How To Get a Literary Agent

Find books and web sites that list agents willing to consider unpublished authors. Make a list of the ones who represent the kind of book you’ve written.

Prepare a one-page cover letter that summarizes your book, and personalize it for each agent.

If you’ve had anything published, like an article or a short story, say so in your letter. But keep any accomplishments or biographical information brief.

Don’t brag that your book is going to “make us both rich” or “be a best seller.” Boasting in a letter isn’t any more appealing than it is in person. Refrain from calling yourself “the next” anyone. That is up to the agent to decide.

Enclose anything else the agent might request, like a summary of your book or the first several chapters. Don’t stray from each agent’s submission guidelines, which should be listed on the agency’s web site or in the resource you used to find the agent.

If you want your manuscript back, include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Send off your package, and then be patient. It could take months for you to hear from an agent. Pestering the person could speed up the process … but probably not in your favor!