Writers entering the children’s publishing world are often surprised to discover that most major publishers do not accept “unsolicited” – meaning “un-agented” – submissions. This naturally raises the question: “Should I try to find an agent first, or should I submit directly to publishers?”
In most cases, seeking literary representation first is the wisest path. Why? Because a good literary agent does far more than simply “submit your book.”
Agents…
• Understand the marketplace
• Know individual editors’ tastes and interests and strategize submissions accordingly
• Negotiate contracts – and can ask for things you might not be aware of or brave enough to request
• Help shape long-term career goals
• Protect authors’ rights and earnings
In many ways, an agent becomes a writer’s creative and professional partner. The relationship goes way beyond one manuscript. Ideally, it is about building a career.
Editors are overwhelmed with submissions. Agents act as professional curators. When a respected agent submits a manuscript, the editor knows that manuscript has already passed through a layer of professional vetting. Agents also make it their business to know which editors are most likely to respond positively to specific projects. That matters because a rejection from one editor at a publishing house often counts as a pass from the entire house. So strategic submission targeting can make an enormous difference. There are also legal protections when work is submitted through an agent.
Absolutely. Some smaller independent publishers still accept unsolicited manuscripts. Direct submission can also make sense when:
• An editor invited you to submit after a conference or event
• Your manuscript serves a highly specific niche market
• You are pursuing educational or specialty publishing
• You are already professionally connected to a publisher
… But even then, it’s wise to understand what you may be giving up without representation.
Writers are sometimes so eager to secure an agent that they forget something important: the relationship needs to be the right fit. An agent-author relationship is like a marriage. You want compatible communication styles, similar goals, trust, and mutual respect.
The best agent for someone else may not be the best agent for you. And believe it or not, sometimes the wrong agent can be worse than no agent at all. The goal is not simply to sign with the first agent who offers you representation. The goal is to build a thoughtful, sustainable creative career. That takes patience. And often, persistence.
For more information on submitting manuscripts to agents and editors, check out this free training I co-created with author Julie Hedlud, at https://picturebooksubmissions.com/free-training
