Unless you are well versed in the art of negotiating contracts, you need a literary agent. The best way to find one is to get a copy of Guide To Literary Agents and send out query letters (which I will discuss later).
Why get an agent? First, books that are submitted to published under a literary agent’s name are looked at before the unsolicited stuff. Second, they will negotiate any contracts so you get your terms and conditions.
Theses guys have the know-how necessary to navigate the publishing world. They are friends with publishers, editors and other writers who can get your book where it needs to be.
When you get an agent keep something in mind: they should care about your book. No matter who their clientele is or how many books they’ve sold, if you don’t feel right about the relationship find someone else. It has even been described as a marriage. You need to have a working relationship with them because they will be representing your pride and joy: your novel.
