A Question For This Agent

Yes, folks, it's time for another round of Advice from An Agent! De asks

If you're planning to write across multiple genres/ages/formats, would you be better off looking for an agent that can span all the categories, or look for multiple agents as the need arises?

My guess is that at the time you're probably looking for an agent, you've probably got one manuscript in mind, one that you feel is your best and strongest project. Ideally, you'll be looking for an agent that is perfectly suited for that project. So, yes, say it's a YA fantasy, and you're lucky enough to land an agent who sells it. At some point during the conversation you and your agent have about your writing, likely the subject of your other projects has come. Likely your agent has already expressed an interest in seeing what else you come up with, even if it's not the exact same genre/format/age range as your first project. Why's that?

Well, because for an agent, signing a client isn't JUST signing a book, though of course that's a big part of it. It's believing in their work, and wanting to help them further their career. Under those circumstances, someone who signs a YA fantasy and then gets a women's historical fiction next isn't usually going to turn their nose up. If it's truly a matter of not being a great match, often they'll recommend another agent -- either within their office, or a colleague/competitor. I often get things passed to me from my colleagues, and know other agents that recommend their clients contact another agent, for an adult book, for example, when they only rep children's.

The thing to keep in mind is that your agent wants to help you in your career, and so, even if your next novel isn't the same style as your first, they'll want to help you make it a success.

Keep those questions coming!!