Tracy and I have been reading the book “Making the Perfect Pitch-How to Catch a Literary Agent’s Eye” by Katherine Sands over the last few days.  This was a Christmas present from my daughter in the hope of making us feel more prepared for the San Diego State University writer’s conference at the end of January.

So far it has only caused panic among us! 

One agent suggests as a writer you should do your research on each agent and agency; know about who they are and what they do. 

No problem, right?  We have internet, “The Writer’s Market” and several writers’ magazines.  So off we go researching.  We will be prepared!

Agent A:  Fiction requirements- looking for main stream fiction, plot driven novels with a fresh voice.  Perfect, we have just the project to send.  Off it goes.  Two days later, we discover from another source, Agent A does not want to read suspense or thrillers.  Whoops; Wrong agent for that project!

Agent B: Pitch suggestions- just tell me where the book takes place, who is the protagonist and what is the problem that must be overcome.  Oh yeah, what makes your story different.

Agent C: Pitch suggestions- summarize your book in one line.

Agent D: Pitch suggestions- it is all about the author, can I see this person promoting the book.  How will this author’s “sound bites” come across the media?

Agent E: Query letter suggestions- I want to know about your credentials, this impresses me.

(Credentials?  We have credentials?)

Agent F: Pitch suggestions- you have exactly two minutes to impress the Agent, the other eight minutes of you appointment time are a waste if you don’t accomplish this task. (Yikes!)

Agent G: No gimmicks or funny stuff, just give me the goods.

Agent H: Don’t be afraid to be outrageous, everyone has it in them.

Oh yes, and through out the book the words “Author’s Platform” ring.  How are you pre-promoting your book?  Do you have a web site and or blog?  A mailing list?  Where will you appear to promote your book?  Do you have an established author’s endorsement?

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!  When are we supposed to have time to write the book?

I believe ignorance was bliss!

Happy New Year to all!  May 2008 bring everyone prosperity and success, what ever your dreams may be.

Luree

(PS-Does the mailman come on New Years Day?!)