Hi everyone,

As many of you know, I'm in the process of writing a book on phobias, anxieties and fears. I will be ready for an agent come September and would like to ask if anyone could refer me to someone?

This is my first book and I can use all of the help I can get. Many in this Boomer Forum have successfully written many books and perhaps could offer me some advice?

If you know of someone reputable and would like to share, let me know in this forum?

Thank you.

Toni

Toni, do you have Jeff Herman's book, Writer's Guide To Book Editors, Publishers and Agents?

I highly recommend this book. Read it (it's huge) and hi-lite all the ones that accept your kind of writing.

Also, go to the library and read through the acknowledgments section of books that are as close to your's as possible. Authors typically thank editors and agents in this section especially if they are good. Jot down the names and then research them in Herman's book and online. Just do a Google search by name and you'll be amazed by all the information you can find.

ANother way is to do a google search similar to this:

agents self-help
or whatever category your book be on the book shelf at the store.

Hope this helps. Please tell me the genre and I'll look through the list of agents I queried to see if I have anything for you.

Do you have the April issue of Writer's Digest? If not, hit the library and check out the article about 25 agents seeking new talent. That might be a good place to start.

Dotsie,

Thank you so much for your information. I believe I have a copy of April's Writer's Digest. Wil check. Another great idea is the library--there is one nearby where we live. I didn't think about the 'agents self-help' google deal. Will definitely check this out.

I guess the genre I'm seeking for my book would be 'self-help,' or 'mental health?' Not real clear on this but I think that's right.

Thank you, Dotsie for your help. This is an area where I'm a beginner, so your information and assistance is invaluable!

Speakermom,

Thank you, too, for your help. As Dotsie pointed out, Jeff Hermon's book sounds very helpful.

Also, thank you for the info on reputable agents--"will not charge a reading or upfront fee."

Much appreciated. All of this information will help so much!

We've got a great group here, don't we?

Another book I keep handy on my desk is:

AGENTS, editors, AND YOU.

Edited by Michelle Howry

Its hailed as the insiders guide to getting your book published. It is recommended reading for all the students of Long Ridge Writers School as well as The Writers Digest School and is published by Writers Digest Books. The cost is US $22.99 and CAN $35.99

Here's a couple of links you might want to check out.

http://literaryagents.org/

http://www.nataliercollins.com/agent-information/

both have great information and reputable agents on their lists.

Good luck!

Vicki,
I also used Natalie's site and f ound it extremely helpful. Great suggestion.

Vickie, Chatty Lady,

Thank you so much for your help on agents. Wonderful advice! Very much appreciated. Will check this out soon!

Toni