloboy

Congratulations Jennie!

Red Sofa Literary

 

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-Dawn & Jennie

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