Each week, Friday Finds brings you a round-up of helpful writing, editing, and book marketing tips right here... or in your inbox. Subscribe here.
Happy Friday!
Today's #FridayFinds have something for everyone:
for the traditional publishing crowd, an in-depth article on the business of finding an agent;
for the indie published author, a bold suggestion to pirate yourself;
and for the writer just trying to get a name out there, an upcoming contest deadline and details.
Enjoy these links and enjoy your weekend,
Jessica Hatch
"Agent Provocateur: Finding Representation for Your Book," via Catapult.
It's unlikely that this will be the first "how to find an agent" article you ever read, but it will likely be the most helpful.
Most "how to find an agent" articles are about how one individual author found his or her agent, with specific info that may not impact your query process (e.g. number of agents pitched).
Admittedly, Tony Tulathimutte speaks from his experience landing an agent for his novel Private Citizens, but instead of reaction GIFs and a narrative you've read a billion times, he gives professional advice: questions to ask when meeting a prospective agent, how to weigh one against another for best results, etc.
I come from this world, and I even learned a thing or two, so I encourage you to check it out here.
BTW, my Stress-Free Publicity Guide will be available on this website soon.
To learn more...
To Sell More Books, Pirate Yourself
Now, hear me out.
Or hear Mike Masnick out, rather. His advice to publish the first half of your book online for free is controversial, and certainly not for the faint of heart.
That said, several big name authors like Paulo Coehlo have done this to positive results, including greater reach and book sales.
Would you ever do this? If not, why not? What's the most daring thing you've done to promote your book? Divulge in the comments below!
Deadline Approaching for Prairie Schooner Creative Nonfiction Contest
Illustrious, University of Nebraska-based lit mag Prairie Schooner has been hosting a creative nonfiction contest this summer. It's open to all types of creative nonfiction essays up to 5,000 words, and will be adjudicated by guest judge Esme Weijun Wang.
The contest ends on August 1, so submit your essays now!