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The first thing I did was to read voraciously all my life, mostly in the classics. I also worked as an editor for almost 30 years. When I started writing seriously, I did nearly everything you mention. I got feedback from thoughtful, literate friends. Then I attended a mentoring group at Mt. Hermon and formed an online critique partnership with some of the people I met there. The next year I attended another workshop with Bret Lott, who helped me tremendously. Meanwhile I read lots of books on writing and gradually developed a greater ability to spot my own weaknesses. I also submitted to agents and editors and learned from their feedback. Repeat all the above many times over and you have the education of a writer.

I always wanted a mentor, but that was one thing I've never been able to find. So far I've managed to stumble along without one, but I still hope.

I learned the most from attending ACFW conferences, joining a critique group through ACFW, entering contests with guaranteed feedback, and paid critiques. The book that helped the most: Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight V. Swain. This book can be overwhelming. Read a section at a time and let it digest. The class that cleared the scales from my eyes so that I knew what went in a book and what didn't: Margie Lawson's EDITS System. She has the course on her website.

I learn by doing. I learn by reading and letting what I'm reading feed my writer's instinct.

Most of the time when I've gotten feedback there've been the occasional, "Huh?" comments, but the majority are comments that I was already thinking about. I already knew there were issues, I just needed distance from the manuscript and a second eye.

I've tried using books on writing, but it goes in one ear and out the other. For me, they're too dry and too often come off as "This is the only way to do it and if you don't do it this way you're less of a writer." (At least to me.)

I joined Critique Circle a long time ago but didn't have anything ready to be critiqued so my membership has been deactivated because I wasn't using the site at all.

I joined Book Country and have been getting some valuable information from the discussions there. I haven't gone in to revise anything since posting it there so I can't say anything for how the critiques are helping me with that aspect of things.

The most valuable feedback? My betas. They've given me lots of things to ponder as they've sent my manuscript back to me. The manuscript has shed much wordage because of full and partial critiques my writer friends have offered me.

My advice would be to experiment. Write what tickles your fancy at the moment. (Especially if you're not agented yet.) Write outside your genre, even if it's just a short story from time to time. It'll exercise your creative muscles and might even teach you something about your craft. Read a book or two on writing and see if those unlock your understanding and execution of craft. Find what works best for you and stick to it.

Most writers are active readers, but it sometimes seems that very few of us actively write about the books we read and the traits of the writers we admire.

This is even true of those of us who earn M.F.A.s or frequently participate in writing workshops.

Sure, it's great to get feedback on our own personal writing at a conference, in a classroom, or with a paid editor, and it's actually quite wonderful to read the transformational books in our genres, but not that many of us take time to write longer, sustained pieces about the writers we admire. The analysis of themes, style, and voice seems an essential companion to our own writing practices, and it seems like one of those "things" that most successful writers do on the side.

It forces us to analyze the craft we profess to admire.

Perhaps it's as simple as writing a review online or making marginalia in the books we love, but sometimes it seems that an essential element of writing is the meta-writing: writing about the writing of others.

Study your favorite authors. What about their style sets their books apart? Are their fight scenes edge of your seat? Do their black moments make you cry? Identify those things and then apply them to your own writing.
Conference pitches are great, because generally the agent/editor will tell you why your pitch doesn't work for them.
If you're lucky enough to get a personalized rejection, take a few days to let the sting subside, then go over that puppy. Really look at the reasons they list. Then dig in and fix them.

I've been writing since elementary school put a pencil in my hand and taught me how to string words together. No joke, I've been writing that long and have never been published. It's been close to 30yrs. Even now I'm playing the agent game, seeing if I can finally get one of my stories noticed by somebody.

I never had anybody teach me how to write. English classes do what they can but writing classes were a complete waste of time and money. My best advice to any aspiring or struggling writer is to get all the self-help books to writing that you can get and study them like their words are gold. Read author biographies (like I read Stephen King's On Writing) and find a series of books that help. To me, anything put out by the Writer's Digest editing team I found to be a big help. Other books that claim to have tips and advice, not so much. So when I have people coming to me for help, I tell them not to waste their college time and money in writing classes, don't bother going to conventions unless you're mixed in with a bunch of established writers in YOUR genre, and just spend all the time you have reading and writing.

That's the best advice anybody can give somebody. I took that advice from Stephen King's book and then when I was stuck, I found myself asking Lynsay Sands, Madeline Baker, and Kerrelyn Sparks for some advice. They had some fascinating advice: No writer ever likes what they've written. So here's the way I look at it: I may think it sucks but really, it probably doesn't.

The best encouragement i got was from my sister-in-law who write, CretingBrains.com. She said, "Sana, you know a lot! When you start writing, you'll see. It will come to you. You won't believe how much you have to say." Now when I get stuck, when no words come, I remember this, the panic ebbs away and I start to write. That has taught me a lot.
However, before this, I studied. I studied and I studied and worked really hard at getting the knowledge base that I have. I gained part of my platform before I even started writing, just by earning my degrees.
It hasn't all been easy but being friendly to myself isn't supposed to always be easy.
I share this story with others. Just write what you know. Go towards your interests, but also your credentials. Blend your asets, using your temperament as your guide. Keep on.

First & foremost, read, especially in your genre. Then work with as many critique partners as you can and really listen to what they have to say. And read books like James Scott Bell's Plot and Structure. Outstanding reference! Then just keep on writing.

I read, read and read – everything I could get my hands on. Then when I was old enough to go to university, I got a degree in a writing-related field. And because that wasn’t enough, I went for the master’s. I wrote literary fiction, submitted to literary journals and worked at a literary journal. Almost of my job titles have had the word “writer” or “editor” in them, and I continue to work as a freelance writer today.

None of this experience prepared me for what I really wanted to do: write genre fiction. That was a steep learning curve. I read numerous romance novels -- single-title and category -- and studied the structure and style. I doubt I’d be able to do this, had I lacked a formal education, but let’s face it: studying with Famous Novelists of Literary Fiction was never going to teach me how to write romance.

I’ve received the best feedback my entering contests and from critique partners thus far. I would like to work with an experienced editor with great credentials and have the opportunity to do so. Regardless of what happens with my current m.s., I feel it would behoove me to experience the process as though I were publishing a novel. Rachelle, your thoughts? ☺

Oddly enough, I learned to write almost entirely through A) reading and B) writing fanficion. I know, I know - fanfiction isn't 'original', nor is it usually edited, but you learn a lot that way. I learned the importance of keeping a reader's attention at all times, grammar (because people love to correct it), and when to tone down the descriptions. Plus, I pounded out at least 200,000 words in the eighth grade because I wasn't worried about perfection. That really, really helps. :)

I always tell the Journaling Club at a Secondary school where I am a weekly guest speaker, that to be able to write you need to read. I read and read and read some more. I write, mostly journaling my life in East Africa at the moment, and submit to many publications as I can. I often don't get feedback but I take a deep breath and re-submit to another publication. I am way to far out in the African bush to join a Writers' Circle or Critique group and continue to practice to write on my own. In between I read, read and read.

The best thing that ever happened once I realized I am a writer, is the permission to read.

My father was a reader. And a book hoarder. I take after him in many ways.

Mother . . . wasn't so understanding. She would catch me reading (I was a young pre-teen and younger, mind you) and would sigh. "I wish I had time to read." Or she would say "It must be nice to be a lady of leisure."

So I would hole up in my room to read. Thankfully I married a man who loves to read. And his only request was that I keep it down to one book a day.) Which I sometimes do. =)

But to have permission to read. To have reading to be a requirement. What Bliss!

I'm on my 4th paid coach. I love the feedback but it is frustrating that what one instructed me to do, another says never do. "This is not telling. This is ok". The next, "No, this is telling. Take that out." Same passage.

Or "These are talking heads unless you show me the action. Make it real. Ground it with physical action."
Next coach: "No, take that out. Slows down the pace showing their physical action. Just have them talk."

I attended my first writer's conference a few years ago. Donald Maass taught the first class I ever went to. It was the best introduction to the world of writing. Later I bought his books on the Breakout Novel and I use them to write my first historical novel. It is so much fun.

Reading and studying the techniques used by my favourite authors was one of the most important things I did. I still do it, whether it's a book, a movie or a television show. I always want to learn more ways to tell my story.

Sweet post, Rachelle.

I offered similar advice on the post I wrote this past Monday: http://katieganshert.blogspot.com/2011/05/are-you-growing.html

One of my most valuable "learning" situations came when I landed a job at a university as the PR writer.

I thought I knew how to write, but I learned that I had so much more to learn. My boss had been a long time editor for the Detroit News, and he was demanding but also a great teacher. He taught me to tighten up my work, to meet deadlines, to write radio ad scripts, to do interviews--

During the time I worked for him I totally rewrote my novel Mother Earth Father Sky (5 a.m. mornings), and Doubleday bought it the year after I finished that rewrite. I owe so much to so many people who were willing to help me learn.

I've been going back to basics lately, Rachelle. I think we can sometimes get so bogged down into doing ALL the "right" things - visit the right sites, make the right connections, learn the right rules - and forget to bury ourselves deep within our stories. I've spent some time the last few months reminding myself why I'm writing, what I want to write long-term, who I want to be as a writer, and the types of readers I hope to reach. All of those things have led me back to falling in love with storytelling. I figure if I can find and craft the right stories, then I should be able to persevere through the disappointments because I'm doing what I love to do. So my advice? Learn to love storytelling - find the right stories, then write them. Many of them. (oh, and invest in a wonderful library of the best books on craft, plot, structure, character, etc.)

I especially underscore your final point: "You simply write and read and write and read and trust your instincts." Immersing yourself in good writing and practicing writing are essential. These form the double hook from which all other suggestions hang. I've known people who subscribe to writer mags, who attend conferences, who talk about writing... but who don't actually study successful authors and don't practice the craft regularly. That's a recipe for failure.

Also,there's the reality that, just as not all people can become brain surgeons or airlines pilots, not all people can become publishable authors. It's not failure for a person to realize that his/her true gifts lie elsewhere.

Everything you've listed is valuable, but for me the ultimate method of learning is doing-failing-adjusting-doing some more-lather, rinse, repeat.

I compare learning to be a writer with my progression as a baseball play, specifically a pitcher. I read articles, I attended baseball clinics, I talked with other pitchers, and I practiced...and practiced...and practiced. Everything clicked except my curve ball. Then, one day, a big league catcher pointed out one simple thing I was doing wrong, I put it into practice, and everything jumped a notch. I didn't make it to the bigs, but I became a pretty good mid-level pitcher. My writing has gone the same way.

I'm surprised that people say many creative writing classes are a waste of time. Any idea why? (I guess it depends on the qualifications of the teacher.)

All great tips. Especially that last one. I think I read somewhere that you have log 10,000 hours of writing before you submit your first manuscript. The simple process of writing teaches you to write.

Blogging REALLY helps with this, because as you log those 10,000 hours, you can hopefully get some feedback, and build your platform along the way.

@ Jeremy-
I've heard that 10,000 hours of practice is needed to master anything, too. Maybe this also includes reading: 10,000 hours of reading quality writing would help immensely in helping us learn what is good writing and how to do it. Just a thought.

I’m still learning. Hope that’s always the case. I’ve done pretty much everything on the list you provided. My degree in English with a writing concentration certainly enabled me invest a lot of time in reading and writing. I was also able to gauge my preparedness by the positive responses I received once I began sending out my short stories and nonfiction works.

And I like Doc’s point about putting things into practice. It’s one thing to read about sentence structure and story arc and it’s another to mold and apply lessons learned in your own work.

Here are some other thoughts:
Don’t get stuck on one book
Read agent blogs
Take risks
When you read other books in your genre, take notes on what works and what doesn’t

I posted this on my blog a few days ago…“'When you write a story, you’re telling yourself the story…When you rewrite your main job is taking out all the things that are not the story.’” from Stephen King’s On Writing

~ Wendy

In this age of computers and networking and all things about togetherness, it all does come back to writing. I wonder how all those famous and nearly famous writers did it before the advent of computers and networking. They didn't go in for books on writing or conferences or classes or critique groups, they simply wrote. And they kept writing, refining, reading and writing some more.

You're right. It all comes back to writing.

I read a lot of books--in my genre and other genres. I read a lot. I write every day. I never give myself the "gee you've mastered it at last" talk. I read craft books. I am a member of the RWA and three smaller romance writing chapters. I attend workshops. I have solid critique partners. I pay attention to blogs with solid writing advice. I enter contests (but no longer for the feedback, just to get past the first round gauntlet). I tell myself that every rejection I get is a YES to learning my craft and becoming a better writer. I am getting better, but I have to work hard. Very hard. The closer I get, the more I believe I have to learn.

Well, I'm not published so I don't know that I "know" the answer but I read alot across mainstream and Christian and nearly every genre. I've connected with published authors across genres. I am on Writing.com and Scribophile.com (though because of family and other writing commitments haven't been there in a while) so I review/critique others work. I voluntarily write scripts for the preschool department at my church and get feedback there. I post book reivews on my blog and sites such as Amazon and GoodReads. I read some books on the craft of writing but mainly for the technical stuff such as query letters. I don't attend workshops or take classes due to time. I guess we'll see how far this approach takes me ;)

Extensive reading led to extensive writing, but the thing that really honed my craft was having an excellent but sometimes overly zealous editor. She really helped me find and hone my voice and clean up my prose. It was good for me that she was overly zealous, though, because it made me fight for the parts that I really believed in and felt were necessary to my voice and the story, and those were often the pieces that made the work its best.

One more thing, I watch TV and movies and analyze the storylines, plot twists, the ones I like, the ones I don't like. Some say this media can be a distraction but TV and movies had to start as written scripts at one point, right?

There are so many writers who craft a story better than I do and I've met many mentors through critique groups while others, I've bought and devoured their books.

I think one key is always looking for that next challenge--reading above what I write, being critiqued by people who know so much more than I do and seeing the gems in their words whether woven into a story or scribbled in red ink.

I've been a lifelong reader, so when I decided to write, I knew I had to learn how. I majored in fiction writing when I went to college the first time and learned the fundamentals. Through the years, I learned through the mentorship of others.

The best advice I've received came from the mentorship of Susan May Warren and Rachel Hauck of My Book Therapy. They really help writers learn the craft and provide encouragement along the way.

Good advice. I lead a fledgling writers group that really is bearing no fruit for me and I have considered dropping it, but Im afraid to let the few other people down that are faithful. It's hard to stick to what is the best use of your time. I also belong to Mick Silva's Your Writer Group Online and have learned a lot there. You're right about college writing classes - some are really weird!
Happy Memorial Day weekend!

It's hard for me to know if what I've written is any good, but I do ask myself:

--am I getting responses to partials? Lately I haven't so that is giving me feedback.

--are beta readers enthusiastic? If not, I need to go back and rewrite. I want beta readers to be so enthusiastic that they want to pass the ms onto other friends etc.

I think I improve with each project, so it's important to move on to other projects.

I find writing books very helpful. I also borrowed from the library a course on CD from a professor from the Univ. of Iowa that was helpful.

"What would you recommend to other writers?"

Find out what works best for you, then do that...a lot.

PS: And don't forget to have fun :)

I realized at a young age, I had a knack for telling stories. As I grew older, I read voraciously and I refined my skills through writing courses, writers' organizations, critique groups, seminars, and writing itself. And all of those things, I still find important. One significant aspect I've added is my reader who catches things (big and small) my brain might otherwise overlook after reading the same thing a hundred times over.

I have a degree in creative writing, have been to conference, have attended workshops, but, hands down, the best boost was my first critique group. I've never found another group as good that first one. I was the youngest writer, and this benefited me. Also, it was a mix of pubbed and unpubbed writers. Why can't I find a group like that again? A mentor might be helpful, too!

I do several of the things on your list: read in my genre, read books on craft, attend conferences, attend workshops, exchange stories with my critique partners, enter contests that provide feedback, judge contests and give helpful feedback (I learn heaps when editing others' work since I'm not emotionally invested in it), and listen to the counsel of my agent and editors. And a biggie for me is to realize there's always more to learn and to push myself to improve as a writer.

A few friends from college and I have started a writers' workshop group. We're pretty spread out so we keep up mostly online, but once a month we try and plan a day to physically get together and workshop whatever we've been working on. It's been a big help already, having other people who know me and who know their stuff asking all the right questions to get me moving forward in my stories. I recommend an open forum with peers like this to anyone who really needs some honest feedback--and a fun afternoon with like-minded artists.

My mentor has completely inspired and held my hand through my writing. She has given me so many proven tidbits and even edits backed by her published expertise and having slogged through the mire before me. It's nice to have footprints to step into so the way isn't so murky ...

ACFW - has taught me mountains of writing training. Without ACFW I would be floundering - maybe I still flounder a bit, but at least it's not quite as dramatic of a flounder :)

Critique partners who are willing to be brutal. I had a few who showered my ego with praises but eventually I started wondering if I was just THAT amazing of a writer or if they were just THAT loving that it hurt too much to be truthful. Enter new critique partners - one in particular - who practically had me rewrite the entire book I had written.

And I second and third, Keli's comment - "there's always more to learn and to push myself to improve" - AMEN and AMEN!

Throughout my teens, I devoured every book I could find in m genre, both old and new, as well as reading 'how to write' books. I had a good friend who was also an avid reader and writer, so we'd get together and talk about things we were learning. It helped a lot to bounce ideas back and forth with someone who understood me! :)
Once I graduated from high-school, I took a 2-year online course, went to a conference, read more books. This past year I've added a couple of online forums as well as a critique group with two friends who aren't afraid to be honest with me.
I guess I did something right--I'm starting to have short stories accepted! ;)

By far the best thing was finding critique partners that were "brutal" -- they didn't praise me or only pick out the grammar/punctuation problems to point out, but were willing to say "this whole chapter just doesn't work."

Prior to that, I'd read books, listened to conference classes, etc. but until someone said, "Melissa, this paragraph is telling, here's how you could show it" it didn't affect me.

After so many months in the group, THEN I could go to classes, read books, etc. and then apply it to my own work and help my crit partners. I don't know, but there was just something "magical" about having the flaws pointed out in my own work for me to finally "see" it.

I have been so blessed to get feedback with nearly every rejection I’ve gotten from an editor. Not much but enough. One said, “your writing is not emotive enough.” I was thrilled because that single sentence gave me something to work on. Others have said, “great writing, but the structure needs work.” Again, that gave me a very tangible element to study. Working with, and learning from professional editors has been the single most critical factor in improving my writing.

Craft books offer a lot of insight, but I find it’s more effective for me to read great books in the genres I’m pursuing and analyze them. I always keep a notebook for each novel I read. I mark in the books, take notes, go back and reread, map out the structure, etc. Not that I would necessarily do things the exact same way the author did, but studying the devices they used to write a compelling story is always beneficial.

Not being able to pay an editor or a coach, I've no choice but to rely on the limited feedback from agents/editors, on my newly formed critique group, and on beta readers. Lack of feedback is the one of the most disappointing and frustrating things of my writing life. I've also participated in paid critiques for every conference I've attended, but found them of limited use. The book that was most helpful to me was Strunk & White's The Elements of Style. But...

...I have had the most awful luck on beta readers following through. I have 100 percent failure on non-writer beta readers on my e-book, and close to 100 percent historically from non-writers. For fellow writers, it's somewhere around 50 percent failure rate. By that I mean I never receive the promised feedback, or it comes much too late to use based on deadlines. Possibly I do a poor job of picking betas. Having a family that doesn't care doesn't help. I have never yet failed to fulfill my end of a beta reading pair, and really don't understand my bad luck in this area of writing.

I formed the critique group I'm in now, sponsored by our church. I had been without a critique group for about ten months. It's going to be good, but the problem is that I, the barely published writer, is the most experienced person in the group. So we'll have to see exactly what it does for my writing. Perhaps from critiquing the work of the others I'll gain more than I give.

I have found a great deal of help in Margie Lawson and her online courses. I've taken two so far and plan to take them all, she is a value worth her weight in gold in this writing world!

This post was the best way to kick off my first Summer Vacation Quiet Time (aka all kids home and "resting")! I'm brand new to all of this, so I don't have anything to add. But the suggestions offered here are fantastic! Thanks!

I majored in creative writing at university, but as a genre writer among literary writers, I didn't receive much helpful feedback. I've also taken community college classes, but they were geared towards beginning writers, which by then I was not.

The first thing that brought my writing to the next level was National Novel Writing Month. Say what you will about it, there's a lot to be learned by devoting yourself to writing for a month and slogging through a big chunk of a novel in a short period of time. I've done it for several years now, and each of my novels has been better than the one before. I can't sustain that pace outside of NaNo, but I set myself a time goal, usually 15 or 20 hours a month, which includes writing, editing, and outlining or planning.

The second thing was finding a really good critique group made up of writers in my own genre. By now we have one published novelist, one published short-story writer, one agented, and several more who are close (IMHO) -- but when we started, none of us were published. You do have to take into account the personal biases of each critiquer, but that's made easier when they all discuss a piece in person.

The third thing was finding an online group, not for critiquing but for encouragement and nagging to write regularly. We talk shop, we challenge each other to meet mutual goals, we talk about our lives outside of writing. Twitter is a good spot to find like-minded people for the same purpose -- just search for hashtags such as #MyWANA or #amwriting.

I also read a lot of fiction, both in and outside my genre, as well as a lot of writing blogs. But I think that goes without saying.

I've found the most useful thing is, after reading the books on writing and studying and all that, is going back and rereading your favorite books. This usually helps me pinpoint what I like about the writing that I couldn't articulate before, and then I can (in theory) transfer those elements over to my own. (I don't mean to say I copy certain stylistic things or anything that makes an author's voice unique; I just look at things like sentence structure, dialogue, etc.--how they use the building blocks.)

Discipline. Took martial arts a few years back, and that made me realize the need to focus. Just as one must put your all into every kick and punch, so must you put your all into every word you write.

I would indeed recommend this to other writers. It's probably a better way to release frustration with the industry than with the bottle ;)

Reading is the mot important thing. I don't think anyone can expect to be able to write a good book if they don't read them.

And practice. Like everything else, you get better with practice. I look back on some of the things I wrote even two years ago and can see how much better what I write now is.

And I can't say enough for how fantastic my critique group is. They're not afraid to be brutal when my work needs it, and my work is 100% better as a result.

Reading is a prerequisite to writing. Whether fiction or non, short stories, blogs posts, magazines...just read. A lot. It provides the foundation for writers.

Joining a writing organization (like ACFW, which I recently joined) is an important step. It's counter-productive to write in a vaccum. (On that note, while family is wonderful for many reasons, they're NOT the best choice for critiquing a WIP!;)

The feedback from ACFW's Genesis contest was sunburn painful but very insightful. I learned exactly where to focus my writing energy for my WIP.

I appreciated the ACFW judges' helpful feedback and honesty because it ultimately benefits my writing.

Finding a critique partner/group is the next step.

I always knew that I would write at some point. The first novel I wrote, nearly 10 years ago, I just wrote a mountain of manuscript...then another, then another. I queried, got requested, then got rejected.

When I look back at recent revisions of these novels, the basic stories are good. I'm a much better writer now (by practice) than I was back then. I can now see where things need to be fixed. #1 Practice writing…so I say practice as my first tip.

It wasn't until about 3 years ago that I started to really get IT, after reading blogs like yours, Rachelle, or blogs by successful authors. I learned many valuable tips just in passing on a blog. #2 Read great blogs written by people who know the business and writing. Really listen to what they are saying.

I've also been studying the writing craft now where I really didn't do that in the beginning. Back then, I just flung it out there and hope it stuck somewhere. I read books on writing and took a class. I hope to get to a conference this year. #3 Read, study, and devour information on writing. This includes reading books in your genre.

I write in a genre that's not easy to get published in, so I've got to make it right this time. I take things one day at a time and not rush through. I think we need to celebrate the small victories…a completed chapter, a re-write completed of a difficult part, a great blog post you wrote, a smaller publication. This month I will have a non-fiction, 10 page history article published. I celebrate that victory. #4 Celebrate your small writing victories!

It is our nature to get excited when we see someone else getting published…we feel happy for these authors, but sometimes, we feel left behind. I don’t feel this way anymore. My time will come. I’ve learned that in publishing, it all takes time and patience. #5 Have patience with your writing. Have patience with publishing. Step back for a short period to gather yourself, if you need to.

#6 Get a good critique partner who you can trust for an honest opinion. “That’s all I have to say about that.”

Great post! I will be reading the comments for great tips.

I've always been a big reader, and I try to read in a variety of genres. I have my favorites, of course, but it does help to read outside one's genre. I have encouraging friends and great critique partners online. Yet what has helped me the most is attending writing seminars at conventions and meeting with the authors, agents and publishers who were on the panels. It's one thing to read something, it's another to hear it and to be able to ask questions. I'm a shy person and I am terrified of talking in front of people. Yet, when I get the chance, I make myself get up in front of panels for their Read & Critique sessions. Their advice has helped immensely.

I will always tell people who ask that the best thing you can do is take writer's classes. I took several in college, one at a community center, and one online writing class. These classes forced us to get used to critique, and that really helped. Also reading and critiquing other works helped me get better.

I had no idea entering contests would be so helpful. The feedback I've gotten has been invaluable. I do think your last bullet is the most important, though. Read, write, read, write and then write some more. And after you've written, completely dismantle your words and discover that they fit together in a different, yet utterly wonderful way.

All of your suggestions at the same time and different times. Read, read, read. Write, write, write. Although competitions have great value, I think writers can get too hooked on them. we need to keep forefront that the goal is being published, not winning or being placed in competitions.

I really learned to write in school -- private high school, followed by an excellent small liberal arts college (where many classes required a paper a week) and law school. I've also honed my skill through practice. But to be honest writing is like many other artistic professions, whether it's fair or not the natural talent you start out with makes a big difference. We can all improve our golf game but we can't all play on tour.

It's quite simple. I learned by reading and writing, both voraciously.

I think I learned pacing, plotting and dialogue from reading voraciously as a kid. But showing-not-telling and using active voice only came through writing writing writing. A workshop helped me learn how to include vivid descriptions - the hardest thing for me. Now I make descriptive lists in my journal: How cold was it? How did the room smell? And so on..

I think learning to write takes a lifetime of practice. Writing full time is my dream job, but my day job is practicing law. I like that phrase. It's the same that applies to doctors - it's the practice of medicine.

So, the best way to think of learning to write is to consider it "the practice of writing." Like the law and medicine, you're always practicing because your craft will never be perfect.

I think you write best by loving what you write, listening to your characters, and most of all - by writing and then writing some more.

First step: I earned a journalism degree, which effectively beat all the adjectives out of me and taught me to write tight and meet a deadline.
Second step: After veering off the writing road to live life as a mom and a military wife for quite a few years, I scraped the rust off my journalism degree by taking the Christian Writers Guild Apprentice Course. And attended their conferences.
Third step: Best thing I did, bar none, was join a critique group. Once you're in a trustworthy group, your writing improves tremendously because of the constructive feedback.
Fourth and current step: When I transitioned from nonfiction to fiction, I joined a fiction critique group and attended ACFW and all of Susan May Warren's writing retreats. (And I'm repeating some of them!) These coaching retreats, which are small, intimate workshops, were invaluable in helping me learn how to write fiction well.
And, yes, I read. Read, read. I'm reading James Scott Bell's books and Donald Maass' books. And books Susie's books . . .

I think reading is a must. It not only allows you to learn from other authors but also helps to keep the creative juices flowing.

I read both fiction and nonfiction in the mystery/suspense/thriller genre.

Having a critique partner is a must, and a good critique group is even better, if you can find qualified writers. I think this is a fine line, however, because there can be such a thing as too many opinions. That's where you need to be a bit selective.

Most of all, practice, practice, practice! My writing has improved dramatically in the 18 months I've been diligently working on it.

One of the best sources that I've found so far was a weekend writing workshop called Beyond Structure that is usually held in LA and NY. I traveled to the NY one from NC. It's not a shameless plug for the workshop. I was a real student who got a lot out of it. It's mainly geared toward screenwriting, but there were plenty of novelists there, too. Most of what was learned in that workshop focused on the editing process, rather than the first draft. I definitely recommend it.

My learning began because I grew up before TV and Mom took us to the public library every Saturday. I went to school overseas with British English teachers and graduated with a 9,000 word active vocabulary. Then, 50 years later, retired and bored, I started taking creative writing classes at my university. One prof. gave me hope, one became a mentor and a local author took me under her wing and did "slash and burn" edits on each draft. Then I attended writers conferences, coffee workshops, and read everything entitled "On Writing". so, look out world, here I come.

I think you really need to be passionate about what it is you are writing- because if you're serious about your work-in-progress then you'll have to be spending a boatload of time with it. The only way not to get burned out is if your love for it is stronger than anything (and obviously that passion is going to be woven through those pages...)

I read a ton of fiction and I also think books on writing are invaluable. You may be an instinctively talented writer, but you need to understand the underpinnings of the structure of a plot and the nuances of setting and character, etc. I feel as though the authors of the writing books I read are like my mentors.

Having other people read your work is a huge part of the whole process. You can't skip it. Get involved in critique groups or find beta readers who know what they are talking about. And don't be afraid of the truth! It's the only way to improve, move forward and become a better writer.

I've always found wonderful people who want to help. But an aspect that I've kept is the learning process doesn't end. Knowing that reminds me to listen to the one giving advice openly.

Help is everywhere. There is a saturation of help. But I've chosen a selective few to keep me on track.

All the suggestions given are ways I've learned. I think what helps me the most is listening.

Paragraph role-playing. I learned discipline, how to form a plot line, how to create realistic characters, and how to motivate myself through it. I've been engaging in original play-by-post role-playing for the last five years, and it's improved my writing amazingly. Most of the characters I use in my books are run through one of my RPGs first, to make sure I know their voice.

It's also my main way to connect with other writers, and get constant feedback. :)

If you are hoping to publish a first novel, read other people's debuts, either first time novelists or the first novels of your established favourites. Ask yourself, what are the particular qualities of this work that enabled the writer to break into the market?
And then, when your work is in full swing, restrict your reading to outside of your genre, to avoid being overly influenced by the voice of another.

I read a lot. I read books in the genre I'm writing in and I've also started reading in other genres that are completely different to see what the differences, if any, are. (I write crime, but am now a not so secret chick-lit fan!)

I also read a blogs, specific to crime and specific to writing.

I'm hoping that I have my head screwed on enough to be at least heading in the right direction and know that I have a lot of work in front of me.

Wow. Reading all the comments above I wonder if I'm even qualified to add something, but I started with the thought that I had something to say. I took a correspondence course. After completing a book I joined a local writing group who gives various classes of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and plays. I explored my writing through these classes. I've got a couple good critique partners who help. My shelves are filled with how to books. I read all the time, but I'm a really slow reader. And I write and write and write some more until it feels right.

I found my voice through journaling (a la Natalie Goldberg's Writing Down the Bones).

I read, I read about writing, I write about reading, I read. If you haven't checked out Francine Prose's Reading Like a Writer, do so.

But if you're writing to reach an audience, eventually you have to open yourself up to a critique partner or a group.

Very few people have commented about taking a class from a community college - I will be taking my fourth one this fall. I found the professor's extensive knowledge extremely helpful, along with his critiques. Many of the young writers in the class did not have the life experience to be helpful, but in each class I always found 3-4 other students whose work I admired and who had good advice. I have formed a critique group from a class I took last spring.

I first wrote and published plays. When my actors changed the dialogue slightly, I listened and rewrote the scripts. So I learned to write realistic dialogue from them :)

When I started to write novels, I joined a critique group. There, I bonded with a few others and we formed our own inline crit group. We were all very serious about publishing, so we peeled off our thin skins and donned rhino skin. We worked hard to learn and hone our craft.

One of my CPs is now a bestselling author. We all grew so much and none of us would write like we do without each other. :)

Joining ACFW was another huge part of my growth as a writer. I had access to multi-published mentors, and met agents & editors and listened to what they advised. The day one of Zondervan's editors told me I was ready, that I'd learned my craft well, I was thrilled. It was worth the hard work and the years it has taken.

I'm still waiting for a contract, but that's okay. Now it's in God's hands. :)

"→ You hire a professional editor to evaluate or edit your project."

I've done this and been lambasted for it by other writers.

I'm on my eighth book out of ten and I attempt to dissect and understand plotting. I've purposefully chosen shorter novels, 300 pages or less. At the end of each chapter I'll write a short synopsis beginning with the opening sentence and finishing with the last. Between is the synopsis.

When I've finished the last book, I'm going to write a scene card for each and every scene. Then take each book individually, lay out all this material and refer to books I've read on how to plot and attempt to identify how the author weaved their plot thread through the novel. Time consuming and alot of work, but I feel it's helping already.

Every one of your suggestions is great! I think I would add join Twitter! I have learned so much from so many experienced writers, editors, publishers, etc., by reading their 140-character snippets of wisdom and clicking through to their blog posts and articles that elaborate on those topics.

You ask who has given me the best feedback. Honestly, you rank up there near the top of the list! I am still very grateful for that email you sent me a few months back. You didn't have to take time out of your day to encourage me, but you did. Thank you!

Mary DeMuth is another amazing writer who gives selflessly of her time to share what she knows. Her books minister to her readers, and she herself takes time to help writers like me, who are in the early stages of our writing careers, to learn the ropes and to take steps that will guide us down the right path. I'm honored to call her friend.

One of the more unfortunate experiences I had as I tried to learn how to write was to take a college course in creative writing. What I learned was that others' opinions of my writing ability didn't matter; if my teacher thought my work wasn't up to par, that was it: it wasn't. For example, when I told my teacher that one of my professors had said that my writing had a lyrical quality, she flatly stated in front of the class, "That doesn't mean that it's good writing." I later realized that many creative writing programs teach a circumscribed way to write, and if you don't write that way, you're not considered to be an accomplished writer. I still have trouble judging the quality of my writing because she tore down all my preconceptions and made me start over. The problem is, there was no follow through because I never took another writing course.

The thing that helped me the most was getting involved with an intimate group of writers. We critique each other's work - and the more we get to know each other, the more in-depth we feel we can be.

This may sound odd, but one of the things I like to do to improve my writing is to listen to country music. They have so much fun twisting and turning phrases around to give them new meanings. So, I listen or read lyrics, and then try it myself - just for fun. It's a hoot!

I would just don't just read, but read a lot, and with a critical eye. What about this book is making you desperate to pick it up and keep reading every evening? What about that book made you roll your eyes and return it to the library unfinished?

And then write, write, write. Know that your first few efforts might not be very good, and that's OK. It took you a long time to learn to read, and it will take time to learn to write. Just keep working at it.

(And as a side note, you MUST learn proper grammar, spelling, and punctutation. This can be learned. If you don't feel like learning it, then pay someone to check those things for you before you send any story out.)

With the exception of taking a writing class and finding an experienced mentor, I've done everything on your list, but still feel I have a long way to go... at least, that's what those instincts are telling me. Immersing myself in the writing community helps a lot -- interacting with other writers and industry professionals via blogs, Facebook, and Twitter encourages me to be patient and keep learning and practicing. I suspect writing an exceptional novel is much like playing an exquisite piece of music -- in addition to some degree of talent it requires learning technique and persisting through hours of practice.

Writing for me is just like anything else. Sometimes it just flows effortlessly, while other times it is like pulling teeth. I only write when I am feeling it. I have learned so much over the past few years by blogging and the critiques that I have taken from some close friends who also blog. I think that your site has influenced me as well. Keep up the good work!

As others stated, it started out with reading. Every single OZ book in print in the 40's and 50s. A set of red leather books filled with children's stories. The Encyclopedia American, along with b&w AND color National Geographics. Book of the Month Club and Reader's Digest among a few.
Did it help? I hope so. Have written books, novels and short stories. Right now have six publishers reviewing full manuscripts on two novels with three sequels.
Will I get published? I have no doubt that I will. Just keep plugging away!

Hi Rachelle, I was wondering if you and anyone else reading this could suggest a good online writer forum or group? I read and write Christian contemporary fiction, especially romantic contemporary. Any suggestions? Thanks!

I went back to college after receiving numerous rejection letters for my first novel. I spent years learning how to edit, write and read critically in a professional context. Some of it stayed.
Prior to college, I was involved in several different forums online, enough to make my head spin. I was looking in too many places to discover what was best. I have since learned that sometimes keeping it simple is better; to select a couple sources to learn from and stick with them. Overwhelming yourself won't do you much good.

'How agents work' is the subject I'm currently most interested in.

You do a great job with all the industry info, but there are a lot of sources for that. To my mind, your greatest unique strength is encouragement.

On the other hand, it would be hard to come up with great encouraging stuff every day. I think the mix you are currently doing is just fine.

I appreciate any information that is presented "bare bones" and put out there so that I can examine it for what it is. Thus far, everything that you cover on your blog does exactly that so I say just keep doing what you do.

The thing I love about your blog is how well rounded it is. Some days I get real facts about the nuts and bolts of getting published. Some days are encouraging, others offer real experiences of guest authors. Your blog is always informative and often funny. I think you are hitting it just right.

The nuts and bolts are the most important thing to me as a student of writing, however, the encouragement and guest bloggers are icing on the cake of your blog. Thanks!

I like David Todd's idea of interviewing editors, though that would be time-consuming. I prefer reading the business related posts.

But whatever you do, keep using great photos like today's. It perfectly shows how I feel on some days. Scratching my head, wondering what my next blog post should be or asking my characters, "What on earth do you think you're doing?!"

Like a number of other commenters, I value your blog because it explores a variety of topics. However, I'm especially grateful for the fact that you always maintain an encouraging, stay-positive tone no matter your subject.

I really like to hear about the first four things you have on your list--the future of publishing, ebooks/digital publishing, how the industry works, and how agents work. Thanks for all your work on the blog!

I agree with previous commenters who said that the strengths of your blog are:
- how varied it is; and
- how encouraging it is.

The "future of publishing/e-publishing" is something that everyone's talking about, and while it would be nice to hear your thoughts on it once in a while, I get plenty of info on it elsewhere.

Looking back on your posts from the last month, the ones I've "starred" in my RSS feed (so I can find them again later) are:
- When Multiple Agents Are Interested
- Three Goals for Writers (guest post)
- Why Can't I Find Your Email Addy?
- Keep Your Eye on the Ball
- The Right Agent for YOU
- When an Agent Gives Up on a Project

That encompasses a mix of very practical advice (what if X happens) and encouragement/guidance for the writing life. So I guess that combination is why I keep coming back. ;-)

Can I say "all of the above"? It is a great thing to have a place to go where we can share, learn and chat about things we all have in common: an interest in reading/writing and getting published :)

We need accurate and pertinent information. But also, as writers, we need encouragement. I have more of the latter for my followers than the former, so that's why I send them to blogs like yours!

{x} All of the above!

I see your blog as a "how things work" for writers. I don't want to specify what *I'd* want to read, because some of the best posts I've read here are on topics I wouldn't have known to ask about!

Hmm, it looks like all of the above option is already taken. Ditto for me. I find your blog refreshing. It alludes to the fact that you would like to see writers succeed in the publishing world.

I love hearing about writers' journeys, and it's always good to know what publishers are looking for.

I'm also interested in finding out more about the pros and cons of e-publishing.

Thanks.

I personally would like to see more photos of cuddly zoo animals. Orangutans are a fave.

I honestly don't care what you write about. I love the variety.

And I can't thank you enough for being the #1 resource I point people to when they ask me how they can get published. I used to try to give advice and share my story and round up helpful links. Super time hog.

Now I just say, "Go read Rachelle's blog. Period." And then eat bon-bons.

Future of publishing/Changing information about e-books/digital publishing -- Always interested in that! I'd love to break into the publishing industry someday, so I enjoy info on what's new in the industry.

General information about publishing as it currently works/Information about how agents work -- Important for writers as well as aspiring editors :)

Encouragement for the writer's life -- Great for when a writer is feeling a little bit "oppressed" by those who are more experienced.

Stories of other writers' journeys -- I love to read how others started out, how they broke into the writing industry, and what tickles their writing fancy. :)

Sorry, I guess I just love it all!

I love the encouragement (don't we all!). And I also find stories of other writers' journeys inspiring, in a "if they can do it, there's hope for me" kind of way. Information about how agents work or how publishing works is helpful too.

Future of publishing!!

Hello Rachelle, first of all I want to thank you for all your hard work. On sharing information with us on this blog. I would like to see all of the above. This way it could give me a better understanding of the publishing industry. current and the future of it so I know a great way to approach the changing industry.

Thanks

My favorite thing about your blog is how it humanizes agents.

It sounds awful, but sometimes we writers get used to thinking of agents as cold, calculating people who don't know us or care about us. I like how you make it clear that you do hear what writers are saying and you do care. You give me a new perspective on things like complaining about the kind of books that get published, etc.

So, I would have to say, information about how agents work would be my top pick from your list.

Encouragement and stories of other writers are my other favorites.

Yours is the only blog that I make sure to never miss.

You're a gold mine!

Information on agents, traditional publishing, and e-publishing is my top priority, but not my only one.

You offer the perfect mix of facts, encouragement, and the occasional prognostication.

Thanks for an excellent blog.

Ms. Gardner, yours is one of the very few blogs I follow daily, even when I don’t comment. I don’t even write in your genre, and I won’t even be querying you! But you’re one of the agents who I view as a class act in this confusing industry. I get a lot from reading your blogs. Your personal ethics really shine through. ☺

Personally, I’d love for you to write about the future of publishing, as well as self-publishing/e-Publishing. One thing that’s heartbreaking is participating on writer’s forums and “meeting” folks who’ve spent a year pitching their latest novel and got no response. Sometimes they’ve tried with three, four books. It just seems like a lot of effort and no potential for reward.

When is the right time to e-Publish that book that everyone passes on? How can writers be their own gatekeepers before they do? I’d love to see you tackle these topics! ☺

I would say the first four are why I read your blog every day, Rachelle. The last two I can get other places. But you have information that helps me with the business end of writing.

I've been following your blog for a long time, although I rarely comment. I've learned so much about the nuts and bolts of publishing. Mostly what I appreciate now is the encouragement to stick it out as writer. Thanks!

Wow, I like that you ask your readers what we're interested in. The encouragement is definitely nice! Here are my opinions:

Changing information about e-books/digital publishing: Not as interested in general unless there's a greater impact on what the expectations for the author are.


General information about publishing as it currently works: Yeah, I like this part a lot.

Information about how agents work: yep. :-) I like seeing some of the behind the scenes stuff. It also feels helpful besides just interesting because if I know what's going on for your scenes it helps me manage my expectations and stuff.

Encouragement for the writer's life: Yes, yes, yes!

Thanks, Rachelle. Have a great weekend!

I always appreciate the nuts and bolts but my life as a writer is very much a solitary endeavour so I most appreciate the encouragment you give.

I follow your blog on my Google Reader and enjoy your "voice" as a writer, thanks for all the hard work!

Clara

As a full-time writer I like to come to blogs like this mainly to engage with other writers - most people I know come from a very different world, and writing can be a solitary business.

I have learned so much from your blog - it helped me follow the steps to get signed up with an awesome agent.

I think there is so much info on how to GET there, it'd be awesome to see what is expected when a person finally lands there - be it with an agent, editor, whatever.

For instance: say you sign that awesome contract after your agent has helped you build and sell the proposal, it's a series and the first book is in. The second book is written and the editing has been done by the author - does it go to the agent or directly to the editor? Is there a norm?

I have seen this addressed by authors, but haven't really seen this addressed by the upper rungs of the hierarchy (you know, the BIG fish).

Stuff like that.

My favorite post is what a day in the life looks like. that makes me smile every time.

Thanks so much for the great blog.

You always give such terrific encouragement. It's refreshing.

I like the encouragement and the information about publishing as it is right now - it seems everyone is talking about ebooks and the future, and every crystal ball is a little different (other than the large-print "Don't Panic").

Louise Curtis

I like your blog because you hit all of the topics that you have listed plus other important information for writers.

By your form and manner, you have gained our trust.

I would go with the last three, with the first three sprinkled in within the context of those. For example, how is the changing nature of publishing changing your job as an agent or how you view your relationships with clients?

But as others have said, all of your posts are always interesting, helpful and worthwhile. Thank you for all you do to encourage, support and promote writers!

Rachelle -- all the items you identify are useful and valuable to me as I work on my first book and learn the in's and out's of publishing and the like. Because every writer's journey is unique, I simply want more of all the things you list. Depending on where I am on a particular day, I want to read others' journeys, be inspired and variously know what I might be in for. It's a great blogosphere out there in my opinion.

General information about publishing as it currently works.
Plus I love your ecouraging words. It really does help:)

I'm a lawyer turned stay-at-home mom looking for a career change after 10 years at home with the kiddos. I think being a literary agent could be a really good fit for me (publishing contracts would be a breeze), but I am completely unable to figure out HOW to become a literary agent without living in NYC or LA for a few years. I would love a blog entry (or two or three!) that addresses the career path for becoming an agent.

I also enjoy blogs that discuss the e-publishing and digital revolution.

The reason I love your blog is because of the variety of topics you cover. As an aspiring novelist all of the topics you list are important to me. I feel like I can come here everyday to learn something new. I would hate to see you lose the diversity on your blog because that's what makes it great!

Your blog is always helpful, but I most enjoy 'insider' information about how agents work, what publishers lok for, and what promotion is expected of the author. I like you candid way of writing and the encouragement to us writers regarding the process of writing and getting published have been reassuring and fun to read. Thanks for all your great posts!

The general information on how print and digital publishing works are my favorites. I also appreciate the guest posts from authors, who share their experiences — successes and failures.

Ahh!! Why must we choose?

If you MUST scale down your focus, though encouragement is nice and all, I think I'd rather hear the truth straight up. We can get our mothers or crit buds to encourage us.

Okay, truth straight up with a pinch of sweetener. :-)

I read your blog for not only the encouragement, but for writing suggestions. It's not just about writing to make buck, it's about passion, learning, and growing.

I would love to hear more from you about actual writing tips. You read a lot of writing AND are a former writer. Anything you have to say on how to be a BETTER writer would hold a lot of weight for me.

The first four. I can get encouragement from many places, but there are only a few places (this is one of them) that I trust to give me true facts about the industry.

Honestly, Rachelle, your blog is probably the best I've found as far as practical, helpful information and guidance for a writer. No matter what topic you're covering at the moment, it always seems to be spot-on, highly informative and useful. Just keep up the great work, and I'll be happy!
~Mary

I don't want to seem wishy-washy but I like to see all of those topics you mention. All are relevant for serious writers. A great blog like yours has a large following because you appeal to so various interests. Thanks for doing such a thoughtful and thorough job.

I think my top three from your list are:
1. Encouragement for the writer's life - because, although it sounds like a cliche, writing IS a lonely business and it's so easy to feel isolated and discouraged
2. Stories of other writers' stories - because it reminds me that I'm part of a great community and puts me in touch with other writers whose experiences are invariably challenging and encouraging
3. Information about how agents work - because writers need that kind of infomation to know how to relate to agents in a professional way.

Thanks for asking!

I read a lot about how difficult it is to make any kind of living from writing, so I love a bit of encouragement, especially when that encouragement includes sound advice in a changing publishing world. Thanks for your blog!

Things change so fast that I can't keep up so I'd really enjoy ongoing posts about e-books and all the new forms of publishing.

I always love a good biography so stories from other writers ranks high on my list as well.

You have a great blog!

Penny Linsenmayer: Becoming an Agent

Rachelle - thanks for the links! I can answer "yes" to much of your list from the 2009 entry, but what is most noticeably absent is experience in the publishing industry/contacts therein. I live in Houston, and while it's the 4th largest city in the country, it might as well be a rural farm in terms of the publishing world. I've located a few lit agencies in Dallas and even in Austin, but there seem to be NONE in Houston. What I would love is a virtual or remote internship, unpaid is totally fine, but most of the listings I've seen for internships with agencies seem to be with a college-age kid who can reside in NYC or LA for a few months. If you have any suggestions, I'd love to hear them.

I'm particularly interested in how publishing currently works and how agents work. I also enjoy the nuts and bolts entries about querying and proposal writing. Thanks for asking!

Penny Linsenmayer, working remotely isn't going to fly. You can't possibly learn what you need to. Total immersion in a publishing company or literary agency is needed. If you can't relocate, you're probably out of luck if there aren't any agencies near you. Them's the breaks.

Btw, I've never lived in New York but I've been working in publishing for 16 years. However, I've worked in-house at two different non-NYC publishers, both of which were decent sized. I could never have become an agent otherwise.

Thanks for your response, Rachelle. With a spouse and 2 kids, relocation is not a possibility. That's a disappointing prognosis, especially in this technological society. I have heard that some agencies hire remote "readers," which I assume is a start. If you have time and inclination, I would be interested to hear what part of the business would require my physical presence on a day-to-day basis. I believe there are a few small publishers in this area, but I think they might be more textbook-based. I will check into that further. Thanks again.

Hi Rachelle,
The variety of subjects you cover is wonderful. Everything is helpful. I need to learn it all! Many thanks for all of the time and effort you put into this blog!!

That said, I would like to hear more about what makes a manuscript hard to put down, and what makes you want to "fight" for a certain story? Each time a story grabs you, I'd like to know WHY. What was it that got you by the throat and wouldn't let go? (Or what causes you to say, "Nope. Not this one, thank you very much.")

All of your options sound great. I would also love suggestions for Christian writers, who in light of the seriousness of current events, feel the calling to write for God, but are just coming out of the chute.
My guess is that we should be motivated to share any and every way we can, i.e., start a blog, work on our craft, do e-books, etc...
How can we best be efficient stewards of our talent when the need seems so great and our time feels so limited and the traditional route takes time to develop?
Thanks for your GREAT blog and encouragement.

Love the information you provide, Rachelle. I'm especially looking forward to how e-publishing and traditional publishing are going to work together and of course having a book coming out soon makes me want to learn everything I can regarding a published authors first year.

Love the guest blogs and the perspectives they bring. And encouragement is a universal need no matter what we do.

Looking forward to your perspective on the publishing world.

I like the smorgasbord of info that you cover from your unique viewpoint as an agent. Specifically, I REALLY like the info on publishing and what goes on in the after-someone-has-gotten-an-agent world. Because I hope to be there soon, and well, I'm curious. :)

Your blog is fabulous, Rachelle. My favorite parts are the posts that cover your take on publishing and agenting, and the encouragement and writers' journey posts. I read a lot of other blogs that cover the future of publishing and the stuff about e-books, and while I'm sure you're as up-to-date as those bloggers, I'm starting to see a lot of repetition in those areas. But your take on the industry is something no-one else can replicate, because it's yours.

Hi Rachelle, greetings from Laos on an unseasonably cool tropical morning. I'd really love to read some analysis of current e-publishing trends regarding genre (for example, I read a lot of news about mystery-thriller writers who are starting to self e=publish, but haven't seen much on whether memoir writers are starting to dip their toes into that pond yet). Also would love your thoughts on whether and how the role of the agent will change as self-publishing increases.

Hi, Rachelle,

I am a freelance nonfiction editor. I started following your blog at the recommendation of another editor. I read it for insight into the functions of the publishing world, for info about agents and how they work and think overall, and for better understanding about the process of assisting a writer with proposals--how to help a writer get his or her work ready for an agent or publisher.

Reading your notes on encouragement and such has been great, too, because I am able to pass those bits along to the writers I work with.

Overall, great blog, great info. Thanks so much.

Someone above mentioned wanting to read more about what happens after a writer lands an agent. Count me as another vote for that, please. There's a lot of info in the blogosphere about querying; not so much about the expectations and pitfalls for an agented author.

I am SO FOR the digital way of life. Just like the Lorax, I have to speak for the trees. The numbers lost would be astronomical, if you went back to snail-mail submissions.

So, if only for the trees, I hope you will never change. You can always hit the delete button and no limb-lives will be lost. Don't be a part of the thneed industry. ;)

If agents didn't take digital submissions, I wouldn't have the opportunities I have today. I read queries and partials remotely (from Arkansas) for an agent in New York, because I can't take an internship in the city and I can't get up there until after I graduate. So, personally, I'm thankful for online submissions; they've helped me fall even more in love with this industry. :)

No. Email submissions rule! Of course, I suspect there will eventually be a program that will allow editors and agents to key in certain words, subjects, sentences, names (anything they aren't interested in)that will get us an automatic rejection. :)

I would expect that accepting electronic submissions just makes it easier all around. You (the agent) can read the MS on more devices, and if you want to make notes to return to the author, you can do it without the fear of notes getting disconnected from the MS and the context. Also, you can specify your submission rules and enforce them through rules and filters – no need to open boxes and envelopes and discover someone has sent you a document printed using small caps on both sides of onion-skin paper in 8pt Helvetica Narrow – bold. And the author can be more confident the submission gets to the editor & does not get waylaid in a mailroom or set at the bottom of a stack of MSS.

Sending a “frivolous submission” is the mark of someone who doesn’t understand that the book industry is an industry where everyone wants to make money from saleable products. An agent isn’t doing me a favor by accepting my query or even my MS; she is doing so because she thinks she can pitch it to a publishing editor who can then get it through the publication committee and out into bookstores. \
If frivolous entries become a problem, then perhaps just clarifying the submission guidelines can help cut down on the incoming flow. I’ve seen some agent squeeze the pipeline by simple methods such as requiring a set of keywords in the submission – it’s a way to be sure the author is reading the rules, much in the same way as touring bands request only green M&Ms in their suite.

Of course, I’m on the author side of things; what I imagine the agent’s side to be might be a laughable fantasy.

I live in a more remote part of the world. I can do a complex international job from home because of e-mail.
If agents accept e-mail submissions it also cuts down dramatically on postage expenses and the time taken.

I was accepted out of a slush pile because being able to send my manuscript digitally was so easy. I had been rejected enough that I was about ready to send that book off to the morgue. But a friend told me about a publisher who only required a cover letter and the whole manuscript attached via email. Since it was so easy, I gave it one more shot, and that's the one that brought me an acceptance. Through that acceptance, I later came into contact with my agent and whole new doors have been opened.

So yes, while it may make it easy for just any ol' person to submit, it also makes it easy for the weary and worn to give it one more try.

I say save a tree (and your back and sanity).

I think it's fantastic that many accept electronic mail - it makes everyone's life easier. When I started submitting, I found I had to invest in a huge amount of printing paper, ink, envelopes, folders, even a new printer - my workspace looked like a stationary office, and it cost me a fortune.
And I'm sure most agents can spot frivolous queries at the first sentence.

I'm ever thankful that most agents take emails submissions. If they didn't I wouldn't be able to submit at all. The money it would cost to submit by snail mail would leave me writing just for myself and my children. Granted, that's how I started, but I don't want that to be my end point as well.

I second Kim's comment. Think of the trees!

Email yes, snail mail no.

And as for the trees, I believe it was Stephen King who mentioned in his book ON WRITING that he rather liked the idea of entire forests in Canada being hacked down to print his books. (I couldn't help but stir the pot on this one ;)

Snail mail is increasingly expensive, so email has become a socio-economic equalizer. Does anybody really want to go backward?

Why agents still insist on snail-mail is beyond me. Yes, I'm grateful for requests but the snail-mail agents have been the worst responders--as in NO response. Come on, people! You ask me to spend my time, energy and $$ to MAIL you my ms.--you can't even give me a few words of advice, feedback or encouragement?

E-mail rules and I'll think twice about submitting to any agent who refuses to accept e-mail subs.
Their loss!

Given that I'm a British woman living (and writing) in Bangkok Thailand, no, I would hate for it to be more snail mail oriented. My postal costs (there and back) would be astronomical. But of course I realise that agents and publishers organise their guidelines to suit how they work. In the end I'll do it whatever way they want me to!

I'm truly grateful for the possibility of email submissions. I live in Sweden but write in English, and our postal service doesn't include SASE from foreign grounds. I'm sure I could have sorted it out through friends somehow, but email submissions make it so much easier for me to reach the agents I want, without troubling my friends with the process of mailing the queries.

Absolutely on the side of email submissions. It makes a writer's life so much easier, especially if sending work from one side of the Atlantic to the other!

And if an agent or publisher initially asks for a synopsis and sample chapters, the whole script doesn't need to be emailed until/unless requested.

Just a thought, wouldn't it be possible to request all queries to be sent via post, thereby reducing the inbox latency, but then the manuscripts themselves could then be e-mailed if accepted?

This assumes, however, that you want to use the snail mail method as a filter from lazy people - I have no doubt that you would miss out on at least a few good submissions in this manner.

I am all for electronic queries, not just to save a tree but also because it makes it much easier for anyone like me, who has to query internationally. I am currently living in the UK and if I'm querying a US agent it's not exactly easy for me to get a US postage stamp for a SASE. Not to mention the time it would take to get anything done internationally if we all reverted to snail mail.

Email!

Personally, I live on an island and the snail mail postal system is shocking. Being able to submit work to publishers, editors, agents, etc via email, makes my life so much easier. Plus, as people have said before, it stops all those trees being cut down (we hope).

An excellent quetion Rachelle. I had a nice long comment, but decided the opinion maybe belonged on a blog post of my own.

My answer to your question is that yes, I feel there is a lot more unpublishable writers clicking the "easy" button; but I also believe it has enticed many more serious, viable writers to submit. I know Agents like to believe an author researches and submits to only one agent at a time; but we authors also realize that a snowball has a better chance of surviving 20 feet in hell than an aspiring author has of enticing an agent.

The costs of printing our submissions, and paying postage to possibly 10 agents a month (minimum) adds to writer anxiety. No cost to the submitting author is extremely enticing.

Agents may be getting more submissions via online convenience; but I'd be willing to bet they're also getting more "publishable" submissions than they did with paper submissions only. Its a trade off, like any other business.

I hope Agents do not close to electronic submissions. I think it is self-defeating.

........dhole

I remember sending a manuscript to my Spanish publisher with an "overnight" delivery service so the publisher could meet a translation deadline. A week and eighty bucks later, they still had not recieved the manuscript. Then my Spanish editor called and suggested a very outside-the-box kind of solution. Why not try to send it (chapter by chapter) via email. Voila! An hour later she had the manuscript!

Hooray for the headache of technology!

So everywhere you go, you really do take a piece of me with you (on your Kindle). Ha! This comment is a sure sign I’m in need of caffeine stat!

Yes, I say keep the email system for reasons Lynnette listed above.

~ Wendy

Just remembered the lyrics..."every time you go away..."

Time to go chug my tea.
~ Wendy

With per page printing costs at about 5 cents, I’m not concerned about the trees as much as I am that $15 per manuscript. Multiply that by 40 and an author is spending $600 on printing costs, most of which would be dropped in the recycle bin a few seconds after the agents look at the manuscript.

I believe email is the way to go for queries, partial requests and even full requests. It costs a lot of money to print the pages and mail them. I'm unpublished and don't earn an income writing. I'd rather get a rejection that was "free." And I don't query frivolously. The book has to be completed to the best of my ability and I have to believe that the agent is a good match for my voice and my career.

Email is also easier for agents. Sure their inbox fills up but it is easy and cheap to send an email rejection or request for more.

It's probably true that agents get more submissions, now that they can be sent electronically. It's also true that more people get emails than letters, that many Americans get their news via the Internet, and that in general we're becoming an electronic society. But that's no reason that agents and writers seeking representation from them should revert to the ways of the mid-20th century. It's progress.

That being said, I'm not always a fan of change. Deep in my heart, I agree with obsessive-compulsive detective Adrian Monk: I don't mind progress. I just don't like to be around when it's happening.

Everyone: Like many of you have mentioned, I do like the way that email tends to level the playing field so that almost everyone can submit. Even those without internet access usually are able to get it through their public library. I think it's a good thing that more people have access to agents because there is now virtually no cost to submitting.

Dave: Yes, you're right, we could certainly take query letters & sample pages via snail mail, then have full manuscripts emailed. However, just as it's easier for the author to send the whole thing electronically... it's MUCH easier for me to sit in front of my computer clicking and reading than to sit there laboriously opening envelopes, then dealing with the physical pile-up of queries, not to mention the problem of responding. I wouldn't like to have to print out responses and mail them. But even if I'm sending an email response, it takes much longer to find the person's email address and enter it in, rather than simply hitting "reply." So the query reading process itself takes about twice as long, and in a time when we're doing everything we can to reduce the time it takes, that just doesn't work!

It's probably unfair of me, but I don't submit to agents unless they accept email queries. And I'm skeptical of those that don't have websites (even though I realize some legit ones who have been around forever don't). I guess part of me feels that if we -- the writers -- are expected to embrace the new ways of promoting ourselves (blogs, FB, Twitter, etc), then it makes sense that agents should as well, at least to some extent (I'm not saying all agents need to blog...but I do think all agents should have a web presence, even if they only accept snail mail).

Stick with the email and build a network of trusted screeners to help parse the deluge. Heck, most would probably work for free in exchange for a small reward should they uncover something good. Think of it like an army of old guys with metal detectors happy to comb the earth for the thrill of uncovering a shiny quarter here and there. If you don't, somebody else will.

Just make a new query guideline--NO Frivolous Queries Allowed. That should take care of the problem.

I love sending email queries. I do my homework and personalize each one.

I'm even okay with the 'no response means no' BUT if agents use this approach I wish they would have an auto-responder letting the writer know he/she rec'd the query.

From both an editor's and a writer's perspective electronic submission makes sense. I think the argument that anyone can drum out 80,000 words of rubbish isn't unwarranted but if they've submitted and been rejected then it's easier for an editor to keep a record of the history in the (unlikely) event they submit something else. I know many wannabe writers who are convinced the first draft of their novel is the only one and it's going to get published: after it does the rounds and fails I don't see that they would waste their apparently valuable time writing another.

"It took more effort in the old days. Only the really serious persisted." So many things wrong with that old philosophy!

Make it harder for the artists (who are nearly always last and least to get paid) so that the middlemen (who do not have the creativity to write the books themselves)have an easier time of taking their regular paychecks?

Email IS/HAS BEEN/WILL BE the way of things for quite some time now. Media businesses that cannot understand how to embrace and leverage the new tech and the new social media protocol properly are gonna be relegated to the realm of people who still have their Ice delivered in large blocks by horse and buggy.It's just a matter of time.

I don't think this is necessary, because serious queries will stand out as serious no matter what the format, and the artless ones will probably always be a quick, few-seconds reject. IMHO, it would be crazy to get rid of e-mail queries, which make things easier, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly for everyone. :)

When I was researching agents, I honestly put the snail mail only ones at the bottom of my list. Not because I wasn't willing to go to the post office, but because it made me wonder if the agent was going to be forward-thinking enough. With everything changing so quickly, I wanted someone who wasn't afraid to move with the times. Not sure if that was a fair assessment or not, but it did influence who I queried.

I like Richard Mabry's comment about change.
I personally like not having to pay postage, and if I were an agent the biggest plus would be what you said. I can't stand clutter and to have an office filled with stacks of paper would make me spend most of my time organizing.

As magolla and others pointed out, there are some things about this e-mail thing that are so good. With agents it is “no response means no”, but it’s not limited to agents. It used to be that if you wrote to a business you were pretty much guaranteed a mailed response within a relatively short time and it often included coupons to encourage you to keep buying the company’s products. These days we send e-mail to companies complaining about a product and we not only don’t receive the coupons, we don’t receive a response. I know agents love to argue that they shouldn’t be expected to respond to e-mail from people who aren’t paying them money, but what they are refusing to hear is that many of us still expect that same level of old style respect that in used to be considered proper business etiquette. If I thought the old style effort would help us return to old style respect, I think that $15 a manuscript would be worth it, but I doubt that is the case because I believe the real problem is that too many people value money more than they do people.

No way! In my opinion submitting
electronically is better all around.

I don't think the person writing a query thinks their query is frivilous. I do think a good agent can immediately spot an unprofessional query or hire someone to assist them with the overflow.

I think it would be like going back in time not to fully incorporate electronics.

By submitting electronically you still have to research and learn how to write a great query. You still have to write a great manuscript. You also have to do all of the leg work in order to find the proper agent.

I am amazed because I am writing this post from my new Internet TV. This is the first time I have attempted to post. It works beautifully. Isn't it amazing at what electrontics has to offer!

With e-submissions, authors should still be required to follow certain formatting and general guidelines set by the agent. Failure to do so allows the agent the option to consider or reject the query without reading it. Furthermore, failure to abide by the guidelines may shed light on whether or not the author is taking the submission seriously.

I'm all for e-mail submissions.

A)It's time-efficient, for both the agent and the author who is querying. It's a lot faster to type in an e-mail address than it is to track down the physical address, hand-address the envelope, hunt down stamps (ever-elusive in this day and age), etc.

B) It's cost-effective for all parties involved. I don't have to spend all that money on paper and ink and stamps and envelopes. The agent doesn't have to spend money on supplies and such.

C) I agree that it's so much easier to catalog what's been sent where because you have that record of what e-mails you've sent.

D) The storage capacity that electronics allows for is far superior to the old ink-and-paper submissions.

Absolutely not. Expense and the inconvenience you described are necessary deterrents to snail mail.

Hmm...have been thinking more about this based upon reader comments.

1. Resubmissions. It might just be easier to do this electronically, along with a tag such as "UPDATE" or "REVISED PER YOUR FEEDBACK." While I'm pretty sure my novel will require absolutely no revisions, it's likely that the first novels submitted by all other writers might need to be changed based upon feedback from agents, friends, and other writers. So submitting a revised MS can just be easier - you could just put a keyword in the title of the e-mail, for example, rather than submit by snail mail and have no way to tell the agent "I listened to your feedback! Honestly!"

2. The Internet is here to stay. I know - obvious - but an agent who doesn't participate in the publishing world by e-mail and blogs doesn't seem to be one who will understand the disruptive change of e-books or even how submitting electronically is a near-requirement by publishers who do not want to re-key a typed MS. We are all moving to a connected world and away from bound, single-use objects. I say this quite regretfully, as I love physical books, but I find that I'm reading electronically more and more. I've given up printed newspapers and magazines already, depending upon online news and blogs, and realized today that much of my "book" reading on the bus is by PDF or Kindle, especially if the device can do other things when I want to steal away for a moment.

3. Ease of communication. It's easy for the author, of course, but to highlight Rachel's comment, it must be far easier to keep track of communications made electronically. Rather than having to hunt through a pile of MSS stacked around an office, an agent can just open up an e-mail thread or a folder on a computer to see various versions and communications. Plus, of course, e-mail has the contact information built right into it: the e-mail address.

I don't think electronic communication can improve the overall quality of submissions; in fact, I suspect it does make frivolous or flawed submissions easier because of lower start-up costs (I'm much more tempted to send a true first draft if I think it only costs me a "Send" button), but education can help here. Agents and writers (and others) can communicate the age-old truth of "You don't get a second chance for a first impression." Writers who sends out willy-nilly their first drafts will create a reputation of producing junk or, worse, stuff that requires work to make right, and IMO ruin their "brand." I imagine that the agent faced with a query from a writer who is known to send close-to-ready documents and a similar query from a writer who is known to send will-need-much-revision documents will choose the one that requires less work to sell.

That seems kind of like getting rid of automobiles because we don't like waiting in traffic. Good in theory, but no way we could go back now as it's too much a part of our culture and daily life.

Can we get more efficient? Absolutely! There are ways to filter e-mail, requests, etc. Some are practical, others are not; however, I'm sure things will only continue to be more refined.

Personally, I wouldn't submit to an agent who didn't accept e-mail queries, because it wouldn't give me a ton of confidence in their ability to work with existing technologies in an efficient manner. Meaning: If I'm their client, will they return my e-mails, or will I have to call every time I have a question? Furthermore, are they comfortable enough with technology to have reliable and efficient communication with publishers, etc.?

I know that 'won't accept' and 'can't accept' are two different things, but I wouldn't be comfortable with either attitude.

Sorry for the double post - blogspot said my post didn't go through. So I tried again because what I say must be important! but it already had been posted.

It would be a horrible thing if agents stopped accepting email queries. I have had the privilege of asking some very kind agents if they could be more specific about why they rejected my manuscript (if I did no get a form rejection), and these very kind agents have emailed me back with specifics. These specifics have helped me improve my manuscript. I don't think this could have happened with snail mail.

Email submissions rule!

I'm pro e-mail!! In the early days of my attempts at publication, when almost no one accepted email submissions, I remember trying to get everything, including my toddler, ready for the post office to weigh it and make sure the postage was right. Then I'd stand in the looooong line, trying to hold onto her plus all the papers I was trying to send... ugh. I still shudder at the memory!! Now, two kids later, I almost exclusively work by e-mail, whether sending submissions to agents or to magazines. The ones that still want snail mail, well, I might get to it!! I mean, I feel like I'm doing well to mail the Netflix in time for more movies that weekend! Assembling all the papers for a book proposal or ms submission, and then taking them to the post office??? What a migraine!

Just to clarify, though, I didn't mail off my toddler!! Tee-hee-hee...

I don't think agents should go to snail mail queries only. Not only do I think it could potentially hurt the agents (there would be some authors who would decide to self-publish over sending queries via snail mail, I'm betting), but whether we like it or not, the world is digital. Offices are going paperless. Everyone wants instant information. I don't think we can go back, even if we wanted to.

When I first read your blog entry, I was counting the costs of printing, mailing, etc. I was thinking along the lines of many of the other authors who experience the same dilemma...and the trees, dear God, the trees! But then, I remembered that although I am not a PROFESSIONAL author, I must take a professional approach--a business-like approach, if you will. That would include realizing that in addition to the blood, sweat and tears of my intellectual property and its inherent value, I must accept that other costs of "doing business" would be incurred.

However, as a good manager of my business, I also am concerned over keeping costs down. And I agree with RobynBradley in that if we are expected to have platforms across social media and to be technologically savvy, it is incongruous for agents not to have the same level of participation in the modern publishing process.

It makes sense, then, having seen both sides of the issue, that the publishing industry as a whole should adopt the electronic dessemination of the intellectual proprerties of potential authors as a norm, as a rule. Not to limit the submissions, not to screen the submissions, but merely to provide the most streamlined, efficient and common sense manner in which to get the best writing into print.

In the future, it would not surprise me if not one dab of ink would hit paper until the book was in production. That would make a lot of people happy: tree huggers, publishers, agents, authors and me.

I'm in favor of email queries! It streamlines things so much. I suppose if an agent had to stop taking queries by email in order to reduce their number, it'd be beneficial if they at least tried to reply back via email (assuming the author included their address in their snail-mail query). Even this would not be ideal for me, though. I definitely wouldn't want an agent who was averse to communicating subsequent information via email.

Queries and submissions are two different things. I can understand why requesting patials and fulls in electronic format is a HUGE space and time saver for you (and other agents as well). As you say, going back to paper in the case of requested submissions would be a burden. Query letters on the other hand are one page each. If I were an agent I would consider demanding snail mail for queries. Just the effort of priting, folding and mailing would deter some. On the other hand, I suppose you can never be sure who you are discouraging. Perhaps the nutters who really can't write would still send their letters while some really terrific writers would say, "I'll put her in round two, after I've done all the e-queries" and you might miss a great project. IMO any writer who considers you to be part of his/her A-list WILL make the effort however.

I started writing for magazines in the early days of e-mail and sending queries via snail mail was both laborious and expensive. All hail e-mail! When some magazines started accepting electronic queries, they were first on my list to contact.

Now I understand how e-mail invites a deluge of queries from less than committed or informed writers, but I think the way some agents try to slow the flow makes them almost as bad as snail mail. I've seen agents who have a long, long, long list of requirements for their queries (the author's marketing plans, 10-page synopsis, a list of your old boyfriends and their contact info, etc.) Often I'm convinced these have been made mandatory for the sole purpose of making the agent more difficult to query.

I'm sure this helps weed out the less than committed, but it also means I would query these agents only as a last resort. If that's what they want, wonderful. But if an agent is only receiving queries from writers who have been rejected by everyone else, then maybe a little excess e-mail is a small price to pay.

Even though your email in-box is filling up with 10,000 queries, I suspect that you and other agents like you can tell within the first few sentences of a manuscript, or even a paragraph of a query letter, whether you are reading someone with potential or not. So it seems like it would be fairly easy to discern the "definitely nots" from the "perhaps" and certainly from the "tell me more!" submissions.

So I say going back to snail-mail wouldn't really save you all that much time in that respect.

And I hadn't even thought of the lugging aspect... yikes!

i think that the digital age opens up many doors, sure it makes things a bit more complicated at times but it opens the door to many that would otherwise have little to no opportunity...

Personally, I hesitate to call any submission frivolous. Unwanted, perhaps. Untimely, perhaps, but frivolous?

I also don't think it's possible to keep people who are passionate about what they do from trying to interest someone else in representing it for them. A truly determined person will find a way.

Great topic, Rachelle! I understand that you go through a lot of stress, due to too many queries, but I agree that electronic ones seem much easier to handle. It also, in a way, makes it easier on even the serious writers, because then the set-up isn't as important as the actual content.

But, a way for serious writers to get sorted through the frivolity is to submit during slower times, right? Like, early spring and mid-fall, right? Sorry if it seems off-topic, but it's been on my mind a lot lately and you brought up queries...

I don't agree with the blog reader who thinks anyone can hammer out 80,000 words.

I know agents get work that is not yet polished enough etc.

But hammering out 80,000 words is a big deal. And not everyone who wants to write a novel will stick it out that long.

As a writer who is almost ready to submit an 83k-word paranormal/romance novel, I am hoping I will be able to submit online. It could prove particularly costly in these days of high technology. The costs of ink alone are increasing, and having printed off the ms four times already for editing purposes, to submit electronically will be a breath of fresh air!

CJ xx

Please no to going back to the old way. It's not just about effort, you have to drag kids to post office just for international reply coupons, seems like such a wasted time. Could be writing or playing with them. It's a fine line between inviting the masses to submit everything and common sense in using technology for our benefit.

This is what I find strange as a British author. Most agents over here still only accept snail mail submissions unless they already represent you.

It just boggles the mind that the industry over here is still so reliant on paper and ink and hasn't thought to make the change to e-submissions. To send a fifty page sample to several agents at once costs so much money and is such a waste of paper.

I think most British authors pray for the day that things change over here.

I love digital submissions! I can only speak from the writer's side of things, but I know they've made life easier for me. I live on a farm, and driving snail-mail submissions to the post-office takes not just paper and postage, but also gas and valuable time. The ability to use an internet connection is a God-send for me.

I suppose it's inevitable that ease of use would cause some to send frivolous submissions. That simply shows their own lack of professionalism. As others here have pointed out, a few screening methods will weed out the worst offenders. Meanwhile, it lightens the load for the rest of us. Please don't stop!

I don't think "anyone with a computer can hammer out 80,000 words." I'm a serious writer and a fast typist and I struggle. Regardless of increasing volumes of mail, I'm sure the electronic age makes things much more streamlined for agents, publishers and writers. I love being able to query, submit and receive replies via email and would not like to go back to a paper-based way of working.

Goodness, no! In addition to the space-saving and convenience of e-queries, it speeds up the querying process to do it this way. I'm thankful for the agents who take e-queries.

I'll give up my mouse/keyboard when they pry it from my cold dead fingers! I filter out the snail-mail-only agents.

Oh, pleeeeeze, no! I love the ease of email. No trotting down to the PO, waiting in line, and spending lots of money in postage in order to get my rejections.

I don't know the solution to "frivolous queries" (an eager office assistant?) but I do appreciate agents who work solely via email. Thanks!

Most US agents prefer email, most UK agents prefer snail mail.

Emailing US agents is quick, snappy, easy, and I presume the mailing of responses is similar.

Posting envelopes to UK agents is time-consuming, irritating and costly. Worse still, their typical requirements go way beyond the simple query letter. Three chapters plus bio plus synopsis plus cover letter times umpteen rejections is a hell of a lot of wasted paper.

I think it's time they were told.

I haven't really determined where I stand on the 'numbers', as I feel I do use my numbers effectively in an effort to expand my marketing reach. But I can see how things like this will actually hurt some people as they stress over the regular updates.

This is a very nice service from Amazon, though.

I cured myself of obsessing about sales on Amazon - and it only took several years! :D I won't be allowing myself to get sucked back in - after all, i get sales numbers from the publishers!

I think they would officially give me a heart attach.

I just got the e-mail from Amazon about this - and deleted it. It's just too much to obsess over. If I ever think I have the resources (and mental discipline) to use the information meaningfully, I might look, but for now I'm shooting for out of sight, out of mind.

It sounds like a dieter getting on the scales. Once a week but not more. Maybe not that often if you know you are obsessed.

That is just downright cool! I don't know if it'll help me or not, but it's kinda fascinating to me that I can see that I've sold books in Maine. I've never been to Maine.

I like Sharon's comparison. And Katie, having an attached heart is a good thing. Sorry, couldn't resist. ;)

I'm about to click on some of the articles, but I'm 50/50 on this. I love learning ways I can improve on things but sometimes this influx of information starts to feel Big Brotherish and time consuming.

I've found it invaluable to focus on things that impact legitimate improvement, like my writing and developing online connections.

Jury is out for me.

Hope you have a good weekend too, Rachelle.

~ Wendy

Thanks Katie and Wendy for the laugh this morning. Oh, dear...

Back to Rachelle's question... I'm a numbers person, so I'm excited to have that kind of information available. I think writers should see it like an investment portfolio, though. Most investment advisors will tell clients that they shouldn't look at their portfolio every day, every week or even every month in many cases. I think authors will probably need to limit how often they obsess over, I mean study, their sales numbers.

I checked out the feature out of curiosity, but doubt that I'll go back to it on a regular basis. Maybe if I have a specific question or wonder whether an ad campaign or something similar had any effect. As you pointed out, the numbers are an incomplete reflection of sales. The only accurate numbers come when the royalty statement arrives.

Yes, I can see how it can become something new to obsess over. On the other hand, it seems like authors have so little access to anything useful that ANY data, even if incomplete, is better than none.

I particularly like the idea of the regional breakdown.

I stopped looking for reviews, and I stopped looking at my rankings/reviews on Amazon more than a year ago, and it was the best decision, for me, that I have made. I felt as if a weight lifted from my shoulders, and I quit waking up feeling anxious about those things.

So, I won't be looking at these numbers, either.

It's just too easy to become obsessed about these things.

I think it has to be a big help. Especially since most authors are expected to do their own marketing. I think as you mentioned, it'll only help authors direct their attention more efficiently.

Wow! I see potential in this. Knowing where a book is selling well could help an author determine where to focus her promotion efforts. However, said author would have to use the information wisely and not let it become a source of discouragement or distraction. I've heard viewing sales rankings and such can become addicting.

I think it's wonderful. In this day and age, authors need to think like entrepreneurs. Publishing is a business and writing is a job, so the same realities need to apply as in other fields, and includes numbers. Of course, it's up to each author to decide when and how often to check, and to manage the potential"obsession" in a constructive way.

This is very helpful info if you are doing your own marketing. It would have helped me a great deal several years ago when I was on an aggressive marketing campaign directed toward middle schools. I called Ingram and asked if they could give me a clue as to who was buying my books so that I could know what was working and what was not. They would not give me this info.

I just got this email from Amazon this morning, and it has already helped me. A "library set" of my book was purchased just last week, and I assumed it was from one of the schools that I had marketed to recently. But it wasn't. It was from a totally different geographic region where I have NEVER marketed the book. Now I know to follow-up with that area and ensure that word about my book spreads. So, yes, authors could definitely benefit from this info.

Well, knowing my personality, I'll probably be using this feature, but I think I'll need a support group to go along with it.
I admire those folks who can say the numbers don't matter. I guess it all goes back to the age old question of why are we doing this...or who are we doing this for?
But I'm not getting on that merry-go-round here!
Have a great weekend, Rachelle!

Wait...are you SURE those figures don't include Amazon's sales? I must have read their explanation incorrectly.

I think that's GREAT news for an author! We need more control and power over our careers and this will tell us like it is without playing guessing games. I think authors need to be educated and smart about their sales, and not be left in the dark. Bravo!

I get weekly Bookscan sales reports from my agent already, and they have made me crazy and stressed me out at times. I like knowing the numbers to get a sense of how the industry works a and how my book is doing, but blank numbers with no context can be rough. The first time I saw my release week figures and had no idea if they were good or bad. And for the first few months, every time the numbers dropped I'd panic.

Eventually I figured out there's a cycle to sales, and they go up and down, and since I can't do anything about them, there's no use stressing over them. But there are days when I wonder if getting them is a good idea. If you worry easily, it might not be a good thing to know. I can be very stressful.

Katdish: I changed the wording in the post to reflect the fact that Amazon sales of printed books are included in Bookscan reports, but sales of electronic editions are not. Thanks!

Keeping up with sales is part of the business of writing, but like anything other than writing, spread it out with other tasks. Depending on your nature, less may be best.

Thanks, Rachelle, for more great info.

If writers are expected to pull most of the marketing weight, then we need to educate ourselves about sales, even if, in the end, we learn that we should ignore it.

So, yes, I checked my figures, and have no idea if my book, "Writers Gone Wild," is doing well or not. But I want to find out ...

If writers are expected to pull most of the marketing weight, then we need to educate ourselves about sales, even if, in the end, we learn that we should ignore it.

So, yes, I checked my figures, and have no idea if my book, "Writers Gone Wild," is doing well or not. But I want to find out ...

I'm glad it's there. It's somewhat useful, and I think I can keep from checking it obsessively. But for those who are tempted to be obsessive, it's certainly taking the temptation to another level.

Wendy! LOL! It's a serious condition. Attached hearts.

Knowledge is power. That being said, I would love the breakdown of sales. Of course I'd obsess over the numbers, but only because I'm passionate about my craft and passion breeds obsession.

I've been fortunate as my editor had always been happy to share numbers with me in between royalty statements. However I like having my own access. This is my career and I like to have information to assist me in making decisions. To me it is no different than running a restaurant and wanting to reading the customer feedback cards or see the sales receipts at the end of the day.

If I told you my reaction was, "Oh no," would that answer your question?

Signed a very busy author who does not need anymore online distractions.

Okay, I take it back. This is amazing information. I think the implications are big -- and it's all good news for authors, agents, and publishers. But I'll have to say more later, because as you so wisely pointed out, Rachelle, this could become a huge time suck. The long and the short of what I think is that this will be an incredibly helpful tool, not necessarily during book-writing times (that's where I'm at right now) but it during book promotion times (which I'm always doing but never more than when a book is just out). Thanks so much for bringing it to my attention. Happy holidays!

When can I have access to other people's bookscan numbers, that's what I really want to know!

Was very excited to learn this yesterday. My publisher directed me there. Thanks.

Not only is this a great tool, I think it is SO smart for Amazon to offer it to authors. They just turned a few minds into happy followers rather than skeptical dragon slayers.
:)
e

I'm still in the obsessing about query letters, synopses and outlines stage. Thankfully, I have stopped obsessing about revisions.

I think if I had a book out and I read reviews and book sales daily it would be too discouraging to want to write more. I'm sure I'm missing a great opportunity, but I can't write well when I have something negative clawing at my brain.

I'm ecstatic about the numbers. (And tickled that you and I got quoted back to back in the Christian Science Monitor.)

This is decades over-due. I'm still trying to figure out why the publishers never did this.

It would be nice if we could inch that 75% coverage figure closer to 100--like every other pop culture industry. Perhaps author interest will nudge some holdouts to play ball.

Of course authors will obsess about the numbers sometimes, but every single author I know has already obsessed over our Amazon rankings, so much better to spend that time with real numbers that are much more reliable.

And this only updates once a week, instead of hourly.

I think all the cautionary notes I'm hearing are odd, and I have to say, Luddite. Information is good. This is the most basic data that no product manager could imagine working without. And yes, we're all product managers of our own books, whether we want to our not. (Either we are, or no one is.)

I strongly disagree with the sentiment by one commenter that we can't do anything about our sales anyway. Of course we can. We can't dictate sales, and what we can do is often slow, but it's cumulative. We can have a huge impact over time--especially over a career.

What I dislike most in writers blogs is unedited chunks of first draft.

In fact, I think writing samples should be on separate pages rather than in the main blog.

The writers blogs I like best are those that either offer good advice or offer a brief diversion which is separate enough from the writing process to wind down a little but not so far removed as to instigate procrastination. Best example I can think of at the moment is an idea I copied from another blogger - going to Wordle and creating a word cloud. I like finding similar little toys (I write Like is another) and the writers blogs I like most are those that share these.

For agent blogs, I like those that offer examples of what not to do.

It sounds like you basically don't like to see bad writing in a writer blog. I think it's the same for an agent blog. It can be really about anything, frequent or infrequent, and be something I wildly disagree with, but if it's good writing and respectful of it's audience and I enjoy the voice, I'll keep reading.

I follow blogs when I like the blogger and I can tell if I like them from their voice.

I don't like the agent blogs that require you have an account w/ your name cuz it inhibits you from telling it like it is. What are they so afraid of? Can't they monitor their posts like everyone else and allow Anon posts like this one?

Also sure it's fine to brag a bit about your or your clients books (yay for them) but please don't use your blog simply as a marketing tool to get people to buy your/their books.

No preachin, bragging or lecturing please. That's all, folks!

What I don't like to see in writers' blogs:
- poorly supported, weak or contradictory arguments when a (supposed) professional writer is trying to make a point in a commentary or "rant" on a topic.
- misspellings of important words, which is different from accidental typos. For example: "Wicken" instead of "Wiccan" is not a typo - it's horrible spelling (I've seen this on a "professional" writer's blog). A typo is something like "dogg" when it should be "dog." Typos are annoying, but we all make them from time to time; not spelling a religion correctly is sloppy and inexcusable.

Oh this one is really easy for me: book cover JPEGs that don't link to the Amazon page where the sample can be downloaded to my Kindle Reader.

I read my favorite blogs using an RSS Reader that shows a preview of the first few sentences of the posting. From there, I decide if I want to read the full article or not.

What I don't love, in any blog, is an entry that starts with "filler" sentences or introductions, because then I have to click through to see what it's about. Big sigh. I know, life's rough! ;-p

I love anecdotes. And not-too-long posts with simple language and not big chunks of text. Keep it simple and easy to read. Also, bloggers who reply on comments are definitely in my good books. Interaction is really important for me.

Counter question: How infrequent is infrequent? I have a blog with writing tips, but there might be several weeks between two posts simply because I can't settle on any specific topic/find enough wise stuff to say about it. Should I intersperse these "real" (as in, for the purpose of my blog) posts with something else? (and what?)

As others have said, I find "what not to..." blogs incredibly interesting and useful. I'm a huge zine and handmade/DIY fan, so I adore writer blogs that regularly recommend things, especially obscure but wonderful literary things I'd never have found for myself.I'm also a sucker for poetry.

Don't likes - as I'm a self-publisher I can't really comment on agents (same also applies to likes I guess, but even as a self-publisher I find what not to columns useful - the same rules apply), though the principle for everyone is pretty much the same - I don't like people who only say how great they and their clients are. I'd, er, much rather they show me that by posting some writing than endlessly tell.

The other thing I think is a real turn off, and is similar to your points about unfunny hunorists and uninteresting memoirs, is the stock interview. A lot of so-called creatives get the chance to interview really interesting people and the best they can come up with are "so, tell me how you went about writing your book? Who's your favourite character? What next?" There's a fine line between informing an audience that wants to know and wasting a great opportunity to get inside a subject. And any creative worth their salt should be able to walk that line

I like blogs that are either helpful or insightful. Both is preferred. Something that either teaches me something, or something that puts a new spin on or makes me think more deeply about life, faith, (fill in the blank). Those are the kind of blogs I keep going back to.

What don't you like to see in agent blogs?
I don't like to see an agent's blog that is just a venue for advertising his/her clients' projects. What I do find helpful is a glimpse into the worklife of the agent, as well as helpful tips and insights into process.

What don't you like in other writers' blogs?
Blog posts about mundane personal things that are not told in an interesting way. Way too many graphics, buttons, award/kudos from other blogs tags. And finally, writer blogs that make it difficult for me to find examples of the writer's work.

And what makes you love somebody's blog?
Consistency, a unique voice, sincerity, professionalism and warmth, humor, openness, posts that do not have a self-centered feel to them.

Thank you, Rachel, for your helpful blog!

Whew! What a relief. For a moment there, I thought you were reading my blog as you wrote that, but I don’t rant. I just complain.

To be honest, I don’t write blog posts for agents. I think some agents would be a better off if they would read some of my posts, but I’m not trying to find an agent with my blog. I discovered some time ago that most of the readers who find my blog are looking for stuff related to how to write. So, I’ve directed my posts more in that direction. But really, I just put it out there and if people want to read it they can. I don’t owe agents and authors anything. So, if I want to write about something else occasionally, I do.

What I hate to see in agent and author blogs are guest posts. I don’t read them.

What do I love in a blog? Well, the same thing that makes a story great, conflict. Give me something I can discuss.

Agent blogs: Most of the above comments capture my dislikes (e.g. too self-promotional, inconsistent postings). I love a balance between useful "how-to" posts, behind the scenes, and insights on trends and lit news (e.g. the white-guy-literary-darling kerfuffle from a few months ago or James Frey World Domination).

Other writers' blogs: the challenge for all of us writers, I think, is finding a unique slant, especially for us "emerging writers" who might have legitimate writerly chops but who haven't sold/published a book-length work yet. So many writers' blogs, while well written, don't have that unique slant (this is something I struggle with).

Blog love: A unique slant, unique voice, regular posts, regular themes that I can look forward to, and humor never hurts.

I'm one of those "unfocused" blogs, I'm afraid. :) But I've made my decision to do that deliberately--because I think writers' blogs are only interesting to writers. For me, blogging is an opportunity to multitask: to journal for myself while simultaneously building my readership online. I know it's not the most effective method--that targeting a niche is much more so. But it's a choice I've made to be true to myself. So be it.

As for agents' blogs, I love it if I learn from it. As for the general populace's blogs--I love it if the voice holds me. And if it doesn't wander off into product placements. And if it has substance.

Sounds to me like everything you've mentioned here is common sense, but then again those kinds of blogs MUST exist.

When it comes to writing and publishing blogs my very favorite thing to see is advice that is both encouraging and educational. I think what works the very best is real life examples of what works and what doesn't, not just vague clues.

The thing I like to see the second most is humor. If a blog can actually make me laugh consistently, I'll be coming back on a regular basis.

John Geary, it could still be a typo. “Wicken” and “wicked” are pretty closely spelled.

One of the things that bothers me about writer blogs is that we’ve got the choice of either not writing for potential readers or competing with our book. If we write the stuff that is most likely to attract those who would buy our books, they have no need to buy our books because we’re giving it away free. If we write other stuff, we attract writers and they won’t buy our books because writers don’t buy books.

I follow maybe 30 blogs about writing. I enjoy chatty, off topic, self-promotion, and sporadic postings. But I take blogs off my subscription list if they have too little benefit me. If the last ten posts contain nothing that I find useful to improve my writing, then I usually unsubscribe. Unfortunately, 'useful' is a rather nebulous idea in writing. But like trying to define pornography, I know it when I see it.

I don't like blogs that look too "busy". I am also turned off by blogs that rely too heavily on author interviews--as someone commented, it's just the same old questions--no new takeaway value for the reader.

I'm afraid I'm one of those text dense bloggers, but it's because of my lack of skill in using graphics in my posts--something I hope to improve in 2011.

I've also become a big fan of group blogs--where writers with similar interests (genre or whatever) band together and trade off days of the week to post. Several different personalities, several types of posts.

Agent blogs: I only follow a handful, and I enjoy all of them. I find them helpful and the agents seem friendly and approachable.

Writer blogs: I dislike blogs that are consistently negative or consistently mundane. I don't care if you finished knitting that second sock today or that potty training your kid is going well. Yawn.

Blogs I love: Any blog where the writer's personality shines through, especially if they've got a sense of humor. If they can take their daily life and make it interesting and funny, great. Writing samples are all right, as long as they are not truly a rough draft. It's irritating to see writing posted when they clearly just wrote it and didn't take a look at it and clean it up a bit first. But otherwise, I appreciate snippets. And links to interesting and informative publishing posts on the web is great.

Voice. Wisdom. Humor. Industry News. I’m attracted to blogs that espouse those. I also appreciate when an author writes in a way that lets me know they’re trying to connect with readers. I tend not to regularly visit blogs oozing with negativity.

I’ll be back to read these responses. Fascinating.
~ Wendy

I (almost) don't care what the topic is as long as the writer has a voice that keeps me engaged.

Slightly off topic example: I don't know anything (nor to I care) about fixing cars, but I love listening to Car Talk's Click and Clack on NPR.

Voice.

Did you ever notice that you see a whole lot of writer blogs and a whole lot of agent blogs - but hardly any editor blogs?

I think it's because we're boring and talk about grammar. We rant about comma splices and style guidelines. We're so boring and pedantic, we don't even want to read our own blogs.

Just sayin'...

I wrote a blog post recently (not going to link it, you can just clikc my name) about a high-up publishing industry exec. Not strictly an editor, but a bunch of different things. His blog left me deaf dumb and blind...too much stuff everywhere. I was like trying to play pickup sticks but you're in a vat of sticks instead of staring at a pile of them in front of you.

I don't like really, really, reallly long posts that repeat the same idea over and over.

I wonder if I truly get across what my blog is about? I hope so!

I love blogs that are well-written and make me think. I tend not to frequent a blog that is negative or is filled with personal rants.

Question: How infrequent is infrequent for a writer's blog? Does consistency and content trump frequency?

Hi,

Intriguing post: see, you caught my eye whilst skimming through dashboard.

Re lit agent sites: not interested in those who promote themselves with daily blogging! If seeking an agent I'd be looking around for the quiet ones: getting on with promoting books to publishers rather than blowing a blog trumpet.

Re publishers: keep abreast of what's going in, coming out and who aretaking on authors via slushpiles.

Re writer blogs: can't see anything wrong with the odd rant, so long as writing is good and blog entertaining. I don't even mind a kind of promo writer blog with snippets/chapters etc., but please, I do not want to know what you ate for dinner last evening, if your baby puked, nor if your dog crapped on the door mat. Keep your blog writer orientated all things wordsmithing, and have a secondary blog for personal input/output! ;)

best
F

Blogs I like:

Nova Ren Suma's blog for her heart and honesty.

The Rejectionist for the weirdness and humor.

Betsy Lerner for the heart, insight, and spunk (did I really just type spunk?) but also because it's one of the only blogs I read that so frequently references blow jobs.

Veronica Roth for sharing her dream-scenario publishing experience and the lessons she's learned along the way.

Loved The Intern's blog for her humor and the helpful info; too bad she had to say goodbye.

Twisting the Kaleidoscope for the way she reaches out to her readers.

Basically, the blogs that aren't always all about the writer/agent running them -- there's some give and take, a genuine interest in the audience reading the blog.

It all boils down to honesty and a sincere interest to build connections (and I'm not talking about just networking branding here). It's what I strive for in my own blog, even if I'm still a comparative newbie.

I'd love to see more lit mag blogs that discuss their process, behind-the-scenes stuff, more casual content from their contributors, etc.

Anon 7:37: I already expanded on what I mean by "irregular and infrequent" here in the comments, 3 comments above yours.

I sense a little bit of frustration coming from you, so I imagine you look at your blog as your personal space to do with as you please, and you don't want anyone to tell you that you should be focused, nor that you should blog on a regular schedule. For you (from what I gather), blogging is low on your list of priorities, and it may not be worth the effort for you to strategically plan and build your blog day by day.

Fair enough, assuming you understand that this approach speaks loudly to the world that your blog is for you, not for anyone else, and that building a significant readership is not important to you.

However, when I'm reading writer blogs for the purpose of learning more about them and whether they'd be a good bet for agent representation, I look at their blog as part of their platform. I'm looking for people who understand how to cultivate and grow an audience of people who want to read their work. That's pretty basic for someone who wants to be a published author.

A blog that is unfocused and irregular, and therefore not tuned in to the idea of growing a readership, tells me that this author is probably not ready to be published because they may not understand the fundamental truth about a book: it's about the reader, not about the writer. Your work has to draw in readers, and then it has to serve readers. Otherwise, why publish? Just write for yourself.

Unfocused/irregular blogs also tell me that the author may still not quite understand the necessity in today's publishing world for authors to build their own readership, to gather tribes of people who are interested in what they have to say. This is becoming more crucial by the day.

So yes, I understand your objections to my post. But I believe your objections keep you stuck blogging for yourself, not writing in such a way as to draw in readers for your work.

I like voice, personality, blogs that are focused on something, preferably writing. I'm turned off by dry craft only specific blogs. I need to feel the author a little bit or else I feel like I'm reading a textbook.

I've meet the most amazing people blogging and most of them I consider to be close friends. It's been a wonderful experience.

As far as agent blogs, I like the same things. I love how your personality sparkles through each of your posts. You seem like a focused person with a great sense of humor.

Fawn Neun, I think some of us would love to see editor blogs, but rather than rants about comma splices style guidelines, we would like to see more on useful methods we can use to correct our work. I once asked an editor type person (who shall remain nameless but nevertheless is reading this) how to eliminate a certain type of problem in a manuscript and this person responded, “find a good editor.” That was not the answer I wanted, to say the least. If there were an editor’s blog that provided a better answer, I’m sure many authors would find it helpful.

Rosslyn Elliott, I would be surprised if readers want to read blog posts down in the author’s “voice”. I’ve done pretty much everything I know how to do in terms of writing posts aimed at fiction readers. I’ve done short stories. I’ve allowed my characters to guest post. I’ve talked about the background of stories. It has all been met with a resounding yawn. My readers love my books; they don’t read my blog. So, aside from the enjoyment I get out of interviewing my characters, it is sort of pointless. I think that about the best we can hope for from blogs aimed at readers is that it will be similar to the extra content on a DVD. But realistically, what I think we should be aiming for is for our name and the names of our books to show up in as many places as possible. And when they search for our name or one of our books, we should have enough stuff out there on the web that the first search result will direct them to us.

I just saw that you specifically asked us NOT to mention names or examples...I hope that applies to the names of blogs we don't like, and that my list of blogs I do like is okay!

This is a tough post for me. I am an unfocused blogger because I have a priority list which goes something like this: family first, writing and editing second, and blogging last. Every time I reconsider and try to be more focused on building a readership, I jump in and go at top speed until I get burnt out.

I think it might be good advice for people like me to start more slowly--one well-done post a week, for example. I've been thinking about this for a while.

What do I like in blogs? There are only a handful of writer/agent blogs that I like and faithfully read. I don't like always talking about writing. I have interests in so many areas--history and languages and accordions and religion and . . .

I'm with Phoenix: I'd love to see the behind-the-scenes look at how a book makes it through the publishing process, from query letter to agent offer to editorial meetings and finally cover art and promotion. That's interesting and inspiring!

What I hate are those blogs who talk about how many queries they've received this week, month, year and how few writers they've taken on (2 out of 25,000--really?). Sure, give us an idea of stats but don't rub it in about how in demand and busy you are! Why frustrate us even more? If an agent starts a blog to attract new biz, then why not stop it when you've had your fill of clients--or write something useful for a change? Give us a break!

I'm one of those who thinks a blogger can write about whatever or whenever s/he feels like it--no one has to read it. But frankly no one likes a braggart or a whiner. (Sorry if I'm complaining here too much)

The blogs I like are done in a clean and easy to read format. No flashing cartoons or drab backgrounds. Content wise I rely on several of the industry "standards" one funny man in publishing, one group of great women who "box" a nice combo of posts, several literary agents who are kind with their comments and best of all my fellow writers.

In all stages from aspiring to newly published to a well crafted body of work there are writer blogs that are a joy to read.

On the other side. Your fellow professionals might take a cue from your "manner." That is to have them and be kind in how they approach the mistakes new writers make.

Like the man in your picture or a shock jock, I'd rather change the channel. Oh, I can understand that after thousands of queries or tiresome stories, an agent may become weary, perhaps even testy.

However, some agent blogs would be doing us all a big favor if they kept the crude remarks for cocktail hour with their friends.

You have already said it all with the statement I see above this box ... blog posts ... like blog comments should be civil, respectful and avoid personally insulting others.

I am Fois In The City and I thank you. Enjoy your Holidays :)

Agents blogs? I used to read 3 on a regular basis. Now the other two agents are no longer blogging, so that leaves yours. No pressure, though...

I appreciate honest advice grounded in the reality of how difficult this business really is. You consistently do that here even though that's a difficult reality at times.
Writer's blogs? Good, consistent writing, a well designed website without a bunch of distracting stuff in the sidebars.

Holy cats! Talk about an awesome discussion gong on here. Rosslyn brings up a point that stumps me.

Rachelle, do you think when a writer goes from unpublished to published, they should consider changing their blog content?

Right now, the people who read my blog are other writers or my family/friends. I wonder how many actual everyday readers (aka not writers) care about following an author's blog. The answer to that probably depends on how well-written, engaging the blog posts are. Like Billy Coffey. I have to think fans of Snow Day would want to follow his blog because they are very similar in theme, content, voice, etc. Wow...I'm rambling.

I'm guilty of the fourth one for sure, but I'm trying to be better! I think I just need to adapt myself to the idea of writing shorter, more frequent posts instead of an essay in each one. Or write up a batch of posts at once and set them to auto-post.

I don't like to see huge political rants in agent blogs. Yes, I understand agents are entitled to have political views, strong ones even, and they are free to express them wherever they want, but it turns me off if they claim their blog is about publishing but every post is a long-winded rant about a political issue. This is true even if I agree with their views! At that point, they should probably redefine their blog to be about more than publishing. I know of plenty of authors who are up front that their blog contains personal posts and writing posts, and thus it seems less jarring if they post a similar rant.

I love a blog if it is interesting to read or offers useful information. A sly sense of humor can help too, although it is not essential.

I don't ming irregular posts - I'd rather have that than an entry with nothing in it. Isn't it better to blog when you have something to say.

I love talking blogging! I'm with you on the things that don't work for me.

Also, when the background is black and writing is red or white....my eyes can't take that. It's hard to read. A second thing is music. I usually have pandora or iTunes going, so when I open a blog and music starts....I don't like that so much.

I love blogs that are funny! I'm all about laughing and having fun!! Long, in-depth posts tend to urge me to move on.

As far as agent/editor blogs. . . I love hearing what they know about the industry, craft tips, suggestions on the business end of it. . . things like that.

It's fun learning about the agent/editors lives, too. I mean, potential clients are going to be with agents and some editors for a long career, it's nice to know a little more about them as a person, too, in order to see if it's a great fit.

Thanks for this post. It's great fun!

I look for information that is helpful for me, as an aspiring author. If it's all about them and their books, nah.

Great post.

Wow...this has been great food for thought, Rachelle.

My blog's headline states: "My life is a symphony of faith, family and teaching. Jesus Christ is my composer and conductor. Come listen in!" As I ponder, I realize that might be more apt than I originally thought. Having been steeped in songs since childhood--and having spent the last two decades singing seven hours a day, five days a week--singing is all I really know. Therefore, my little vignettes "read" like songs. They even have the cadence and structure of songs sometimes.

Maybe I should be working harder to enlighten, inform or instruct. I'm going to mull that over. But thanks to this post, I've at least realized that I'm being true to myself on my blog.

(Btw, YOU are an fantastic blogger with super-stamina...three years, I think, and you just continue to get better and better. You set the standard in so many ways...)

Just wanted to say thanks for the insight and tips. Really invaluable.

Nicole and Lynn: I agree about the music - I can't stand opening a blog and music automatically comes on. I usually exit out of the blog as quickly as I can - I won't take the time to figure out if I can shut the music off. I think that's just one more thing that shows the blogger isn't tuned in to the idea that the blog is about the reader, not the blogger. Assuming I'd even like your choice of music is a big mistake; and it's intrusive to stick your music in my listening space without giving me a choice.

Anon 10:42: You wrote, "Isn't it better to blog when you have something to say?" My response is that blogging, like all writing, is a discipline. Professional writers can't and don't wait for the muse to appear. They have strategies and techniques in place to make sure they get words on the page regularly. Again, as I've said in my other comments here, it all adds up and gives clues as to whether you, as a writer, are ready to be a published author. Just from your question about "blogging when you have something to say," I'd be wary of repping you because I'd assume you're a writer who doesn't understand discipline and only writes when the muse strikes. Of course, my assumption could be 100% wrong, but this is the risk we take when we express ourselves online.

Hey Rachelle! For me, I'll fall in with love a writer's or an agent's blog because of the voice. (No different than the reason I'll keep reading a book after a few pages or not.) A good lesson for all of us! I just started a blog three weeks ago and I'm learning tons every day.

I love yours, obviously! Nina

Consitency is very important as a blogger!!
My personal blog is a mixture of , things that have happened and lessons learnt, tips, rants and short stories.
I try to rotate so as to keep everybody happy...whether it works or not...who knows?

I read different types of blogs depending on mood, time and what I'm working on.
I read
-agents' blogs
-writers' blogs
-personal blogs with trivial issues like what happened when Y met her X at the party with a one legged, three eyed chick. Ok, maybe not, but you get the jist. If it's intriguing I'm hooked.

I read about 6 personal ranting blogs because the bloggers have a sense of humuor and being the nosy parker I am, I wanna know what's happening in their juicy, exciting lives. *sad* I know. lol

Rachelle I love your blog! So informative...

The irregular post thing doesn't bother me. I prefer quality to quantity, and with a blog roll on the side of my own blog I always know when a blogger puts up a new post no matter how long it has been since they last did so. I care only that they write interesting posts.

Oooops got carried away there and forgot the task at hand...lol
I don't like Blogs
-with music
-that are too busy
-long posts
-blogs were people seem to be advertising or pushing me to buy or get something...I don't want it..uggh
-where the navigation tabs are hidden or difficult to find...couldn't find HOME on one...

• LONG blog posts. (I don't have all day)

• No paragraph breaks. (Eyes bugging out)

• Rambling. (You don't really ramble, so you're excused. Many bloggers do ramble. Can't they pleeeease get to the point?)

Do like:

• Brief and to the point

• Informative

• Funny

Blogs I love: A witty voice. Humor. Regardless of writer or agent, I love humor. I love snarkiness. I do appreciate snippits of work if it isn't like a whole chapter, and I love when anyone pulls funny stories from their daily life. I like introspective posts too, ones that make you think. I love links to fun or interesting places. I love anything that provides helpful writing/publishing tips or advice.

Dislikes: Boring ramblings that don't lead to anything. Long snippets that aren't snippets, they're partials. Political platforms or posts that are too serious. Guest bloggers--I go to a blog for that person, not someone else--I'll skip it. Contests that require things like follow this person and that person and tweet five people and link your twitter/facebook/myspace blog post about it...too much work and bouncing around and I'll pass. And finally--When I comment consistently and never get a visit in return...

I do tend to blow off bloggers that aren't consistent in their frequency, but the flipside of that is I'm one of them! LOL. I'll be very consistent for awhile, then hit a dry spell, and end up losing commenters. My focus needs work as well. Sometimes I don't know what to post about. I write womens fiction. Not sure how to drive traffic to that with blog posts, so I end up targeting writers. Hmmm.

Well, this certainly has everyone talking! Which leads straight to my opinion: I think that discussion is the most important thing a blog can offer.

Discussion and knowledge building are what we are here on the web for, so a blog that supports those two activities properly is really awesome, in my eyes.

I get really annoyed with blogs that give 'opinions' or advice without referring to good sources, as if they've crowned themselves expert.

If a blog is written by a successful professional, then that can be in itself a reliable source. However, if the blog is written by your average person (like my blog is) then I think it's essential to make links to where you are getting your information from.

Agent blogs that rant about the stupid things people send them is not only insulting but it shows a lack of respect for THEIR source of income and it really only makes the agent look bad.

On the other hand, agent blogs that complain about common errors and give ways of improving them are very valuable. I wish more did that. I guess maybe there isn't a lot of time for that kind of thing, but that's what hyperlinks are for, which brings us back to the need for reliable sources.

Agents should be as professional as they want authors to be.

I started reading an agent a week ago who so far has shared that she has drinking and drug issues, hates her family, is in therapy, and is promiscuous, all the while using language suitable for the streets.

"Boy, sign me up with this disaster waiting to happen," Marilynn said sarcastically.

When I started my blog several years ago, I already knew from others's experiences that writing articles don't sell novels.

My personal life is also so dull people would run screaming if I chatted about that so I decided to focus my blog on my writing workshops as well as my ongoing effort to educate other writers about the business.

That has worked for me.

I love to read a blog that is humorous and interesting! Please don't tell me about your latest home reno project or the fight you had with your mother!

I like blogs that educate, inspire and make me laugh.

I must confess I am one of those sporadic bloggers. I know that this is not going to bring me faithful readers, and I'm okay with that right now. It's a big commitment and I'll know when it's time.

A friend of mine asked me to send this: "I get annoyed when we who are trying to get published have to follow every rule to the letter but those already published can write however they please."
My comment: Harry Potter and the DeathLY Hallows. Enough said.

A too-long blog is deadly. An agent told me 250 words is plenty. I work very hard to keep mine short and quickly readble. And (often) funny. I've had some gaps, correlating to the times someone very close to me goes into freefall and I'm too stressed/busy to write. Like lately.

I meant readable. Crap! I knew I was too stressed to write.

I love blogs that aren't all info. I like to feel like I "know" someone - even if it's only in cyberspace. So a little info about the person: their interests, etc.

Of course my blog is a lot of info about me, my fam, etc. and not terribly focused :( so maybe I'm not the "write" one to ask.

Voice. I love to read a blog and have someone instantly feel like a friend. Funny and fresh always make me return. And as far as agents go, I love the facts--and this is always a great place to get them :)

And I agree, music is terrible. Especially when the volume is up and there are sleeping toddlers in the next room. Nothing makes me leave faster!

One pet peeve with me and writer blogs is writers that always write about themselves. I've read some blogs where the writer only has a couple blogs a week that are about writing and books. The rest of the time it's all about them, their WIPs, and their struggles as a writer.

I'm not saying writers should never talk about themselves because I do read blogs where the writers do blog about their own writing occasionally but there is a fine line between just enough personal info and too much.

Another pet peeve of mine are bloggers who write extremely long posts. I read a lot of blogs in a day on top of everything else. If you're going to write a long post, break it into a couple sections and post on two different days, or make sure that the post is interesting enough to hold my attention.

I like blogs with original information (not just talking about what everyone else is at the time), voice (funny blogs are my favorite), and blogs whose posts mostly consistent in topic. If you are going to go off topic for a day or two, try to relate it back to writing.

Rachelle, I'm definitely a beginner when it comes to blogging, so I've read all the comments here with a lot of interest, and I've learned much.

No names, but a few of the people who commented today have great blogs. When I first 'discover' an author's blogs of that quality, I almost always exit to Amazon and place an order. I've known the joy of some super books because I first fell in love with the author's words on his or her blog!

Another pet peeve of mine is blogs with hard to read backgrounds. If your blog gives me a headache or makes my eyes hurt because the colors are too bright or the font is hard to read, I probably won't come back.

And this is a personal thing with me, but I don't like blogs with sidebars on BOTH sides. Some of these can easily become too busy with pictures and links and widgets. Also the more you have on them, the longer it takes the page to load. And for some reason double sidebars slow my computer down and make it annoying to scroll through your post.

Rachelle,
Thank you for all your blog columns but this one is extra timely for me. I just opened my own blog this past Tuesday and will be sensitive to the comments you and others made about being consistent,conveying my voice, writing for the reader and not myself, being alert to information that may be useful to pass on, and many other tips.
Now, if I could only figure out more of the mechanics of blogging-like a blog roll to list others blog sites! WHEW!

When I first started reading blogs, I really just wanted to find out more about the author. I love little sneak peaks into their lives, their writing experiences, and any interesting tips or advice they might have.

One of the things I don't like, are the blog posts that can get too long. I don't want to read a whole novel when I check someone's blog. I also don't like when someone seems full of him/herself. Self promoting is one thing, but I think there is a line that can be crossed.

Thanks for the tips on what you look for in blogs!

Rachelle,

Cursing...I cannot stand excessive cursing. I'm not a fan at all. However, there can be witty places to put one of the milder words. It is frustrating to be in the middle of reading a thought provoking opinion and then to have a swear word thrown in with all those beautiful words. It instantly makes it sound ignorant.

Bri

I like writer blogs that give tips, advice, and inspiration. I'm all about the content. If I don't learn something about craft or the writer's life, then I hope to at least connect to the writer on a personal level. Blogs that have a focus is important to me. Good information and content is a must. Humor is a plus. I also love anecdotes. Oh, and the blog HAS to be easy to navigate!

What I don't like? No HOME tab at the top. Lack of organization. Too large fonts. Blog titles that include these words: rant, rambling, journey, muse, musings, etc. (although sometimes they work), posts with poor titles, posts with a frequency of 5x or more a week (too hard to keep up with them, unless it's a one-time month-long special), tag clouds with topics that only have one post (like the name of a movie or a some off-the-wall random topic).

I like agent blogs that are honest, but find I don't go back to ones that are littered with four letter words. They sound way over-stressed and out of control. I like writer and agent blogs that go a little deeper than the obvious, that make me think. I'm open on topics. I love learning something new. I also like easy reads. I admit it. If I have to work to understand it, I'm probably going to skip to the next blog.
Thanks for the point about infrequent blogs. I'm guilty. I'll correct it.

Oh my God! I think I'm guilty of bad blogging all the way around so what you taught me through this blog has been helpful.

And I enjoy when you blog about lit agents likes and dislikes, similar to this one.

Great discussion!

Agents: I like real-world examples, tips, pet peeves to avoid, behind-the scenes anecdotes and an approachable manner.

Writers: I don't "follow" a lot of writer blogs, especially those "I CAN COACH YOU 'CAUSE I'M SO GREAT" self-promotional ones. If a writer blogs something useful, people will retweet it and then I'll go there. If they're human and I see things we have in common, then I'll follow.

All blogs: I don't like excuses about not posting (usually with TMI about a family member's illness), or fluff from people who think they have to post everyday. The key is balance between regular posting and having something good to say. I don't like busy pages, moving graphics or having to click in mid-sentence to read the rest of the paragraph.
I like people who answer comments and who comment on my blog - I'll usually go visit theirs.

My blog: Well, it's focused, but on five or six topics! I enjoy reading my own blog, because it's about all the things I like. But like Rosslyn and Katie, I may need to tighten that up when my book is finished. For Rosslyn: I do write about strange things I come across in my historical research and problems I'm working out with characters, things that probably won't make it into the final book.

Rachelle,

Can I ask re the fact that you don't like a writer who posts reflections on life on his or her blog.

As an example, I followed a blog , written in the way I enjoy.. poems, short prose poems, reflections of life. And now have come to realize that this person is now a published author . So am I to expect the blog to suddenly be about writing , touring, platform, etc?

And when a person blogs only as part of their platform to find an agent, get published etc.... I have noticed that they rarely build community, rarely visit comment on other blogs. It seems wrong to me if they have initially come across as less than honest about their space.

And I agree about the music, with the exceptions of some of my blog loves that retain my loyalty regardless. I hope my less than perfect self would receive some grace. Okay . A lot.

I really dislike blog interviews where standard questions are put to guest after guest. Something quirky will always get my attention. Poor layout will quickly send me away.

I only follow a handful of agents and published authors. I like them because they provide useful information relevant to being a published writer. I'm not interested in reading their blogs for anything else. I'm not looking for a personal connection so I don't want to read about their day unless it relates to why I'm reading their blog in the first place.


I hate blogs by unpublished writers. Haven't found one yet I can tolerate. Most try too hard. Not having any publishing experiences they try to make up for it by writing about their lives and enthusiasm for writing. Too many seemed to think that the fact they call themselves writers makes them interesting. It doesn't.

I understand the need to have a platform by way of a blog or website but since I am an unpublished writer I refuse to inflict another wannabe writer blog on the world right now. However, I will have one eventually because I am working on putting together a website/blog that would be interesting to writers AND readers. It will reflect my writing style and approach to life but won't be about me unless it relates to getting published. The world really doen't need another post about how little writing I got done today because I had a migraine. Nor a reposting of some published author's musings because I have nothing to contribute.

This is a great post with lots of awesome comments.

I agree with many, no music!
I also hate a blog that looks like an advertisement or a spam page.
I dislike interviews and never read them.
I don't like super long posts.
I do like a little humor, some instruction, and some whatever you do don't do this.

I wonder about my new blog I have on writing. It's fairly new, and since I am learning (from other blogs and books) I really can't instruct someone else on how to write, only my frustrations of my own writing.
Maybe that's why I haven't been found by many readers.

Great post and helpful.

Probably the biggest 'turnoff' in both writer and agent blogs (or ANY blog) is negativity for me. The same holds true for commenters on blogs. If someone (who has a link to their page) says something nasty on a blog I frequent, I never click through. I usually assume ( I know, I know - it's BAD to assume) the content on their blog will be much of the same.

On the opposite side of the coin, positive comments with links usually bait me to check out their site.

I prefer people (both agents and writers) that post regularly i.e. 3-5 times a week. And as previously stated I too, REALLY dislike music playing, or pages that are filled to the brim with widgets. If it takes more than a few seconds to load, I usually 'x' it and move on.

Like others, voice, and humor will keep me coming back regardless of the subject matter.

Thanks for a great post Rachelle!

Writers don't buy books? Really? I'm a writer and I buy books almost weekly. I read almost as much as I write. A good writer buys books because a good writer reads them.

Sorry, a rant. Anyway, I don't care what the blog is about as long as it's written in a way that engages me. As someone said in another comment; if I like the voice, I like the blog.

My blog is about writing, publishing, the occasional rant about the process, the agents, the publishers. Basically wherever I am at that point in time. I like to see honest posts and if honest is critical, so be it.

I like to see writing samples on writers blogs too. I don't care if it's a rough draft. You can see a lot in a rough draft. I post samples of my writing at different stages. It's more of a way to show that writing is a process and you never finish with the words you start with.

In agent blogs, the promotional stuff irks me too, but agents also have a job to do. I understand that. I don't mind if they mention on occasion that their client has a book coming out. To me, that shows a good agent who cares that their clients do well. Every day? No. That's a bit annoying. But it's annoying in writer blogs too. Don't remind me daily about the book you're selling. I see it in the sidebar. If you've linked it properly I can click it and decide if I'm going to read it. Chances are if I've subscribed to the blog, I'm going to read the book.

The only things I don't like are really long posts. Otherwise, I've loved the blogs I've visited.

Well, I generally like shorter posts--unless they're craft-related. There are some fantastic bloggers out there that write epically long posts but are so engaging and informative that I'm disappointed when there isn't more.

I'm a bit peevish about long teasers from WIPs.

I think the only thing that really, REALLY bothers me, though, is an inaccessible blog. The kind where you try to comment and engage, but it just seems like you've walked into a thick nest of BFFs--ones that are NOT looking for a new member in their clique.

These are few and far between, of course, but that really turns me off. What's the point of blogging if you don't want to connect with folks?

I find myself very turned off by writer blogs that, oddly enough, don't focus on the craft of writing.

Don't get me wrong, I'm perfectly fine with the occasional post about your sick puppy or how you've taken up gardening or whatever, but if 4 out of the 5 posts you publish each week have nothing whatsoever to do with writing, I feel cheated.

I haven't encountered this as often with agent blogs, but with writers I come across it all the time. It's like picking up what you thought was a thriller only to discover it's a romance in disguise. Not cool.

YIKES! This was a great blog post with a TON of great AND frustrating comments! Most have sparked ideas in my brain. So, THANKS! :) I'm off to evaluate my blog...

Writer's blogs -- like all blogs -- should use posts that are short and to the point. Blogs are not the place for showcasing prose. Save that for the novel.

I have spent the past 90 minutes looking for a specific writing info.

something I would like to see on blogs is a search. So I can find what I'm looking for without having to read through all of the posts.

Oh this has been fun reading. I think I've taken more time reading these comments than I would someone's blog post.

What I hate: (and we all have our personal tastes like in books) LONG posts without breaks.
Music.
Boring stories about yourself unless you tie it to something I can relate to.
When someone doesn't post for over a month, I delete them.
A ton of slow-loading graphics.
Keep it simple and real.

What I love: Simple and Real with some useful information and don't be afraid to share what you did wrong as well as right.

Agent blogs: Love information I can use to grow and submit. Hate reading how busy you are and buried with submissions. I don't need to hear someone complain about their job. If you don't like it, do something you can be passionate about and love. (I say that to everyone--not just agents:)
Thanks for a great read today! I learned a lot.
Mostly, I didn't realize agents even visited blogs.

Terri Tiffany:
That last comment cracked me up. "I didn't realize agents even visited blogs." Are you kidding me? Why not?

Alice: Sorry that you've had a hard time finding the info you need. I'm not sure if you're talking about my blog or others, but my blog actually has a SEARCH box in two different places - very top left, and also the sidebar towards the bottom.

You can also see, towards the bottom of my sidebar, a list with "Find Posts on This Blog" at the top. One of the categories is "Craft of Writing." There's another category "Writing Process." Those should give you what you need.

Renee Miller: Of course writers buy books, probably at a higher rate than the general population. But still, an audience that consists of just writers is a very small audience when compared with the audience of, say, "people who like political books" or "people who like romances." You should be targeting your blog at your audience, not just writers in the audience.

Deb 12:24 pm: I don't dislike writers who post reflections on life. As I said in my post, I ENJOY blogs with reflections on life. What I said here was that I don't like it when they're boring. And too many "reflections on life" blogs are boring. It just means either I'm not the right audience for that blog, or the writer hasn't quite found the way to keep an audience interested.

And no, no, no... I would hope a successful "reflections" blog would not suddenly become something different just because the author is published! Many successful authors have terrific blogs in which they don't talk about the writing life, but rather about life.

Christie Wright Wild: Wow, it's a wonder you read my blog at all! (Seeing as how you don't like blogs with the words rant or rambling, or posts 5x a week.) I feel privileged that you're here! Thanks for overlooking my shortcomings. :-)

If I found a publisher to take my first book, how would I then go about approaching an agent to represent me for future books? Do I submit my second book in the same way as I would the first? Obviously quoting that the first is being published. Would I need to send them sample chapters from both books?

Hello, perhaps, you could assist me with this question. I do not know if you know of the POD publisher, PublishAmerica, or not, but I signed with them in 2006 for my first book, and at the time, POD wasn't really explained until after I was signed. It's difficult to get bookstores to order my book and PublishAmerica doesn't help in the promotion whatsoever. The author does all of the work. I am working on my second book (I've finally figured out the direction I'm taking the subject in), and I'm not sure if I want to stay with my publisher, though, I did sign a contract, of course. Is it advisable for me to try to get an agent? Would this be beneficial? Should I try to query other publishers, perhaps? Or would this not be advisable because of my contract? The thing is, it's a six year contract, so I've got a little more than two years left, and it's not going to take that long to write my second book. And also, if my contract exhausts, or I terminate it, I'm without a publisher. And it's better to be with a publisher than not, isn't it? Sorry for this being so long. I found your lovely blog through Writer's Digest, and thought I would ask for a literary agent's advice. It would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Rosaline Melki

What would the protocol be if one has an agent who represents you for you, the author, but you have a story or two among your better ones she feels don't have the broad appeal? Is it okay to release these via small presses yourself?

What are the legal ramifications of writing a story from your past(not so much as a memoir) using real events, maybe stretching them for more effect? Can you substitute imaginary names for real ones, without trouble? Would it be considered 'ripped from the headlines" category?

Hi Rachelle,

I’m curious to know what gets you fired up about your job in a good way and in a not so good way. And what’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned since you started as an agent?

I know those are more about you than specifically about writing and publishing, but I imagine your answers would provide intriguing insight into the industry.

Have a great weekend,
Wendy

Rachelle, do you welcome Queries from England in the same way as you would from America? Does the Atlantic Ocean matter when you are comming to a decision about requesting a look at someones work?
Would distance hinder the author/agent relationship?

1) Is there any market for Bible-era historical fiction?

2) With general market publishers buying up Christian pub houses, how has this changed Christian publishing? Is it expanded, or is it actually compromised somewhat as to the integrity of the Christian product?

Rosaline, PublishAmerica is infamous as about the worst vanity publisher out there. You do not want to stay with them.

Rosaline: Anon 7:08 is correct. I'd advise you leave them as soon as your contract is up if you're not happy with your experience. You can go the normal route of trying to get an agent and seek traditional publication, or you could look for a better self publishing arrangement.

Hi Rachelle,

My question is: If I submit a manuscript to an agent, and then several months later had it professionally edited, making some moderate changes, could I resubmit it again to the same agent? If so, do I mention it's been edited and "improved"? And would it matter whether or not I had a rejection or no response yet?
Thanks so much

Rosaline - I just want to add to be very careful for the last year of your contract. Publish America has been known to auto-renew your contract because you did not spend proper notification before the end of the contract.

As for being without a publisher, being with PA is worse than not having a publisher. Get out as soon as you can.

When or if an agent finds interest enough to request sample chapters of your book to look over. How perfect does your text have to be? Does it have to be completely perfect as if to be sent for publication or can it be slightly rough?

One more question, when should you seek out representation? It is proper to start sending out query letters when you are about half way through the novel or do most agents request you be completely finished the manuscript?

Thank you so much for the time you put into answering all of the questions presented to you today. I think it is amazing to have those few out there who are willing to help the common person with their hopes and dreams.

When or if an agent finds interest enough to request sample chapters of your book to look over. How perfect does your text have to be? Does it have to be completely perfect as if to be sent for publication or can it be slightly rough?

One more question, when should you seek out representation? It is proper to start sending out query letters when you are about half way through the novel or do most agents request you be completely finished the manuscript?

Thank you so much for the time you put into answering all of the questions presented to you today. I think it is amazing to have those few out there who are willing to help the common person with their hopes and dreams.

What's the best way to break into picture book publishing in the Christian market?

I see "agent only" signs on several publishers doors. I have found only one agent who knows CBA well and represents picture books.

I do have an "in" with one pb editor, so I'm working on that. I also know about attending conferences.

Anything else?

Rachelle,

I love it when you do this. Simplified, my question is this: What's with all the bonnets?

Explained, my question is this? Why is it that the best sellers in the CBA are of the Amish/historical fiction/period romance type of book? It seems to me that not every Christian reader out there is drawn to those type of novels, yet that seems to be the trend. I realize that there are also other genres in the CBA, but none of them make list as often as bonnet books. Do CBA publishers driving the market toward what is safe or are they really aware of the tastes of the post modern Christian reader? I ask this because I believe that a thoughtful, humorous, non-necessarily romantic novelist -- say, a Christian John Irving -- has yet to "break out". Am I right in this assessment? Is there hope for writers who are smart, literary, funny and refuse to wear a bonnet?

When is a facebook following large enough to be worth mentioning in a query? I started a writing page and put up a couple of chapters about 2 1/2 months ago. (I'm unpublished so that was the only way I could think of to gain fans.)

I also placed a small fb ad that targets fans of books similar to mine. I'm gaining about 100 fans a month as an unpublished nobody with only $35 worth of marketing. At what point would this make a difference?

Q: If your novel is totally revised, can you re-query agents who requested partials and fulls in the past, esp if they changed agencies? I tried to query one but never got a reply so not sure what's the protocol. Or should we just move on?

How detailed should queries be?
Some want market info, etc others only 3-4 graphs at most. Hard to tell when they all want diff info.

Also when do you give up on an agent? An agent has had my full ms. for several months without a response, but it's since been revised (8 weeks is now 8 MONTHS). Should I send the new version without prompting or withdraw the old one?
Agents are good at giving deadlines but many can't seem to meet them.

Thanks for your help.

Rachelle, what do you look for in "mainstream" novels? Does religion have to play a big part (if any) in genre fiction? Do you worry about offending your CBA followers if you took on a mainstream work that wasn't "Christian?" Also do you have many contacts in the mainstream publishing world? Seems you go to mostly CBA type conferences. Just curious...

My question is how much do you feel coffee plays a role in the crafting of a great book?
LOL - kidding - I know the answer to that one already ... :)

Actually, my question: If you're writing a trilogy (Historical Romance), is it wiser to hold off querying an agent until you have the synopsis' of book #2 and #3 in a trilogy written, or can you submit book #1 with ideas for the other two rattling around in your brain but no synopsis.

How open are Christian publishers to packaging in terms of books with subject matter that falls outside their usual area of expertise. For example, a technology book targeted at pastors. Are there any publishers out there that would consider such a package and how would a person go about offering it to them?

I am researching agents and have come across a few general market ones that say they do not consider things aimed for the Christian/inspirational market. Okay, that's straightforward enough. But does that mean they also don't consider ANY material with some Christian themes or from a Christian worldview, even if the novel is aimed for the general market and not the CBA?

I've looked at their recent deals and can't see any books with overtly Christian themes, but I also haven't read all their previous deals, either.

I'm sure that this varies from agent to agent, and how heavy the novel is on Christian/religious references, but I'd like your take on this.

Hey Rachel,
I was just wondering, how could a published author go about selling her own books without violating the contract with her publisher? Could she offer autographed copies off her blog and go around to local independent bookstores to ask them to carry her book? Or does she have to stick with selling them at her book signings and speaking engagements?

This is something I've been wondering about, and I realize it might be different depending on the agent.

If you get a query for a book that's not for you, but sounds like something one of the other agents at your agency would like, do you pass the query letter on to them, recommend the author query them instead, or do you not say anything?

Thanks!

Hi Rachelle,

I've seen some great author-produced video book trailers recently that made me want to go out and buy their books. My question is whether you think creating a book trailer for your unpublished book and linking to it in a proposal to an agent would be a help or a hindrance.

Thanks!
Alisha

How should one go about finding an agent after they've already been offered a deal by a publisher?

I am very, very new to all of this, so please pardon my question if it is too elementary. You mention in your "What I'm Looking For" that it is important for a writer to do her homework prior to submitting queries. What would you recommend as some good starting places for doing this initial ground work?

Also, to be terribly specific, I am curious about whether or not there is typically a market for nonfiction books that are quite market-specific. In particular, I am thinking of a personal account of adoption. I know that people are adopting in record numbers, but I also know that this remains a niche market.

Thank you for offering your professional advice in such an open and forthright way. It is invaluable!

Rachelle,

How many queries should go out before a MS is put on the back burner?

Is it best to only query one MS at a time?

I know that all agents have different ideas on this one, but what's your take on saying in Query that a MS is part of a series (planned or already partially written)?

Thanks for any answers!

When writing Memoir, is it legal to use real names - and is it legal to write about actual events that took place in the courts also using court transcripts, as long is everything is 100% truth?

Rachelle,

One more question. I have a blog and listed at the bottom are projects I am working on. Although I have working titles for most the projects I am leery to display them for fear of giving someone the idea. I don't need a query going out for a book with the same title from someone else right about the time my book is ready.

Also, how much of a synopsis is safe to display on a blog. I would love to generate interest, but don't want to give away everything in the event of publication. Is the summary you would include in a query letter ok to display? Just a logline?

Curious to know your take on those blog/visibility questions.

Thanks once more!

Rather cool place you've got here. Thanks for it. I like such topics and everything that is connected to them. I definitely want to read a bit more soon.

Jane Swenson
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Dear Rachelle,

Happy almost Thanksgiving. My question is about websites. Should an unpublished author create their own website before becoming signed to better promote themselves and their work? Does it make the new writer appear more professional to an agent or do you prefer someone who is a clean slate that you can build this professional outlook together?
Thank you!

How many sales is considered good for someone who signed with a small press? How much weight does a major publisher give to those sales?

When you send out proposals for your clients, how many publishers do you submit to at one time? Do you send a few, wait for a bite, retweak, then send another round? How long on average does a publisher sit on proposals?

Hi Rachelle,

I am looking for a line editor for my memoir. Do you have anyone you could recommend?

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Hey there. Sorry, you have so many comments; thought I'd add my two cents.

What is your opinion on dialogue?

Like how to write it both so that it doesn't use a repetitive 'he said' 'she said' over and over, but properly written so that you are not confused about which character is talking.

Some authors add mundane details in between 'he took a bite of his sandwich before replying'.

How important is dialogue to a story? Can a point be gotten across better with a godlike third person narrator?

Thanks so much, would really appreciate any help along these lines... check out my blog if you want...
http://blunderstonerookery.blogspot.com/

Thank you, Rachelle, Anonymous 7:08 Nov. 19th, and Krista, for the advice. I think I'm going to try and get an agent. That sounds like the best thing, since I don't want to stop writing, and my contract won't be up for a couple of years.

Rachelle, another question, please. I've been hearing about another publisher, Tate Publishing. It's also promoted by a former Miss America. Have you heard of this publisher, and what is your advice about submitting to them? Should I pay attention, or is this just another vanity publisher? I thank you.

My question:
I'm about to start a charity for the area I write in. I already use the book material as a resource to run individual and group programs. So if you already have an audience for your non-ficton book, do you really need an agent? What would suit this best for publishing - a publishing house or self publishing?

Thank you
sallynapthali.com.au

Hi Rachelle,

I'm a new follower and have been spending a lot of time over the past week, reading through your blog. I have only been blogging a few months and I'm still trying to catch up with this crazy busy blogging world. Reading, posting and commenting on blogs could easily be a full-time job in and of itself! Anywho, love your blog. :-)

Question: How much say does an author (new or old) have in the final decision regarding the title of a book to be published and in the artwork for the cover? And who are the people that come up with the design/photograph for the covers. Does each publisher have a team of people or a department that does this?

Thanks.

Increased opportunities in publishing means increased complexity, and more time investment for both authors and agents. How might that necessarily change the agent commission structure? Part two: Due to these new complexities, do you forsee a time when an author will be advised to have both an agent and an attorney? It seems that with the addition of new marketing tools, e-books, apps, etc., that we must all be more well-informed than ever.
Thanks . . . for this answer, and for your valuable and much-appreciated dedication to your blog and your readership

Once you submit a book proposal at an agent’s request, how long should you have to wait for an answer? Can you call or email if two months go by and you don’t hear. Or should you wait a little longer, or not call at all? Are the follow-up rules any different from that of a query?

Thank you.

What? We can't have both? Bummer!

I'd take door #1. My goal is not the money, but to be true to myself and to my writing goals.

But, door #2 wouldn't be all bad. If I'm only writing so-so, I can always improve. I'd never churn out garbage on purpose just for a paycheck, though.

I think I'd choose either way, as long as I'm published.

So long as I'm proud of the material write, I would be fine with selling well/poor reviews. If I'm happy with my work and tons of people are connecting with it, that's a win as far as I'm concerned.

...Both would be great, of course, but I'll take what comes! :) Great question!

Eeeek! I don't know how to answer that. Making a decent living off of writing books sounds like a pretty great thing. Ahhhhhhhhh....now I've slipped into fantasy land.

How about this: I'd like to write 1 great novel and the rest can be moneymakers. :-D

I'd be a hack. I want to write for a living, and I *hate* reading 'literary' fiction for the most part. Give me a good story and a bit of melodrama and I'm content ^_^

What's to ponder? Hack all the way, thank you.

I'd take door #2. Not because I'd rather more money, but because I don't think the "top reviews" are the ones I want to rely on. If a book is selling well, that means a lot of people like the book, which is enough of a review for me.

Plus, being able to make a living off of something you love just can't be beat.

I'd think I'd want the awards to be honest. I think I could be okay working part time to make a living as long as I was putting my best work forward. I'm sure it would pay off in the long run instead of damage my rep as a hack writer and making money upfront but not being able to recover when I do want to be more serious. So... Awards all the way.

I'd take door #2. I'd still be writing, just like I want to, and I'd be able to do it freely without concern over playing the bills. Though being #1 would be better for my self-esteem...

That’s hard! I was waiting for a number three.
I guess acclaim doesn’t mean as much and awards don’t (even though it’s all good!). I would love to share my worlds with others and know that they really loved those characters and stories. I guess I would just love great reader reviews (the more the better).
If the people who want to read my book(s), love my book(s) and the characters in them, then I would be a happy writer (well, author at that point :)

There's no choice for me. I'll be the starving artist. Give me the gift of words which touch the souls of people--which change lives. I'd rather know I've made a difference than live comfortably.

Since by all reports it appears a microscopically small segment of the author population makes an extremely comfortable living by writing books, it seems like a moot point to me. So I might as well go for the strong acclaim. But as you pointed out, one person's acclaim is another person's garbage.

I would certainly choose to be the one getting average reviews from the critics while selling loads of books. I have seen very clearly that a whole lot of people either don't get or don't even try to get my specific genre, so they will disparage it no matter what. I would be thrilled to have those people who do get it on my side, buying my books, regardless of what the so-called experts think.

Interesting post! You know, this was basically the question that haunted me when four years ago I finally sat down to write the novel I had wanted to write for more than ten years. I have a degree in literature, so of course I am full of ideas what "good" novels are - and I wondered where I was heading to.
But luckily, after just a few days (ok, maybe a few weeks, but today it seems only a short time) it dawned to me that I want to be READ not to be REVIEWED or discussed in university classes. This really was an enlightement for me - and it made me free to write what I wanted to write.
(If in the end what I write is still considered "literature", I won't object. But if I had made it my goal, I would have gotten stuck completely.)

Wow! What a choice. I'm torn, I have to admit. But as someone who has to steal time to write, I think I'd have to pick #2. If I had the luxury of being able to write full time, rather than working 8-14 hours a day, I'd take it.

Does that make me a bad person?

Difficult choice. I'm already (sort of) in category one - not receiving NYT attention, but critically well-recieved in my genre. Not yet able to support myself, but getting there. However I do write two novels a year, and the goal is to get two published a year - only managing one at the moment. So I suppose I'm aspiring to the second category - and i'm still staying true to what I write. If others think badly - well that doesn't have much clout - it's only opinion, same as reviews. To become self-sufficient, that's the goal.

Good question Rachelle, and some interesting answers. For me it's pretty clear: Will Write For Money (freelance, elance, reader's digest, you name it), but when it comes to books I don't care if they pay the bills or not.

Yes, I'd like them to, but that'd be the icing on the cake.

I'd have to go for #2, but really what it's about for me is just entertaining the reader. Not everyone will like my work, which is fine. I just want to give my readers an experience where they can kick up their feet, unwind for a spell, and just have some fun. If awards come my way, awesome.

If sales increase, great! If neither happen, oh well, at least I've done something worthwhile (in my opinion, at least.)

Interesting question. I think I aim for #1 when I'm writing, but what I'd really like is #2, so I didn't have to struggle so much with my ideals.

I would take #2 because the fact that people want to read it is more valuable for my satisfaction as a writer than having the approval of a few book snobs.

I think about movie reviews. Those people watch movies all the time so it takes something odd or special to get them excited. Whereas the rest of us movie goers don't notice a special camera angle the indie director used. We just know if we liked spending our time and money on the film.

Plus I need to feed my kids. They can't eat awards.

All of the above.

After all, God makes rich and adds no sorrow, so why believe you have to limit yourself?

If you're walking in God's will, you'll be fulfilling his purpose for your life AND being comfortable. That's what I'm going for and that's what i'm going to have! :o)

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Note that some authors are painfully apparent in their initial pursuit of financial success followed by a gruesome period of losing readers by pursuing literary greatness (I'll name no names). I think the deeper and more amusing message here is literary equals snobby stuff-shirt, and financially successful equals drooling mouth-breather.

In pursuit of a combination (knuckle-dragging snob -- you know many of them), I questioned: why do so many people read crap? How did this monosyllabic, misplaced moron achieve so much success? The difference between successful and unsuccessful is the ability to generate publicity, plain and simple, regardless of the writing. The susceptible masses scratch their heads and scrunch their faces all the way through the latest hot thing so long as they see two or more other people reading it or carrying it at the airport.

Remember: art is a depiction of the world when viewed through the lens of the artist's mind, so write what you like. If it hits, it hits. If it doesn't, put out the word that you're dead and enjoy the profits rolling in.

Great sales!
I know I'm not a literary writer. *Grin*

It's definitely the second option for me, but not because of the money--although of course being able to make a living as an author would be AMAZING. For me, the whole reason I want to write is that connection between author and reader--and if my book is selling, it means people are reading it, connecting with it, telling their friends about it. That's what why I'm in this, and why I've always been in this.

Yikes!! It's like the impossible question. Can I have a cop out and say both? Great sales and great reviews. I would like both, please. :)

Annon 4:06 - just to push back a teeny-tiny smidgen. Being in God's will doesn't always mean being comfortable. A lot of people from the Bible were in God's will, but extremely uncomfortable.

Look at me getting all theological on a Friday morning.

My writing is not that fancy, and I don't think it will ever be considered literary, so I'd be happy to be popular instead -- it's choice #2 for me.

Hard to say. Critical acclaim tend to bring the monetary rewards in the end. If people rave about it, people tend to read it.

I would also choose door number #2. I buy books from authors I enjoy. They are an entertaining escape. I don't care if the received critical acclaim or awards. They make me happy or sad or whatever emotion I was seeking when I picked it up. As an author, I would rather entertain the reader (proven by selling more books) than the critics.

Hands down #2. I'm looking at college tuition bills right now.

Wonder if Stephen King ever wonders.

As long as I'm enjoying what I'm doing, and I like what I write (i.e. I'm not "selling out" to the latest trend just to make the 'big bucks'), I would choose option #2. I would consider it the greatest accomplishment to be able to make a living doing what I love.

The books I enjoy most are not "literary" but ones that take me away, allow me to escape reality and be taken into another world. If I can do that for other people with my work, I would consider that the ultimate success.

That's not a fair question, Rachelle, but you probably knew that already.

I'm going to have to go with option #2 if I have to pick one. I'm just being honest with myself. I'm simply not a literary writer, so if my writing is reaching lots of people, then I'm doing something right, right? I can think of a few "hacks" that are laughing all the way to the bank and are reaching people who never would have picked up an award-winning, critically acclaimed book. So, yeah, I'm going to go with reaching lots of readers, option #2.

That's a tough question on its own, but for me it gets tougher: worldy acclaim, sales, or Godly acclaim.

My writing is fueled by one thing: a desire to be used of God. So, to answer just the original question, I'd probably say give me the sales, because I'd know my work is being enjoyed by more people and having a greater impact. Let people call me a hack, there will always be detractors.

Writing for worldy acclaim only is a bit snobbish.

I'll take the first. Clearly, I'm not making money and still writing now, so...I seem to be ok with that. :) I won't mind if I'm writing books to a small market rather than a large one (as long as my imaginary publisher lets me keep doing it)--I can appreciate the answers for #2 that said they want to connect to an audience, but I actually see myself happier connecting strongly to a small audience than to a large one.

But heck...I'll take either :) Happy Friday!

I'd rather be a hack with good sales. I love telling stories. What good are stories if no one hears them?

I also read a blog post by a Famous Agent that talked about an example of great writing and I realized that Famous Agent and I were coming at writing from different directions. (In other words, not compatible.)

I'm about the tale, not whether or not the word "maybe" would look better at the beginning of the clause or after it.

I think that genre isn't something you choose anyway, it's more the result of a negotiation between the industry, the reader and the writer. I mean, who labels these things? I don't think you should go into a project thinking, "i'm targeting the chick-lit market, so my novel needs these elements, and must work with these themes..." But i think thats how you make money in the publishing world these days.

The other issue is simply that you are a product of your environment, and your writing as a result. I grew up loving great "literary" works, and i will always write to innovate. I love SF and fantasy and horror too. But i'll always have more esteem for rushdie or even an edgy modern writer like Palahniuk, than for Dan Brown.

I think the average reader/movie-goer is lazy, and he should have to work a bit. It pays off. It may not pay the writer, however. I'm ok with that. Its important to keep that "snobbiness" alive, that's what keeps us from accepting mediocrity because for its entertainment value. But, i do think its a mistake to write off certain works just for adhering to a specific genre. I say, take the cream off the top of everything, from Harlequins to Houellebecq.

At present, I'm aiming for a select but rabid cult following for my "heart" books but am writing what I hope to turn into best-sellers too. Best of both worlds? Oddly I enjoy both styles of writing immensely.

I'd take #2 because mostly I'd like to make my living as a writer.

#1 doesn't appeal to me that much because I've always considered my writing entertaining, not necessarily anything remarkable in and of itself. I think critical acclaim would be more of a surprise than anything.

I just want to leave behind the day job and get paid for what I love doing.

In the cases of Stephanie Meyer and Dan Brown, as far as I can tell it's generally agreed that their prose is weak, but something about one of their stories caught the attention of the public in a big way.

I don't want to be this kind of success. I'd like to be more than a flash in the pan, more than an accidental sensation. I don't need the critics to like me, but if I produce a strong product year after year, building my reader base as people discover my talent, I'd take #2.

Of course, if accidental success came, I guess I'd live with it. *sighs* Somehow.

#1 for me. I want my writing to resonate with readers. To linger long after it's been read.

I long to provoke discussion and to write well.

I'm also well aware my selection for #1 might not be for all the right reasons. Validation has always been important to me. Sometimes too important.

I will be thinking about this question all weekend (which will probably--hopefully lead to prayer).
~ Wendy

I would choose the money because I want to write and do nothing else to support myself. It is unfortunate that we have to choose and of course the ultimate would be where the acclaim and the money unite. However, if a critic's praise isn't putting food on my table, he or she isn't really doing much for me.

Ahhh... I have not released a book yet and had to endure the amazon reviews and critics reviews.... but it is coming. I think the best I can hope for in the process now is to try not to care about either- although it is impossible. I think looking to the results is so paralyzing and steals from the process. But I love the question!

I agree with Tracy. I'd choose number 2, not necessarily for the money but because I'd know something resonated in my book that touched thousands of people. I don't ever disparage the writing of bestselling, blockbuster authors. Instead, I try to decipher what in their stories struck a chord. For example, I personally didn't care for The Shack, but I understood completely why it became a word-of-mouth sensation.

Critical acclaim would be nice, but I'd be happier if more people read my work and were inspired by it. Critics don't really matter to me. If I was selling millions of copies, I'd be reaching people who liked my work. I doubt that Stephen King or John Grisham worry over the next NYT review of their work. I'll take fame over critical admiration any day.

I'm seriously wondering...are there really that many authors out there who produce books semi-regularly and are consistently praised by all the critics - yet fail to make a living off their work?

I'm really curious.

All the critically praised writers I can think of (Leif Enger, Ann Patchett, Alice Munro, David McCullough, etc. etc.) DO make a living off their work, as far as I know. They may not be ga-zillionaires, but they write full-time, don't they?

We often see this "dilemma" presented, but I'm wondering how accurate it is. It just seems like there are enough people out there who love great writing, who will buy great books.

If anyone can think of an author who consistently receives praise, but cannot sell books at all, please tell me who it is.

Not being snarky; I really want to know.

Sales. I don't even need to earn that very comfortable living. Merely comfortable will do. (Filthy stinking rich is welcome, but such a remote possibility that I won't contemplate it until and if it were to happen.)

What I want to be able to do is to write my novels as my full-time, pay-the-bills-and-send-me-on-occasional-vacations career. Sales are required for that. Should acclaim also be bestowed on me, it would then be bonus time.

I'm going to write what I write no matter what. People will like it or not as they choose. I have no illusions that I will go down as the next Hemingway, so maybe that influences my decision.

I'm a commercial writer, not a literary one, and I know that. Hopefully, I turn in to a commercial writer that is good enough to earn a living at the trade by bringing enough entertainment to enough people's lives to keep them coming back for more.

My motive to impact people won't change, regardless of financial reward. But after reading the answers of other readers, I have to reconsider option 2. Voices for God will always have critics who slam them, and cannot necessarily hope for acclaim from man, even if they write literary quality which impacts a faithful few. The acclaim of quantity is a valid acclaim of its own. And Jesus said the sower scatters seed profusely, knowing not all of it will bear thirty, sixty, a hundred fold.

In the end, I want the acclaim of Heaven, whether expressed in validation, in sales, or in no more than the voice which says, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

I'd take door #2. At the end of the day, if I'm submitting work to receive cash, I want to maximize that cash flow. This means writing good fiction and being prolific to keep readers coming back. If the writing is bad, readers will move on.

I think the big difference between literary fiction that wins literary awards and genre fiction that does not is the accessibility of the book (vocab, sentence length, etc.) to the mass market. The reason why, I think, the literary stuff does not sell well is because the average high school graduate cannot get past the first page.

Now, I'm going to say something pretty controversial things. I think Lit Awards are another form of marketing. These awards help drive sales. It's like getting a golden ticket in a chocolate bar.

And I think Oprah has more say about what is literary fiction than newspapers and universities.

Check out this article on Freedom in the NY Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/29/books/review/Tanenhaus-t.html

Do you really think that after attempting to read this that the average high school graduate is going to run out and buy this book without Oprah saying it's good? I'm talking about the same high school graduate who might crack open and read ONE whole book a year.

Seems the goal to me is for my writing to reach as many readers as possible, not to move as many reviewers as possible.

So I'll take more sales and more money which means MORE READERS!

Critical acclaim or Books that sell but may be crap...

Honestly- Not always a fan of "critics" but I'd take the acclaim of critics I respect over being a machine....

Rather sell fewer books with a connecting message than more books of less quality.

That said- I'm altruistic... (or naive) I believe good stuff, can still sell- and that would be my real goal.

If you haven't been forced to learn how to deal with criticism by the time you are published, you're in the vast and very lucky minority. Criticism comes fast and frequent for most of us when we are starting out. With that in mind, I'm not looking for accolades and I don't care much about bad reviews. I want people to read my books and that usually translates to bigger bucks.

to have my voice...to touch a life..to make a difference even in one life....I'm definitely in door no. 1.

Such terrific answers to this dilemma. Personally, while reviews and accolades are nice, the bottom line for me is if people enjoy reading my books. If I'm having an impact that way and am able to write for a living I'd be very content.

Definitely #2!!

I would choose to publish frequently because I'm prolific. However, I do believe the more you put out there, the more you are subject to critique. I'm fine with that. I don't expect my writing to be everyones cup of tea. Right now I feel like a racehorse at the gate. I can hardly wait to get started.

My opinion:
Lots of sales means that lots of people are buying the book, which means that lots of people like it. And *that* is my goal.

Critical acclaim is all well and good, but, well, "This is a marvelous masterpiece but no one likes it," doesn't really do anything for me. :/

I would sell out a little bit and take door #2 please. I love writing and I'm always striving to make my writing better and not churn out any old rubbish, but at the end of the day, I love writing chicklit and YA...these are genres that don't generate a lot of critical acclaim.

So if I can write what I love and my books sell, even if I get called a 'hack' and people slate it, I can live with that. I'd be doing what I'm striving to do; write for a living.

Although some critical acclaim would be nice :).

That is such a tough choice. It would totally depend on what job I was working at the time. If it's a job where I have a lot of down time that I am allowed to fill with writing, then I'd totally take the acclaim and wonderful reviews.

But if it was a job I hated where I wasn't allowed to write during the day, I'd take the sales.

Then again, I'm not in this for the money. So perhaps no matter what I would take the good reviews.

My favorite books fit into both categories (only in my opinion, of course). It's quite possible to write a literary achievement and to make loads of money, too, especially if your book gets made into a movie. I'm not at that level as a writer, but it is possible.

False dichotomies aren't always false, anyway. Solomon chose the harder road of wisdom and got everything else, too. :)

What a lot of great answers here.

I'd take door #2 if I had to choose.

As long as I'm happy with the finished product, if I stay true to what I'm driven to write, than I'd be happy with either.

Cathy 8:15 am: Well, certainly this is a bit of a false dichotomy. I did this on purpose, just to make you think about what you want out of your writing.

However, your list of literary authors points out the problem with the logic. They're all literary authors who also made the bestseller list. We in publishing know of hundreds (thousands?) of mid-list authors writing amazing prose, getting terrific reviews when they can get a review, yet never selling big numbers, never making any bestseller lists. That's, of course, why you can't think of them off the top of your head and you don't know their names.

Trust me, they exist. And their publishers and agents are always trying to figure out how to get them over the hump from "terrific writer" to "terrific writer that people actually know about and purchase their books in large numbers."

I am about to find out, one way or the other, in May! Because I write fiction that has some style appeal but is not "literary," I hope readers will think it's well-written. But honestly, the fact that my novels are inspirational fiction and contain positive Christian characters (or even just a positive ending) is already enough to make much of the MBA crowd think they're hackwork. So my choice is to write stuff that is pleasing to me, pleasing to God, and does its best to spread good news of love and courage.

And to sell a whole lot, because that would mean the trilogy had reached many readers. ;-)

Anon 8:31 am: Literary Awards may well be a form of marketing, but if so, they'd be the most unsuccessful marketing on the planet. There are dozens or hundreds of legitimate literary awards in the US alone. Yet you'd be amazed at how many "award winning" books don't go on to have stellar sales.

Great Sales means more people read your stories, and at the end of the day, we write stories so people can hear them. Literary awards, good reviews...aren't these just for the ego?

www.philipisles.com

My goals are:
1. to produce quality books, and
2. support myself financially by writing (which can also mean articles etc. to support the meager book income).

I would hate ever to be thought of as a "hack" - no matter how rich I was. I live very cheaply, and don't need much income to live in a way that I consider well - so if I am achieving your option (1) of publishing steadily to positive reviews and strong public acclaim, I think I'd be earning enough to support my very modest lifestyle. And feeling good about what I do.

Great sales! I want to make a living writing, but with all that money I would buy the books with literary acclaim - just to keep it fair :)

I wouldn't want to be thought of as a hack, but I'd be fine with good quality and great sales vs. great quality and low sales. If I've got a solid, growing readership and I'm telling the stories I want to tell, that would work for me.

I'd rather have sales than critical acclaim because it means that I'm resonating with the readers, and that's my main goal. I would hope that critics would also enjoy my work, but I'd really rather know that the readers were.

Two thoughts on this. Those that give "critical acclaim" may be jaded, burnt out by the usual they see so often, and therefore looking for the "fresh" idea, style, device. Whereas normal readers, even those who are prolific, are not reaching for the new and different, but for the one like the other ones I love. This, I believe, is why the awards and sales seldom mesh.

Second, are the NYT bestselling writers really putting out two books a year? I can't help but think this is counter productive. Why churn out a book many will like, but will be off the shelves in months, rather than take a little longer to create a book readers will love and will stay on shelves for years? Which actually earns the most?

I'll take #1. But I'll add that my decision is influenced by not having to make a living as a writer; my husband works a well paying, full time job, and I've been spoiled rotten/blessed by God in the financial area of my life.

Every day that I write, I am thankful that I don't have to make a living through my writing; I would be so stressed out by working that intensely that my family and relationship with God would suffer.

Of course I want both!

But what I really want is the internal satisfaction of knowing that I've written the very best books I can. I'd love to be able to write full-time, but I don't think it's likely to happen for me unless one of my books were to become a fluke bestseller, because I'm not a strongly commercial writer. I can only write what interests me, what possesses me, and that will never be zombie Amish romantic suspense.

Critical acclaim is nice but I don't think it means all that much. I'm more interested in the good opinion of ordinary readers than in that of people who have advanced degrees in literature, because I think the academic study of literature completely ruins one as a reader.

But at this point, frankly, I'd be happy to get published at all!

Oooh, these are really interesting answers. I automatically answered number one until I thought about it more. It's not about the money, but I do want to reach people. And if I were publishing more frequently and people were buying my books, then I'd not only have the opportunity to do what I love and reach a lot of people, but my books would be selling so I'd be able to do what I love and reach people for a long time. I really want my writing to be a long-term career.

I think the advantage of # 2 is that you'd be able to become a better writer (which we all assume that #1 is) because you'd be doing it all the time.

In Les Edgerton's book, 'Finding Your Voice,' he urges writers not to try to sound "writerly." Keeping this in mind, I think the goal of each author needs to be to find his or her voice rather than to be literary or to write for cash. The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, perhaps, but there are going to be writers who are going to naturally fall into category #1, and there are going to be writers who fall into category #2.

In short (which this isn't) you don't get to choose, so it's pointless to wish for either. You have to write with your own voice and let the chips fall where they may.

I should add that I don't think I could ever produce two books a year, even if I were writing full-time. So I guess that alone excludes me from the commercial-success category.

Definitely #2. If my sales are good enough to be a full time writer, people are enjoying my writing despite what reviewers say. Plus I get to do what I love all the time--writing.

Its a moot point. Quantity and quality are mutually exclusive everyhere else in the world. What does it mean then, when writers entertain hope of a warp in nature? You do what you do. ie. A woodchuck would chuck as much wood as a woodchuck could chuck, if a woodchuck could chuck wood.

Oooh, tough question. I think I would go with option #2 though. Despite some of the so-so reviews, there's got to be enough people out there who would presumably enjoy my work if I'm making enough to be writing full time. And if I'm getting a lot of so-so reviews, I'll probably take into consideration what many people are complaining about if it's generally a prevailing thought amongst my fans.

The fact of the matter is this: you cannot please every single person. If one believes that they must, they won't last very long in this business. Besides, so long as I'm happy with what I've written, there's no use in fretting over what others think.

Max Kelly: Of course it's a moot point - that's why I asked the question! My kids play this game all the time... "this or that?" otherwise known as "would you rather?" It forces you to think through choices that are usually false dichotomies and not truly choices, but it makes you ponder your priorities. Play along and have some fun!

I'd prefer to make a living being called a hack, because although critical acclaim is a wonderful thing, it doesn't always correlate with excellence. Critics are people with opinions. Their opinions aren't somehow more valid than Average Joe's opinions, and if the book is selling, it has some sort of merit. Perhaps it isn't the sort of merit that everyone wants, but just as I will never say that it's better to be good at playing baseball than at cooking, I will never say that writing a book that entertains or enthralls is worse than writing one that flows and enlightens.

I wanna be a hack!

No debate here...I'll be a "hack" if that's what some want to call a person who writes the very best they can, writes it from the heart, and makes a positive impact on readers via selling a ton of books. Literary acclaim is all well and good but, as a full-time writer, an award on my wall does not help one iota towards allowing me to continue what I consider my calling...writing.

I'm already #1. I must've checked the wrong box. #2 sounds good.

I'd be a hack... no questions asked.

I'd be a hack... no questions asked.

I'd choose excellence, which is easy to say because I'm not the breadwinner in this family! But even if I were, I hope I'd still choose excellence over comfort, even if it meant getting a day job.

I kind of agree with Erin.

In the world of problems, this seems like a pretty good problem to have.

Being a critical success sounds overrated. Isn't there always a level of haughtier critics to reject you?

More than anything, I'd like to connect with my readers and pay my bills.

If I have to choose, I go with option 2, but not for the commercial aspect.

I would choose option 2 because if your books are selling, people are reading your books. For someone like me, who writes as a calling (compulsion, to-silence-the-voices-in-my-head) the financial aspects, and even the reviews, are less important than telling the story in a way people want to hear - and regardless of the financial remuneration, selling books means people want to hear the story. If I must choose, therefore, I choose "being read by more people" over "being read by fewer people."

This is a tough one! I think a lot of the time 'literary' books don't sell well because they don't have compelling characters or stories (or both). They aren't the kind of books that you absolutely can't put down the book until you've finished. However, assuming that your critically acclaimed books are well written with great characters and a compelling story, I'd definitely take option 1. Writing an amazing story is much more important than making a comfortable living. Who knows - maybe your kids will reap the benefits after you die and everyone recognizes you were a literary genius.

Door #1. I'm not a quick enough writer for #2 anyway and I don't count on becoming rich through writing anyway. I'd rather my books at least be well-received, even if they aren't widely-read.

I want to write quality books. I'm not always sure who the best judge of quality is.
I've read several best sellers that I thought were awful. I don't generally read professional book reviews, so I'm not sure if I agree with them or not.
So, I'm going with great writing and if that means I'm in category 1 living in the poor house, so be it.

The other day I got a mystery and couldn't get through the first page, it was so badly written. Then I flipped to the front and saw that the woman had published dozens of books.
I don't want to be that kind of writer.
My favorite writers write beautifully, but will admit that they are not top sellers. I don't understand that. But I'd rather put my lot in with them than the popular writer who's book I couldn't read.

Well. I really had to stop and think about that one. I'd choose #1 IF I were happily teaching creative writing (or philosophy) at a good University, thereby making my living through academia. Then, the focus could be on quality in writing rather than production.

However, if the choice was between survival by the pen versus survival by working some horrendous non-writing-related job (I can think of a few), I'd gladly eschew quality over quantity and go with #2 if it meant never again having to toil for the corporate world.

Art before commerce ... art before commerce ... Every time.

I would think that if you were receiving positive reviews and critical acclaim you would sell enough books to live off your writing, maybe not extravagantly, but simply, and that is what I would wish for.

Honestly, I'd go for door #2. Reviews are so subjective but you can't beat good sales--that's the best review of all. Plus your editors and publishers give you special treatment: ads, book tours, decent advances and royalties. I wouldn't like being considered "a hack" but I'm sure literary and commercial novelists alike have been called a lot worse.

Option #2 means that my books are resonating with a wider audience than just the literary elite. I think I could live with that.

My dream success would be like Kathryn Stockett's "The Help." Over a year on the bestseller lists, fueled by women's book clubs. That's what I most aspire to.

I'm with Shelli. I would prefer getting my writing into many hands to raking in approval of the 'literary elite'.

... I say that now, having neither of course.. ;)

I don't think it has to be one or the other. I want both.

Who wants to write books that lack inspiration or depth or books that are simply there to fill any particular void. We've all read books like that; there's not much to them.

I don't want to write a couple of a books a year for the sole purpose in receiving a steady paycheck.

My goal is to reach people in a way they can relate. I want them to laugh, cry and identify or understand every character in my book.

I want to write to inspire people. I want people to feel they can't wait to flip the page to see what happens next.

I would like to achieve a certain degree of respect but I don't expect to have across the board rave reviews. Most of us know that's not the way life works.

This was a fun question!

I don't think it has to be one or the other. I want both.

Who wants to write books that lack inspiration or depth or books that are simply there to fill any particular void. We've all read books like that; there's not much to them.

I don't want to write a couple of a books a year for the sole purpose in receiving a steady paycheck.

My goal is to reach people in a way they can relate. I want them to laugh, cry and identify or understand every character in my book.

I want to write to inspire people. I want people to feel they can't wait to flip the page to see what happens next.

I would like to achieve a certain degree of respect but I don't expect to have across the board rave reviews. Most of us know that's not the way life works.

This was a fun question!

I think I'd just be flattered that people want to buy my books and read my stories, so either for me.

I want to write stories as best I can that kids will like to read.

How they get reviewed will probably be out of my hands anyway, so it's probably not worth being concerned about.

Oh, definitely #2! Great sales means the everyday reading population likes my books, which hopefully means I'm writing stories that are entertaining them. And nothing makes me happier than that. :)

I plan to be an editor as well as an author, so not making a living off my writing won't be a problem, because I also have a passion for helping other people work on their stories. And, as nightwriter said, good sales ARE the best review of all.

No.2 seems to be winning here and I agree. As has been noted, you can always improve to be considered "literary." But if you start out that way and someone thinks you've done a hack job just to get a little money, then it's all over. Better to surprise people ("He/she actually wrote THAT?") than to disappoint them. And, hey, I'm not successful in any way, literary or otherwise and already called a hack, so SHOW ME THE MONEY!!!

This is a bit like choosing between a one-off awesome movie or a soap opera with regular income. In my dreams I'd go for one, in the morning I'd wake up and say 2.

I won't lie and say I don't want the money. But I'd definitely rather be #1. There's no doubt I want people to think about my writing for a long time, even after I'm gone and don't need money at all.

If all writers fell into category #1, the industry would crumble without sufficient sales. However, strong sales would mean my work is touching the lives I want to touch, which is better than writing from an ivory tower. As for accusations of being a hack... I've read Internet accusations of that same thing regarding some of our most classic and revered authors. Ignore the insults & concentrate on your audience! I pick #2.

I'll be honest - I'd take the money!

I write to be read, not to garner awards and critical praise - though if they come along, great. So good sales translates to more readers of my work; the financial rewards are incidental, though nice, I imagine...
Nik Morton

I think I'd rather appeal to the masses but I'd still want to do it with some respect. Yesterday, someone handed me a book with "New York Times Best Selling Author" splashed across the top. I'm heartsick. I found numerous POV changes on every other page. The story is so predictable, I had the entire book pegged by page 42. They used sentences like "He laid down."
It's disheartening to those writing good books who can't seem to find a niche.
Elle Bea

Getting bad reviews etc, would be like receiving rejections every day and, whatever the money, I'd be miserable. Praise would make me soar and walk on clouds, much better than cash

I feel a lot of people would start off with the former and would certainly like to think they would choose that.

However, i do suspect that many would sway to the dark side after a while or if a tempting carrot was dangled before them

Show me the money!

I have a degree in creative writing and I have no problems saying that literary fiction is highly overrated. I don't write to win awards, I write to tell stories and entertain. If people like my books enough that I can support myself by writing, it's more satisfying to me than any literary award.

I'd rather get intelligent praise than monetary compensation. It's my emotional currency. If I knew what I wrote was worthy of the praise I wasn't getting, I suppose the money would serve as an acceptable consolation prize.

Most of those who claim to be "in the know" are not, thus I'd rather have a bunch of people enjoy my work.

Still, as others have said, if I am doing what I believe God is calling me to, and I've done the best I can with the help of some pros, then... it's all good.

Making a living at it would be wonderful! :)

Thanks for a wonderful blog. Always a pleasure to read and ponder!

I almost don't want to say, because it seems like it sounds so, I don't know shallow, greedy, something like that, but I would want great sales.

I just want to get my story out there, help take people out of their hum drum lives and escape into the world I created. I don't really care about someone whose just reading my book to find whats wrong or whats right. Its about the story for me. There is no wrong or right when it comes to your own creation.

Gosh. I would like to think it's possible to have both. I'd like great sales and hopefully those sales will reflect people's love of the writing and incur good reviews as well.

One. One one one one one.

I'm a stay at home mom. My husband drives a piece of junk truck. We are paycheck to paycheck... and also insanely happy. If my novel finds its way to publication (please, Jesus, please, Jesus) and helps out a little (aka, my husband might be able to drive something that isn't embarrassing) that would be awesome. I'd take it. But without a second thought, number one. I may be naive and dreamy, but number one.

Is it even important to choose? Doesnt it come down to what your style and voice is, and the story you want to tell? Not whether you strategically decide on a path? My first novel is probably commercial, not high literary fiction...does that mean it will sell lots of copies? I guess what I'm wondering is, does trying to fit a mold, or even put that kind of pressure on yourself as you are writing, kinda taint the work? I think it would for me. Love to hear what your experience w/ that has been.

Cougel: Wow, that's a lot of questions! But here's the thing: this was a thought question - not a question about business, or reality. It's meant to help you clarify what you're hoping for out of this writing journey. Kinda like a game... a hypothetical question to ponder for fun. So, I'm not going to answer the questions. My question was meant to spur your thinking, and from your response, you're thinking. Good work.

I was going to leave a really long comment, but since I don't have anything to write about tomorrow, I think I'll just write a blog post. Thanks for the inspiration, Rachelle.

Absolutely #1. No question. I'm amazed how many people chose #2. What's the point of writing? Where is the dignity in sucking for money?

I thought to rephrase that, but I think it suits.

Lorelei: With all due respect, your logic doesn't work.

Where's the dignity in sucking [I think you meant WRITING] for money?

Well, hmm. I guess doctors should all work for free, too, because where's the dignity in doctoring for money? And teachers should teach for free, because wherre's the dignity in teaching for money? You get my drift.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to make a living (read: be able to pay the bills) doing what you love. And I am sad that you can't see any dignity in doing just that.

To continue in the same vein as the original choice given: would you be willing to be a bad doctor who made a fortune selling false remedies, or a bad teacher the students loved because they received all A's for learning nothing? I see enormous dignity in being a good doctor, a good teacher, or a good writer with no recompense or recognition. Or with richly-deserved financial reward. I would love to be a great writer. I would loathe being a hack. Hence, I chose #2.

Well, the point of the hypothetical (not real-world) question was to make everyone think about their priorities and what they want out of writing, so I do appreciate your further explaining the genesis of your logic. Yes of course, if it meant being a BAD writer (doctor, teacher, etc) then that's different. I wasn't responding to that aspect of my post, I was simply responding to your exact question. But I can see your point.

Ah, I shall confess that I equate "hack" with "bad writer."

Agree with you, Rachelle! Give me plain ol' words any day. :-)

Enhanced e-books? I think for kids, MG and YA, but I don't see this infiltrating my leisure reading anytime soon. I'd be apt to ignore the features if it did.

I really love my Kindle, so much so that when I take the kids to a bookstore I pull out a pen and paper and simply jot down what books I want to download later. I get all the samples I want and decide from there what's worth reading.

For my birthday last month my husband bought me an iPad 3G. It was more of a 'family' gift, but nevertheless made its way into our house under the pretense of my birthday. I have to say, I LOVE it. I slip it into my purse and take it with me everywhere. I have a Kindle app on there as well, but the iBookstore is fun all on its own. The iBookstore is in no way better than Amazon, but it has its own appeal and I'm not one to turn away from a selection of books. Since my family uses it so much it can never replace my Kindle. That's still my safe haven for reading. ;)

I figured it would just be a matter of time before this would come along. This would make a book very interactive to the reader.

I do however wonder if this no longer leaves anything for the reader to even imagine how things look, or feel as they read.

For a certain generation, obviously not mine, this concept will be very attractive. For me, I just miss the feel of paper under my fingertips.

Early web pages with the blue links were tantalizing entries to the new interconnected world. It was hard for me to visit a page and read all the way through it without linking my merry way until I was so far gone I had no idea where I had started.

Today (I think and hope) both web page designers and I have grown - they link less, and only for importance, and I filter more, read the page I came to read and (maybe) mentally noting one or two possible links I might like to explore when I'm done here. That's how I would imagine handling interlinkages within a book. I'd be able to take it or leave it.

Now if they figure out how to introduce pop-ups, either ads or anything else, that would be a huge annoyance.

For some purposes, enhanced ebooks could be wonderful. Textbooks, non-fiction works, and cookbooks could be made much better with enhanced content.

And I love the idea of being able to access maps while reading fantasy work—on my paper books, I leave a bookmark on the map page for quick reference. This could really be improved with an enhanced ebook.

But, for most reading, this is a horrible idea. I love reading, getting lost in the words and the sentences. The Kindle 3 was the first ebook device that was able to accomplish this for me. Any kind of enhanced content would distract from the reading experience.

Enhanced ebooks might sell well for the general—non-reading—public, but serious readers will continue to prefer a smooth reading experience that disappears behind the content.

This is the first I've heard about enhanced ebooks and I think it sounds like another technological nightmare for my poor ADD brain!

:-)

they sound pretty cool, however, i like my books to be books. i like the hold the actual book in my hands when i read. while, it could be nice, it would just get annoying and very distracting... :)

xo,
christen

I prefer my reading experience unenhanced.

If I want moving graphics and sound, I turn on the TV.

For non-fiction I think these types of enhancements could be helpful. And for fiction, maybe an author interview at the END, but not throughout the story.
I suppose it's generational. My kids love the "enhanced" DVDs. I hate them. I just want to watch the movie!

I’ve read about this. Explanations describing how the author needs to be open to becoming more of a creator. I’m open to it, though I’d hate to see authors lose the nuance and beauty of story because of this concept. There’s something about being naturally swept from one page to the next. This has such potential to interrupt that intoxicating and addicting feeling of a great read.

I’m open, but I might need to be tugged along on this one.

If I had my way I’d hold onto books (the kind you can dog-ear) forever.

I’m ancient too, Rachelle.
Have a great weekend.
~ Wendy

No thanks:) I don't want any distractions from the story! Maybe some links of fun tools at the end of the book directing you to an Author Page of upcoming project book trailers. But definitely, at the END.

I have to agree. I love my Nook, but it'll never replace good 'ole hardback or paperback books. Adding hyperlinks and other bells and whistles just seems to take away from the reading experience.

I knew one day I would seem old as technology surpassed me, but this doesn't interest me at all. I don't want to read on a computer of any kind. Computers remind me of work and reading should be an escape.

I do realize I will be in the minority, but those Harry Potter newspapers are pretty to look at on the big screen...just not in my hand. :(

Gosh, I feel like an old "fuddy-duddy"...and I'm only in my 30's! lol

Love the idea, IF the additional content is at the end of the book like done with DVDs.

I write historicals and am old-fashioned. I like the feel of a book in my hand. I like the smell. I like turning the pages. I relate to Captain Jean-Luc Picard of Star Trek: The Next Generation who loved reading a paper and ink book.

Even so, I like the idea of an e-book reader because reading books on screen would cut down on the stacks of books piled around my house. One day I might break down and get a reader, but I'd want any additional features and click-through links to be at the end of book. I don't want to be taken out of the fictional world when I'm in the middle of a story.

Honestly, not sure. I don't even have an e-book of any kind. I like my books made of paper. But, I am sure some day in the not-so-distant future I will break down and buy one. Being able to carry my library with me does hold some appeal.

I long for fewer distractions, not more, but the teens and 20-30 somethings seem more comfortable in that world, so that's probably where we're going. Of course, I never thought I'd use an Iphone, either, but I can't live without mine.
Colleen Fong

Bleh! Tempting.... but not. Well, actually it's not tempting. I hate trying to get through articles online that have hyper-links all over them. Heaven forbid if your mouse accidentally hovers over it and you can never get that little link bubble to go away! Can't we just leave the beauty and purity of reading alone!? I want to read to ESCAPE not to remember. I think it'd be okay if they wanted to include things like that at the end or the beginning of the book, just please don't muddle up the writing. Or make it an option to read the text with hyper-links. Like when you get to chose to watch Legally Blonde with the pop-up balloons (like in pop-up video) or just watch the original. Then maybe I'd read the book like that one my second or fifth reading of it.

I wouldn't like it if there were links and things within the text itself. That would be way too distracting.

What might be interesting is something at the beginning or end of the book - sort of like a "special features" on a DVD. Then you could look up a map or author interviews if you wanted to, but not have them distracting you in the middle of while you're trying to read.

Great for children's books, I think. Otherwise, I'm with you. Probably also good for some non-fiction. But in general, I don't want author interviews or chapter reads, book trailers or other visual interpretations or anything else popping up at me when I'm reading. I simply want to read...and imagine.

Spectacular for nonfiction. Intrusive for fiction. Exciting for experimental forms of narrative. Going to be huge for tie-ins to existing properties (High School Musical comes to mind).

I read e-books on the computer and listen to audiobooks, but I can never get into them nearly as much as I can when I hold the paper version in my hands. I think an enhanced e-book would be pointless for a reader like me--I'd never use the extra features because I'd forget about them.

Please, just give me paper.

I don't even own an e-reader, and no plans to buy one. Still rockin' it old school here.

I see some concepts in which enhanced e-books would not only be a good idea, but more valuable than an 'un-enhanced' version. For example, I discuss table top role playing games on my blog, and could see enhanced e-books being the future of e-publishing in that market.

But for fiction, unless the enhancements were few, extremely well placed, and actually enhance the story being told, I would prefer they not use it. Just like 3D movies, not every book needs the enhancements.

I have to agree with you on this one. I like reading on my Kindle (which surprised me in and of itself) but I don't want a bunch of links or interactive add-ons cluttering the experience. I like the Kindle because it "feels" like a "real book" and not an electronic device. Interactive is great for the web and computer programs, but please leave my books alone (or at least give me the option of buying either the "enhanced" version or the traditional version so I can opt out of the bells an whistles).

More complicated isn't always better.

The idea of visual distractions on the page doesn't appeal to me. If I want to check a definition or do a quick bit of research I want the opportunity to leave the book temporarily and use separate dictionary or search engine software. I would not want links suggested to me while I'm reading the story text.

For the most part, yes. But I have a book written that's just begging for something more interactive. It's a kids' sci fi book that integrates things like how a jet engine works and why the moon makes the tide. I'd love for the reader to be able to click on a link and see a diagram of the interior of a turbo fan engine.

One of my favorite things about reading a novel is getting to enter another world. I can easily imagine how an enhanced e-book could...well, enhance the experience of reading a story. There would be images, sounds, extra information, anything you could possibly need to build and expand the world you've entered. Who hasn't wondered in the middle of a chapter, "How did the author come up with this fabulous twist?" or wanted to know exactly what that particular form of rhododendron looked like? Once I've finished with a good book (or film for that matter), my first reaction is to go and glean as much information on it as I can. I basically have to go scavenge for all the things that an enhanced e-book would already have available to me.

However, there is something so comforting, so vital, so intimate about holding a musty old book in my hands. I won't give that up for anything in the world...even convenience.

It sounds like a CD-ROM. The novelty wears off very quickly.

Could be fun with kid's books. Or digital encyclopedia's. Newspapers. But it's nothing I'd like to fall asleep with!!1

I'll give up my paper books when they pry them from my cold, dead hands. Fie on ebooks of all stripes.

Another teacher perspective: For non-fiction, enhanced ebooks can bring history to life. Imagine reading about the civil rights movement, then clicking immediately on a video of MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech - or links to newspaper articles on Rosa Park's stand.

And for those of you who claim to be purists, you've already embraced multi-media, just by reading this blog and responding to the social opportunity for discussion in the Comments section.

There's plenty of room in this world for ALL kinds of books. If you truly love to read, open your mind to the advantages of each different form for different circumstances. I think we're really fortunate to live in such exciting times for readers!

I'm with the Huzzah for BOOKS! crowd. After hours on the computer, I long for that wonderful, simple BOOK experience, the writer taking me along word by word, sentence by sentence. I'm easily distracted enough as it is without something right there in front of me doing the same thing. Down with the enhanced stuff. Up with the stark simplicity of BOOKS that allow your mind to create a world of complexity no hyperlinks can match.

There are studies about how playing video games changes the thought patterns in children's minds. What will effect will an enhanced e-book have on those thought patterns? And will our next generations even learn to read the way we know reading?

One of my friends asked to see a paper that her college age son had gotten a really good grade on. He didn't have it. It was never on paper. He emailed his professor, got the comments back on email, and erased because he wanted the space for something else.

Talk about ephemera!

We already have a generation that has no respect for the solid ephemera of paper. The electronic version is a real will-o-the-wisp.

No, thanks. This is why I read at night before bed. No phone ringing, no one pestering me, no guilty feelings about dusty shelves, no interruptions.

I love a well-written book that gives suggestions of what a place looks like and what characters look like which allows my vivid imagination to run wild. It is genius writing because the author is then a partner with the reader and not a dictator.

Enhanced books only muck up good writing, or distract from bad writing. Unlike graphic novels where the story is enhanced by the pictures, this kind of interactive "story" would dam up the story flow and splinter the mind. For me, it would raise stress levels and blood pressure. The news does that just fine, thank you very much. I don't need my soothing entertainment to do the same.

It sounds like a fine idea for non-fiction, but as novels go, I'm a purist.

I think the novel should stand on its own writing and story-telling merit.

I just outed myself as an old-school fuddy-duddy, didn't I? Ah, well.

I love my Nook (2 months old) but just want to READ...not have ads, etc on my ereader.

That reminds me of my computer. When I'm reading, I want to get away from all the clicking distractions. Eewww.

I agree with you, Rachelle--I'm quite the Luddite when it comes to reading: giving me a real book any day!

For a chuckle, or two, please see my blog at http://movethemountains.blogspot.com/2010/10/dad-dangerous-doodies.html

You'll be glad you did.

I think I would like being able to look at maps or the definition of a word while reading. My children and I almost always have a map and/or dictionary next to us when we read our history books.

But, besides that I think it could be distracting.

As a writer, it just sounds like more work. ;-)

I would not like enhanced e-books at all. Actually I don't like the idea of e-books , except perhaps when traveling, but to have other things there butting into my imagination would be annoying and distracting,
I once wrote a computer story for Art Linkletter in which the reader , at certain points , could decide which way to go. Was that ever murder to write!

Hi its really very nice blog,very useful information..Mobiles

My main character is a musician. I would love for recordings of the music she's using to be imbedded into the e-book. I've read so many books in which music takes an integral part, and I've often looked up the music (if it's indeed from the real world) out of curiosity.

Hypothetically speaking, would that be appealing to readers?

For twenty years I've longed to tell my story. I am finally ready.

Success, for me is reaching people who suffer self-esteem issues.

Published is one thing. Read, understood, heard is another.

I don't have goals. No... seriously.

I stumbled upon blogging a year ago and had no clue I could even write. For right now, I'm just unfettering my wings and learning to fly.

Someday, I'll actually lift off and maybe get a book published.

But until then? I'm just going to enjoy the little I do in the little way I can. :)

Success will be when I know for sure that I've done something that's made a difference. Even if it's nothing huge. It's something.

Hmmm. Okay, I'll just be honest and say it. Success for me (as a writer) would be to have my book hit #1 on the NYT bestseller list.

Success for me would be to earn enough financially from writing that I could support my family AND earn enough recognition to be offered chances to postively impact teens.

To have as many followers on my blog as Rachelle!!! (and you guys can help me fulfill this ambition!!;))

http://downandoutinprimrosehill.blogspot.com/

My ultimate external goal?

To be multi-published and make money doing what I love.

But first I need to get a contract.

To have a published book to my name ... and then another ... and then another. I want to build a career as a novelist.

Funny. That picture you have in your post is one of my goals (maybe not my most realistic goal and one I should definitely take more seriously, but it is a dream...).

I also want to be a bestseller. Not just for the money or fame, but...I'm not that much of a avid reader. When I do read, I GET OBSESSED and read nonstop for days, but I don't buy many books.

The books I do buy and read and love are usually the very successful ones. So I want to be a very successful book so I can have readers go crazy with my stories as I have been crazy with others' stories. :)

My long-term external writing goal would be to come to a place where I'm having at least one book a year released. Hitting one of those bestseller lists would be awesome too. *grin*
Short-term goal is to get my current manuscript fixed up!

It's not the money. It's not the fame. I just love to write - to develop stories and characters and to celebrate the joy of beautiful words - and I have since I was a child. As an adult I've also discovered that I love to give talks/speeches - another way to touch hearts with words. I write for fulfillment and affirmation.

What Katie said. ;)

(**waves hello to Katie**)

My immediate goal is to find an agent who believes in me and my work. The next goal is to find a publisher. The ultimate goal is and will always be sharing my work with as many people as possible, hoping that my work makes a difference in their lives. I'm not asking for much, am I? (smiles) Oh, and my day job, my goal is to help my writers and designers and editors do the best work of their lives each and every day. I will go to the ends of the earth for them. I want to see them succeed, and it's a great joy being their mentor and a part of that process.

My ultimate goal is to reach people who love Christian fantasy like me, and provide them with great, empowering, edge-of-your-seat stories.
As for money, I'll take whatever I'm given. The plan was never to support myself and my family, but to supplement my husband's income.

Oh yeah, and winning newbies to Christian fantasy wouldn't be bad either. ;0)

Success for me would be to have reader’s groups all around the country in lively discussions about my work(s). For me, success with writing is about reaching people.

I write because I long to inspire fresh thoughts in others and to make a difference in this world. I write out of obedience and because it wakes me up and feel on fire for living. Writing drives me to appreciate the small things and then prods me to find ways to introduce the wonder of those small things to others.

I want to snap dialogue awake with my words.

Love this question!
~ Wendy

Success for me would be to make a living doing what I love. Working 40+ hours on a day job, and trying to balance it with the contracts and the expectations and responsibilities ... that is becoming more of a challenge as time goes on. I will have ARRIVED when my books make enough income to treat writing like the professional mainstay I believe God meant for it to be in my life while keeping me in the manner to which I've become accustomed. :-)

Well, when I'm really thinking about it, not pouting, complaining, or fantasizing, I want to write to reach people. I want my stories to show the Truth I have to those who don't have it. I want to change one life. The thing about that kind of goal is that you can't ever really know if you've reached it or not. I guess it, as everything worthwhile does, depends on trust in God and what he's doing.

I write because I feel like I am called to it. I need to let Him handle the rest.

I want people to read my books and say, "Look how God is using her!"

My goal? Well, I hope to please the Lord, first-and-foremost. I don't want to stand before Him, naked and trembling, because I didn't use the gifts He gave.

I suppose that would be an answer most Christians would give.

In a more worldly sense, I would love to see people happy and entertained by the stories I tell...to feel the wonder of seeing my book, neatly packaged with cover art and all, for the first time...to see my manuscript become more than a Word document.

I really love my mountains and their history. I hope that comes across I my books.

I'm cheesy.

~Britt

This is probably shallow, but someday I want to sell more books than Terry Pratchett.

Well, I could say that my only goal is to please God in my calling, but that wouldn't be truthful. The fact is, it's much more than that. I want to leave a legacy for my grandchildren. I really do want my words in print to that my grandkids can see you can accomplish something if you work hard at your dream. My hearts desire is to make a difference with my words. In short...I want to be published. It's not going to determine my happiness or make me feel like I missed my call if I don't, but that's my goal and why I have been working so hard at my craft.

Rachelle, we really should coordinate our blog posts better. I've thought about this a great deal recently, and addressed it just yesterday on my own blog (http://rmabry.blogspot.com). Suffice it to say, I've tried to set reasonable and realistic goals, and thus far God has given me far more than I could imagine.

My goal is... to be published.

Yeah, big surprise.

And, like most writers, I wouldn't mind being on the NYT Bestseller list, though quite honestly, I'd just be happy if my books would sell well enough that I earn back my advances and then some. I'd say, especially in this economy, that would be success to me.

My long term goal is to have financial security as a full time writer. To reach that goal, I've given myself short term goals such as acquiring an agent, which I've done, secure a contract, which I'm hoping for soon, but most of all, I want to be obedient to God's will in my life.

My opinion on success: it's when I am accepted by a traditional publishing house. That means validation by my peers and experts in the biz. I could take out a loan and self-publish, but my goal is to write well enough for a traditional publishing house to want it.

I did it with picture books and I want to do it again, but I also reeeeeeally want to see my fantasy novel in print.

When all that happens and people look at me differently (because they do) my goal then will be to keep my ego in check. ;)

At this point, I feel as if I'd be happy just to get a novel published by a major publisher. Beyond that, I'd love to be able to quit my day job and write full-time. But ultimately, if I'm honest with myself, my goal is that people should still be reading my books--and having their lives changed by them--after I'm dead.

Success for me would be to have someone say this about my writing: "We think this is good and we think other people will like it, too. Here's a little bit of money."

My goal is freedom.

A great question as usual, with some great answers.

For me: When I finish a draft of a novel I feel like I've succeeded as a writer. I might not be an "author" but I am definitely a writer. Have 3 different first draft successes, 60 some to go and soon I hope to have my first rewrite success. I love the process and the reward of seeing what I was able to write.

I want to be like Paula Deen.

There I've said it. All of my family and friends know this about me but now I am telling the world through your blog. Thank you for providing this platform.

Yes, I am a passionate cook from south Louisiana. I have been cooking and entertaining for over 30 years but that's not my main focus in life. It's only one of them.

I want to be the best I can be at the things I love to do. I have had a near two decade passion for writing. I finally took the time to write my first book on non-fiction with a co-author. It is complete and she is incredible.

I love to write because there's so much I want to say. I love people and I enjoy connecting with people. I feel I can do so through my writing. I love to motivate people and I do so everywhere I go, even when they don't ask.

At a very young age, I realized I had an overactive imagination. Not just a little overactive, really overactive.

Over time I've come to realize that it is a gift and I can create all sorts of stories observing everyday life situations.

I would be able to connect with millions through my books.

Back to Paula Deen. You gotta love her because against all odds she's come out on top. She's used her gifts to the fullest!

All of us have hidden talents and she's simply an example of a person who took her talents to the top. Now she's everywhere you look! I'm even thinking about changing my blog to "I Wanna Be Like Paula Deen!"

Heck, everyone in my family knows how I feel about Paula Deen. I want to use my talents and my gifts to the fullest and see where it takes me. I want my children to do the same.

I went to Walgreen's the other day and at the end of an aisle Paula Deen's picture was on a box of brownies. Can you believe it, at Walgreen's?

I went to Michael's with my daughter this past Sunday and Paula Deen was on the cover of a Thanksgiving and Christmas issue of two different magazines at the checkout counter! I simply held them up and showed them to my daughter without saying a word. She understood completely.

Paul Deen's at the grocery store too. She's even on one of the QVC type shows selling heaven knows what! I don't know where this woman's face is going to turn up next, maybe on the face of a Halloween pumpkin or a Christmas tree ornament? I know she's gonna be big around Thanksgiving because she has a contract with Smithfield where she talks about their great hams and turkeys.

It's not that I want to be famous or have to be famous. I simply want to be the best I can be so that I can be an example to my children and millions of others. We all have unlimited potential!

I will know that success has arrived when I get the call to say that my book has been accepted by a publisher. That will mean that I have my foot through the door and I'll be able to quickly build a huge platform. I can do this with one book. My non-fiction book could help millions.

I would like to tour with my co-author and offer motivational seminars where we can help millions of people lose weight and get in the best shape of their lives. I have the marketing and sales skills to make things happen quickly.

I'm presently working on my first book of fiction. I know it will be a winner. My family feels the same way and we don't discuss it outside the immediate family. I want this book to be turned into a screenplay. It has a strong commercial appeal.

The picture of the Oscar you displayed on your post today sums up my ultimate goal.

I would like to win an Oscar.

Now, I'm off to go shopping with my daughter, where I have no doubt I will run into Paula Deen in some shape or form!

Have a great, productive day!

I want to be like Paula Deen.

There I've said it. All of my family and friends know this about me but now I am telling the world through your blog. Thank you for providing this platform.

Yes, I am a passionate cook from south Louisiana. I have been cooking and entertaining for over 30 years but that's not my main focus in life. It's only one of them.

I want to be the best I can be at the things I love to do. I have had a near two decade passion for writing. I finally took the time to write my first book on non-fiction with a co-author. It is complete and she is incredible.

I love to write because there's so much I want to say. I love people and I enjoy connecting with people. I feel I can do so through my writing. I love to motivate people and I do so everywhere I go, even when they don't ask.

At a very young age, I realized I had an overactive imagination. Not just a little overactive, really overactive.

Over time I've come to realize that it is a gift and I can create all sorts of stories observing everyday life situations.

I would be able to connect with millions through my books.

Back to Paula Deen. You gotta love her because against all odds she's come out on top. She's used her gifts to the fullest!

All of us have hidden talents and she's simply an example of a person who took her talents to the top. Now she's everywhere you look! I'm even thinking about changing my blog to "I Wanna Be Like Paula Deen!"

Heck, everyone in my family knows how I feel about Paula Deen. I want to use my talents and my gifts to the fullest and see where it takes me. I want my children to do the same.

I went to Walgreen's the other day and at the end of an aisle Paula Deen's picture was on a box of brownies. Can you believe it, at Walgreen's?

I went to Michael's with my daughter this past Sunday and Paula Deen was on the cover of a Thanksgiving and Christmas issue of two different magazines at the checkout counter! I simply held them up and showed them to my daughter without saying a word. She understood completely.

Paul Deen's at the grocery store too. She's even on one of the QVC type shows selling heaven knows what! I don't know where this woman's face is going to turn up next, maybe on the face of a Halloween pumpkin or a Christmas tree ornament? I know she's gonna be big around Thanksgiving because she has a contract with Smithfield where she talks about their great hams and turkeys.

It's not that I want to be famous or have to be famous. I simply want to be the best I can be so that I can be an example to my children and millions of others. We all have unlimited potential!

I will know that success has arrived when I get the call to say that my book has been accepted by a publisher. That will mean that I have my foot through the door and I'll be able to quickly build a huge platform. I can do this with one book. My non-fiction book could help millions.

I would like to tour with my co-author and offer motivational seminars where we can help millions of people lose weight and get in the best shape of their lives. I have the marketing and sales skills to make things happen quickly.

I'm presently working on my first book of fiction. I know it will be a winner. My family feels the same way and we don't discuss it outside the immediate family. I want this book to be turned into a screenplay. It has a strong commercial appeal.

The picture of the Oscar you displayed on your post today sums up my ultimate goal.

I would like to win an Oscar.

Now, I'm off to go shopping with my daughter, where I have no doubt I will run into Paula Deen in some shape or form!

Have a great, productive day!

I want to write something great.

I don’t really care is I ever get a traditional publishing contract or if it sells a lot of copies or gets an award or if anyone bothers to read it. I just want to look at it and know it’s something great.

I am happy that I am able to make a very good living as a professional technical writer. Writing for two experimental racks on the International Space Station and any other NASA project thrown my way is gravy. Now if I can only write crew procedures and maybe someday a book, my life would be complete.

I can just imagine the joy it will bring me to see my name in print, to have my written ideas out in the world, to be able to influence others with my writing.

For me, success would be getting out of debt. It would mean being able to go out and eat a nice dinner and not worry about whether I have money for a soda or sweet tea. It would be having enough money to pay off my debts and start saving for college and retirement as well as enough to help out those less fortunate. We already tithe at church but it's currently at a far lower level than we like because we simply need the money elsewhere. Times are tough.

I am reminded of Harry Potter in book 4 when he wraps food from the Hogwarts table for Sirius. Harry remembers what hunger feels like. Having been through such experiences (though we've never gone hungry) I'm glad for the experience but saddened at the same time. I don't want to forget those experiences, but I don't want any more of them either.

So, success would be enough for me to sustain my family and lifestyle on my writing alone with enough for bills, and extra for rainy days helping out those in need. But not so much that (or if) we change and become greedy or forget where we came from. That would be too high a price to pay for something as common as money.

I want to walk into a book store and see my books on the shelf. That's my idea of success.

Right now...success would mean actually FINISHING a novel. Not just clacking out a few thousand words and getting distracted by a NEW AND WONDERFUL IDEA...

Hopefully this one, though I have a good idea....

When I receive a fan letter or visit with someone who has read my novels and they tell me they felt like they were truly *in* the fifteenth century and love my writing. I adore my friends and family, but when it comes from someone you have not met, you know it's the writing. That's success. Thanks for posing this interesting question!

having a sold out book signing like the spice girls reunion tour, yes i want to have a writers concert, having deadlines to meet and travelling to places for months on end in the name of book research ha bliss.

Do writers ever "arrive"? Each milestone moves you toward another one: writing your MS, securing an agent, signing a publishing contract, selling enough books to make a profit or to be critically acclaimed for your work.

And the process starts over again (except hopefully the securing the agent & publisher part) when you start on your next book, because you want each new project to be better than your last.

Since I'm not a writer of books, I can only guess, but I'm thinking most writers want to make enough money so that they can quit their day jobs and to be validated as a "real writer". Having said that, I think there are plenty of real writers who have other jobs their whole lives. Most of them, if the statistics I've read are correct.

I want to be able to reach people with my stories, which would mean being agented and published--not with just anyone but people who love my stories as much as I do and want to see them in the hands of others who will enjoy them and be moved by them.

And I second what a lot of others have said about making writing a career. I can't imagine not writing so if I could have at least one book (more would be better) out a year, ahh...yeah, that would be good.

This is difficult for me, because I have the constant tension of "do I want this for my own selfish reasons" or "am I truly writing to inspire others"?
But then I think, if I saw my book on the shelf (a dream in itself), would it really matter to me if nobody felt any emotion after reading it and just thought it was a nice story?
I think you've arrived as a writer, when your readers emotionally attach themselves to your characters, when they are inspired to see life in a different way than they saw it before.
Thanks for your blog, Rachelle, and thanks for the great workshop in Indianapolis!
Angie Dicken

Success for me would be to have a best selling novel and/or a blockbuster movie hit the screen. I don't want to be a one hit wonder either, I want to have a successfull career as a writer and do great things with my fame, like help others fulfill their dreams

Personally success for me is seeing light shine a a readers eyes when they tell me how much they loved reading my books. When they tell me they feel as though they are living the story right alongside the characters and know each and every character personally I feel like I've done my job. Would it be fabulous to see my name on an actual cover rather than a printer generated copy? Absolutely!
That said, I'm willing to wait my turn. I will search for an agent and hope he/she believes in my work as much as those that back me.
Until that time I'll keep telling my story, hoping it enthralls my audience and take pride in the fact that I could make them smile, cry or pull their hair out. That to me is success.

External success, for me, would be the ability to look at a completed, final draft and know that I have articulated, with clarity and beauty and poignancy, the truths I have learned - oftentimes the hard way.

My goal in writing is to "build an arc"
And then take a needed rest.

Have a great weekend too!

I want to give people an entertaining and satisfying read, and when they finish the book it feels like time well spent. And it would be nice to make enough money to supplement our household income. I'd love to give my kids some opportunites that weren't affordable when I was a kid.

"What would it look like to "arrive" as a writer? What are you striving toward? What is the definition of success?"

My goal has actually changed since I began writing my novel almost 10 years ago. At first I just wanted to tell the story that I felt God laid on my heart, but I wanted to do that with a royalty publisher, not self-publish. Eventually I learned publishers don't want someone who wants to tell a story; they want writers who want a career, who can tell story after story just as well as the first one. So I'm working towards that.

But after I got that first story well underway, another popped into mind, then another, then ten, then twenty, then non-fiction, then articles. It seems I was bit by a writing bug in 2000, and was diagnosed incurable around 2003.

Right now I would define success, arrived as a writer, as a contract with a royalty paying publisher and having the book actually published.

I want to impact people. Make them think, make them re-evaluate themselves and the way they view the world. Change lives, connect minds.

I would like to write a book that makes a difference.

If I could touch the heart of one hurting woman and make her see that God loves her. . . I will have arrived.

My writing goals are to write two books a year, at the moment I am managing a novella and a full sized novel. My publishing goal is to publish at least one book a year, which I've managed - and my financial goal is to make enough money to support myself, which I'm not managing QUITE yet, despite having a mid-list advance for Transgressions last year.

But I measure my SUCCESS by readers' letters and the pleasure they get from my gay historicals, particularly the gay men who are so delighted that FINALLY they can read historical books with gay characters.

I started writing years ago just as a way to express my feelings. I showed my work to friends and I was encouraged to submit my poems to publications for consideration.

About three years ago, I met with the documentary filmmaker Alan Berliner and a visiting class from NYU. They suggested I create blogs where I could post my photos and work. Alan has been hugely supportive of my projects. My goal now is for those blogs, inspired by Alan, to be viewed and enjoyed by many people.

I have recently started a cartoon blog. The blog contains "bad art" in caption-driven pieces. My definition of success now is finding new and imaginative ways to re-invent myself.

My external goal is for people who read my blogs to want to know more about me. I want them to wonder: "is she really that nuts?" "Was she really a teacher?" "Is she really almost 64 years old?" "is she really that bad an artist?" "Does she really do stand-up?" "Who is this woman?"

I want to successfully be a kook that redefines what it is to be retired, because as I have aged I have not lost any sense of imagination or creativity. I want to have an internet presence and for people to either love me or hate me.

And... I am sustained because I do know that after I am dead all my "stuff" will be discovered and be fodder for great discussion. There is a lot there: the years in teaching, the years in stand-up, the poems, the letters from "Lou," and old photos.

I know my "bad art" will be displayed in galleries in exhibits. My goal is to be famous after death, sort of like Little Edie Beale. Because it sure is not happening now. LOL

Speaking of Little Edie, you can go here to view a photo (taken last year) of me with Jerry, "The Marble Faun." You can click on a link in the entry to read my interview with him:

http://marjorie-digest.blogspot.com/2009/10/lunch-with-jerry-marble-faun.html

This is going to sound silly, but success to me would be spotting one of my students (I'm a junior high teacher) taking my upcoming YA novel out of his/her backpack during silent reading time. And reading it.

Yeah. That would be wicked!

Success to me means the book published is good enough to drive more interest. Repeat loop.

I had someone critique a short-story and tell me they couldn't stop thinking about it after they read it. It provided me with a new definition of success. I want to be published. I want to Get Paid. But I want people to think about my writing, for it to affect the way they think. For me, I don't think I'll ever 'arrive.' I want to keep growing, keep challenging myself, keep writing meaningful art.

Published or not, to make every novel I write at least a little better than the one before.

One of the best things I ever heard said about success came from Chip MacGregor last Sunday at the ACFW conference. It went something along the lines of this:

Success is simply meeting a goal. We say we want success, but what we really want is significance. And significance is making a difference in the life of others over time.

My ultimate external goal is to be a multi-published author. To have the privilege of working with an agent and publishing house that love my work:)

Writing is the closest thing to Heaven on Earth!

My internal goal is to please the Father by ministering with the gift He has given~ writing.

I have a story arc in that has evolved for me over more than twenty years. For now that means four books, and success for me would be to see those four books be printed by a real publisher and to have some readers tell me they enjoyed them (I already get that last part, but they are only critters and beta readers).

If you asked me this question last month, I would've said "getting a literary agent".

Now that I have one, it's "selling that book."

I'm sure it won't stop there because my definition of personal success will probably change as I do. Will I one day consider success as being a NYT Bestseller? A sweet film-version of my book? Emails from my adoring fans?

All in all, I think I'll be happy knowing people read and like my books.

Thought-provoking post!

I want to paint word pictures of Christ and watch them glitter all over the world. They won’t be pretty pictures, but then the one He painted wasn’t pretty up close either—the pouring of blood, ribbons of flesh. From afar it’s the big picture that I hope will be a thing of beauty. I just want to magnify what He did in a different light, different venue, through a different vessel. For now I’m positioning my literary talons, readying my claws for publication. I’m very excited at the prospect of it all.

Donna’s Top Ten Reasons For Writing:

10. Because it is cheaper than drinking all night and healthier than eating all day.
9. Because you can scream hysterically, using all CAPITAL LETTERS and the neighbors won’t hear you and call the cops who bring back that jacket with extra long sleeves and the zipper in the back.
8. Because the menopause-pause, mentally searching for the right word, while fanning yourself, is not as noticeable on paper.
7. Because writing includes pounding on something, even if it is only a keyboard.
6. Because too often, the folks I need to say things to have lost one of their senses. The common one!
5. Because unlike standing in the street doing my Town Crier imitation, writing gives me the opportunity to calm down, edit, revisit, and shamelessly exaggerate to make my point.
4. Because you can say, save, then delete the words you wish you had the “Pelotas” to say.
3. Because I’m a pacifist and hate the sight of blood, especially my own.
2. Because saying you’re a memoirist sounds better than being the family tattle tale.
and the number one reason I write:
1. Because I’m not spending 20 years to life anywhere I can’t take a hair dryer.

Mrs. Skinny Con Leche' I love your Top Ten Reasons For Writing.

Thanks for the chuckles. I needed that.

Success to me would be to keep publishing one or two books per year so I can keep affording to do this. But my main goal is to enjoy the writing--just the day-to-day sitting at the keyboard, alone with the characters, in another world... 8-)

Kristi Holl
Writer's First Aid blog

Success to me, in measurable terms, would include being published. I'd like to:
•touch readers with my stories,
•validate the many people who've believed in me and my writing,
•be able to dedicate a book to my incredibly supportive husband,
•make money doing what I love, and
•prove to the IRS that I'm not a hobbyist but a professional writer.

Frankly, opening up a restaurant is looking more tempting each day :)

Well, at this moment, success would be getting an agent. But the purpose of that step is the next step: a traditional pub contract. And the purpose of that step is my ultimate definition of success: that my work will alter the perspective of people I never meet, and that my characters will be cheered for/worried about/remembered/loved long after I cease to be here.

Hey Ryan, I love your comment about opening a restaurant. I thought the same thing and own a darling little espresso shop that serves up café and characters….but profit, no so much. If you are ever in Tampa let me know and I’ll give you a great deal on a triple, white chocolate mocha and a coffeehouse:)

Given how much God has done in my life, I am praying that the book I am writing will help people come to a closer relationship with God and be able to rebuild their lives using Godly principles.

To see someone I don't know buy my book in a real bookstore.

Success to me is being a working writer - bringing in enough income so that I don't also need a 'day job'. I am getting there!

I want to write the novel. From beginning to end. Edit. And re-write it. And polish it up. And be able to hand it to some people to read! That's the starting point. Then, we'll go from there. After that book, my goal will probably be to write another.

I just want to be used by God to change lives...

I write the same way a person plays a musical instrument. His audience may be pedestrians dropping quarters in a styrofoam cup on a city street corner, or a sold out concert of 10,000 fans. I am going to write either way, the same way that musician will pick up his instrument...because he has to.
There are some really great answers to your question.

I write because I love to write. I love to challenge myself by creating a world and peopling it with believable characters. I know that sounds like all writers. My goal is to make enough money with my writing to enable me to quit my job so I can write year round rather than just in the winter. I'm not greedy. If I make more - woopee. If I don't - sigh - I keep working.

My major goal is to make a difference in people's lives. I may be on my way with that one because a major publishing house is releasing my devotional gift book the first of next year.

The secondary goal is to make a living with my writing to supplement my social security. I'm working on that.

Right now, I just want to see my creation printed and bound, all pretty. I want to wrap it up and give it to everyone I know...and maybe a few strangers that happen by. Then I want to sit and watch them read it.

Of course my constant hovering and asking, "what are you laughing at?" and "that part's sad, huh? Oh no, just something in your eye, oh, okay," might ruin the experience.

Of course, after, and if, I'm ever published, I'll want more--cause that's how we're trained--to always want more and never be satisfied with just being.

Assolutamente d'accordo con lei. In questo nulla in vi e 'una buona idea. Mi associo.
Condivido pienamente il suo punto di vista. In questo nulla in vi e credo che questa sia un'ottima idea.

OK, I'll admit it: I'd like to see my books on a front diplay table and/or shelf at Borders and Barnes & Noble. If that happens, then I'd love to be on the NYT bestseller list. Of course I'd want my books turned into a mini-series...LOL
We can only hope and dream!

Dreaming is good!

Since I was old enough to read, the library has been my "happy place." My dream is to add a book to those shelves.

Since I was old enough to read, the library has been my "happy place." My dream is to add a book to those shelves.

I want to walk down Main St. in Durango (where I live) and see my published book in the window of Maria's Book Shop. It's the "vision" I have of success posted on my intention board in my office. I'd call myself a success if I could make my current day-job salary by writing fiction instead.

I want to be published and I want to be discussed. Two of my WIPs deal with religion and spirituality in a way that is not mainstream, and my YA WIP deals with a range of tough teen realities...

I dream of being banned, being read, and stirring the pot. I've said for a while that I'd like to create as much controversy as Dan Brown.

My goal is to write the best novel I can possibly write, start over and write an even better one, then repeat the cycle for as long as possible. I'm working on novel #3 and still very much an amateur, but it is going to be the best novel I can possibly write right now.

A parallel goal is to continue having a blast doing it.

I self published through my university. My book won a national book award and recieved an honorable mention for their highest award. I sold about 400 books - mostly through my blog. Success - I wrote for me but have recieved so many cards, gifts, and emails telling me my book was a message of hope.
I have learned so much and have connected with some of the best people on the planet. Nothing beats that...

It is rather interesting for me to read the blog. Thanks for it. I like such topics and anything connected to this matter. I definitely want to read a bit more soon.

Julia Benedict
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Honor God. What else is there?

But it was cool to walk into to Walmart today and have someone say, "I read your book. I was really good."

I want to be the author that readers buy and read over and over because the stories are so compelling, the characters flawed and real, the love passionate, the mysteries page-turners.

I'd also like to go sit at my local big box bookseller and admire my book on the shelf!

Money? It would be nice, but really this all about giving the voices in my head an outlet. :o)

I have no goals with my writing. I have no desire to seek an agent, or editor, or publisher.
Do I understand how the industry works? Yep.
Do I want to go down that road? No, I have no desire to do so at this point in my life. I don't feel the industry and I would be a good match.

I write for myself, and no one else. I keep readers in mind, because I do post short stories on my blog, but they are horror and fantasy pieces and I don't mind sharing them. For the rest, it's all for me, and it's between me and my God, and no one else.

I don't want success in the way the publishing industry gives it out, I don't have time for it.

My goals are to be published by a traditional publishing house - a large one in New York with good distribution - to have my books in Barnes and Noble and the other big stores, and to hit the NYT Bestseller list. Plain and simple. :) I do have intangible goals, but I don't think that's what you were asking for.

I'm currently unagented, so only able to answer the second part of the question. Right now, what I look forward to most is the honesty and objective opinion.

I'm one of those people that has no trouble believing the negative criticism but finds it nearly impossible to believe the praise. I'm always second-guessing it, assuming that whoever's praising an aspect of my writing is doing it for a reason, like being nice/polite, because they're my friend, because they don't want to give offense, etc. etc. But I imagine it's in an agent's best interest to be completely honest, and I think I'd find that straightforwardness incredibly reassuring.

"For those of you seeking an agent: What do you think will be the most valuable thing an agent can offer you?"

A professional pair of eyes on the manuscript in terms of sellability and someone to take care of all the crap so I can focus on delivering another manuscript to our liking.

Sooooo worth 15%.

For example, I can build my own house, or I could buy a house and use the time I would spend on building a house to write. Yes, I have to participate in the buying of the home, the signing of papers, participating in the negotiations on the price, that's all good. Still don't want to build a house.

Also from the seeking side:
Contract negotiations. I mean, I've read enough TOS to pick up some legalese, but I know I was an expert helping me through that.

But writing just that looks so cold & calloused. The agents I'm finding myself drawn to are all people I think I would describe as their clients advocate - watching out for their interests, cheerleading them. Helping them with a career - not a single sale.

Hmm, can I have two answers?

My agent and I have what I feel is a very balanced working relationship/partnership/friendship.

I think there's a good amount of mutual respect for the unique pieces of the publishing puzzle that each of us brings to the table. It's important to me that he really listens and considers my input rather than simply taking my proposals, shipping them off and letting me know the outcome--eventually (as I've heard some agents do).

I really appreciate how we work as a team to talk over various projects, decide which I should be focusing on, even discussing which publishers/editors might be best to approach with each.

In a lot of ways, all those things are icing on the cake. The very most important thing an agent adds to my publishing life is being there to handle the sticky business things that come up (I've had more than my share in my bit of a publishing career).

While I'm thrilled to be working with someone with whom I'm on the 'same page' (forgive the publishing pun), ultimately I really want someone to be my advocate, salesman, business consultant and 'bad guy' in ways that I can't/don't want to do on my own.

I learned that this is more important than friendship or coaching or communication when I momentarily had an agent who seemed to be my literary 'other half.' It was as though we shared a brain when it came to my projects. He could name off a half-dozen New York editors who would be perfect to approach with my most compelling project. But he never submitted to anyone--not even the publishers who had specifically requested my proposals following the conference where we met. All the compatibility in the world didn't matter if he couldn't/wouldn't/didn't actually handle the business end of things.

Mary Hampton

Things I appreciate about my agent (hi!) in no particular order (and this might change when I get a publishing contract, because my focus will shift from wanting to get published, to wanting to stay published):

- Getting email updates about the status of my project (whether good or bad) b/c I like to know what's going on

- Getting feedback after she read my first manuscript (I promise this isn't b/c it was good feedback - I just like to know if I'm on target or need to work some things out and I like to know she's reading my stuff)

- I love the fact that she's very experienced in editing so she knows how to write well and what good writing is

- I loved being able to send her story ideas and getting her feedback on them (I'm one of those authors who likes to brainstorm!)

- I love that she's passionate about her job, she's got an excellent reputation, and she puts her clients first

- And one last random, not-so-important-but-fun thing - I love that she tweets! I love reading her updates, especially those super fun ones about contracts!

Can't wait to read the results. :)

Oh, and when I get a publishing contract I'll probably really, really appreciate your expertise in contracts b/c I'm clueless. I think a lot of what an author appreciates depends on where they are at in their journey.

Okay, I have to start by saying that was cool to read what Katie wrote above.

On the brink of seeking.

Looking for:
strong communicator
someone I can brainstorm with
someone invested in my career
an agent excited about my work
with editing strengths, ideas of how to improve problem areas and then tells me to get to work
I probably lean toward more relational as far as the style I'm looking for

Last one (and this is a must)...an agent who knows how to laugh.

What a great idea for a post.
~ Wendy

I'm unagented so right now what I appreciate most is communication. Specifically, a rejection or request as opposed to silence. ;-) That's what I like about you. You're really helpful and respectful (is that a word? lol) of writers.

I remember when I signed with my agent he told me, some days I will be your biggest fan and others your critic, and others your coach and others your counselor and others your lawyer and others your advocate... and so on.

It has proven true. Yesterday I called him for 2 minutes to basically cry and vent about this process. He listened and said, "I know" and I magically felt better. Worth more than 15%- just don't tell Steve Laube I said that. :)

I haven't been quite ready to seek an agent yet, but I think the most valuable thing an agent will be able to offer me to start with is inroads to the right publishers -- a chance to be considered and someone to champion my work. Exciting stuff! :)

Regardless of how publishing changes, as long as agents are willing to shift with the times, they will remain completely indispensable.

I have a cautionary tale from personal experience about trying to do this without one. My agent actually saved my bacon several times from some dead-end movement, but where he really earned his commission is in handling things when the book took a leap to the next level.

Not only did he get me in the door with the publishers and facilitate the bidding, as well as making recommendations based on who would be he best editors, etc., but he is the point man on dealing with the movie production company and the various publicity groups and talking heads who have come into our circle related to the project.

He's also a wise counselor, the type that Proverbs says to run screaming to. My favorite quote for an agent's job is: they protect happy stupid people from themselves.

I can't stress to my fellow authors enough--you need one. Really.

My agent has an editor's eye (for good reason, she was an editor with Random House for years), and she's really a fan of my work, which is important. Her excitement (hopefully) rubs off on editors. But, beyond that, we have a good relationship and can chat like friends. We often trade reading recommendations, or just have conversations about the industry. I find all of these things valuable and know I've made a good choice in going with her.

First and foremost the relationship between author and agent is a business relationship.

I chose to decline representation because the agent refused to consider modifying her agreement to specify what happened in case she died, became disabled or went out of business.

I liked everything else about her from our joint phone interview, but that was a killer.

~ Jim

I've just been offered representation from an agent I've been working closely with for the better part of the year. Her boundless enthusiasm for my novel sustained me through the revision process and her keen eye for detail helped me produce a far better work than what I'd originally come up with.

My agent is made of awesome. Period. But if I really HAVE to say why, I'll try to pick a few things. :D

I like that I can email her whenever. Even if it's just to freak out over an issue with my book or good news from an editor. She's always prompt returning emails, usually within a few hours. She's completely honest and doesn't pull her punches, but she's never cruel (though snarky at times. ;) ) Her editorial feedback is spot-on and no matter how many revisions I needed on a particularly difficult MS, she just keeps re-reading and telling me where she'd like to see changes.

I also appreciate that she's taken the business of publishing out of my hands to leave me to write, but always runs everything by me and makes sure I understand what's going on and why.

And then pretty much everything Katie said about hers, I agree with for mine. :D

I'm unagented. Aside from the obvious -- passionate about my work -- I want an agent who is financial/contractual savvy. With all the changes with Ebooks, Google settlements, and the normal difficulty publishers have with parting with their money, I want a feeling of an advocate on my side who is knowledgeable and firm. I'm not mercenary -- I don't have to make six figures -- but if I don't want to be fooled, either.

Enthusiasm.

I had an agent for my first book, and she was great. Helpful, professional, direct, energetic, knowledgable. She was able to advise about the "background" info on the three publishers who made offers on our book. All good and appreciated.

Then after our book was published, she left the agency, and someone else was assigned to us. We had no choice about who, and the relationship with the new agent has been unsatisfying. She does the basic job, but we have no connection or relationship.

For my next book, I'd like an agent like my first one: someone who believes in my book, knows the publishing business, is available for my questions, will suggest what needs to be done or changed, and is interested in helping me build my career.

I appreciate this topic, Rachelle, and everyone's comments so far - really helpful.

I chose my agent with an eye to complementarity. I'm quite timid, she's bold. I'm not instinctively commercial; she definitely is. I never read documents properly; she does!
I don't need my hand held and I don't need nagging-I'm quite diligent-so didn't require those characteristics
But most of all there are two areas where she's crucial: firstly she is an ally and a buffer against rejections-they feel less painful mediated through her and she's always looking forward not ruminating. Secondly she has a reputation which opens doors and gets mss read and sold. She networks so I don't have to. Worth every penny.

Rachelle,
My agent has been supportive, talking me down off a few figurative ledges as I navigated the shoals and narrows of the publishing world.
She's knowledgeable, and her suggested edits of my manuscripts have reduced those made by the publisher to an unbelievable minimum.
For these and so many other reasons, I'm fortunate to be represented by her...er, by you.

I will preface this by saying I love my agent the way some teenagers love Twilight. I believe yesterday on Twitter I actually offered him a kidney if he ever needs one.

This may seem strange coming from someone whose first book didn’t sell, but, imo, it’s when the path to a first sale is neither instant nor smooth that an agent shows his (or her, mine is a his so forgive the male pronoun usage). My agent, God love him, is all about career building. He has been around long enough to care about long term. He is breezy and professional but deeply caring. How does he add value let me count the ways:

1) Editorial input (he was an editor at a major house once and it shows)

2) Idea vetting (even before book one didn’t sell we had brainstorming sessions about my other ideas and he was candid about what he thought would find an audience, what he thought might not, and why)

3) He really listens and is always supportive if I want to try something new (he trusts my instincts even as I trust his. Last book was third person past tense, wip is 1st person present – that can be dicey so he said show me ten chapters then we will know, but he encouraged me to give it a try)

4) He has connections and employs them for my professional development (including NYC lunches with editors with strong advice/opinions on my work)

5) He is genuinely glad to hear from me (it’s all in the voice folks. I don’t call or email that often but when I do I always get the time/advice I am seeking. If I miss him, I don’t wait days for a call back, I wait hours. He has big name clients who make big money for him but I never feel like a small fish – he always treats me like the next big thing)

I actually look forward to the day when I have some sales so that I can hand my 15% over. Yep, it must be love.

I love the editorial tips she has to make my stories better, her energy and excitement, and dedication to my career, not just the one book sell.

I'm glad I don't have to worry about all the business stuff, either. I trust her and know that she's got my best interest at heart!

Thanks for this post. Happy Friday!!

I'm unagented, so here's my wish list. An agent who:

1. knows good writing and pushes me toward that standard.

2. is a great (objective, honest, smart) editor.

3. knows the market and is an excellent business person.

4. is a good negotiator.

5. will stay in contact with me via email to let me know what's happening with my stuff.

6. will brainstorm with me and enjoys thinking outside the box (and pings off the wall sometimes).

7. is not afraid to step on my toes when it's necessary to get me going in the right direction with my writing.

8. expects a lot out of me, because I do better with high standards.

9. has a great sense of humor.

10. respects my Christian faith.

Thank you for this post, Rachelle! It was fun to think about.

I think what I'll enjoy most about having an agent, when that day comes, is having a sounding board. Someone who is knowledgable enough in the industry to help me shape my next ideas as they form and we can work together to make those ideas into a viable concept for me to write.

I think that will be invaluable.

I had an agent for my first, non-fiction book. On the positive side, she knew the publishing industry very well, found me a good home for the book, and negotiated a decent contract. So I valued her expertise in the industry and business of publishing. I'm so glad I don't have to re-invent the wheel on all that.

On the other hand, she was not the warmest person. Her emails tended to be brusque one or two-line things. I felt that once the book was sold, I kind of vanished off her radar. I didn't feel like she helped me brainstorm about ways to promote the book, sell excerpts to magazines etc. And I didn't get a sense of support or teamwork from her in thinking about the next step for my writing career -- how to go on from that first book.

So I'm currently looking for a new agent...

I guess my conclusion is that I value two very different sets of skills:

(1) The publishing business acumen -- how to sell my work and get me the best contract.

(2) The personal connection, and a sense that s/he is invested in my career, not just a particular project.

I do *not* look to an agent for major editing. Sure, that would be great, but there are other people who can do that, and the first two aspects seem to be things that only an agent can do.

Is there an elephant in the room here or did just miss some of the comments?

It strikes me that without an agent a writer simply isn’t going to get through the wall to the publishers. What I’m looking for in an agent is somebody on the network who can get me in. From there the whole relationship opens up, valuable feedback is one thing but there are other sources and the word that readers are passing the work amongst their friends is pretty good feedback in itself. (Shameless self promotion here because nobody else is going to do it.) Also ideas for other media and the contacts to get the contacts. I have a strong belief that graphic novel or even animation might be the way to go but I’d have no idea how to pursue that channel.

Beyond that I’d like to think the relationship can be a cross between a colleague and a friend, someone who is trusted and respected in whatever they say. Is that a bit woolly?

My agent is one of the best things that's happened to me as a writer. I'm so glad I didn't just sign with the first person who claimed to be an agent and would have me. The right agent makes a HUGE difference.

My agent is honest with me. She believes in me as a writer and refuses to submit anything short of my best work. She's not afraid to straighten me out when I desperately need straightening. My agent has the remarkable ability to totally trash my work and leave me feeling good about it.

I can honestly say I've never had a phone call with my agent that didn't leave me stoked, encouraged, and ready to rise to a higher level. When she finally does sell one of my books--and we both know she will--I will not begrudge her one penny of her commission. She's already earned it.

D.

I had an immediate connection with my agent, Diana Flegal, when I met her at a conference,and that was a huge influence on my signing with her. Talking with her about my work is like talking to a good friend, and since I don't have waste energy worrying about whether or not I'm making a good impression, our conversations and brainstorming sessions about my work help move me forward. Best of all, since Diana takes care of a big chunk of the "business" of writing (the submissions game), my writing time is spent writing - not worrying about queries and submissions packages. Still waiting for that elusive fiction contract, but while I'm waiting, I can work on the next project, rather than splitting my time between writing and submitting.

Jack Barrow: Lol, I was wondering the same thing... when is somebody going to say they just want access to publishers and that's the primary value of an agent?

I don't think there's an elephant in the room, it may be that the answer is too obvious for some; while others have found that their agents offers so much more than "access."

In any case, I know what you're saying. One of the primary benefits of an agent is "access to publishers" and that's one of the reasons I became an agent, because I realized that writers nowadays need that partner in order to "break in." I've always been about helping authors both become the best writers they can, and get published, and being an agent seemed the best way to do that.

Simple.... their honesty and their hard work.

I love everything Katie said!

One thing I appreciate about my agent is her servant's heart. She never fails to ask me what she can do to help me reach my goals. Whether it is emailing me well before a deadline to see how things are going or writing a fabo blog chock full of industry tips, she's got a servant's heart.

Their knowledge.

The #1 thing I love about my agent (who is actually the 2nd agent I've had) is her loyalty to her clients. What I mean is this: with my very first agent, when he couldn't sell my manuscript, he sort of lost interest in representing me and took almost a year to give me feedback on a new manuscript I handed to him. When I got my current agent with my third manuscript, she also was unable to sell it (although we came close!). However, she stuck by my side. She gave me tons of prompt, editorial feedback on my latest WIP and worked with me to hone it to perfection. And then she sold that one. Her support didn't waver. She was truly an agent that took her authors on for their whole careers, and I am eternally grateful to her for that.

Other things I love about my agent! She's sweet and nice when appropriate, but also unafraid to be bluntly honest when telling me something's not working in my book. She's a tough negotiator. Very professional. She also keeps in constant touch with me, lets me know everything that's going on, and responds to my emails within the hour (usually within minutes). She's fantastic!

What I hope an agent will offer me is:

• Knowledge of what will or will not benefit me in a contract.

• Access to publishing houses that are closed to unsolicited manuscripts.

• The ability to negotiate for a better deal that will benefit all parties concerned.

• Free more writing time which is currently consumed researching publishers and agents to find good matches for my manuscripts.

• A professional, open relationship which is friendly and cordial, and is built on excellence and strong communication.

So nice to hear about the positive, helpful agents..how about a shout-out with actual names? Thanks, guys!

Personally, I'm looking for an advisor, a cheerleader, a partner and a savvy biz whiz/negotiator all in one. I can only dream...

There are two absolutes that I’m looking for in an agent; one, someone who can deal with the occasional bout of sarcasm, and two, they must be willing and able to hold an intelligent conversation based solely on reality TV. Oh and that whole navigating me through a publishing deal thing would be pretty cool too.

Hi Rachelle,

What I appreciate most about my agent is that he immediately forwards all publisher responses to me. I like being looped in and I love that he leaves their comments for me to read, while adding his own two cents.

My agent is more business-like, which is fine by me...though I confess some days I sure could use either a good cheerleader or a swift kick in the rear.

Have a great weekend, Rachelle!

Oh, I could go on and on (and have) about how much I adore my agent, Michelle Wolfson.

I love the fact that she's super responsive. Even if she doesn't have time to deal with something I've sent her (which is rare, and also totally understandable given her workload) she responds to emails saying "I'm swamped this week but I'll get back to you by next Tuesday." This lets me know my message didn't get lost in cyberspace and she's on top of things.

I love that she's committed to my career for the long run, and that she doesn't give up EVER. We actually had a fairly bumpy path to publication, with two books that didn't sell (though interestingly enough, that second book DID eventually end up selling as part of a three-book deal).

I love that she always has a plan. Rejections can be brutal for BOTH of us, and Michelle never forwards one to me and just says, "oh well." Every rejection comes with a discussion of our options and her suggestions for how we should move forward. To me, this is the most valuable service she provides, as it's easy for authors to feel bogged down by "now what?" syndrome.

I truly can't say enough great things about Michelle, and am grateful every single day to have her as my agent.

Tawna

My current agent, Marly Rusoff, isn't my first agent, but she is my happily-ever-after one. She took on The Wednesday Sisters after my first novel (represented by another agent) sold very "modestly," and brought it out with confidence that it was going to be a big hit. It became a national bestseller, and now I have a third, The Four Ms. Bradwells, coming out in March. And that first modest-selling one is also getting new life at my new publisher, Ballantine Books, in the form of a paperback release next summer.

How does she walk on water? She doesn't just sell books; she stays involved at every step of the process. She has amazing marketing ideas, and knows the publishing business from the inside. And she is both businesslike and relational. Somehow, she manages to steer people in ways they don't always think they'd like to go without ever ruffling feathers.

And she is funny and fun, too: a delight to chat with, over coffee or on the phone. It almost makes me want to live in NY. Almost.

I deeply appreciate my agent's editorial comments. She never fails to improve the smooth flow of my manuscripts. If there are weaknesses in characterization or pacing, she'll catch them. It's so important to me that she does this.

I appreciate the low-key business-like relationship we have -- and the way she gets back to me very quickly if I do ask a question or have a request.

I appreciate how sincere she sounds when she tells me she loves my books.

I would die if I had to deal with the nuts-and-bolts legal aspects of writing and publishing. Thank God my agent is there to do all that.

"Agents are people, too."

I think that sums up how I've come to view my wonderful agent. She's accessible, sensitive, caring, brilliant, and business-minded. She doesn't make me feel crazy-stupid, even when I occasionally send her VERY long, detailed emails with the subject line, "Just A Quick Question."

We haven't yet been able to sell my first novel, but she never made me feel that our relationship was based on that one book only. And even though I'm struggling to get another book written and delivered to her, she's been patient. I think she knows that I want it to be good. REALLY good.

The BEST thing about my agent is that she thinks I'm funny and laughs at all the right spots. In return, I think she's hiLARious, the highest compliment in my book. So to speak.

I've got mad love for my agent!

I hope to find an agent who enjoys my stories, believes I can write, and tells me so - because that's my love language. :)

I like what Jennie Allen wrote above. I would love to have an agent who is my biggest fan, my biggest critic, a coach, a counselor, a lawyer and an advocate. I'm looking for someone willing to partner with me as I find my way in this industry, because I'm in it for the long haul, but realize I still have SO much to learn.

I also enjoyed Katie's comments above.

The perfect agent would be an awesome "godmother" to my baby AND have big feet to get in important doors.

Mutual trust. Lauren MacLeod and I trust each other to take care of things. I know she is doing her job while I do mine. I know I can count on her.

My agent has many, many wonderful qualities and I completely adore her. But if I had to choose one thing to appreciate most, it's that we can trust each other.

I was completely set on my agent after we spoke on the phone for the first time. He's a very strong communicator. Throughout the process of shopping our first MS together, I really felt he 'got' my writing. He valued the same elements of the story I did. He also listened when I had suggestions in the process of sending it out.

I worry about things, and he's more of a voice of reason. He's not my first agent, but I'm still a relative novice at this. He, on the other hand, has been in the business for a long time-- so I have confidence he knows what he's doing.

Regarding revisions of my manuscript: I liked that he read it over several times and caught errors, or moments when my sense did not quite resemble earth sense (i.e. logical contradictions), but he has not proven a rip-the-whole-thing-up, editorial type of agent. And I, personally, really love that.

I'll be happy to tear a story to shreds if an interested editor asks for changes, but I'd at least like to get it before that editor's eyes intact. I'd at least like a shot at my own vision for the story before dismantling it to fit someone else's.

In short, I see his approach as a sign of trust in my writing, and that's exactly what I was looking for.

(Sorry to be a little late to the party ...)

My agent is the voice of God.

By that, I mean that she gives me the guidance, the confirmation, and the access I need as a writer. About the time I go to God and say, "Are You sure this is what You want me to be doing?" I get a call from my agent making sure I know about her confidence in seeing me get published (and maybe talking me off a ledge).

If God's going to send me someone named Rachelle Gardner to see that I persevere by hearing all that stuff, then that's His voice as far as I'm concerned.

(Thanks, Rachelle. I know you'll understand exactly what I mean, because that's the kind of agent you are.)

I'm interested in an agent who can help grow my career, share ideas with me and listen to my ideas. An agent who will talk to me on the phone and on-line, and answer my questions without making me feel like I'm bothering her.

A person of intergrity who is passionate about her job and the writers she represents. What a relief to have you in my corner. Thanks for being there, Rachelle.

"What do you think will be the most valuable thing an agent can offer you?"

I want an agent who "gets it." I want an agent who gets that the quirky humor in my cartoons is in the "bad art."

I want her to see the cartoons through the same eyes that called those cartoons, "Thurberesque." I want her to get why they have been called "cartoons with intellect that is dazzling."

I want an agent that doesn't back away from "crazy," but who embraces it and encourages creativity and bold moves in the project. I want an agent who thinks outside the "youth is everything" box and believes it is possible for a woman to have lived a whole career, and for that woman at 63 to reinvent herself in totally different and imaginative ways.

I want an agent who is a fan of Joan Rivers and Betty White.

I want an agent who understands the whole "shtik" in the cartoons and who gets the tongue-in-cheek silly humor.

I want an agent who adores this piece:
http://www.aarp.org/personal-growth/life-long-learning/info-07-2010/unleash_your_inner_genius.html

And I want an agent who can be most of all a fan and laugh with me, even when the project may go nowhere and just sit forever in an online blog... to be viewed only by visitors who may happen to find it.

What do I like about my agent? She believes in me. She's willing to brainstorm with me (and kept me from killing off the wrong character in a WIP...) and to tell me if what I'm thinking will work. She pushes me to think outside the box. She watches out for opportunities for me.

Most of all, she puts up with me. :-) I'm grateful for all of that and a whole lot more...

"What do you think will be the most valuable thing an agent can offer you?"

I want an agent who "gets it." I want an agent who gets that the quirky humor in my cartoons is in the "bad art."

I want her to see the cartoons through the same eyes that called those cartoons, "Thurberesque." I want her to get why they have been called "cartoons with intellect that is dazzling."

I want an agent that doesn't back away from "crazy," but who embraces it and encourages creativity and bold moves in the project. I want an agent who thinks outside the "youth is everything" box and believes it is possible for a woman to have lived a whole career, and for that woman at 63 to reinvent herself in totally different and imaginative ways.

I want an agent who is a fan of Joan Rivers and Betty White.

I want an agent who understands the whole "shtik" in the cartoons and who gets the tongue-in-cheek silly humor.

I want an agent who adores this piece:
http://www.aarp.org/personal-growth/life-long-learning/info-07-2010/unleash_your_inner_genius.html

And I want an agent who can be most of all a fan and laugh with me, even when the project may go nowhere and just sit forever in a blog... to be viewed only by visitors who may happen to find it.

"For those of you seeking an agent: What do you think will be the most valuable thing an agent can offer you?"

Career advice - whether it be on the ms, contracts, future planning, relationship building... just a general ability to predict what's coming and help me navigate it.

"What do you think will be the most valuable thing an agent can offer you?"

Good communication. It can cover a multitude of faults, and poor communication can ruin an otherwise great relationship.

I like that my agent believes in my project--that she sees the value in what I'm writing about, even if it's not getting picked up by a publisher. Yet.
I like that my agent provides a perspective that I don't have on the publishing world. She also encourages me to persevere and to try new writing ventures.
And I appreciate my agent's commitment to her clients--and how she tries to maintain balance so that clients and responsibilities don't get overlooked.

I've thought a lot about what I want in an agent.

I need someone who respects the integrity of the work, but also who sees me as a professional. Tell me straight if something is marketable or not. Tell me what needs fixing. I don't need someone to hold my hand during the writing, although the occasional encouragement would be nice.

Mostly what I need from an agent is honest direction in my career.

I need someone to handle contract negotiations and all of the marketing direction ins and outs that an agent will likely understand better than an author.

I'm not afraid of hard work, but I need someone to direct that energy in the most effective manner.

1) I love that my agent knows 1,000times more than I do about the business and used her knowledge to improve my contract.

2) She has a great laugh and sense of humor, which was the first thing that let me know we would be a good match.

3) She offers to help me in ways I never anticipated, such as hooking me up with the agency public relations specialist and offering to assist me with my PAN status through RWA.

4) She's honest with me.

I would like an agent like the one my friend has. Her agent stuck with her for all the years it took to get a publishing contract because she believed in my friend's ability as a writer rather than the quick sell. Now that agent is being rewarded through the success she helped bring about as more and more books are going into print.

I think a little less subjectivity is what writers need from an agent. Good writing will always be good, even if the agent doesn't immediately know where to send it.

An agent that truly seeks to understand the message in a book, rather than try to change it or mold it to fit the world's standards.

An agent that has a handy list of clients and consistently keeps in contact, suggesting helpful tools and advice along the journey.

Running a muck on daily basis.

Believing in universe conspiring to make it happen...

struggling to find six good words...

In awe of being beyond blessed.

Positive people need a smack down. ;)

Wasted some time, now working hard.

listening. moving to the Holy Spirit.

Loving Life And Working for God

Loitering, day dreaming, flirting with ambition.

Only God could do those things

All my friends are having babies.

Homesick for everywhere I've ever been.

I am always getting back up.

Craving more hours in the day.

Chocolate and laptops make me happy.

Don't know where to start.

Easily distracted by the...Ooo! shiny!

Geese fly, flowers dance, morning smiles.

Lost home, found internet, boots on.

Anxiety is my middle name only.

I wish I was a pirate

Elastic apron strings stretch to Germany

God's plan was better than mine.

Three book deal. Two drink minimum.

long trip right back to beginning

Failed law school, writing new ending.

Dreamers never really go to sleep...

Scared but ready for something BIG.

Using God's gifts to the fullest!

drats. i thought you were going to write on the extreme power of the HOT krispy kreme, those manna-from-heaven creations that do not require teeth to eat but, rather, ooze with molten goodness down one's throat.

(how my wife and daughter can prefer dunkin donuts is a mystery i can only explain by some weird gene pool mishap)

but i digress. (it's your fault, though)

"God has a sense of humor"

Nursing a broken heart--it sucks...

I love this and will be thinking about it all day.

Dear God, Make Me a Bird

~ Wendy

Sitting with books, pen, and draft.

Bottom to top; over and over.

Motherless girl now a mother. Joy.

This was a free country ... once.

Wanted more happy endings; wrote them!

Flavored coffees are my life blood.

Working in cubicle. Dreaming in 3D.

Patiently waiting for all my dreams.

@pattyblount Love that one!

Gypsy writer bitten by small shark.

Will write for salsa and chips.