From a small feature that will run in The Guardian in a few weeks entitled “How To Draw A Bear Thinking About Something”
mental slush
snippets from a literary/agenting life
(via moleculess)
More Conference Dates for 2013…
I have some new updates to share from my 2013 calendar. (Please see my complete calendar for all conference/event dates). If you’d like to meet me in person, check out one of these great events! I’ll be on faculty at the following….
* Willamette Writers Conference, Aug. 2-4, Portland, OR
I’ll be doing one-on-one, as well as group consultations, daily. I’ll also be on the “Pitch with the Pros” panel Thursday evening.
* Kansas City SCBWI Fall Conference, Oct. 11-12
I’ll be doing advance written critiques, as well as presenting two workshops on a topic TBD. Looking forward to finding some new talent here—and trying Kansas City BBQ!
Mmm Green Peony tea…pretty and delicious. Just the thing for a gloomy so cal day.
mildredvonmillie asked: How would you suggest someone go about querying a series? Specifically a trilogy? If I have the manuscript for the first book finished, the second book planned out in detail and a good idea of the third (and know exactly how the whole thing will end), is that adequate? and should I mention this in my letter, or only if more information is requested? Thanks!
An agent’s primary focus is going to be finding a stellar first book. All we need to know at the query level is either (a) this is book 1 in 3 part series, or (b) that this is intended to be part of series, but it can function as a standalone. Most agents would prefer to see a book that can standalone, but has series potential—as this is easier to sell than, say, a mandatory 3-book series. If your book CAN standalone, this is the most important information to relay—you can also add that you have ideas for a possible Book 2 and 3 but that’s all we need to know at this point.
Thanks for the question—and happy querying!
Check out my guest post on DearEditor.com! ›
I answer a question about submitting a picture book dummy to agents and editors simultaneously. I advise finding an agent first and give 3 reasons why….
All 7 Harry Potter books are getting new 15th anniversary covers! Whaddya think?
Is it neurotic that I’m probably going to re-buy these with the new covers?
(via litreactor)
Anonymous asked: What is your usual timeframe for responses on requested material? And when, if ever, is it ok to request an update?
I do my best to respond to requested materials within two months. However, sometimes I do fall behind. If it’s been more than two months, authors should feel free to check in with me via email and I’m happy to provide an update.
Anonymous asked: Your agency has a "no answer means no" policy, but why don't you post the status on queries to you on your twitter or tumblr every month or so, I think this will help writers a lot and save them to wait for 8 weeks to know your reply.
Although my agency’s official policy is “no response means no”, I’ve actually stated that my personal policy is to respond to all queries, as long as they follow submission guidelines. I even did a whole post on it: “My Query Response Policy”.
Also, posting any sort of query status update is problematic, at least for me, because there’s always going to be exceptions. For example, a picture book, or nonfiction proposal, that I want to spend some time with or perhaps share with a colleague before I respond to the author.
But again, I do send a response to all queries, so if it’s a pass, authors will know.
Carved Books by Kylie Stillman
Defiling the books makes me cringe a little bit, but still pretty cool
