May 2005 Archives

Agent Wants Me To Pay For Editing And Illustrations?!

Published on May 4, 2005

A literary agent wants to represent a children’s picture book that I have written. However, I am required to get it professionally edited at my expense plus have an illustrator draw up some sample pictures, also at my expense. They will provide me with an acceptable list of editors and illustrators. From there, the agency will try and place my work with a publisher.
Something doesn’t sound right here. It’s my understanding that a reputable agent shouldn’t charge a reading fee but what about a professional edit and sample illustrations?

A Freelancer’s Dream Fulfilled By Shaunna Privratsky

Published on May 4, 2005

When do you know for sure that you have made it as a freelance writer? Is it that burst of incredulous joy when you land your first assignment? When you hold your first book in your hand and smell that crisp new-book smell? Maybe it is the first time you answer the question “What do you do?” by saying “I am a writer.”