2008 Guide to Literary Agents by Chuck Sambuchino
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Book Reviews of 2008 Guide to Literary Agents
Book Review: DON'T BOTHER!
Summary: 1 Stars
I really don't like doing this because it is so discouraging to fledgling writers, but the truth is the truth. This book and its companion books from Writers Digest are all but useless. The vast majority of agents listed here warn you they are not looking for new clients. What's more, most of those who are looking for new clients are looking for people who have already been published, or they want very specific kinds of material. It should occur to anyone spending their hard earned money every year on these books and others like them that the authors and publishers make THEIR living (writing) off people like you who want to make YOUR living off of the public. These books do serve a purpose, but it is more or less informational, i.e. who is out there and who's not this year.
Besides, 90% of the information in these books is right at your fingertips now if you're reading this. And, lest you think I'm a disgruntled, wannabe writer, there's a review on one of these books by someone who really knows what she's talking about, I wish I could find it for you, but she tells an interesting story about J.K. Rowling, that most of what you read about her success as a result of patience and persistence is BS. Her success was due to incredible luck.
All I'm saying is don't give up, but find a better way than spending your money on books that line the pockets of people who know how hard you struggle to get your name and stories in print and take advantage of that fact.
Book Review: Most Helpful!!
Summary: 5 Stars
As an author...I have found this publication necessary in my line of business. I do so appreciate all the information that it would have taken me forever to find! In stating that; consequently, I would have never been able to find all such given data in the next thousand years. I do recommend "The Guide to Literary Agents"...to all individuals that are searching for an agent. Peggy Inez, Author, [[ISBN 978-159858-400-4
Book Review: Finding an agent
Summary: 4 Stars
This is an annual publication and the 2009 edition is listed for preorder. At this point in time it may be best to wait for the new edition. A good agent is difficult to find and many people are out there looking so read the listings carefully. Don't waste your time or the agent's sending query letters to people who specifically state they do not handle your material. Blind inquires are trashed.
Once you made several selections, go to their website to check agency changes, address changes, or any other pertinent information. This is where all your writing skills come into play and you are exhibiting to a busy stranger your command of the language and professional protocol.
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Book Review: Good starting point - I agree
Summary: 4 Stars
I agree with the reviewer who said this is a good starting point. My husband is a writer who is trying to get published. He uses this as a way to sift through to find those agents who will represent his genre. You still should go online and check out the websites for more updated or specific infomation. However, I think it is priceless to have a book in hand to start your journey. If you have ever tried to go online and search that way, you know how overwhelming it all seems. This book also has a list of conferences which is helpful.Book Review: Good tool,but need to use hand in hand with your computer
Summary: 4 Stars
This is a good book that should be used as a starting point for finding an agent. I am currently using this book and there are a lot of leads in it, however many of them are out of date. You need to use this book in conjunction with the internet. You have to check out the literary agents' websites for up to the date information. Some are no longer accepting new clients, some are only taking email queries, some are only accepting snail mail queries. It is a good tool, but you will need the internet too.