For fiction and creative non-fiction writers, getting a literary agent is a necessary step in getting your book out there with a mainstream publisher. It isn’t the only way however–you can also enter book competitions, self-publish or approach independent presses. (It’s also worth noting that generally, poets don’t need literary agents nor do many agents handle writers who exclusively write poetry until they’re fairly well-established.)
How do you go about getting an agent? For fiction writers, the first step is to finish your book–agents only take on completed manuscripts. For creative non-fiction, you’ll need some of a work in progress (at least 10-15,000 words and an outline.) You’ll also need a synopsis, good cover letter and research agents who are right for you to approach.
We’ve produced a pitching guide to help you understand how to pitch your work to a literary agent, including advice, guidance and resources:
- Information on literary agents
- Information on publishers for both fiction and non-fiction
- How to find a literary agent
- How to write a synopsis for your book
- Dealing with rejection
- What to do when an agent says yes
Download a PDF version for just £1.99 or order a hard copy for £5+PP.
Payments are via PayPal Express checkout, however if you do not have PayPal, you can pay via credit or debit card. Click ‘Create Account’ when viewing your cart and there will be the option to enter your card details instead.
You might also want to have a look at:
- The Literary Consultancy’s How to Pitch to a Literary Agent
- Writers & Artists’ Ten Steps to Getting a Literary Agent
- Jericho Writers’ How to Get a Literary Agent
- Jericho Writers’ List of UK Literary Agents
Our Writers’ Day at the Southbank Centre as part of the London Literature Festival has also featured insightful panels from literary agents and publishers.
2024: Featuring Salma Begum (Greyhound Literary), Clara Foster (Aevitas Creative Management), Bruno Onuki Reynell (New River Literary) and Amandeep Singh (Good Literary Agency). Watch here.
2023: Featuring Featuring Amy Baxter (Dialogue Books), Leodora Darlington (Owned Voices), Clara Foster (Aevitas) and Jonathan Ruppin (The Ruppin Agency). Watch here.
