Literary Agents…

OK, I’m just gonna come out with it:

Do you know a literary agent who might be interested in working with me?

There. It’s out. I asked.

Here’s the thing: I’ve been submitting my work to U.K. agencies for several years but keep getting the standard reply:

We read and enjoyed your work but unfortunately, it’s just not for us right now. Please don’t give up! The right agent will be out there somewhere.

It would be nice to know where, though, so I could actually look there, send an email, knock on a door, ring a bell, have a chat over good coffee.

Just to liaise with an agent about my work would be a huge step forward. Let’s discuss the potential of a young adult novel, a children’s rhyming picture book, or a screenplay (all of which I’ve written and continue to write). Let’s see how we can create some magic.

I’m currently working on a children’s fantasy novel for the Taiwanese film director Wei Te-Sheng (IMDb), which he will adapt into a screenplay for an animated movie. (I’m also having fun working on a stage play.)

I’m beginning to think literary agents are mythical beings, conjured up by authors who don’t want other authors to join the party.

Knock knock… door opens a notch… sounds of laughter and loud music is coming from inside. A successful author (let’s say Neil Gaiman) is wedged between the door and the door frame, so you can’t see inside… “Party?” says Neil, with a yellow strand of a party popper stuck in his hair. And judging from his heavy eyes and his constant grin, you’re pretty damn certain he’s tipsy. “What party? No party here.” Slams door in your face. Laughter erupts from inside.

No offence, Neil. I’m sure you’re a nice guy and would happily step aside, invite me in and get me a glass of whatever you’ve had five of.

I know this post makes me sound like a Desperate Donny but, to be frank, I no longer care. There’s a chance that somebody, reading this, knows of an agent I can contact.

Perhaps you’re an agent yourself, with years of experience under your belt and have been looking for a new client to get your teeth stuck into. If so, let’s talk.

Or you might be just starting out and want to extend your client list (from zero to one perhaps) – if so, let’s talk business. Let’s see what we can do together.

If you’d like to get in touch, please comment on this post or send an email to gavinswhyte@gmail.com.

Thank you.

Gavin