1. Clear, transparent communication. 2. Career writer. 3. Disciplined with time. 4. Determination. 5. Go-getter, relentless. 6. Willing to learn. 7. Sense of humour. 8. Understands buisness of writing and willing to participate. 9. Enjoy the process. 10. Never ever gives up. Bring it ON!
Literally, queried both of you recently and you were really kind in your replies. Loved the professionalism! I also took your advice Jessica and instead of obsessing about querying and getting down with rejections I started to write my next novel :) thank you very much for all the help through your blog and the channel. Bless you! R.T. EN.
The heroine of my second book also had Emerald Eyes. She was a leprechaun who was magically transformed into a Green Star in the heavens. My Narnia book.
I love the chemistry of you two. Not just the exceptional information and content, but the laughter you two share and how you interact. It’s super inviting when we’re trying to work towards this industry.
Your content is always so informative! I would love to see a video that maybe explains when an author should stop querying a book (a certain length of time without an offer of representation) or when an author should begin querying their 2nd book instead of the first.
There's something about James that reminds me of Matt Damon (yeah this comment is irrelevant but I just can't help mentioning it after binging on tons of your videos xd)
Кристина Дымова yes Kristina Doomova and she looks like she might be the sister of Tyler Hamilton.... The man who was forced to give up on his dreams or take drugs to succeed by Lance Armstrong.... You have to be really really good to finish 4th to Lance Armstrong in the Tour de France.... Especially while taking drugs
Great video! As business partners I would expect reciprocity on all the points you mentioned. i was thrilled to see the humor and joy you take in your job. It must be a rush to make dreams come true! Thanks for the post.
I'm happy you brought up that some people want to write as a hobby. I keep having people tell me to find an agent because I finished my first book. But I'm never going to be an author full-time. I'm working on my second book but I doubt I will ever move into this as a career.
I love watching how much fun you both have. I queried bookends many months ago and was rejected, fortunately I moved on and my book is now set to go public on February 10th. But I will certainly make another attempt with my next book. And since I'm approximately half way done I expect to query you again sometime before November. Or at least that's my plan. Thanks for the great content once again.
Love you guys, love your energy. Great advice as always. I will be in contact before summers end with my first novel. We are very like minded and I think we would be an excellent team. In the mean time, I'll be sure to keep up to date with you and learn all that I can about the business before taking the plunge late summer...
I'm doing a bit of a BookEnds Bootcamp today, going through your helpful videos one by one. In the spirit of your point #7, I'm finding these all very educational. (Wish I watched them earlier!)
I am writing my first MG novel. I stumbled on this channel about a year ago, and i have always taken Jessica and Jaimes for just some other youtubers about books. I only figured they are actually Literary Agents😂
So, basically they are looking for good-old simple, hard-working, sincere, fun-loving, human being who can laugh at himself (those two look like that) and who is willing to put in a shift. That's a definition of a perfect spouse. 😁🙆
My experience has been that agents do not read submissions and most of them send the same formulaic reply, often semi-literate. Most of them are more interested in money than in literature.
In fact, if I may reply to myself -t he Germans have now invented a machine. Feed the ms. to it and it will inform the publisher if the ms. will sell or not. The days of the literary agent are numbered...
Any particular reason why you think agents are rejecting your submission before reading it? Do you mean they don't read the whole query before rejecting? Do you mean they don't request the manuscript? And how do you know?
It's quite simple really. The speed with which some agents reply - all using more or less the same formula and without making any actual reference to the submitted manuscript - shows that they are bloodhounds who are trained to get the whiff of money. If the whiff isn't there, they are not interested in reading more than half a page and if you asked them a week later about it, they would have no recollection of it. 'Oh, just something else than didn't smell right. We get lots of those.'
@@gabrielrosenstock3459 do you not think that if you get a very quick rejection, that means it's likely they read the query and either it didn't appeal to them or they didn't think they could sell it? These people could not possibly read every submitted manuscript from beginning to end. That's part of the reason why the query is so important. It allows them to make decisions about which manuscripts to take the risk of committing their time to read. When you go into a bookshop, do you open and read even the first two pages of several books on the shelves? Or do you only look at the blurb of several books and choose to read the first few pages of a few books? Most would read several blurbs. They have to decide what is most likely to be a profitable manuscript and try to read only those. That means quality work slipping through the net. But they couldn't possibly give every single submission a full read and then give detailed feedback. Have you tried finding critique partners for your work? That is a really great way to get constructive feedback.
If they don't feel they can sell it, they won't read it. If they don't read it, how will they know if it's any good? They worship at the altar of Mamon, not at the altar of literature.
When you're making revision notes and you write "MC's dad died...never recovered" and you realize you omitted the tiny, but important word, "body." (But as if that's not bad enough, as you're typing that little funny into an agent's UA-cam channel, you then begin to brainstorm how that bodyless sentence could yield a great premise for another book...
I have a question. Do you send the work to publishers, such as 'Random House' or 'Duotrope'? I've had my trilogy published, but because of the publisher, it still could not be carried in Barnes & Noble.
I know you've already covered this topic, but I still need to ask. There are two types of books I want to write. One: My true story. Two: Inspirational Romance Suspense. I have every intention of writing them. You've heard this a million and one times, I'm sure. But since watching you on UA-cam, I highly like your concepts. Writing this to you, I'm hoping to cut my procrastination to bits. You are a fan of mine. You and James. I would love to hear any advice you have on writing work of my true story. Like, where do I start? It's so scary to revisit my pass. Thanks in advance, I'm going to watch all shows on UA-cam.
I love your videos. Just what I needed today. I've had beta readers tell me when something wasn't working and I immediately fix it. Anything to make it better. The only thing that I find is a nightmare for me is writing the synopsis. I'm doing that now and reading advice and have so many rough drafts. It would be nice to see the right format because the advice and books alternate on a few items and I'm confused. The examples I've read are one way and the book I'm reading says it needs to be another way. What is the average length of a synopsis of the books you go on to represent? Just curious. Some say 500 words, others 800 to three pages. If you have a 72k book, what do you expect the length to be?
#1 - the day I meet a literary agent with the ability to engage in an intelligent, in depth conversation regarding the publishing world, politics, sports, books, the process of writing, geography, history, philosophy, religion, God, space, time, the bow shock our solar system is making as is plows around the outer arms of the Galaxy or writing editing selling and marketing books.... will be a very good day in which I will be very very impressed with the universe as a whole👍
Informative video.... Deadlines are so pathetic it's annoying.... There's maybe 1 excuse in a thousand to miss a deadline.... the awareness of a career.... Yes all writers get stuck some can crank out 15 books before they hit to the wall others are stopped dead on their first.... Always keep learning.... Agreed anyone who fails to continue learning isn't to be trusted.... It's puzzling how these agents are saying these things to authors who are signed to contracts and allegedly producing books..... Down in the dumps again eh? What happened this time your car broke down, you lost your job, you're out on the streets, you're life is ruined, you're in the hospital, you need to buy new shoes, the kids are sick, the dog is dead, You don't have money for gas, they disconnected the internet, your phone's getting shut off, Tom Brady's getting suspended for four games..... Come on now lighten up and keep the sense of humor about these sorts of things you can get 2,000 words done today
You mentioned in past videos that you're only accepting author illustrator of children's picture books. However most of my children's book are derived from poetic form and biopics. Do you have any samples of books that you have worked on to get a reference point.
Hi there! On our website, you can find a list of books that BookEnds agents have represented. And all agents represent different things and have different styles they enjoy, so some may like children's poetry, some may just like picture books, some may not work in children's at all, etc.
Determination is great, but when you have a lot on your plate, working, being a single mom, battling cancer, etc. I'm trying to push through, but it's difficult sometimes.
Thanks so much for this! I am going to start queries for my picture book and I’m wondering if it would be better to submit the text with 2-3 illustrations as examples or to create and send out a full dummie?
BookEnds Literary Agency Thank you got your reply! I had heard that creating a whole dummy could come off as being less flexible than if you send the manuscript with 2-3 illustration examples. I’m looking forward to an episode on this. Thanks again!
Or for people who do not desire fame, or need to maintain a full time job and doesn't want to disturb employers if the contend in your novels is subversive. I don't write for fame or fortune. Most who write and get the chance to publish usually don't find fame or fortune while doing so. Maybe 3% of published writers strike it rich and maybe 8% earn enough to make it their full time job. I write because I have no choice. It is what I am meant to do. All I hope for is a dedicated and loyal readership.
I would like to know why the traditional publishing industry is still so slow, why is it taking up to 2 years or more for a book to be released in this fast digital age?
Do you ask for rates upfront? Are you taking new people? What programs do you recommend to writers that will help you out to present to publishers? What are the genres you accept?
Question, how much time do you allot the author to produce a novel? Three months, six months? In that time period, what level should the novel be. Edited? Ready to go?
Hi! Our agents are very understanding that everyone works at different paces. We occasionally even have authors go on hiatus for several years, sometimes writing and sometimes taking a break, and they still stay on our client lineups. We just want our authors to be turning in their best work, polished to the best of their ability in whatever amount of time that takes them! (This is all assuming they are not working under a publishing contract, which has more stringent deadlines).
Hi there, I have a question! What do agents think about authors who self publish? I recently self published my first book, and I did that to 'get my foot in the door' so to speak, however I do have my heart set on finding an agent and creating a real career out of this. Does self publishing in any way hinder me?
@@sophialewis5474 Hi there! Thanks :) I've actually just watched another video and they said they prefer not to take on self-published books because it has already been seen by the public, and it'll be harder for them to sell it to a publishing house. In that case, I wanted to ask if a literary agent would be willing to take on the book if it had a sequel/series (that has not yet been published)? Or would self-publishing that first book completely destroy any chance of having it picked up by an agent?
@@jessicamcleod6602 thanks so much for prompt reply. Appreciated. Hmm..so that's another good question to them. So next one to you: Are you pleased with response and sales of your first S.P. attempt? How did you promote it/ market it?
@@sophialewis5474 hey, so of course I made a bunch of sales to begin with when friends and family were buying. It got really quiet after that though, and genuinely it takes a LOT of self promotion and marketing to get any interest. Especially first time, which this is for me! I havent been marketing enough, unfortunately, simply because I was overwhelmed when I first published my book and needed to take a step back to bring back that confidence. It's hard sharing your work with the world! But, if you want this to be your career it really is important to brag about it (which I hate) haha. I've been working on the sequel as well, which of course when that is published it will also promote the first book 🤷♀️ I'm stuck on how to proceed though... I'm hesitant about self publishing the sequel, since learning that literary agents avoid self pubs... so I guess I need to wait for some answers before going ahead with anything. I dont know anybody in the industry so I just assumed self publishing was the best way to get noticed x
@@jessicamcleod6602 I so understand all you are saying here. I imagine things would go pretty much the same way..i.e. the surge of friends and family then my stumbling at self-promotion. Must think on this. Still you get to say you are a published author
Love your videos. So, regarding #3, does that mean if I am writing a nonfiction novel (historical) which will probably be my only book that I should go the self-published route.
Very informative. :). I just have two questions, though. :). 1. Would WIX be a good option to create a "website" for my book series? And, 2. If an author/writer worked on a series for certain aspects/themes/tropes that are interesting to them (similar to JRR Tolkien, but with JK Rowling's style of writing) Would you you consider representing that particular book/s series? Meaning, it's not "commercial" (such as Twilight/Hunger Games/"Dystopian"/"Trendy"). It is a passion project of mine. I am often asked on Query Tracker/Manager "Similar books to yours?". The answer is complex. While it has aspects of Fantasy and paranormal, it is something I enjoy writing and is...well...not in the conventional/traditional aspect/s of Fantasy and Paranormal. The premise of the whole four book series ("Elf Sisters") is this: Adria, Celestina, and Anastasia must fight the Darkness, which is the counterpart to their creator/deity, the Light. Each book has its own plot/s (similar to Harry Potter), except it draws heavily upon my own faith, which is Christianity. So, in the aspect of "themes"/"tropes", it is similar to JRR Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. However, is has aspects of "magical/paranormal" like Charmed (original series with Shannen Doherty). So, not really...ah..."traditional" in the sense that it's "trending". As I have said before, it is my passion project/important to me. But, like you said in previous videos, self-published books are only catching your eyes if they sell lots of units. Currently, my first book in this series "A Daughter's Revenge", is on Amazon's KDP. I have not sold enough paid units on Kindle to earn a royalty check from Amazon (threshold is $100, and I've only made roughly $70 through KENP). However, a lot of units were "looked at" when I first did Free Promotions on Amazon's KDP. If you answer these question just through replying to this "comment", I'll be most grateful. Thank you, and keep up the excellent work of these videos. I really enjoy the information that you give. :).
Hm...I'm not sure that it was mentioned - but when it comes to marketing, I was under the impression that the publisher works in tandem with the author for the networking and commercially advertising one's product. I have a lot to learn yet, and I wouldn't want an agent that takes me up to their penthouse loft suite (company - give me the grand tour). Then gives me the grand finale tour on the balcony with the extravagant layout (metaphorically speaking and being facetious in my point) to show me their three-sixty plan/deal. Then, he or she, my agent, gives me two-feathers and kicks me off the ledge, saying, "Now go ahead and fly!" LoL. I would certainly crash and burn without the marketing and network expertise that literary agents and publishing companies possess - no?
I am finishing a book. Its dystopia like 1984 but its written similar to a text book. It is a metaphor for statistics. I think students may appreciate my book. It may not sell a lot in the first year but prehaps small consistent sales over the decades. How do I find a liteary agent who would appreciate that unique type of book? And represent me?
I need advice. I hired a copyeditor last April to get my MS in a very polished place for submitting. Between him falling into a depression over some personal bad luck and the medications he needed to treat it, he's still not at the half way point in the edits. He refunded me the deposit for the work. But now I'm not sure I can move forward with him or any editor as my financial security has become worse. Edits are not cheap. I don't see how I can afford any for the foreseeable future. Should I just submit the MS without any? Or just shelve the whole thing until day I can pay for edits? It's very difficult on new authors because you are trying to impress and every extra thing you can do makes a difference. I wish I could learn to be as sufficient as a professional editor but I need to sleep as well. lol Happy 2020 everyone!
Hi Corey. We're so sorry to hear this happened to you. I understand your wish to have everything as perfect as it can be, but we don't feel you need to pay for things to be professionally edited. Your manuscript should certainly be clean and grammatically correct, but that can be done with revisions by yourself, or with critique partners/critique partners solely for grammar. We always advocate for the free way to do things and in a way that grows your writing community. I hope that's helpful to you. If you feel your manuscript is cleand and ready to go, you can certainly start querying.
@@BookEndsLiterary Thank you for the advice. He showed me a sample of the style sheet he began and the first page of edits. Some edit suggestions were things I would not have seen. Such as, dangling participle and a missing antecendent. Then some small things. I had a comma missing and either through typo or stupidity used, 'onto' where 'on to' would be appropriate. It's always small things a creative mind like mine can miss. That's why we have editors though. I'll write a query letter and a synopsis. I struggle with writing a synopsis. That could be me overthinking the process. I write best when I'm in a creative zone. Perhaps I'll send a query on to your agency. I love your youtube channel. You provide me with valuable advice and inspiration!
Pondering the two roads diverged in a yellow wood, though I have traveled down the one, long I stood looking down both as far as I could not knowing that I would or even should. Oh the two roads to publish your labors. Self publish ? as I have before...or this road not taken. The dangling carrot awaits.
In taking criticism from an agent, how does one find out how many books an agent has actually sold to publishers, and how well they the. sold? As in, why take advice on revision from someone with no or little track record of selling a book that in turn sells to readers. It’s a 2 way street, no?
Great, great question. There are resources like Publisher's Marketplace and Publishers Weekly that report an agents deals. Twitter is always a great place to go to keep updated on when agents make a sale (as it's usually announced there, too). Their agency websites as well.
As a published second time writer, I find that it really doesn't matter how good your work is, poured over by multiple professional editors, and how many have been changed for reading it, if the industry is not heading in that direction they don't want your book. It's like TV, write a Western TV show in the 80 and it will not see TV. Write a police show and there were so many aired to choose from. My Christian fiction novel does not fit the industry formula of a harlequin romance novel without the per-marital sex set in the English countryside or an Amish community so the industry doesn't want it. What's 'in' and what the industry is selling is everything to any writer who doesn't have a contract with a publisher. I went Indie in the end. I had no choice. I know my stuff is good, but it's not what they want to sell. Both my books have changed lives, that's all I need.
I know the feeling! How many times throughout the years have people been told, "That will NEVER work!" I figured out a long time ago that I should stick to my style, regardless of what "experts" think. You should, too! What have you written? The Master of Perception: tiolibooks.com/cgi-bin/blog Catch a Falling Star: tiolibooks.com/blank_1.html
This is very helpful. I get the feeling as well, that no matter how good you are, if your set of values doesn't align with their amoral values, you are out.
@@danielwright7710 Nowadays, so-called "Christian" publishers will publish heresies, false doctrine, worldly compromise, etc. They would also demand that, if I include Scripture quotes, they'd have to be from corrupt translations like the NIV, NASB, etc. I would only quote the King James Bible. They likely would reject that. They don't want good doctrine.
The King James Bible is corrupt translation as well. You must be one of the fools who believe it fell from the heavens fully written in God's hand and in English.
Hmm. Optimistically jumping in with both feet here. Do you take adult mediaval Fantasy books? I'm writing about women's rights and freedom. Like a witch fleeing Inquisition. And she's quite a piece of work, my Syrah is. And has a lot to learn about relationships. After all she has at least three books to do so. And then there's Danae a Girl growing up during an invasion...another series. Are you by chance interested? Or
Hi! You can check out our agents' interests on the Submissions page of our website and see if any of our agents would be the right ones to represent you and your stories!
My goal is to collect 200 names and go HAM on sending queries this month and for my MG fantasy novel. I'm writing my next book (a MG horror story) and will be working on a MG dystonia novel. come at me 2020. I'm really opened minded to agents thoughts. I will be an author that will work hard to make the right book for the market. I'll willing to work hard for a career. #careergoals
Need help! I have a book "Success for the Homeless." I really believe in it. Its on Amazon. But its not getting the attention I hope for. I did not lose faith in that book. I believe with the right team, so many other business can be born from it. Can you guys help me please.
It's not about how good you are or your religious ideology or going to 100 publishers. It's about what the Christian publishing industry wants and will only accept. As I said, in Christian fiction they only seek specific story types. For example, amish stories are hot and will get huge consideration. Or love stories usually set in the distant past like western US 1880's or England in the 1700's with the widower lord of the manor and his 3 kids falling in love with the poor chimney sweep young lady. Just look at the hallmark Christmas movies this past month. They were all the same, love stores with snowmen. Same exact stories, just different characters. That's what the industry wants and that's what sells. Write an amazing story that has touched so many who have read my books, yet, the industry doesn't want because it's not hot for sales and it will not be picked up - simple as that. That's why I self published, because the industry does not look at my books as "in" right now. I know the agents here would agree.
It's cute how people think writers are famous.... The only writer that's like publicly Iegit famous is Steven King (among others) and they're in there 60s by the time anyone knows who they are.... Or at least look like they're in their 60s from all the pleasures of being a world class novelist 😐🤔
top ten things they look for in potential clients: 1 white skin 2 white skin 3 white skin 4 white skin 5 white skin 6 white skin 7 white skin 8 white skin 9 white skin 10 white skin
If you'd actually done your research, you'd know full well that BookEnds has a very diverse client list and represent people of all colours and walks of life. Please don't try to shame good people just because there are some bad seeds in the world. 😊 Be well in life and kind to others.
1. Clear, transparent communication.
2. Career writer.
3. Disciplined with time.
4. Determination.
5. Go-getter, relentless.
6. Willing to learn.
7. Sense of humour.
8. Understands buisness of writing and willing to participate.
9. Enjoy the process.
10. Never ever gives up.
Bring it ON!
Literally, queried both of you recently and you were really kind in your replies. Loved the professionalism! I also took your advice Jessica and instead of obsessing about querying and getting down with rejections I started to write my next novel :) thank you very much for all the help through your blog and the channel. Bless you! R.T. EN.
The heroine of my second book also had Emerald Eyes. She was a leprechaun who was magically transformed into a Green Star in the heavens. My Narnia book.
Tough revisions mean you believe in it enough to want to make it work. That’s a positive for me.
Great stuff! Only the second literary agent video I've watched, and you set the bar! Approachable, clear, and you are both just really nice. 🙏
I love the chemistry of you two. Not just the exceptional information and content, but the laughter you two share and how you interact. It’s super inviting when we’re trying to work towards this industry.
Your content is always so informative! I would love to see a video that maybe explains when an author should stop querying a book (a certain length of time without an offer of representation) or when an author should begin querying their 2nd book instead of the first.
Adding to our list!
There's something about James that reminds me of Matt Damon (yeah this comment is irrelevant but I just can't help mentioning it after binging on tons of your videos xd)
LOL
It cannot be unseen anymore
@@brunayamaguchi9664 ahaha sorry for that
I thought so too, but didn't want to say anything. LOL!
Кристина Дымова yes Kristina Doomova and she looks like she might be the sister of Tyler Hamilton.... The man who was forced to give up on his dreams or take drugs to succeed by Lance Armstrong.... You have to be really really good to finish 4th to Lance Armstrong in the Tour de France.... Especially while taking drugs
Since this is a tough business, you guys are just so amiable its a big stress reducer watching your videos. Keep them coming.
Even though I've watched this once before, 3 years ago, I had to watch it again as a 'pep talk' for myself. Thanks you to! You're the best.
You are both so funny and friendly I’d be over the moon to work with you! This was really a nice list to hear - happy new year! 🥳
Great video! As business partners I would expect reciprocity on all the points you mentioned. i was thrilled to see the humor and joy you take in your job. It must be a rush to make dreams come true! Thanks for the post.
I'm happy you brought up that some people want to write as a hobby. I keep having people tell me to find an agent because I finished my first book. But I'm never going to be an author full-time. I'm working on my second book but I doubt I will ever move into this as a career.
I love watching how much fun you both have. I queried bookends many months ago and was rejected, fortunately I moved on and my book is now set to go public on February 10th. But I will certainly make another attempt with my next book. And since I'm approximately half way done I expect to query you again sometime before November. Or at least that's my plan. Thanks for the great content once again.
Appreciate the kind rejection letter and a little insight on your reason. Your videos are thoughtful too. Thank you for those as well.
Happy New Year. Ready for more of your great posts and tips.
Thank you. Still looking for an agent so I can get my work published, this was very helpful to listen to.
Happy New Year and all the best to BookEnds and everyone ^^
Awww you guys are so fun! I love watching you, and get so much out of your videos x
Love you guys, love your energy. Great advice as always. I will be in contact before summers end with my first novel. We are very like minded and I think we would be an excellent team. In the mean time, I'll be sure to keep up to date with you and learn all that I can about the business before taking the plunge late summer...
Good to know. I'm of those who wants this to be a career.
Great insights - thankyou. It's all about communication
I'm doing a bit of a BookEnds Bootcamp today, going through your helpful videos one by one. In the spirit of your point #7, I'm finding these all very educational. (Wish I watched them earlier!)
I love this content. 💖 Packed with info... thank you for sharing. 😃
I am writing my first MG novel. I stumbled on this channel about a year ago, and i have always taken Jessica and Jaimes for just some other youtubers about books. I only figured they are actually Literary Agents😂
So, basically they are looking for good-old simple, hard-working, sincere, fun-loving, human being who can laugh at himself (those two look like that) and who is willing to put in a shift.
That's a definition of a perfect spouse. 😁🙆
Great info on viewing the author-agent relationship as a partnership. A potential future topic...the manuscript revision process.
My experience has been that agents do not read submissions and most of them send the same formulaic reply, often semi-literate. Most of them are more interested in money than
in literature.
In fact, if I may reply to myself -t he Germans have now invented a machine. Feed the ms. to it and it will inform the publisher if the ms. will sell or not.
The days of the literary agent are numbered...
Any particular reason why you think agents are rejecting your submission before reading it? Do you mean they don't read the whole query before rejecting? Do you mean they don't request the manuscript? And how do you know?
It's quite simple really. The speed with which some agents reply - all using more or less the same formula and without making any actual reference to the
submitted manuscript - shows that they are bloodhounds who are trained to get the whiff of money. If the whiff isn't there, they are not interested in
reading more than half a page and if you asked them a week later about it, they would have no recollection of it. 'Oh, just something else than didn't smell right.
We get lots of those.'
@@gabrielrosenstock3459 do you not think that if you get a very quick rejection, that means it's likely they read the query and either it didn't appeal to them or they didn't think they could sell it? These people could not possibly read every submitted manuscript from beginning to end. That's part of the reason why the query is so important. It allows them to make decisions about which manuscripts to take the risk of committing their time to read.
When you go into a bookshop, do you open and read even the first two pages of several books on the shelves? Or do you only look at the blurb of several books and choose to read the first few pages of a few books? Most would read several blurbs. They have to decide what is most likely to be a profitable manuscript and try to read only those. That means quality work slipping through the net. But they couldn't possibly give every single submission a full read and then give detailed feedback. Have you tried finding critique partners for your work? That is a really great way to get constructive feedback.
If they don't feel they can sell it, they won't read it. If they don't read it, how will they know if it's any good? They worship at the altar of Mamon, not at the altar of literature.
Happy New Year! Thank you for making these videos that are educational and fun to watch.
Smell that? It’s rabid pumpkins season.
Happy new year BookEnds Literary Agency 🤗🤗
Happy New Year!
When you're making revision notes and you write "MC's dad died...never recovered" and you realize you omitted the tiny, but important word, "body."
(But as if that's not bad enough, as you're typing that little funny into an agent's UA-cam channel, you then begin to brainstorm how that bodyless sentence could yield a great premise for another book...
Cool Wonder-Woman cup. Must've been a promotional item.
Happy New Year you two! 🥳💨❤️
Having an agent is like skydiving. You have a partner on your back to help pull the cord and land safely. Lol
I much appreciate your videos. They've taught me a lot.
I have a quick question. Should I have my novel edited by a professional before sending it to you?
Erika Austin Good question. I would like an answer to this too.
I have a question. Do you send the work to publishers, such as 'Random House' or 'Duotrope'? I've had my trilogy published, but because of the publisher, it still could not be carried in Barnes & Noble.
Great information… Thanks for sharing this with us.
I know you've already covered this topic, but I still need to ask. There are two types of books I want to write. One: My true story. Two: Inspirational Romance Suspense. I have every intention of writing them. You've heard this a million and one times, I'm sure. But since watching you on UA-cam, I highly like your concepts. Writing this to you, I'm hoping to cut my procrastination to bits. You are a fan of mine. You and James. I would love to hear any advice you have on writing work of my true story. Like, where do I start? It's so scary to revisit my pass. Thanks in advance, I'm going to watch all shows on UA-cam.
Happy New Year, and you both are funny!
Point #3 is how I feel too. I have so many books inside of me and are bursting to get out.
Thank you for your programs.
I love your videos. Just what I needed today. I've had beta readers tell me when something wasn't working and I immediately fix it. Anything to make it better. The only thing that I find is a nightmare for me is writing the synopsis. I'm doing that now and reading advice and have so many rough drafts. It would be nice to see the right format because the advice and books alternate on a few items and I'm confused. The examples I've read are one way and the book I'm reading says it needs to be another way. What is the average length of a synopsis of the books you go on to represent? Just curious. Some say 500 words, others 800 to three pages. If you have a 72k book, what do you expect the length to be?
I’m going to query you upon manuscript completion - if only for your terrific personalities!
#1 - the day I meet a literary agent with the ability to engage in an intelligent, in depth conversation regarding the publishing world, politics, sports, books, the process of writing, geography, history, philosophy, religion, God, space, time, the bow shock our solar system is making as is plows around the outer arms of the Galaxy or writing editing selling and marketing books.... will be a very good day in which I will be very very impressed with the universe as a whole👍
Hmm communication is only relevant with all relationships with all people you know at all times... If you want to keep an even keel that is
Informative video.... Deadlines are so pathetic it's annoying.... There's maybe 1 excuse in a thousand to miss a deadline.... the awareness of a career.... Yes all writers get stuck some can crank out 15 books before they hit to the wall others are stopped dead on their first.... Always keep learning.... Agreed anyone who fails to continue learning isn't to be trusted.... It's puzzling how these agents are saying these things to authors who are signed to contracts and allegedly producing books..... Down in the dumps again eh? What happened this time your car broke down, you lost your job, you're out on the streets, you're life is ruined, you're in the hospital, you need to buy new shoes, the kids are sick, the dog is dead, You don't have money for gas, they disconnected the internet, your phone's getting shut off, Tom Brady's getting suspended for four games..... Come on now lighten up and keep the sense of humor about these sorts of things you can get 2,000 words done today
Excellent pointers.
You mentioned in past videos that you're only accepting author illustrator of children's picture books. However most of my children's book are derived from poetic form and biopics. Do you have any samples of books that you have worked on to get a reference point.
Hi there! On our website, you can find a list of books that BookEnds agents have represented. And all agents represent different things and have different styles they enjoy, so some may like children's poetry, some may just like picture books, some may not work in children's at all, etc.
Determination is great, but when you have a lot on your plate, working, being a single mom, battling cancer, etc. I'm trying to push through, but it's difficult sometimes.
Thanks so much for this! I am going to start queries for my picture book and I’m wondering if it would be better to submit the text with 2-3 illustrations as examples or to create and send out a full dummie?
We have a video coming on this soon. In short, if you're just the author, no illus needed. If you're the author/illu, you'll need a dummy.
BookEnds Literary Agency Thank you got your reply! I had heard that creating a whole dummy could come off as being less flexible than if you send the manuscript with 2-3 illustration examples. I’m looking forward to an episode on this. Thanks again!
Question: if an author chooses to publish under a pen name, are there separate/special contractual concerns they need to be aware of?
Not really. A pen name is mainly used for different genres.
Or for people who do not desire fame, or need to maintain a full time job and doesn't want to disturb employers if the contend in your novels is subversive. I don't write for fame or fortune. Most who write and get the chance to publish usually don't find fame or fortune while doing so. Maybe 3% of published writers strike it rich and maybe 8% earn enough to make it their full time job. I write because I have no choice. It is what I am meant to do. All I hope for is a dedicated and loyal readership.
I would like to know why the traditional publishing industry is still so slow, why is it taking up to 2 years or more for a book to be released in this fast digital age?
Indeed, a good question. Sounds like the trads need to step it up.
Very informative. Thank you. Hoping to get a mentorship with an agent, so this has been helpful.
Do you ask for rates upfront? Are you taking new people? What programs do you recommend to writers that will help you out to present to publishers? What are the genres you accept?
I really want to have a representation under your agency. You are so adorable and you really sound reliable.
Question, how much time do you allot the author to produce a novel? Three months, six months? In that time period, what level should the novel be. Edited? Ready to go?
Hi! Our agents are very understanding that everyone works at different paces. We occasionally even have authors go on hiatus for several years, sometimes writing and sometimes taking a break, and they still stay on our client lineups. We just want our authors to be turning in their best work, polished to the best of their ability in whatever amount of time that takes them! (This is all assuming they are not working under a publishing contract, which has more stringent deadlines).
Any suggestions for playwrights? Now that every theater in the world is closed, I have started writing plays.
Thanks for the tips. Does it hinder my chances of getting an agent if I have already self published the book?
Hi there, I have a question! What do agents think about authors who self publish? I recently self published my first book, and I did that to 'get my foot in the door' so to speak, however I do have my heart set on finding an agent and creating a real career out of this. Does self publishing in any way hinder me?
Glad you asked the question. Thinking to do same so question applies. Good luck and hope you're doing well with your book.
@@sophialewis5474 Hi there! Thanks :) I've actually just watched another video and they said they prefer not to take on self-published books because it has already been seen by the public, and it'll be harder for them to sell it to a publishing house. In that case, I wanted to ask if a literary agent would be willing to take on the book if it had a sequel/series (that has not yet been published)? Or would self-publishing that first book completely destroy any chance of having it picked up by an agent?
@@jessicamcleod6602 thanks so much for prompt reply. Appreciated. Hmm..so that's another good question to them. So next one to you: Are you pleased with response and sales of your first S.P. attempt? How did you promote it/ market it?
@@sophialewis5474 hey, so of course I made a bunch of sales to begin with when friends and family were buying. It got really quiet after that though, and genuinely it takes a LOT of self promotion and marketing to get any interest. Especially first time, which this is for me! I havent been marketing enough, unfortunately, simply because I was overwhelmed when I first published my book and needed to take a step back to bring back that confidence. It's hard sharing your work with the world! But, if you want this to be your career it really is important to brag about it (which I hate) haha. I've been working on the sequel as well, which of course when that is published it will also promote the first book 🤷♀️ I'm stuck on how to proceed though... I'm hesitant about self publishing the sequel, since learning that literary agents avoid self pubs... so I guess I need to wait for some answers before going ahead with anything. I dont know anybody in the industry so I just assumed self publishing was the best way to get noticed x
@@jessicamcleod6602 I so understand all you are saying here. I imagine things would go pretty much the same way..i.e. the surge of friends and family then my stumbling at self-promotion. Must think on this. Still you get to say you are a published author
Love your videos. So, regarding #3, does that mean if I am writing a nonfiction novel (historical) which will probably be my only book that I should go the self-published route.
Very informative. :). I just have two questions, though. :). 1. Would WIX be a good option to create a "website" for my book series? And, 2. If an author/writer worked on a series for certain aspects/themes/tropes that are interesting to them (similar to JRR Tolkien, but with JK Rowling's style of writing) Would you you consider representing that particular book/s series? Meaning, it's not "commercial" (such as Twilight/Hunger Games/"Dystopian"/"Trendy"). It is a passion project of mine. I am often asked on Query Tracker/Manager "Similar books to yours?". The answer is complex. While it has aspects of Fantasy and paranormal, it is something I enjoy writing and is...well...not in the conventional/traditional aspect/s of Fantasy and Paranormal. The premise of the whole four book series ("Elf Sisters") is this: Adria, Celestina, and Anastasia must fight the Darkness, which is the counterpart to their creator/deity, the Light. Each book has its own plot/s (similar to Harry Potter), except it draws heavily upon my own faith, which is Christianity. So, in the aspect of "themes"/"tropes", it is similar to JRR Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. However, is has aspects of "magical/paranormal" like Charmed (original series with Shannen Doherty). So, not really...ah..."traditional" in the sense that it's "trending". As I have said before, it is my passion project/important to me. But, like you said in previous videos, self-published books are only catching your eyes if they sell lots of units. Currently, my first book in this series "A Daughter's Revenge", is on Amazon's KDP. I have not sold enough paid units on Kindle to earn a royalty check from Amazon (threshold is $100, and I've only made roughly $70 through KENP). However, a lot of units were "looked at" when I first did Free Promotions on Amazon's KDP. If you answer these question just through replying to this "comment", I'll be most grateful. Thank you, and keep up the excellent work of these videos. I really enjoy the information that you give. :).
Any chance you guys would consider doing some market advice videos?
You just described me to a tee 😎 and I’m handsome and humble too
I love your agency! That's all I'm gonna say...😁
Hm...I'm not sure that it was mentioned - but when it comes to marketing, I was under the impression that the publisher works in tandem with the author for the networking and commercially advertising one's product. I have a lot to learn yet, and I wouldn't want an agent that takes me up to their penthouse loft suite (company - give me the grand tour). Then gives me the grand finale tour on the balcony with the extravagant layout (metaphorically speaking and being facetious in my point) to show me their three-sixty plan/deal. Then, he or she, my agent, gives me two-feathers and kicks me off the ledge, saying, "Now go ahead and fly!" LoL. I would certainly crash and burn without the marketing and network expertise that literary agents and publishing companies possess - no?
Lol!
Take a look at Alexa Donne's videos on marketing. She's a traditionally published author and I find her information invaluable.
love your talks. very insightful...
I am finishing a book. Its dystopia like 1984 but its written similar to a text book. It is a metaphor for statistics. I think students may appreciate my book. It may not sell a lot in the first year but prehaps small consistent sales over the decades.
How do I find a liteary agent who would appreciate that unique type of book? And represent me?
Great video!
I need advice. I hired a copyeditor last April to get my MS in a very polished place for submitting. Between him falling into a depression over some personal bad luck and the medications he needed to treat it, he's still not at the half way point in the edits. He refunded me the deposit for the work. But now I'm not sure I can move forward with him or any editor as my financial security has become worse. Edits are not cheap. I don't see how I can afford any for the foreseeable future. Should I just submit the MS without any? Or just shelve the whole thing until day I can pay for edits? It's very difficult on new authors because you are trying to impress and every extra thing you can do makes a difference. I wish I could learn to be as sufficient as a professional editor but I need to sleep as well. lol Happy 2020 everyone!
Hi Corey. We're so sorry to hear this happened to you. I understand your wish to have everything as perfect as it can be, but we don't feel you need to pay for things to be professionally edited. Your manuscript should certainly be clean and grammatically correct, but that can be done with revisions by yourself, or with critique partners/critique partners solely for grammar. We always advocate for the free way to do things and in a way that grows your writing community. I hope that's helpful to you. If you feel your manuscript is cleand and ready to go, you can certainly start querying.
@@BookEndsLiterary Thank you for the advice. He showed me a sample of the style sheet he began and the first page of edits. Some edit suggestions were things I would not have seen. Such as, dangling participle and a missing antecendent. Then some small things. I had a comma missing and either through typo or stupidity used, 'onto' where 'on to' would be appropriate. It's always small things a creative mind like mine can miss. That's why we have editors though. I'll write a query letter and a synopsis. I struggle with writing a synopsis. That could be me overthinking the process. I write best when I'm in a creative zone. Perhaps I'll send a query on to your agency. I love your youtube channel. You provide me with valuable advice and inspiration!
Pondering the two roads diverged in a yellow wood, though I have traveled down the one, long I stood looking down both as far as I could not knowing that I would or even should. Oh the two roads to publish your labors. Self publish ? as I have before...or this road not taken. The dangling carrot awaits.
I had to "like" the video to get past the # 666. LOL Your positive energy is now back on track.
In taking criticism from an agent, how does one find out how many books an agent has actually sold to publishers, and how well they the. sold? As in, why take advice on revision from someone with no or little track record of selling a book that in turn sells to readers. It’s a 2 way street, no?
Great, great question. There are resources like Publisher's Marketplace and Publishers Weekly that report an agents deals. Twitter is always a great place to go to keep updated on when agents make a sale (as it's usually announced there, too). Their agency websites as well.
BookEnds Literary Agency what about Publishers Lunch?
*Looks at rabid pumpkins manuscript* This is it. This is our chance. Time to give the people what they want. 😤
As a published second time writer, I find that it really doesn't matter how good your work is, poured over by multiple professional editors, and how many have been changed for reading it, if the industry is not heading in that direction they don't want your book. It's like TV, write a Western TV show in the 80 and it will not see TV. Write a police show and there were so many aired to choose from.
My Christian fiction novel does not fit the industry formula of a harlequin romance novel without the per-marital sex set in the English countryside or an Amish community so the industry doesn't want it.
What's 'in' and what the industry is selling is everything to any writer who doesn't have a contract with a publisher.
I went Indie in the end. I had no choice. I know my stuff is good, but it's not what they want to sell. Both my books have changed lives, that's all I need.
I know the feeling! How many times throughout the years have people been told, "That will NEVER work!" I figured out a long time ago that I should stick to my style, regardless of what "experts" think. You should, too! What have you written?
The Master of Perception: tiolibooks.com/cgi-bin/blog
Catch a Falling Star: tiolibooks.com/blank_1.html
This is very helpful. I get the feeling as well, that no matter how good you are, if your set of values doesn't align with their amoral values, you are out.
I don't see how you'd have trouble publishing your faith based novels with there are countless Christian based publishing houses to choose from.
@@danielwright7710 Nowadays, so-called "Christian" publishers will publish heresies, false doctrine, worldly compromise, etc. They would also demand that, if I include Scripture quotes, they'd have to be from corrupt translations like the NIV, NASB, etc. I would only quote the King James Bible. They likely would reject that. They don't want good doctrine.
The King James Bible is corrupt translation as well. You must be one of the fools who believe it fell from the heavens fully written in God's hand and in English.
You forgot to add “me” to your list! 😎
Think I have a Great idea for pic. Book focusing on 'HUGS' do you think it's probably not that great with Corona Virus?
Don't be silly. Go for it.
I love all the content you bring us! *sidebar: is that a passion planner? #plannerapproved
Hmm. Optimistically jumping in with both feet here. Do you take adult mediaval Fantasy books? I'm writing about women's rights and freedom. Like a witch fleeing Inquisition. And she's quite a piece of work, my Syrah is. And has a lot to learn about relationships. After all she has at least three books to do so.
And then there's Danae a Girl growing up during an invasion...another series.
Are you by chance interested?
Or
Hi! You can check out our agents' interests on the Submissions page of our website and see if any of our agents would be the right ones to represent you and your stories!
My goal is to collect 200 names and go HAM on sending queries this month and for my MG fantasy novel. I'm writing my next book (a MG horror story) and will be working on a MG dystonia novel. come at me 2020.
I'm really opened minded to agents thoughts. I will be an author that will work hard to make the right book for the market. I'll willing to work hard for a career. #careergoals
What does HAM stand for?
@@ClintLoweTube means Hard as MF.
The one actual thing literary agents look for in an author: they've had their asses kissed by you.
Hopefully awesomeness!!!
I only know I love you guys. I am looking for an agent
Need help! I have a book "Success for the Homeless." I really believe in it. Its on Amazon. But its not getting the attention I hope for. I did not lose faith in that book. I believe with the right team, so many other business can be born from it. Can you guys help me please.
How do agents feel about older writers? I mean, after all, our careers are going to be shorter than that of a twenty-something. :)
LOL... Rabid pumpkins.... what's in your cup lady???
I have the video volume maxed and my computer volume maxed, still having trouble hearing the content of this video :(
Oh, please!
It's not about how good you are or your religious ideology or going to 100 publishers. It's about what the Christian publishing industry wants and will only accept. As I said, in Christian fiction they only seek specific story types. For example, amish stories are hot and will get huge consideration. Or love stories usually set in the distant past like western US 1880's or England in the 1700's with the widower lord of the manor and his 3 kids falling in love with the poor chimney sweep young lady.
Just look at the hallmark Christmas movies this past month. They were all the same, love stores with snowmen. Same exact stories, just different characters. That's what the industry wants and that's what sells.
Write an amazing story that has touched so many who have read my books, yet, the industry doesn't want because it's not hot for sales and it will not be picked up - simple as that. That's why I self published, because the industry does not look at my books as "in" right now.
I know the agents here would agree.
*Runs off to start practicing standup comedy routines in front of the mirror.*
For folks who might not know about how excited Jesse Spano got:
ua-cam.com/video/OfwN1rDXd2c/v-deo.html
this can be summed up in one, be a decent understanding human
I think you guys are funny!
It's cute how people think writers are famous.... The only writer that's like publicly Iegit famous is Steven King (among others) and they're in there 60s by the time anyone knows who they are.... Or at least look like they're in their 60s from all the pleasures of being a world class novelist 😐🤔
top ten things they look for in potential clients:
1 white skin
2 white skin
3 white skin
4 white skin
5 white skin
6 white skin
7 white skin
8 white skin
9 white skin
10 white skin
If you'd actually done your research, you'd know full well that BookEnds has a very diverse client list and represent people of all colours and walks of life. Please don't try to shame good people just because there are some bad seeds in the world. 😊 Be well in life and kind to others.
@@nopity336 your industry is racist, your profession is racist, your employees are racist and that makes you ...?? Yes that's right.
@@You_Tube000 You are most certainly entitled to your opinion. Be well. 😊
Pick me, pick me! I'm everything you describe. I just need a submission now to win your confidence.