What is a literary agent, and do you need one?

A literary agent represents authors. They read manuscripts, offer them to publishers, negotiate the deal, and manage the author's business affairs. Authors in some parts of the world almost never submit directly to big publishers. In India the situation is more mixed.

What an agent does

• Finds the right publisher. They know editors and what each one is looking for.
• Pitches your book. A manuscript sent by an agent usually gets read more carefully than one that arrives unsolicited.
• Negotiates. Advances, royalties, rights, deadlines and other terms.
• Handles rights. Translations, audio, film and foreign editions.
• Acts as a buffer. If there is a problem with a publisher, the agent deals with it.

How they are paid

Agents usually earn a percentage of what you earn from the book. They are paid when you are paid, not before. Be careful with anyone who asks for money up front to read your manuscript or to represent you. That is a warning sign.

The situation in India

The agent system has grown in the last two decades, but it is smaller than in the UK or US. Many Indian publishers still accept submissions directly from authors. Some publishers prefer agented work. Agents tend to focus on commercial and literary fiction and non-fiction by authors with a platform.

If you plan to self-publish, or to work with a small independent press, you probably do not need an agent.

When an agent can help

• You are aiming for a large trade publisher and want a good deal.
• You expect foreign or translation sales.
• Your book has strong film or media potential.
• You want someone to handle the business side so you can write.

When you may not need one

• You are self-publishing.
• You are working with a small press that deals directly with authors.
• Your book is very niche.
• You are happy to negotiate for yourself, with some legal advice.

How to find one

• Look at the acknowledgements of books like yours. Authors often thank their agents.
• Search for agencies and read what they say about submissions.
• Follow the submission guidelines exactly. Usually this means a short query letter, a synopsis and a sample of the text.
• Be patient. Replies can take weeks or months, and many agents do not reply to every query.

Checking an agent

Ask which authors and books they have represented. Ask what their commission is. Read any agreement carefully, and have a lawyer look at it if you are unsure. A good agent will be open about all this.

It is not a requirement

Many authors have built careers without one. An agent is a tool, not a certificate. Whether you need one depends on what you want for the book and how you plan to publish it.