Need an Agent?

Why Most Writers Need a Book Publishing Agent

It's very difficult, if not impossible get a major publisher interested in your book without a book publishing agent!

Most major publishers will not accept unsolicited proposals from writers without an agent. This means you need an agent to be even considered -- No matter how good your manuscript is!

A literary agent is a writer's representative. The job of an agent is to market your book to a publisher and negotiate the most lucrative book contract for you. They keep track of your book rights and generally manage the business end of things so you can concentrate on your writing. And isn't that what you do best?

What Are We Giving Away?

Our book publishing agent list includes full contact information, email addresses and website addresses (where available) of 350 of the world's top book agents. Many of the agents represent bestselling authors on the New York Times Book Lists. These authors frequently earn thousands of dollars in advances from publishers.

You will receive a link to download a pdf list containing over 350 literary agents after you complete the form on the right. Keep in mind, there is absolutely NO COST to you to receive this list.

Why Are We Doing It?

We are promoting our online ezine: "Publishing Tips" where you will receive a free subscription to author information and tips 2 or 3 times a month. We will also feature publishing interviews from bestselling authors, publishers and agents. There is no cost for this ezine.

How Do You Choose an Agent?

The first rule to choosing a book publishing agent is to avoid agents that charge up front for reading your manuscript or reviewing your work. Other than photocopying and postage fees, a legitimate agent will never ask you for money. Agents on our free literary agent list never charge upfront fees! They have been pre-screened and chosen because they follow ethical business practises that protect writers.

When you choose a book publishing agent ask for references from previous clients. A legitimate agent will be happy to share the successes they have had with past clients.

How Are Book Publishing Agents Paid?

What you'll find is that most book publishing agents charge a fixed percentage of ten to twenty percent of the proceeds from sales they negotiate on your behalf with the publisher. You'll find fifteen percent commissions are common. None of this money will ever come directly from you. Commissions are paid to agents by the book publisher.

How Do You Contact an Agent?

You'll find that most book publishing agents do business by mail, although some prefer email. Your first contact should be made by sending a query letter. The query letter is an introduction to the book and your background. It should be no more than 1-2 pages and describe your book in general terms and any market research you've conducted to identify possible readers.

Enjoy your free book publishing agent list!