Im querying again this year. So far it has been just rejection letters, but 3 of those rejections had concrete feedback that gave me clear aspects to work on before my next round.
Soon(probably in 3 to 4 months)... actually that reminds me-it would be great if you could do a video on long synopses( for fiction novels), as I've been struggling to find information on how to write one. Great videos. I will be following your channel.
@@AlyssaMatesic The first time I wrote a unique cookery book, i self-published and now I have begun writing my second cookbook which is another unique one nobody in the world has written. Upon completion of my 2nd cookbook, i will want a literary agent to represent me and approach a major traditional publisher on my behalf like the Penguin group or Dorling Kindersley. Because it is a more cost effective way of getting books published and they do all the marketing for you. I made the mistake of going self-publishing my first cookbook which has endured alot of upfront costs and my book sales are struggling.
@@nairsheasterling9457 + Would that be the case for women's inspirational/spiritual non fiction? It's actually a blend of both fiction and non fiction narrative. No business!
@@cristinadriviera8144 Yeah, it would be the same. Unless you are someone - like a politician or a famous person - no publishing company is going to want that kind of book from you. It's hard enough to get representation for fiction as a debut novel. It is even harder to get representation for a book that is not strictly speaking fiction, or for nonfiction, and impossible if you do not already have a speciality in your field and/or major name recognition.
I literally have hundreds of rejection letters from submissions through the years, and am at a point where I have 11 completed books, 9 of which are fiction novels, a trilogy, two singles, and a series of 5. I'm preparing to pitch 5 of the projects to various studios, and have felt the old enthusiasm come back enough that it's possible I'm finally ready to start approaching agents again. It would be lovely to see if any of my projects can spark their interest. Thank you for putting these videos out, I just found them and have gratefully subscribed.
lol Adam, don't sweat it man, I've been writing for over 42 years (started playing around with shorts when I was about 12) You're gonna do fine! Just don't give up, and remember, a first draft is the first step! You got this! @@adamatherton8562
Learning about getting an agent and publishing has always been so stressful for me that I find it hard to even continue writing. Thank you for making this whole process easy to understand and like it's not a complete fantasy to have my book published
Thank you for letting us know we don’t have to stress about market/genre and the like. I just want to write creatively without stressing what box my story goes into.
I really enjoyed your video. I loved the fact that you spoke more about the human side of what an agent is looking for rather than simply the business of publishing and what it really means to work with an agent. Awesome video.
Yours was actually the first TH-cam video I checked out and to say that it was informative would be an understatement. As a first-time author I was definitely overwhelmed with the process. It didn't help that I battled continuously for almost a year with some guy that I paid to assist in editing. He left a very nasty taste in my mouth. But ultimately I wrote one of the best books that I personally have ever read in my entire life. I'm not patting my own back and I have had about 10 different unbiased individuals read my book and nine out of 10 said it was one of the best books they have ever read in their entire life. But with the book completed, everything came to a standstill because my editor had convinced me he knew how to get the book published and nothing went forward from that point. Bottom line I appreciate the video very much! And yes in the last couple days I have submitted to agents for review. Hopefully good things will come my way.
You are right. Trust is a big thing. As a writer I was to worried about ppl stealing my idea so I stopped seeking an agent. Glad I ran across your channel
This is super helpful! I'm currently doing some revisions before sending the book to an agent so I can put my best work forward. Hoping to query this year, so I'm keeping this stuff in mind.
I'm so grateful I found your channel. I have a Dystopian story/ series inside of me that I KNOW is gold! I considered self publishing but I don't have a platform or following and I don't want to stifle my story from actually getting out there! My only credentials are a B.A. in English Lit and a personal blog I haven't actually been consistent with lol Self doubt has been keeping me from moving forward with trying to get an agent but this video has helped to give me hope that it's actually possible for me! Thank you. 😌
Thank you so very much for so much clarity on the query process. Still, I am unsure of whether to self publish or to seek an agent diligently. 😩 this is nerve wrecking. I finally have the time to slow down the rest of life to do this and not all people I’ve taken the time to listen to have been as generous. It can be so frustrating. Truly appreciated. 🙏🏼
Thank you so much for putting out this video, Alyssa! I've written my first novel (a Young Adult comedy), and am in the process of querying agents for the same! I wish you all the best in your personal endeavours, and health and happiness along the way! :D
Thank you so much for the video! I'm not ready to pursue an agent, I need to write samples and research agencies. I found this video very helpful as broad advice. I'll happily review your other videos
Thank you very much for your positive advice. I am a German writer and talking to an agency these days. Your Video fills me up with good energy and knowledge❤.
Thank you for this video- I'm subscribing. I've queried to 44 agents since December with no requests. These tips among others are helping me revamp my query letter. I'm determined to get this manuscript into the right hands.
44??? I gotta give you respect for not giving up. My first novel, I gave up after 8 rejections and self-published on Amazon which I regret now. I hope your perseverance pays off soon!
This is very informative and much more helpful than the articles I’ve read so far. I’ve been researching query letters and literary agents for a long time trying to find the best approach. It would seem that I may be overthinking it a bit.
Greatly enjoyed your 5-step agent hunting preso; thanks. It contained a tremendous amount of logic and common sense, not so common anymore. I can see where the selection process for an agent is just as important as the acceptance policies for an agent to find a writer; the two are intertwined yet separate in function. I am currently writing something never before introduced to the reading public: A memoir of a female Mong rufugee surviving the long journey to America at 10 years old, only to face a new horror in the US in the close-knit Mong community in Minnesota. It's an incredible tale that will not only keep reader's interest, but keep the eyes moist along the way.
I have not yet begun the agent-hunting process. We're deciding on either self-publishing or traditional; We prefer the traditional route first...with a like-minded agent.
I found this video extremely clear and helpful. You allayed some of my concerns, particularly around the dynamic between author and agent. Thank you for producing it.
Thank you so much for making this video. It's so great to get honest information in a business that otherwise I would have no idea how to navigate. Oh, and I promise I will never threaten an agent. :)
Liked and subscribed. I am currently looking for an agent for my series and have been following the instructions given in the writers and artist yearbook. This video has been a big help.
These videos are fantastic! Thank you so much! Just sent out my first query yesterday for my commercial psychology manuscript. Hoping for the best! Thank you again for these amazing videos, Alyssa!
I'm hoping to start querying my first book later this year. I honestly think writing out the query letter and sending it out is more stressful than writing and revising the book!
I am going through all of your posts. I've published two books and went the self-publishing -hybrid route. I am at the point of 'pulling my hair out. My plan is to learn from you, and see if I can find a literary agent who believes I have a worthy 'literary work.' 4-26
Thank you so much for this video Alyssa. I really enjoyed your advice and helpful style. I am a published author in the fields of leadership and sustainability. My books are published by well-know leading publishers. However, I have concern that these books have not been able to reach a large audience, mainly due to the prices set by the publishers. There are two new books I wish to write: “Beyond Sustainability” and “The Wisdom Code” and I wish to reach a large audience in order to support humanity’s evolution to a better future. A colleague is encouraging me to use an agent but this is new territory to me. I welcome any thoughts you may have.
I am presently seeking a literary agent for my second novel(I self published my first with Balboa press/Hayhouse- The Hero Within/LaLonde. As an athlete my entire life it was easy to showcase my talent. In the literary game I must learn how to showcase my writing talents with the world. I am ready! Great video Alyssa, thanks...*
Love your videos! I’m working on a coffee table book, and so am just learning all of the ins and outs of publishing so that I can be a great addition to the other writers that they represent!
Very good video. Today we finally agreed on something. I see from your comments, it still comes down to one main thing, the story!I was glad that you said that writers don’t have to have all the credentials and be the best and what they do. Just like Hollywood, they keep remaking older movies.They can’t find anything new, to bring to the table. The idea is what’s gonna get it published. You do a good job with your information , video.
I’m finishing off writing my high fantasy book I’ve worked on for years. I’ve wanted to write books for a living for years and attract a fanbase. This helps. I hope this year I can find someone
Alyssa's advice up-front is key: "Patience." Johnny Worthen described breaking into the literary world as game after game of roulette. Marketability has always looked like the biggest barrier to my eyes for those who want to traditionally publish. A mediocre book at marketable moment is the right book. A fantastic book at unmarketable time is the wrong book. Easier to publish general adult fiction and romance than other genres. Etc. This is especially true right now. I've asked around and sent some queries. Seems like we're dealing with one of the most challenging landscapes in recent memory. "The market is competitive and I have to be able to sell this," is what I'm seeing. Agents surely dream of partnering with an author whose work sets the bar...yet a lot of copycats fill bookshelves. Like writers, agents have dreams as well as practical realities. I don't envy their job. Until then, we all keep playing roulette.
@danielmartin8913+ Don't worry one little bit about the field as it is at present. YOU are the vortex. LOVE your work. Allow the presence that impacted you in the first place to write what you did to overwhelm you again. Slam the doors in your mind that try to lure you into those dark alleyways of doubt! Bless you and all your efforts.
I self-published my first book of a series., but I have been thinking of going the traditional route, that is, if I can find the right agent for my genre.
I wish I would have found you years ago. Then my second book may have ended up being traditionally published. Well, I hope the letter will get the agents interest and my story. At least I try to be different with my characters and story that I don't see around. btw, you so easy to listen too. These 14 min felt like 3 min.
Hiya! Saw your post on reddit. Decided to leave a comment. Great things you have here so far! Wish you the best of luck. Thanks for sharing all this cool information :D
Ahhhhhh Alyssa, love the info it was very helpful.I wrote a book called Another New York Moment. Real stories (One page ) with a cartoon on the opposite page depicting the stories. IT went 5 stars on Amazon rather quickly. I'm about to finish ANYM 2 in November and have a 3rd maybe 4th for 2023/2024 . What should my query letter consist of ? Your new fan and subscriber John Paolillo
This was very helpful, thank you. I'm only at the beginning of drafting my query letter, and researching agents to send it out to. I feel like I'm flying blind in this process, so any suggestions are much appreciated!
Hey Alyssa I would like to know if you should wait until everything is finished if you are writing and you know it will encompass multiple books. Alternatively, you may begin reaching out to publishers and agents sooner rather than later and tell them, "I have a few novels ready, but there are a couple more on the way. Many thanks for taking the time to respond to my query 💓. ❤❤❤
I have enjoyed your video and found your information very helpful! I have self-published a few children's books and found this very rewarding! I was wondering if there would be any problem if I want to use the traditional publishing route for my next book? Thank you! Sue Christopherson
Wonderful! I'm so glad you're branching out to traditional publishing, and I don't see why your self-published works would be an issue. It all shows that you're serious about being a professional author. Best of luck!
Great set of videos. Is there any impact when go thru the process for traditional publishing if the book has previously been self-published as an ebook?
Thanks for all your great advice, Alyssa! I stumbled upon you because I have decided I need a literary agent, even though I have four books published and another in production now. However, I have a memoir about my love for nature that I have been unable to find a publisher for. It is a genre my publisher doesn't accept.
Steve: Please keep on pushing wiith your book!!! Connection to nature is SO needed now in our culture - in fact, I can't think of a more important subject.
@@janetvansky3621 thanks for your encouragement! I have to admit I got discouraged with trying to find a home for Nature Boy and have been trying to promote other writings of mine, including my Ocean Aid music project and the songs "Mother Nature Rap," "Time For Ocean Aid" and "Where Does All The Plastic Go?" that go with it.
I’ve finished my first draft and have just started going back and editing. I started querying a bit when I first finished my draft, but have since realised I should work on it more first. It’s my first novel and I’m really intimidated by the business end of things. I also really don’t know how to find the right literary agent for me. This was really helpful though, thanks!
Thanks so much for sharing...I am a writer of Childrens books, and I am interested in having them published the traditional way. I would like to know how the illustrator becomes involved in the process.
Alyssa, Thank you! This was a well-done video and helpful. I'm researching agents for my historical novel that is now in draft three. I've worked with a writing coach and I'm getting ready to write query letters, a synopsis, and search for a literary agent. Any up-to-date Sept 2021 advice, books, podcasts, or other venues for learning are greatly appreciated. Thanks! Kim
Thank you. This was fantastic. I'm just about to embark on this journey and preparing myself for how to go about the agent process. The story I have has been with me for over 20 years but only in the last 3-4 years has it really become a serious undertaking, with a career in mind. The advice given in this video was great and I've subscribed in order to check out more. I'm incredibly excited. I remember reading somewhere that writing a novel is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration, and I couldn't agree more. Sending off my work is going to be a rollercoaster (good and bad) and I can't wait. Thank you for your help.
I've self published around 15 illustrated books/graphic novels. I have a BFA, an Associate's and a certificate in computer graphics. I make money off my art and books and sometimes digital music, I am looking for a literary agent for graphic novels/illustrated books. I use Lulu and have a large shopify store. I"ve been marketing with Facebook and TH-cam ads
Hello, just found your channel and i think your videos are amazing and a great help. I have a questions. Does these tips apply for everywhere in the world or just in USA? As im closing my debut novel i really need to know that :) Thanks and greetings from Bulgaria.
Congratulations on the channel. Great information presented clearly and from an obviously knowledgeable point of view. Just subscribed/thumbed up since I´m writing a book and found it really useful. Also, your production values on these latest videos have gone way higher than before and it shows!(except for the last 50 seconds, heheh). As a tip, and this is just a personal taste, did you consider adding a header (i.e. right after you finish your sentence at 0:18?) It could be just your name and role, to really push your brand. That would "automagically" give you an intro. Just my 2 cents as I´m not an expert on your topic, but I´m strong at video editing.
It sounds to me that there may be some age discrimination working against writers in their 70s and 80s if a big consideration is "long term" beyond one book. Many seniors are in good health and writing keeps them young. Just curious to see what your observations are about this touchy subject.
Thanks for the video. I am currently on the final draft of my first Book and I am not quite sure how to go about finding an agent? Have you got any suggestions for me? thanks again for the video.
So true, I’ve been looking for months. The problem has been a lot of them are one sided. What do I mean? Every single one of them at one agency focuses on all the same topics. Any diversification of genre was essentially splitting hairs. I couldn’t even query yet because the literary agency’s I’ve decided are the most reliable, have good BBB reputation, and have many comps and content in my genre just aren’t looking in those areas anymore. It’s a bummer, I have two books written. Done 12th draft, beta read, 152,000 word between the two books. Books 1 and 2 done. 3 is on the drawing board. There’s another completely different book I have written in my head. It’s tough to network right because you’re kind of an outsider when you’re just starting out. They’re all over the country and like you said. Hundreds of submissions from likeminded authors like you. I love Knight Agency, The Star Trek Books, Coda, Mass Effect etc. that they’ve published, many book I own and are comps to my own, great cover art. They’re top notch and I totally get it. They have to go with what’s selling and what’s working. But it would be a an honor to work with them.
Hello Alyssa. My name is Sammy Lee Lykens and I've been a Singer/Songwriter/Pianist for most of my career. A number of years ago I came off the road from touring in Southern Gospel music and began writing Inspirational Poetry. To make a "long" story short. Just this week, I received a call from a Literary agent who received great reviews about my work. So, we began a partnership, and the query letter was written by his company, and he sent it to four of the major publishing companies in the US, including Harper Collins, which is the one he's pushing for. So, needless to say, I'm quite excited, knowing I have a great agent representing my work. I really enjoyed your input on this video, and just wanted to share with you, that my journey has begun. Please feel free to respond to me if you'd like to read a sample or two of my work. God Bless You.
Hi Alyssa, very informative video and feedback in the comments. When it comes to international writers, will Amercian literary agents and publishing houses be willing to assess manuscripts written by non-native English speakers? I am a writer from Germany with reasonable English knowledge, at least enough to be able to write a book in English. But as the story takes place in the USA and people speak like Americans (as opposed to British), it would make sense to address only American agents with this project.
I have been querying to no avail. It's really hard getting rejected over and over. I have heavily researched, have gotten professional help, and have heavily edited my manuscript. I worked for days on my query. I research every agent I come across to make sure I'm not wasting either of our time. I am at a crossroads where I either need to realize I don't have talent or I just don't have the luck I've heard you need during this process.
How do I find an agent for children's books. Is there a difference? Do they do all of it....or specialize? I need a good lead so I can make a new best friend!
Thanks so much for this info! I'm not familiar with any of this side of things... Query letters or sample pages or where to send my work. I have three books I'm working on, but the one I want to complete first is a memoir. I am going to check out your other videos now!
I dont have a degree from college, I've only worked in retail for the past few years, and I'm only 21 years old. I've been working on a massive book series for the past 6 years and now I’ve started on my very first book. I have a lot of anxiety and stress over getting published and finding an agent. Any advice is welcome 😅
Great to find you... Am about to check out all your videos...Hope there's one with tips on how to describe a book that is somewhere between magical realism/fantasy and speculative upmarket fiction... And how to search for agents who enjoy genre-bending :+> Thank you, Alyssa!
We have just completed the first draft of a series of books with a tight group of successful international entrepreneurs based in Guangdong China. There stories and experiences and how they got to where they are and the challenges they went through to get the understanding they have. The experiences have many famous people from many different industries and there interactions with the entrepreneurs, both good and bad. The first book is focused on an international fashion creator and the European fashion industry and the mafia within it. I hope you can help to look at which agent and genre to look for. Thank you soo much for your content. I’ll go look at your other videos.
Wow! Thank you so much for all this info, it’s great. Do you know how I go about finding an Agent? How do I go about contacting them? Like is there a list of agents to contact?
Are you in the process of querying agents? Let me know how it's been going.
Im querying again this year. So far it has been just rejection letters, but 3 of those rejections had concrete feedback that gave me clear aspects to work on before my next round.
That’s great - it’s a really good sign when you get personalized rejections that identify areas for improvement. Keep at it!
Soon(probably in 3 to 4 months)... actually that reminds me-it would be great if you could do a video on long synopses( for fiction novels), as I've been struggling to find information on how to write one.
Great videos. I will be following your channel.
@@FF-FAN9999 Great topic! Synopses can be tricky. I'll put it on my list!
@@AlyssaMatesic The first time I wrote a unique cookery book, i self-published and now I have begun writing my second cookbook which is another unique one nobody in the world has written. Upon completion of my 2nd cookbook, i will want a literary agent to represent me and approach a major traditional publisher on my behalf like the Penguin group or Dorling Kindersley. Because it is a more cost effective way of getting books published and they do all the marketing for you. I made the mistake of going self-publishing my first cookbook which has endured alot of upfront costs and my book sales are struggling.
I’m so RELIEVED you didn’t mention “strong social media presence”!
That only matters more in the nonfiction department and only in specific genres of that.
Amen to that!
@@nairsheasterling9457 + Would that be the case for women's inspirational/spiritual non fiction? It's actually a blend of both fiction and non fiction narrative. No business!
@@cristinadriviera8144 Yeah, it would be the same. Unless you are someone - like a politician or a famous person - no publishing company is going to want that kind of book from you. It's hard enough to get representation for fiction as a debut novel. It is even harder to get representation for a book that is not strictly speaking fiction, or for nonfiction, and impossible if you do not already have a speciality in your field and/or major name recognition.
Thank YOU!
I literally have hundreds of rejection letters from submissions through the years, and am at a point where I have 11 completed books, 9 of which are fiction novels, a trilogy, two singles, and a series of 5. I'm preparing to pitch 5 of the projects to various studios, and have felt the old enthusiasm come back enough that it's possible I'm finally ready to start approaching agents again. It would be lovely to see if any of my projects can spark their interest. Thank you for putting these videos out, I just found them and have gratefully subscribed.
TH-cam and self publish on Amazon. You only need to take one look at the garbage they churn out in the mainstream to realise there's no shame in it.
What the hell! People like you scare me. Im struggling to even finish my first book and you have written 11 wtf
lol Adam, don't sweat it man, I've been writing for over 42 years (started playing around with shorts when I was about 12) You're gonna do fine! Just don't give up, and remember, a first draft is the first step! You got this! @@adamatherton8562
I've been writing for 42 years starting with shorts when I was about 12. You got this! @@adamatherton8562
Well done with the huge output, but how come you haven't tried self publishing?
As a talent manager myself and having been an agent for years I must say this is GREAT.
Thank you! 🎉
How do I find an agent?
Hi Dan. Can you recommend a romance agent?
:)
I have a wonderful novel that’s fun and entertaining. I would be happy to pitch my book to you.
Learning about getting an agent and publishing has always been so stressful for me that I find it hard to even continue writing. Thank you for making this whole process easy to understand and like it's not a complete fantasy to have my book published
Same
Thank you for letting us know we don’t have to stress about market/genre and the like. I just want to write creatively without stressing what box my story goes into.
I'm 49 years old and just sat here taking notes like in my college days. Very helpful information. Thank you for your videos.
Thank you so much, that means a lot! So glad you found it helpful.
I really enjoyed your video. I loved the fact that you spoke more about the human side of what an agent is looking for rather than simply the business of publishing and what it really means to work with an agent. Awesome video.
Yours was actually the first TH-cam video I checked out and to say that it was informative would be an understatement. As a first-time author I was definitely overwhelmed with the process. It didn't help that I battled continuously for almost a year with some guy that I paid to assist in editing. He left a very nasty taste in my mouth. But ultimately I wrote one of the best books that I personally have ever read in my entire life. I'm not patting my own back and I have had about 10 different unbiased individuals read my book and nine out of 10 said it was one of the best books they have ever read in their entire life. But with the book completed, everything came to a standstill because my editor had convinced me he knew how to get the book published and nothing went forward from that point. Bottom line I appreciate the video very much! And yes in the last couple days I have submitted to agents for review. Hopefully good things will come my way.
So glad you found my video helpful - best of luck in the query trenches!
You are right. Trust is a big thing. As a writer I was to worried about ppl stealing my idea so I stopped seeking an agent. Glad I ran across your channel
A+ for the sound engineering alone. Well done! Bravo! Ole! Namaste, etc.
Thank you so much! Glad you liked it.
Yes! I have hearing problems. Your enunciation is fantastic.
This is super helpful! I'm currently doing some revisions before sending the book to an agent so I can put my best work forward. Hoping to query this year, so I'm keeping this stuff in mind.
Thanks so much and best of luck!
I'm so grateful I found your channel. I have a Dystopian story/ series inside of me that I KNOW is gold! I considered self publishing but I don't have a platform or following and I don't want to stifle my story from actually getting out there! My only credentials are a B.A. in English Lit and a personal blog I haven't actually been consistent with lol Self doubt has been keeping me from moving forward with trying to get an agent but this video has helped to give me hope that it's actually possible for me! Thank you. 😌
Thank you so very much for so much clarity on the query process. Still, I am unsure of whether to self publish or to seek an agent diligently. 😩 this is nerve wrecking. I finally have the time to slow down the rest of life to do this and not all people I’ve taken the time to listen to have been as generous. It can be so frustrating. Truly appreciated. 🙏🏼
Haha, I'm here to help! Best of luck with whatever path you choose to take!
Great, thanks for this video! Super helpful!
I just got my agent and he asked me to write ✍️ my book proposal and first chapter of my book 📕🌹🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸😇🎬👸🏼🏆🌎♥️☮️
Congratulations! Best of luck with the book proposal and first chapter!
Thank you so much for putting out this video, Alyssa! I've written my first novel (a Young Adult comedy), and am in the process of querying agents for the same! I wish you all the best in your personal endeavours, and health and happiness along the way! :D
Good luck!
I just finished the last period mark of my first novel. Diving in deep to the publishing side now. Thanks for all the great advice!
Congrats on making it through the first draft!
I’m in the same boat. I thought writing the book was hard but daaaaaammmmmn… I’m glad to see I’m not alone though.
Thank you so much for the video! I'm not ready to pursue an agent, I need to write samples and research agencies. I found this video very helpful as broad advice. I'll happily review your other videos
Best of luck when you do query!
Thank you very much for your positive advice. I am a German writer and talking to an agency these days. Your Video fills me up with good energy and knowledge❤.
Thank you for this video- I'm subscribing. I've queried to 44 agents since December with no requests. These tips among others are helping me revamp my query letter. I'm determined to get this manuscript into the right hands.
44??? I gotta give you respect for not giving up. My first novel, I gave up after 8 rejections and self-published on Amazon which I regret now. I hope your perseverance pays off soon!
This is very informative and much more helpful than the articles I’ve read so far. I’ve been researching query letters and literary agents for a long time trying to find the best approach. It would seem that I may be overthinking it a bit.
Glad it was helpful!
i can watch and listen to this lady all day long
Great video! This is helping me build confidence as I begin my search for a literary agent.
Greatly enjoyed your 5-step agent hunting preso; thanks. It contained a tremendous amount of logic and common sense, not so common anymore. I can see where the selection process for an agent is just as important as the acceptance policies for an agent to find a writer; the two are intertwined yet separate in function. I am currently writing something never before introduced to the reading public: A memoir of a female Mong rufugee surviving the long journey to America at 10 years old, only to face a new horror in the US in the close-knit Mong community in Minnesota. It's an incredible tale that will not only keep reader's interest, but keep the eyes moist along the way.
I have not yet begun the agent-hunting process. We're deciding on either self-publishing or traditional; We prefer the traditional route first...with a like-minded agent.
I found this video extremely clear and helpful. You allayed some of my concerns, particularly around the dynamic between author and agent. Thank you for producing it.
Thank you so much, I'm so glad you found it helpful!
This is great, but WHERE do I find contact I for these literary agents? And query letters … physical or digital?? Thank you!! 💜
Query Tracker is where I’m finding people.
Thank you so much for making this video. It's so great to get honest information in a business that otherwise I would have no idea how to navigate.
Oh, and I promise I will never threaten an agent. :)
Best agent advice ever!
Liked and subscribed.
I am currently looking for an agent for my series and have been following the instructions given in the writers and artist yearbook.
This video has been a big help.
These videos are fantastic! Thank you so much! Just sent out my first query yesterday for my commercial psychology manuscript. Hoping for the best! Thank you again for these amazing videos, Alyssa!
Best of luck!
Did it work?
First time I have felt encouraged about my quest. One victory serves as an eraser for all past defeats
Exactly! Best of luck!
I'm hoping to start querying my first book later this year. I honestly think writing out the query letter and sending it out is more stressful than writing and revising the book!
Querying can be both tedious and stressful, so I definitely understand, but encourage you to push through. Best of luck!
@@AlyssaMatesic Thank you!
I am going through all of your posts. I've published two books and went the self-publishing -hybrid route. I am at the point of 'pulling my hair out. My plan is to learn from you, and see if I can find a literary agent who believes I have a worthy 'literary work.' 4-26
I’m starting the querying process after writing my novel/series for the last 11 years. These are great tips, thanks!
You got this!
@@AlyssaMatesic thanks! I hope so. Lifelong goal/dream has been to be a career author. So ready for this journey
Thank you so much for this video Alyssa. I really enjoyed your advice and helpful style. I am a published author in the fields of leadership and sustainability. My books are published by well-know leading publishers. However, I have concern that these books have not been able to reach a large audience, mainly due to the prices set by the publishers. There are two new books I wish to write: “Beyond Sustainability” and “The Wisdom Code” and I wish to reach a large audience in order to support humanity’s evolution to a better future. A colleague is encouraging me to use an agent but this is new territory to me. I welcome any thoughts you may have.
This was very helpful. Thank you. It was honest, and you gave clear direction. I especially liked what you had to say about "trust."
Very helpful. Thank you :)
I am presently seeking a literary agent for my second novel(I self published my first with Balboa press/Hayhouse- The Hero Within/LaLonde. As an athlete my entire life it was easy to showcase my talent. In the literary game I must learn how to showcase my writing talents with the world. I am ready! Great video Alyssa, thanks...*
Love your videos! I’m working on a coffee table book, and so am just learning all of the ins and outs of publishing so that I can be a great addition to the other writers that they represent!
Thank you Alyssa, this post is extremely helpful. I plan to use your entire series to find a Literary Agent and get my novel published.
Very good video. Today we finally agreed on something. I see from your comments, it still comes down to one main thing, the story!I was glad that you said that writers don’t have to have all the credentials and be the best and what they do.
Just like Hollywood, they keep remaking older movies.They can’t find anything new, to bring to the table. The idea is what’s gonna get it published.
You do a good job with your information , video.
I’m finishing off writing my high fantasy book I’ve worked on for years. I’ve wanted to write books for a living for years and attract a fanbase. This helps. I hope this year I can find someone
Fingers crossed for you!
You can do it from us in India. Much cheaper. If interested plz inbox... Goodday
I hope you find the right people to work with!!!
Hi Alyssa. I really enjoy your TH-cam posts. Very informative. I was wondering how to go about finding a list of agents in the magical realism genre?
Hi there! Did you hear back from Alyssa? This is my question as well.
You are so wonderful. Thank you for this informational video! ♥️
This is great advice, Alyssa. Thanks for sharing your perspective and insight!
Great Video. Thank you.
Glad you liked it!
Alyssa's advice up-front is key: "Patience." Johnny Worthen described breaking into the literary world as game after game of roulette.
Marketability has always looked like the biggest barrier to my eyes for those who want to traditionally publish. A mediocre book at marketable moment is the right book. A fantastic book at unmarketable time is the wrong book. Easier to publish general adult fiction and romance than other genres. Etc.
This is especially true right now. I've asked around and sent some queries. Seems like we're dealing with one of the most challenging landscapes in recent memory. "The market is competitive and I have to be able to sell this," is what I'm seeing.
Agents surely dream of partnering with an author whose work sets the bar...yet a lot of copycats fill bookshelves. Like writers, agents have dreams as well as practical realities. I don't envy their job.
Until then, we all keep playing roulette.
@danielmartin8913+ Don't worry one little bit about the field as it is at present. YOU are the vortex. LOVE your work. Allow the presence that impacted you in the first place to write what you did to overwhelm you again. Slam the doors in your mind that try to lure you into those dark alleyways of doubt!
Bless you and all your efforts.
I would love a list ! My book is about Grief and injustice that surrounds it.
I self-published my first book of a series., but I have been thinking of going the traditional route, that is, if I can find the right agent for my genre.
Thanks so much. Super informative. I'm hooked on your content.
I wish I would have found you years ago. Then my second book may have ended up being traditionally published.
Well, I hope the letter will get the agents interest and my story. At least I try to be different with my characters and story that I don't see around.
btw, you so easy to listen too. These 14 min felt like 3 min.
Hiya! Saw your post on reddit. Decided to leave a comment.
Great things you have here so far! Wish you the best of luck. Thanks for sharing all this cool information :D
Thanks so much for checking out my channel! Wish you the best too!
@@AlyssaMatesic no problem! Hope you go far! TH-cam is tough :)
Just finished my first book Ms.Matesic, sending it to ALL THE AGENTS
Congratulations! Good luck in the query trenches!
Very informative. Thank you.
Ahhhhhh Alyssa, love the info it was very helpful.I wrote a book called Another New York Moment. Real stories (One page ) with a cartoon on the opposite page depicting the stories. IT went 5 stars on Amazon rather quickly. I'm about to finish ANYM 2 in November and have a 3rd maybe 4th for 2023/2024 . What should my query letter consist of ? Your new fan and subscriber
John Paolillo
Hi Alyssa, I have really been enjoying your videos! Great points in this one about Market Fit & Enthusiasm!
This was very helpful, thank you. I'm only at the beginning of drafting my query letter, and researching agents to send it out to. I feel like I'm flying blind in this process, so any suggestions are much appreciated!
Thank you for sharing! You are so well-spoken and engaging!
Thank you so much for watching!
Thanks for the tips... Brilliant 😀 I found this video a great help and very direct. Cheers.
Glad it was helpful!
Hey Alyssa I would like to know if you should wait until everything is finished if you are writing and you know it will encompass multiple books. Alternatively, you may begin reaching out to publishers and agents sooner rather than later and tell them, "I have a few novels ready, but there are a couple more on the way. Many thanks for taking the time to respond to my query 💓.
❤❤❤
Good luck with your channel in 2021! I hope you'll get much more subscribers, you're really nice to listen to.
Thanks so much! I appreciate it!
I have enjoyed your video and found your information very helpful! I have self-published a few children's books and found this very rewarding! I was wondering if there would be any problem if I want to use the traditional publishing route for my next book? Thank you! Sue Christopherson
Wonderful! I'm so glad you're branching out to traditional publishing, and I don't see why your self-published works would be an issue. It all shows that you're serious about being a professional author. Best of luck!
This should come in handy, added to watch later
Great set of videos. Is there any impact when go thru the process for traditional publishing if the book has previously been self-published as an ebook?
Thanks for all your great advice, Alyssa! I stumbled upon you because I have decided I need a literary agent, even though I have four books published and another in production now. However, I have a memoir about my love for nature that I have been unable to find a publisher for. It is a genre my publisher doesn't accept.
Best of luck with your memoir!
@@AlyssaMatesic thank you! I have sent out a submission today.
Steve: Please keep on pushing wiith your book!!! Connection to nature is SO needed now in our culture - in fact, I can't think of a more important subject.
@@janetvansky3621 thanks for your encouragement! I have to admit I got discouraged with trying to find a home for Nature Boy and have been trying to promote other writings of mine, including my Ocean Aid music project and the songs "Mother Nature Rap," "Time For Ocean Aid" and "Where Does All The Plastic Go?" that go with it.
I’ve finished my first draft and have just started going back and editing. I started querying a bit when I first finished my draft, but have since realised I should work on it more first. It’s my first novel and I’m really intimidated by the business end of things. I also really don’t know how to find the right literary agent for me. This was really helpful though, thanks!
Thanks so much for sharing...I am a writer of Childrens books, and I am interested in having them published the traditional way. I would like to know how the illustrator becomes involved in the process.
awesome advice, I'll keep this in mind.
Thank you this video. Though I am still nervous when it comes to finding a literary agent.
Alyssa, Thank you! This was a well-done video and helpful. I'm researching agents for my historical novel that is now in draft three. I've worked with a writing coach and I'm getting ready to write query letters, a synopsis, and search for a literary agent. Any up-to-date Sept 2021 advice, books, podcasts, or other venues for learning are greatly appreciated. Thanks! Kim
This is so helpful.
Thank you!
Thank you. This was fantastic. I'm just about to embark on this journey and preparing myself for how to go about the agent process. The story I have has been with me for over 20 years but only in the last 3-4 years has it really become a serious undertaking, with a career in mind. The advice given in this video was great and I've subscribed in order to check out more. I'm incredibly excited. I remember reading somewhere that writing a novel is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration, and I couldn't agree more. Sending off my work is going to be a rollercoaster (good and bad) and I can't wait. Thank you for your help.
Very informative. Thanks Alyssa.
Thanks for the information! I did wonder, is having a following prior to querying important as well?
I've self published around 15 illustrated books/graphic novels. I have a BFA, an Associate's and a certificate in computer graphics. I make money off my art and books and sometimes digital music, I am looking for a literary agent for graphic novels/illustrated books. I use Lulu and have a large shopify store. I"ve been marketing with Facebook and TH-cam ads
Hello, just found your channel and i think your videos are amazing and a great help. I have a questions. Does these tips apply for everywhere in the world or just in USA? As im closing my debut novel i really need to know that :) Thanks and greetings from Bulgaria.
This was a genuinely very helpful video. Thanks.
Congratulations on the channel. Great information presented clearly and from an obviously knowledgeable point of view. Just subscribed/thumbed up since I´m writing a book and found it really useful. Also, your production values on these latest videos have gone way higher than before and it shows!(except for the last 50 seconds, heheh). As a tip, and this is just a personal taste, did you consider adding a header (i.e. right after you finish your sentence at 0:18?) It could be just your name and role, to really push your brand. That would "automagically" give you an intro. Just my 2 cents as I´m not an expert on your topic, but I´m strong at video editing.
Thank you so much for the kind words! Happy to have you here! That's a great idea to add an intro header - I appreciate it.
Bravo Alyssa, great advice.
Thanks for the comment!
Any tips on how to search for agents? Should we search them by the genre they specialize in?
It sounds to me that there may be some age discrimination working against writers in their 70s and 80s if a big consideration is "long term" beyond one book. Many seniors are in good health and writing keeps them young. Just curious to see what your observations are about this touchy subject.
Yes to go along with all the other restrictions right?
my advice is to remember, your pen has no age restrictions... adapt to appeal.
I hadn't thought about this but maybe it is why I often don't get any response. I am 69.
Thanks for the video. I am currently on the final draft of my first Book and I am not quite sure how to go about finding an agent? Have you got any suggestions for me? thanks again for the video.
Excellent ... Your success is there success.
Yes!
Great inside advice. Thank you !
You are a God sent. Thank you.
So true, I’ve been looking for months. The problem has been a lot of them are one sided. What do I mean? Every single one of them at one agency focuses on all the same topics. Any diversification of genre was essentially splitting hairs. I couldn’t even query yet because the literary agency’s I’ve decided are the most reliable, have good BBB reputation, and have many comps and content in my genre just aren’t looking in those areas anymore. It’s a bummer, I have two books written. Done 12th draft, beta read, 152,000 word between the two books. Books 1 and 2 done. 3 is on the drawing board. There’s another completely different book I have written in my head. It’s tough to network right because you’re kind of an outsider when you’re just starting out. They’re all over the country and like you said. Hundreds of submissions from likeminded authors like you.
I love Knight Agency, The Star Trek Books, Coda, Mass Effect etc. that they’ve published, many book I own and are comps to my own, great cover art. They’re top notch and I totally get it. They have to go with what’s selling and what’s working. But it would be a an honor to work with them.
Alyssa, you rule! Thanks for the help!
I am writing an autobiography with a political bent.
Hello Alyssa. My name is Sammy Lee Lykens and I've been a Singer/Songwriter/Pianist for most of my career. A number of years ago I came off the road from touring in Southern Gospel music and began writing Inspirational Poetry. To make a "long" story short. Just this week, I received a call from a Literary agent who received great reviews about my work. So, we began a partnership, and the query letter was written by his company, and he sent it to four of the major publishing companies in the US, including Harper Collins, which is the one he's pushing for. So, needless to say, I'm quite excited, knowing I have a great agent representing my work. I really enjoyed your input on this video, and just wanted to share with you, that my journey has begun. Please feel free to respond to me if you'd like to read a sample or two of my work. God Bless You.
Hi Alyssa, very informative video and feedback in the comments. When it comes to international writers, will Amercian literary agents and publishing houses be willing to assess manuscripts written by non-native English speakers? I am a writer from Germany with reasonable English knowledge, at least enough to be able to write a book in English. But as the story takes place in the USA and people speak like Americans (as opposed to British), it would make sense to address only American agents with this project.
Absolutely! I would try querying both US and UK agents, can't hurt!
I have been querying to no avail. It's really hard getting rejected over and over. I have heavily researched, have gotten professional help, and have heavily edited my manuscript. I worked for days on my query. I research every agent I come across to make sure I'm not wasting either of our time. I am at a crossroads where I either need to realize I don't have talent or I just don't have the luck I've heard you need during this process.
Very informative. I would like to be frank as much as possible. I write in all the genres.
How do I find an agent for children's books. Is there a difference? Do they do all of it....or specialize?
I need a good lead so I can make a new best friend!
Much-appreciated, thank you.
Thanks so much for this info! I'm not familiar with any of this side of things... Query letters or sample pages or where to send my work. I have three books I'm working on, but the one I want to complete first is a memoir. I am going to check out your other videos now!
I dont have a degree from college, I've only worked in retail for the past few years, and I'm only 21 years old. I've been working on a massive book series for the past 6 years and now I’ve started on my very first book. I have a lot of anxiety and stress over getting published and finding an agent. Any advice is welcome 😅
Great to find you...
Am about to check out all your videos...Hope there's one with tips on how to describe a book that is somewhere between magical realism/fantasy and speculative upmarket fiction... And how to search for agents who enjoy genre-bending :+> Thank you, Alyssa!
We have just completed the first draft of a series of books with a tight group of successful international entrepreneurs based in Guangdong China. There stories and experiences and how they got to where they are and the challenges they went through to get the understanding they have. The experiences have many famous people from many different industries and there interactions with the entrepreneurs, both good and bad. The first book is focused on an international fashion creator and the European fashion industry and the mafia within it. I hope you can help to look at which agent and genre to look for. Thank you soo much for your content. I’ll go look at your other videos.
Thank you so much for sharing this information, it is very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Wow! Thank you so much for all this info, it’s great. Do you know how I go about finding an Agent? How do I go about contacting them? Like is there a list of agents to contact?