Finding A Literary Agent
Finding an agent who will work well with you and will represent your work well is a task that is just as difficult and involved as finding a publisher. Agents are selective and will not accept work that is not publishable. Often agents won’t consider clients who have not had something previously published.
It will not be an easy task to find representation, but if your stories are publishable – TRULY publishable – you can submit to agents whether or not you have ever been published. You will want to be careful to select an agent that you get along with and to check the credentials carefully of any agent you are considering.
You can begin your research by acquiring the list of agents from the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. This list contains reputable agents who specialize in the children’s literature market.
The agents have different criteria and guidelines for submission. You should follow the submission process specified. If there are no guidelines given, it would be wise to write asking what the submission requirements are and if they are accepting new clients.
There are several good books which list agents. I’ve provided a list containing variety of these books. Access our list ofGuidebooks for Finding Literary Agents and Marketing Your Manuscript
Once you have located agents whose terms are compatible with your needs, you can contact them with a query letter and/or submission. Response times vary greatly so be prepared to wait. If your work is publishable or compatible with the agents’ tastes, you will get a positive response.
Some agents work with a verbal contract, others require you to sign a written agreement. If you are uncomfortable working with a verbal agreement, you can always request a written one and most agents will comply. Be sure you understand the conditions and terms under which you can cancel the contract too.
Best of Luck,
Sandy Cook
Hi Sandy,
Love CBI. . .great people and such a great resource but I must admit, haven’t been active in their online community in a while. Thank you so much for this self-publishing info page and Finding an Agent. So well laid out and helpful.
I’ve been approached by two publishers who want me to be a “contributing author” in the publishing of my first Children’s book, so it does make me think if going traditional takes too long, self-publishing might be an option worth considering.
How awesome that two publishers have approached you! That’s great and well WORTH considering. There are benefits to going either way.
It’s good to be aware that a publisher will require a signed contract. So, once you sign a contract, self-publishing is no longer likely to be an option. If you don’t want to take the length of time needed for traditional publishing, it’s worth considering self publishing.