Questions for Agents

I posted on Kidlitcentral today about Questions for Agents. Check it out or see below.


Have you ever wondered what you would say if you got the call to be represented? Or maybe after your excitement died down if you, in fact, said the right thing? Do you have some questions written down for that big moment so you won’t be flustered?
Here are a few gems I’ve come across. Some you should know before you send in your manuscript.
Who are some of your authors?
How many clients do you represent?
Are you a member of the AAR?
What publishers have you worked with?
What is your vision for my book?
Will you work with me on revisions, if necessary?
Do you keep your clients informed about correspondence with editors? Rejections?
What is your commission rate for U.S. sales? Foreign sales? Film rights? Audio rights?
What expectations do you have for your clients?
Do you have an agent-author contract?

Of course you don’t want to inundate them with all these questions at once. Find out a little bit about their personality and if they would fit with you best. It’s like marriage. Hopefully you’ll be together for a long time.

How to Get a Literary Agent by Michael Larsen –this book is fantastic, check it out for more details.

ALA award winner calls

I loved hearing the winners reactions. It made me cry. Congratulations to all.

Okay, I have no idea how to make this look like a video? I tried to add it, but it won't let me.

http://alfocus.ala.org/videos/2009-youth-media-awards-winner-calls

Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day has never really been a big deal for me. The flowers are way too expensive, it's too crowded at the restaurants, and I definitely don't need all the chocolates. Usually my DH doesn't get me much because my birthday is in February and he goes all out for that which is great by me. But...this Valentine's he asked what I wanted and I told him I wanted him to make me a card. I really didn't think he would do it.

I got home from my critique group this morning and he had printed me out a card with a poem he had written in it. It was very sweet and touched me more than any other present could have. So I guess he's a keeper. :)

Hope you all got exactly what you wanted from your Valentine.

Darcy Pattison's PB retreat

Over the weekend, I went to Darcy Pattison's Picture Book Retreat. It was more than I ever anticipated. She gave superb suggestions on how to make your picture book stand out. From coming up with a focusing statement to new ideas and making dummies to marketing.

It was extremely challenging, but it made me aware that each little word counts.

Lots of great info. I came home with great feedback and lots of new friends. If you get a chance to take it, I highly recommend this workshop.