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Securing a literary agent is a significant step towards turning your manuscript into a published work. To guide you through this process, here are ten things you need to know if you want to get an agent for your book…
Do your research
Some people might advocate getting a list of literary agents, starting at A, submitting a standard letter plus their synopses and manuscript to 5-10 at a time, and working their way down to Z. Those people are never going to get an agent.
First compile your dream list of agents. Look online, and in the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook, or wherever. Find people whose wishlist include the type of book you’ve written. Be ruthlessly honest about what kind of book you have written. One great way forward is to think about who else has written books like yours and find out which agent represents them. Here the acknowledgements page is your friend — almost every author will thank their agent.
Once you have your wishlist, be realistic
Some of the more senior agents might not be looking right now, or you might feel you’ve written a book a little bit too similar to someone they already represent. But is there someone else at their agency who is building their list? Often an agent’s assistant will be someone who shares a similar taste to their boss but is actively looking for new talent. Might it be worth putting them on your list instead?
Perfect your manuscript
I can’t say this often enough. I firmly believe that the biggest reason agents turn down manuscripts is that they’re not good enough. That’s incredibly subjective, of course. But you have to get your book in the best shape it can be. Before even thinking about querying agents, ensure your manuscript is polished and ready for submission. Edit rigorously, seek feedback, and consider professional editing services.
Craft an Outstanding Synopsis and Query Letter
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