Three Things for a Writer to Consider

As a literary agent my goal is to champion the writers that I represent.  A  champion is committed to  guide the writers journey even if that looks different than they thought it would. With that in mind, here are three things I tell potential clients as well as those I currently represent.

1. Timing is Everything

God’s timing is perfect. Just because a book is on your heart right now does not mean it’s God’s timing. If you come to a publisher or agent with an idea that is already being done by several others, you may be directed to a reworking of what  would make a mark. Publishers are looking for material that isn’t overdone. They are looking for written material that meets a current felt need done in a unique way. The timing of your message is important because what you want to say today, may be more fruitful if saved for another time. Writing is more than a passion project; a book proposal is a business plan.

2. Know What is Current in Your Genre

What draws you to the written page? The best genre for you to write in is what you find yourself reading. You write in a sea of others who are also penning their hearts and ideas.  That said, what is currently being published? What is trending and making a difference? How does what is available compare with what you are planning to propose? What is similar and what is different? These questions are important as they must be included when putting together a proposal. Do your research, it is not your agent’s job to tell a publisher why your book is different. It is your book and your responsibility to know the current need and how what you are proposing is unique. Remember, writing is more than a passion project, it is partnering with a publisher to make a difference in this world. Christian publishing is business as well as ministry.

3. Why Write a Book?

If you are writing to fulfill a life-long dream to see your name on a cover and spine—that is not a good enough reason. Having your name on a book cover may bring a momentary thrill but it doesn’t change who you are. It does however change what you do. Once you have partnered with a publisher you have the responsibility to be a key part in marketing and selling your book. Publishing isn’t just about the craft of writing; the business side must be prayerfully considered. This is why you are asked about your platform, special education, and qualifications to write on your topic.

As an agent, I meet with writers who have great aspirations and quite frankly some stars in their eyes. Writing sounds glamourous until you have to count the costs, give up your time, face rejection, or pivot from your original plan. When I started I wanted to write a part of my story where God was pressing into my soul his deep love for a broken me. I wanted to write a Christian Living trade book  that included my story. That wasn’t God’s plan. A necessary pivot was writing a Bible Study for the local church about God’s love for insecure women who needed healing and hope. There was a market for that and the timing was perfect.

The book I originally wanted to write  was published six years later. Timing was everything. Both have been fruitful and I learned some valuable lessons about being a Christian who writes. I learned that God has a plan, God has a time, and God opens doors. I must add that being God is in the business of leading us into his God-sized opportunities, we must be in the practice of humbly taking advice being willing to pivot as many times as necessary. We must remember publishing is more than a name on a book cover, it is a commitment to serve people through your words, while being faithful to God’s calling in your life. Both require humility and an open-hearted approach in the journey.

What stands out to consider on your writing journey today?