There are some agents who do some of the work of a book coach, but for the most part agents are doing the work of selling projects and negotiating contracts. Agents will probably discuss with a writer what project it makes sense to work on next. In some cases, agents may edit finished manuscripts and in very rate cases (usually with very well-known writers), they may offer accountability check-ins as a writer writes forward with a project.
A book coach provides editorial care and project nurturing to writers before they get to the stage of landing an agent (or working with their current agent) and in some cases, the writer will continue to work with their book coach even after getting an agent and a book deal. We provide a level of care and attention that agents and editors simply don't have time to give.
This article by NYT bestselling novelist Caroline Leavitt explains why she brings in additional help during a project, despite having both an agent and an editor.
I like how it starts. "I am at a literary party in some important person’s loft in Manhattan" Maybe I should move to NYC! So cool. Except the place might kill me : )
Thank you for this very helpful article, Jennie.
I'm glad it was helpful!
This was very helpful, Jennie, since I have the same clients in mind. It's given me a new perspective. Thanks!
Great news!
Are there book coaches who are also agents? When dealing with the writer, aren't they doing the same thing? : )
There are some agents who do some of the work of a book coach, but for the most part agents are doing the work of selling projects and negotiating contracts. Agents will probably discuss with a writer what project it makes sense to work on next. In some cases, agents may edit finished manuscripts and in very rate cases (usually with very well-known writers), they may offer accountability check-ins as a writer writes forward with a project.
A book coach provides editorial care and project nurturing to writers before they get to the stage of landing an agent (or working with their current agent) and in some cases, the writer will continue to work with their book coach even after getting an agent and a book deal. We provide a level of care and attention that agents and editors simply don't have time to give.
This article by NYT bestselling novelist Caroline Leavitt explains why she brings in additional help during a project, despite having both an agent and an editor.
https://www.writersdigest.com/write-better-fiction/why-its-okay-to-hire-a-developmental-editor-and-not-keep-it-a-secret
I like how it starts. "I am at a literary party in some important person’s loft in Manhattan" Maybe I should move to NYC! So cool. Except the place might kill me : )
I have a book coach. My wife. Jus kiiding Jennie (or am I?) thanks so much