by:
Curtis, Richard

Publisher:
E P Dutton
Published:May 1, 1989
ISBN:0453006701
Format:Hardcover
Pages:380

Description: From Publishers Weekly
In these 53 short chapters, previously published in Locus , the science fiction trade paper, a New York literary agent describes the publishing scene in general and explains many aspects of his profession. In the section "Agents Demystified," he defines clout and compares the benefits and shortcomings of variously sized agencies. "Breaking In" addresses the subjects of book outlines, hardcover vs. softcover publication, book packagers, multi-book deals, payout schedules and escalation clauses. Other subjects include sales conferences, promotion and advertising, book club sales, movie adaptations. The section "Manners and Morals" examines courtesy, honor, scruples, luck, bankruptcy and mergers in the industry. Curtis also proposes reforms in publishing and speculates about collective activity by authors. Full of facts, advice, opinions and anecdotes, this book offers food for thought to authors, editors and publishers, aspiring and established.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description:
New York literary agent Richard Curtis has represented many bestselling authors. When Curtis talks, authors -- and publishers -- listen. Now he is talking, straight from the shoulder, to writers, telling everything an author must know to get published and not get exploited or taken advantage of -- by an agent, a publisher, or the IRS.

read about:

The truth about the clout of agents in getting a writer sold;
the best deal to make if you sell your book to the movies;
when to sign a multibook contract, and when to sell one book at a time;
is the advance offered to you poor, good, or terrific?


And lots more.--This text refers to the

Paperback edition.