How to Get a Narrative Nonfiction Agent

Publishing through traditional methods requires an agent. Most publishing houses accept only agented submissions, and look to the agent to screen manuscripts and offer up the cream of the crop. Even then, there's no guarantee of publication. If you have a completed work of narrative non-fiction, follow these steps to get an agent's attention and perhaps a look from a publisher!

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Make a list of agents. Go to the bookstore and leaf through recent narrative non-fiction that is similar to yours. Authors often name their agents in the acknowledgements. You can cross-reference the names in an agent directory. See Resource section referenced below. Check agent names listed under the specific genre.

2. Network. Attend literary events, writing conferences and gatherings where agents will attend. When you register for a conference, you often have the option of paying an additional fee to meet with an agent for 20-30 minutes. If you have a finished, polished manuscript, sign up for a one-on-one.

3. Write a letter to an agent who handles works in narrative non-fiction and seeking new authors. Your one-page query should be three paragraphs: address why the subject is worth an entire book, a paragraph about your book, and a brief autobiography. Include your experience as a writer, achievements and promoting the book.

4. Be prepared to send sample chapters upon request from a prospective agent. Choose the chapters that you feel best represent the book. Make sure your writing is in top form.

5. Keep a log of communication with prospective agents. If an agent says he'll get back to you in three weeks, don't hesitate to follow up with a brief, pleasant email or letter. If the agent doesn't offer a time-frame, ask, "When should I expect to hear from you?"

6. Be prepared to promote your book. Publishers today do not promote and market new authors. An agent is more likely to take on a book if you have a "platform" and a "marketing plan" that uses your expertise, professional connections, position in the community and anything else that would shine a spotlight your book.

Tips & Warnings

• Always include a postage-paid, pre-addressed envelope for the return of your pages, especially if they were unsolicited.
• When you send pages to an agent, replace any that aren't fresh or that might have marks from a previous reader.
• Get the name of an agent. Don't send anything to "Agent" at a literary agency.
• Do not send electronic submissions unless the agent accepts them. Many agents still prefer hard copies.
• Do not accept representation from an agent who charges a fee for anything from postage to travel to a "representation fee." If the subject comes up, say "Thank you for your time," and move on.
• If your book is not writen, do not contact an agent for representation.
• Do not ask an agent to proof your pages, correct your grammar and spelling or give you suggestions about the manuscript. If you need assistance in any of those areas, the book is not ready to be agented.

[amazedanew]

on 3/5/2009 Very clear instructions. Thanks :)