How to Get a Literary Agent in 2024 | What Do Agents Look for in Writers?

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Are you in the process of querying agents? Let me know how it's been going.

[@DalCecilRuno]

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.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

That’s great - it’s a really good sign when you get personalized rejections that identify areas for improvement. Keep at it!

[@FF-FAN9999]

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]

@@FF-FAN9999 Great topic! Synopses can be tricky. I'll put it on my list!

[@theraconteurproductions5847]

@@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.

[@mrplatink]

I’m so RELIEVED you didn’t mention “strong social media presence”!

[@nairsheasterling9457]

That only matters more in the nonfiction department and only in specific genres of that.

[@richardday3862]

Amen to that!

[@cristinadriviera8144]

@@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!

[@nairsheasterling9457]

@@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.

[@carlaheine7348]

Thank YOU!

[@ladyjatheist2763]

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.

[@Nutmegsyourman]

KZbin 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.

[@adamatherton8562]

What the hell! People like you scare me. Im struggling to even finish my first book and you have written 11 wtf

[@ladyjatheist2763]

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

[@ladyjatheist2763]

I've been writing for 42 years starting with shorts when I was about 12. You got this! @@adamatherton8562

[@sosimple3585]

Well done with the huge output, but how come you haven't tried self publishing?

[@10percentDan]

As a talent manager myself and having been an agent for years I must say this is GREAT. Thank you! 🎉

[@gj.sandoval2679]

How do I find an agent?

[@SHERSHELDONORANGECOUNTYCAREALT]

Hi Dan. Can you recommend a romance agent? :)

[@diannenarrol8630]

I have a wonderful novel that’s fun and entertaining. I would be happy to pitch my book to you.

[@ashleyrenee5518]

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

[@timefliesaway999]

Same

[@toytalk1460]

I'm 49 years old and just sat here taking notes like in my college days. Very helpful information. Thank you for your videos.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thank you so much, that means a lot! So glad you found it helpful.

[@rogerredford6242]

First time I have felt encouraged about my quest. One victory serves as an eraser for all past defeats

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Exactly! Best of luck!

[@MonicaBryant]

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.

[@yetanotherjohn]

A+ for the sound engineering alone. Well done! Bravo! Ole! Namaste, etc.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thank you so much! Glad you liked it.

[@Doucette767]

Yes! I have hearing problems. Your enunciation is fantastic.

[@amalbissessar282]

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.

[@nickey3872]

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

[@Annabellagutman888]

I just got my agent and he asked me to write ✍️ my book proposal and first chapter of my book 📕🌹🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸😇🎬👸🏼🏆🌎♥️☮️

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Congratulations! Best of luck with the book proposal and first chapter!

[@Xzenergy]

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!

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Congrats on making it through the first draft!

[@williamprice2186]

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.

[@firenze6478]

Good luck. Don’t get scammed like me. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. If you have to ask for criticism, they are probably just buttering you up

[@natureschild53]

Yours was actually the first KZbin 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.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

So glad you found my video helpful - best of luck in the query trenches!

[@themountaintoppsychos916]

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.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thanks so much and best of luck!

[@jeanpascalmonzies8592]

Great, thanks for this video! Super helpful!

[@BelleRose11000]

Best agent advice ever!

[@alinegeryes516]

This is great, but WHERE do I find contact I for these literary agents? And query letters … physical or digital?? Thank you!! 💜

[@grandma-e]

Query Tracker is where I’m finding people.

[@verda_renee]

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. 😌

[@abhishektodmal1914]

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

[@XavierLeong]

Good luck!

[@learnloveteachrepeat]

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. 🙏🏼

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Haha, I'm here to help! Best of luck with whatever path you choose to take!

[@francisworldtoday]

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❤.

[@chadarnold2608]

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.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Notethos]

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

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Best of luck when you do query!

[@benkeafer6869]

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.

[@TheSendakite]

i can watch and listen to this lady all day long

[@jonmeade8493]

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.

[@jonmeade8493]

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.

[@sonnybrittle3865]

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

[@Innerversal]

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!

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Best of luck!

[@oligb1469]

Did it work?

[@dustinharris3]

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.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thank you so much, I'm so glad you found it helpful!

[@danielmartin8913]

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.

[@cristinadriviera8144]

@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.

[@foggyfiction9917]

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!

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Querying can be both tedious and stressful, so I definitely understand, but encourage you to push through. Best of luck!

[@foggyfiction9917]

@@AlyssaMatesic Thank you!

[@donnaandrus2352]

This was very helpful. Thank you. It was honest, and you gave clear direction. I especially liked what you had to say about "trust."

[@spacefrogzoom]

Hi Alyssa. I really enjoy your KZbin posts. Very informative. I was wondering how to go about finding a list of agents in the magical realism genre?

[@amyowen6276]

Hi there! Did you hear back from Alyssa? This is my question as well.

[@danabaker996]

Great video! This is helping me build confidence as I begin my search for a literary agent.

[@cheyannebrown4321]

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.

[@suzybearheart530]

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!

[@frankfreelymejailer1505]

Very informative. I would like to be frank as much as possible. I write in all the genres.

[@JohannesJunkJournalLife]

I would love a list ! My book is about Grief and injustice that surrounds it.

[@studentoftheword6115]

Excellent ... Your success is there success.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Yes!

[@MaraGrace]

I’m starting the querying process after writing my novel/series for the last 11 years. These are great tips, thanks!

[@AlyssaMatesic]

You got this!

[@MaraGrace]

@@AlyssaMatesic thanks! I hope so. Lifelong goal/dream has been to be a career author. So ready for this journey

[@catsclawdesign]

Thanks!

[@Mr_Bawon]

Thank you this video. Though I am still nervous when it comes to finding a literary agent.

[@michaelbrian6564]

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. :)

[@debtfree7338]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@kossamkonyaknaga4279]

I have a script almost done. I hope this video will help. 🙏🙏

[@thatnikkiyouknow]

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!

[@zyangquelyn]

This is so helpful.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thank you!

[@chrys.k.mwarriorsofpiathos1501]

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.

[@kateamaiuli793]

Can you name drop some good literary agents? There are so many, and I have no idea how to find their sales records or how to tell if they can even sell my book.

[@Ais-ue1mc]

I'm a beginner though I was able to finish ed 2 novels now. Still need to rewrite it. I don't know where to start. Thanks for the information you gave on your video. Hoping to find a supportive agent soon. Thanks and God bless.

[@MiaowMcDonald]

do agents ever pass submissions onto colleagues who they think would be a better fit? just curious…

[@missgrenada]

You are a God sent. Thank you.

[@Yourworldwithin]

Very helpful. Thank you :)

[@briannathomas8460]

awesome advice, I'll keep this in mind.

[@livingforjoy1]

You are so wonderful. Thank you for this informational video! ♥️

[@MitchellDee17]

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

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Fingers crossed for you!

[@s.bhattacharjee745]

You can do it from us in India. Much cheaper. If interested plz inbox... Goodday

[@sarahjackson7589]

I hope you find the right people to work with!!!

[@johnpaolillo5516]

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

[@cristina8145735]

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.

[@chrisrosty4491]

Alyssa, you rule! Thanks for the help!

[@chrisrosty4491]

I am writing an autobiography with a political bent.

[@jessi822]

Thank you for sharing! You are so well-spoken and engaging!

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@brooksbythesea]

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!

[@queenkgr4413]

Thank you for this so much

[@charissesnipe1381]

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.

[@recoveringintrovert717]

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.

[@markmarkel5120]

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.

[@brianbanford]

Bravo Alyssa, great advice.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thanks for the comment!

[@JayceWasHereMC]

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

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thanks so much for checking out my channel! Wish you the best too!

[@JayceWasHereMC]

@@AlyssaMatesic no problem! Hope you go far! KZbin is tough :)

[@KevinTumlinson]

This is great advice, Alyssa. Thanks for sharing your perspective and insight!

[@shaeokeefe6936]

Thanks so much. Super informative. I'm hooked on your content.

[@therapybee]

How do I find an editor once my book is complete? how do I find a literary agent?

[@treasured.arrows]

Thanks for the information! I did wonder, is having a following prior to querying important as well?

[@bradwhite2287]

Thanks for the tips... Brilliant 😀 I found this video a great help and very direct. Cheers.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DavidAlanArnold]

Great Video. Thank you.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Glad you liked it!

[@debbiemusselli6772]

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!

[@allyji96]

Good luck with your channel in 2021! I hope you'll get much more subscribers, you're really nice to listen to.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Thanks so much! I appreciate it!

[@TiredMama97]

Can you do a video showing how to navigate publishers marketplace for specific types of genres? Like looking for an agent to represent horror etc?

[@renegadetxt8719]

Any tips on how to search for agents? Should we search them by the genre they specialize in?

[@REDGOATcomicbooks.13]

She so right her video so work List to her 100%

[@bendybruce]

This was a genuinely very helpful video. Thanks.

[@bardofely]

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.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Best of luck with your memoir!

[@bardofely]

@@AlyssaMatesic thank you! I have sent out a submission today.

[@janetvansky3621]

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.

[@bardofely]

@@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.

[@drd_theSPORTSdoc]

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...*

[@cynthiaking5308]

What if you query a book and get no interest. So you revise, re-edit, redo and take the story in a different direction and change the title. What’s the etiquette regarding re submitting? Do they even remember your first go round?

[@markhill8]

Thanks, good guidance

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SarahS-u1s]

This is SO helpful, thank you!

[@AlyssaMatesic]

So glad it was helpful!

[@SarahS-u1s]

@@AlyssaMatesic Alyssa, watching this last night was so timely. This morning I heard from a literary agent who I recently queried my nonfiction title. She asked for the proposal + said we need to figure out the direction my book is going in. We have a bit of a history, so I wasn’t querying her cold. Your video is helping me trust her and the process, thank you.

[@jordendarrett1725]

This should come in handy, added to watch later

[@jordiortega4436]

Great info. Thx! ✨

[@rachelsummerose8457]

Hi Alyssa, Thank you for sharing uplifting, specific advice! I am a writer, singer and teacher who is working on a series of children's books. They would include my music which kids can listen to and sing along with while they read. I live in NYC and would love to connect with an agent or publisher who could partner with me to make this dream a reality!

[@encouragementinformativevlogs]

Thank you so much for sharing this information, it is very helpful.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@charachtercrush6064]

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 💓. ❤❤❤

[@EugeneAntenucciDDS]

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?

[@steverokosh]

Great inside advice. Thank you !

[@liamperrylloyd]

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.

[@phillipbrown7052]

Hi, I wrote a book and want to republish it, do you think they will work with me to republish Ms. Matesic

[@cherylnickerson44]

YES, THIS HELPS!! HOW DO I FIND A LITERARY AGENT!! FOR AN INSPIRATIONAL LIFE STORY FULL OF ROMANCE, TRAVEL, AND EXCITING WORK!! THANKS

[@RachaelDuchess]

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!

[@ProMovieBlogger]

Great tips. Insightful.

[@PenKiller82]

These tips sound personal.

[@tedc2475]

Thank you for the great advise. I wrote a book of short stories a few years ago and self published it. However, I have been busy with my business and have not had the time to try to find a major publisher or an agent. One of my concerns is if there is actually a market for short stories? Except for Tom Hanks, “Uncommon Type”, have not seen others on the market.

[@FablestoneSeries]

question. I've noticed many literary agents ask to know how many others are considering the manuscript at that time. What is the etiquette here? What is considered too many? We can't very well submit to one at a time when they take 6-12 weeks to respond.

[@AlyssaMatesic]

I actually did a video on this subject here!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZSaomyHjp6EeM0

[@arthurpressley5988]

Thanks. Very helpful.