I'm finding that trying to find the right agent to query is like trying to pick someone to date (but not just someone to date, someone you can love forever--work with an entire career) without knowing anything about them except that they like blondes (represent YA). I'm blonde, so does that mean they'll like me? Maybe I find out from some research that they also like blue eyes (paranormal). I have blue eyes. Does that mean they'll like me even better? Maybe it just means they are more open to what I have to offer, and that's my best shot. Research is helping me, but so many agents don't put much out there about what they like and don't like. (Some do, but a lot don't.)
I've been reading a lot of books lately that I wouldn't normally chose because agents I'm considering represent the authors, and, quite frankly, I haven't been that impressed with a couple of the books. Does that mean I don't want that agent? Does that mean I just don't like that author's style, and it doesn't mean much about the agent? Is this a waste of time?
I've been reading a book over the weekend that is very similar to my book in a lot of ways, and I really like it. Does that mean the agent that reps it would be perfect for me? Or would my book be too similar to what she already has on her list? For that one I suppose I'll just have to send a query and see. I'm hoping it will mean that she likes what I've got.
For quite some time I have been making lists of agents who represent books that I really like even though they are not exactly the same genre as what I write. Is this the right approach? Should I rethink this? What's y'all's take on it?
11 comments:
I say send a thoughtful but wide enough to make you feel like its worth it set of queries. And, I didn't love all the books I read on the agent's I queried, but at least it made me seem as if I did some research. Saying, "loved your work with..." made them feel as if I was paying attention to what they did (and it didn't have to be a top ten favorite of mine) you know?
You have a fun, well written novel and I know it will find the right home :D
I think you're asking a lot of good questions and I have no idea what the answer is to any of them. I think, to a certain extent, you have to go for it and not analyze it so much. It's great that you are reading the books repped by agents you are considering, though. I know that can be a ton of work.
Tess, Thanks for your confidence in me. It's good to know that the book doesn't have to be a top 10 favorite for me. I keep thinking it has to be. I need to just chill.
Davin, I do tend to overanalyze things. *takes a deep breath* Ok. I'm relaxing.
This just sounds complicated. I always hated the dating game. I don't think I'm going to like querying. :(
Yes, you should get an agent. I wouldn't worry if you don't like everything on your agent's list. A few things to perhaps consider: Do you want an agent who will edit your ms before sending it out? How quickly will your agent respond to your email/phone call? Do you want an agent based in NY? What kinds of deals is your agent making? Also, before you sign, you'll have a chat on the phone. That'll help you make your mind up too. Ack. I got carried away. Probably more comment than you wanted!
Glam, yeah. but it's a necessary evil.
Barrie, That's exactly the sort of thing that I needed to hear. Thanks for your insights.
*hugs*
Querying is not fun. I don't know the answers to your questions, but they're very good questions. I just try to query widely and to get the best feel possible (sometimes impossible) for the agent from past interviews and blogs. >.<
*querying cookies*
Thanks, Danyelle. That's the sort of thing I'm doing.
I'm right there with you on this one. At least you've made a few calls. I keep picking up the phone and hanging up. I have a list of 50 agents sitting by my computer, but I just can't manage to send some out.
I say send, the worst they can say is "no".
Please note: Do as I say, not as I do.
It sounds like you're taking all the right steps. Educate yourself, after that it is just instinct and following your gut.
Post a Comment