Sunday, February 19, 2012

Helpful Websites for Finding Literary Agents and Book Publishers

Attempting to get your book published is an overwhelming process. When I first started looking into publishing Second Sight, I had no idea what these book publishing terms meant: POD, chapbooks and vanity publishers. Another problem was I had no freaking clue on who I should send my book to. These three websites I've found to be extremely helpful to anyone looking for a book agent or publisher:

AgentQuery

This website provides a listing of literary agents and their contact details. Each agent profile explains genres they accept, submission guidelines, contact information and links to their agency websites. It also lets you know if the agent is a member of AAR (Associations of Authors Representatives). The site also has a section on how to write a successful query letter.

Preditors and Editors

Preditors and Editors helps writers find out how many scam artists are out to bilk you out of your money. The site provides a listing of agents, publishers, conventions, resources and writing organizations. This site was helpful for deciding who to send my manuscript to. Based on writer feedback, they let you know what agents and publishers charge a fee and have faulty contractual practices. You'll also find helpful info on how the publishing process works and any telltale signs that the publisher and agent do not have your best interests in mind.

Absolute Write Water Cooler

This forum is a must for writers. The threads are super active and you can find plenty of inside info on dealings between other authors and their agents and publishers. Threads include grammar help, self-publishing, book promotion ideas, bewares and recommendations for agents/publisher and story research.

By the way, in case you were curious-

POD-print on demand, book copies are only printed after an order is received

chapbooks- chapter books (duh, but I still never heard that term used)

vanity publishers-authors pay to have their books published

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