So, uh, on the subject of "art" (or perhaps "artifice") I have a rather presumptuous favor to ask. I know many of the contributors here are published writers. I have just received an offer of representation from the very first agency I submitted a manuscript to. Since this practically never happens to anyone, I'm leaning towards "They're not very good" rather than "I rock."
The agency, however, wants me to use a preferred vendor list and pay someone to critique my work before they agree to market the book. This has immediately set my alarm bells ringing. My first instinct is to turn the agency down. Do any of you know enough about publishing to confirm that this is the right call?
Your request is not at all presumptuous. In fact, I'm glad you asked, because I hate to see anyone's better nature exploited. The answer to your question is simple: Never pay anyone up front to represent your work. Reputable agencies take the (very small) financial risks themselves.
You're welcome, and I'm sorry that the news was not good. There are plenty of good agents out there, however, and finding the right one is just a matter of persistence.
6 comments:
So, uh, on the subject of "art" (or perhaps "artifice") I have a rather presumptuous favor to ask. I know many of the contributors here are published writers. I have just received an offer of representation from the very first agency I submitted a manuscript to. Since this practically never happens to anyone, I'm leaning towards "They're not very good" rather than "I rock."
The agency, however, wants me to use a preferred vendor list and pay someone to critique my work before they agree to market the book. This has immediately set my alarm bells ringing. My first instinct is to turn the agency down. Do any of you know enough about publishing to confirm that this is the right call?
Thank you.
Your request is not at all presumptuous. In fact, I'm glad you asked, because I hate to see anyone's better nature exploited. The answer to your question is simple: Never pay anyone up front to represent your work. Reputable agencies take the (very small) financial risks themselves.
That's kind of what I figured. Thank you.
You're welcome, and I'm sorry that the news was not good. There are plenty of good agents out there, however, and finding the right one is just a matter of persistence.
Good luck to you with that James...there's no doubt in my mind that you are a fine writer; hopefully someday I'll get to enjoy your work.
Besides, the world of fiction could use a fresh face=]
Or a round and hairy one, as it may be...
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