Sunday Funnies: Dear Agent

 

[Link] A Literary Agent Answers Your Fevered Questions

by Ginger Clark

When an agent has your manuscript on submission, do they recommend working on a sequel (if it’s built that way) or something different?

When is a good time to tell an agent that you have other completed material? In your query, on request, when you’re made an offer or otherwise?

How do you write a good synopsis?

Do literary agents generally consider international submissions, or do they prefer home-grown talent?

What can people do to prepare themselves and make themselves more qualified for internships?

Is the fantasy genre played out? Is there hope for fantasy authors who passionately love the genre and must be published?

To see Ginger's responses, go to: http://the-toast.net/2013/07/10/literary-agent-advice/

[Link] What do literary agents really want?

by Jonny Geller, joint CEO of Curtis Brown

Times are tough in the publishing industry, but agents still need to find new authors with a story to tell

"Are you completely mad?" one of my authors asked me. "I thought your agency was deluged by manuscripts – why ask for more?"

He was wondering why Curtis Brown, one of the UK's largest literary agencies, which receives between 600 and 800 manuscripts a month, wanted to welcome yet more at Foyles in central London last month. "Discovery Day" – an open day for any unpublished writer to pitch to an agent – was designed to open up the doors of the seemingly inward-looking publishing industry.

Eight minutes of expert feedback were followed by a 15-minute surgery in the café to probe further, and then a panel discussion with a leading author, a publisher and an agent to round off the day. Three hundred and fifty writers signed up within two days.

To be honest, we didn't know what to expect.

Continue reading: http://apps.facebook.com/theguardian/books/booksblog/2012/oct/01/what-do-literary-agents-want