Working with a Literary Agent

Here are a few things to consider if you want to work with a literary agent.

First, the agent may ask for exclusive rights to work with you.  If this is a requirement, it is important that you ask for something in return.  It is recommended that you ask for the agent to read your book within the next two weeks.  If they haven't called you back at that time, call them and remind them of their commitment.

Second, it is essential to get a written contract.  It is important to have someone well versed in publishing contracts to review it for you.  One writer found assistance through the Chicago Writer's Union, a sub-division of the United Auto Workers of all things

After the agent has read your book, ask what they liked.  You may wish to strengthen this part of the book.

If the agent asks you to pay for professional editing, it is best to wait for a commitment from a publisher. Costs can be significant to have someone edit your book, so wait until you know it's publishable.

Some things to consider:  It takes one to one and a half years to get a book through a publisher.  A standard fee for an agent is 15% for books published in the U.S., and 20% if published out of the country or if the book is made into a film.