Once You Have an Agent Your Home Free
I used to think that if I could only get an agent, I'd be home free. They'd sell my book, it would be published, everyone would live happily ever after. Imagine my chagrin, when I found out that even people with agents still have to worry.
What if the book doesn't sell?
What if the book sells to a publisher, but then doesn't sell at the stores?
What if a publisher buys your book, but never publishes it?
What if you agent decides to leave the business, and you have to start all over?
What if ...
So, just like with most careers, job security is very hard to come by for writers. Oh well, another hope dashed. It wasn't the first and it won't be the last.
What about you, do you have an agent? What are some of the great things your agent does? We all know the horror stories, let's hear the good stuff.
No agent, just a publisher. And so far I've been pleased with the experience.
ReplyDeleteI don't yet have an agent, but I, too am terrified that even if/when I ever get one, my book(s) won't sell.
ReplyDeleteWell, I realize I'm not the norm, but my agent sold my book almost instantly! I was only on subs a week. I think the key is 1) having an amazing book (yes, easier said than done!) that's high concept, and 2) making sure your agent is tuned into your market!
ReplyDeleteSara & Jo (my agents) are intimately familiar with YA publishers, and they only take on projects they think they can sell. Admittedly, ALL agents only take on projects they think they can sell, but a solid track record is a pretty good indication that the agent actually CAN sell it!
It's always scary - the what-if's. I think you just have to do the best you can and follow your gut.
ReplyDeleteI've had 2 agents, and still working towards that first sale. Fingers crossed this will be my year!
ReplyDeleteAngela @ The Bookshelf Muse