Q: Why do I need an agent and how do I go about finding one?

A: I recommend to every writer I meet that they get an agent. Agents do a number of things that help you with your career. A good agent will help you to revise and edit your manuscript in preparation for submission to publishers. He or she will submit the manuscript to publishers that are appropriate for your work and good agents know the market or who's looking for what. An agent will also negotiate your contract for you, which really is a good thing because it allows you to preserve the good relationship you have with an editor without muddying the waters with finance. Finally, an agent will help you to build your career. They want this because it also helps them to build a career. Agents get paid when you do. They usually get 15% of whatever you make so it's in their best interest to keep you writing good, quality stuff. Also, don't fall for anyone who asks for money up front. That's not the way it works. Check out http://anotherealm.com/prededitors/ to find out who is or isn't ethical. I've never worked with an unethical agent or publisher, but they do exist, so don't be taken.

You get an agent the same way you get an editor, by doing your homework. Do an internet search for literary agents or check out THE WRITER'S MARKET. Don't send an adult novel to somebody who represents exclusively children's writers. Find out what their submission requirements are and follow them exactly. If they request a query letter, write a good one that shows your personality and spotlights you as a writer, but forget the gimmicks. Agents and editors don't want to get special gifts in the mail from you to help them remember your manuscript. They will probably feel a little bit wary if you send them a gift certificate to your favorite restaurant. They want a good writer, not a salesman. Again, conferences and writer's organizations can also help you with your search for an agent.

I was lucky enough to find my agent through an internet search. After identifying several that I thought might fit my needs, I wrote each asking if they accepted children's picture books and requesting permission to submit mine. One of the first to write back told me that they did accept children's picture books, but they were very particular. I almost didn't send them my work but eventually got up the nerve and received a call from one of their agents a few days later. He sold my first three books right away and I'm still with him after 10 years.

If you're still not satisfied, drop a line to writers@melindalongbooks.com. Due to the volume of inquiries I receive, I cannot respond to each question, but do get to as many as is possible in a timely manner. And, of course, thanks for your interest!