Review by Library Journal Review
Herman (Write the Perfect Book Proposal) is a literary agent with 30 years of experience overseeing more than 1,000 books into publication. This book was first published in 1990 and has been updated annually since. The work's goal is to provide authors of all types an insider's guide to getting published. It begins with a brief introduction and offers information in seven parts: "Advice to Writers"; "Publishing Conglomerates"; "Independent Presses (US)"; "Academic Presses (US)"; "Canadian Book Publishers"; "Literary Agents"; and "Independent Editors." The first part consists of 14 short, personable essays, from two to six pages in length each, on topics such as "Write the Perfect Query Letter" and "Post Publication Depression Syndrome (PPSS)." These draw heavily upon the author's work and experience in the field and supply anecdotes and advice for the reader. The sections about publishers and presses give a paragraph of overview and contact information for each entity. The "Literary Agents" section is comprised of a short interview with each of about 150 agents who do not charge reading fees, and forms the bulk of the book. "Independent Editors" discusses in an essay when and why to use such an editor, then provides listings from five independent editor groups. VERDICT This volume offers a more friendly and supportive guide to the publishing industry than the books in the "Writer's Market" series and is a valuable addition for reference collections supporting local writers seeking publication. Frequent updates help keep the contact information current.-Samantha Schmehl Hines, Mansfield Lib., Univ. of Montana, Missoula (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
