Upcoming Agent Spotlight Interviews & Guest Posts

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  • Jenna Satterthwaite Agent Spotlight Interview and Query Critique Giveaway on 6/10/2024
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Agent Spotlight & Agent Spotlight Updates

  • Agent Spotlights & Interviews have been updated through the letter "H" as of 5/11/2023 and many have been reviewed by the agents. Look for more information as I find the time to update more agent spotlights.

AGENT TINA WEXLER & SKILA BROWN GUEST POST ON EDITING FOR AGENTS & TINA WEXLER QUERY CRITIQUE AND CAMINAR GIVEAWAY

Hi Everyone! Today I’m thrilled to have agent Tina Wexler and debut author Skila Brown here to share on revising for agents. I’ve been excited to share this post with you since Skila contacted me about it. She had such a creative idea to include Tina’s thoughts in the guest post and it’s fantastic that Tina has also offered a query critique as part of the giveaway. This is creative marketing at its best.

Skila’s MG novel in verse CAMISAR releases on March 25, 2014. It sounds like a fantastic story set during Guatemala’s civil war. Details about the book and the contest will be at the end of the post.

So here’s Skila and Tina!

Querying agents can be stressful. Let’s just admit that. And one thing that can be particularly difficult is receiving feedback from an agent—revision suggestions—with an offer to resubmit instead of an offer of representation.

If you’re in this boat, I’m offering up four five tips today on what to do next. And I’ve asked the spectacular Tina Wexler, Literary Agent at ICM, to chime in with thoughts of her own.

TW: Tina here. Thanks for asking me to join in the conversation, Skila. Hope you don’t mind my adding a fifth tip to your list. Hey, we’re talking revision, aren’t we? It only seemed appropriate. 


Four Five Tips on Revising with Feedback from an Agent

1. Drop your defenses. Think the agent doesn’t get what you were trying to do? Maybe that’s because it wasn’t clear enough. Think the feedback was overly-critical? Maybe that’s because you’re thinking this is about you and not about your story. Either way, you’re on the right track if an agent connected with so much of your story that s/he wants to help make it stronger. Celebrate that.

TW: This is a great first step. I know it can be disappointing to receive an offer to revise instead of an offer of representation, but if a writer can shake off that disappointment and welcome the creative feedback, oftentimes an offer of representation will follow. My relationship with several clients started this way, and I’m grateful they were able to drop their defenses and let me share my thoughts on their work.

2. Listen. Before you begin revising, listen to what the agent is suggesting. If you’re lucky enough to have more than one person weighing in, search for commonalities in their feedback. At first glance, it might seem contradictory. One agent says, “I think the romance needs to be stronger,” while another says, “I think you should lose the romance.” The commonality? Both think that your book is teetering on romance without deciding if it is or it isn’t. Which means you need to make a decision – cut it or enhance it. Maybe the agent’s comments are prescriptive in a way that you don’t really like, but listen hard to what problem s/he is identifying and see if you’ve got another idea on how to fix it.

TW: I often try to suggest solutions when pointing out problems in a manuscript, mainly because they
help illustrate what my concerns are. But I’m not a novelist, and it’s not my story. As such, I really appreciate it when an author is able to come up with their own way of fixing a problem. It’s almost always a better solution than the one I’ve proposed.

3. Don’t lose (the) heart. Think long and hard about what is sacred for you in this story. This can sometimes be the spark that initially drew you to the piece. Maybe it’s the relationship between two characters or the setting or the fact that you’re telling it in a specific way – like verse or multiple points of view. These sacred seeds might not be something you’re willing to alter. And that’s okay. If this story, in your heart, is really about a girl on the brink of suicide and an agent tells you, “I think you should lose the suicide bit,” this might not be the right agent for this novel. But be careful labeling something as sacred. Most things shouldn’t be.

4. Give it a try. You might not be on board with the agent’s suggestions right away, and that’s okay. But what’s the harm in trying? If you spent time researching an agent, if you felt s/he might be a good match for you and your work, then you must already respect this person, right? So keep that in mind as you read over the feedback and have some faith in the professionals. Give these suggestions a try and just see where it leads. You might be surprised that things work out better than you hoped.

TW: Yes! I love this advice, especially for writers who are asked to change the story’s point of view. (It’s more common than you may think.) A rather daunting task, with or without an offer of representation in hand. So, you take baby steps. Rewrite the first page. Is it working? Yes? Rewrite the first chapter. Still like it? Keep going. As you say, there’s no harm in trying.

5. Remember--it’s your manuscript. No one should revise to a specific agent’s taste in the hope of landing representation. An invitation to resubmit doesn’t mean “If you make these changes, I’ll sign you.” If you’re going to invest the time in revising your manuscript, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons: first and foremost, to get a stronger manuscript out of it. And if that stronger manuscript also gets you an agent, bonus. 

Thanks, Tina! I like that last tip. Natalie, we thank you for letting us stop by Literary Rambles today. It was loads of fun!

Thank you, readers! To celebrate the launch of Caminar, Candlewick is giving away one free copy of this newly released novel in verse. And Tina is generously offering her time to critique one lucky winner’s query letter.

Thanks so much for your advice, Skila and Tina! Details of the giveaway are below.

Here’s a blur of CAMISAR from the book jacket:

Set in 1981 Guatemala, a lyrical debut novel tells the powerful tale of a boy who must decide what it means to be a man during a time of war.

Carlos knows that when the soldiers arrive with warnings about the Communist rebels, it is time to be a man and defend the village, keep everyone safe. But Mama tells him not yet—he’s still her quiet moonfaced boy. The soldiers laugh at the villagers, and before they move on, a neighbor is found dangling from a tree, a sign on his neck: Communist.

Mama tells Carlos to run and hide, then try to find her. . . . Numb and alone, he must join a band of guerillas as they trek to the top of the mountain where Carlos’s abuela lives. Will he be in time, and brave enough, to warn them about the soldiers? What will he do then? A novel in verse inspired by actual events during Guatemala’s civil war, Caminar is the moving story of a boy who loses nearly everything before discovering who he really is.

Links for ordering:




 
And you can find Skila at her website.


Skila’s publisher Candlewick is generously offering a copy of CAMISAR for a giveaway and Tina Wexler is offering a query critique giveaway to one winner. So there will be two winners—one for the book and one for the query critique. The book giveaway is US only but the critique giveaway is International.

To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment through May 3rd. I’ll announce the winner on May 5th. Please tell me in the comments which giveaway(s) you’re entering. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Next Monday I’m interviewing debut author Alexandra Duncan and giving away a copy of SALVAGE, a YA sci-fi story with fantastic world building and a contemporary feel.

Next Wednesday Rory Shay will be sharing a guest post on persistence on the path to publication and giving away a copy of ELECTED, her new YA sci-fi story.

The following Monday, I’m interviewing Dianne Salerni and giving away a copy of THE EIGHTH DAY, her new middle grade fantasy. This is a fantastic, well-plotted story that I couldn’t put down.

Wednesday that week I’ll have a guest post by Holly Webb and a giveaway of ROSE AND THE LOST PRINCESS, her MG fantasy.

Saturday that week I’ll be participating in the Amazing Book Giveaway Hop. I’ll have lots of great choices for you.

And don’t forget Casey’s Agent Spotlights.

Hope to see you on Monday!

179 comments:

Unknown said...

Those are some fantastic tips for how to accept agent feedback.

Skila's book sounds very interesting!

Happy Blitz Day!

Beth said...

Wish I qualified to win this lovely book, but being Canadian I just qualify for the query critique. Congratulations to Skila, and thanks to both her and Tina for an interesting post.

DL Hammons said...

This is awesome advice and very relevant to my situation right now, and I imagine quite a few of us. Thank you BOTH for letting us see "under the hood" of how the process works.

The BLITZ team is here today to support Natalie...and therefore what she is doing here. Keep up the good work! DL

Tim Knight said...

Sound advice. Happy Blitz Day!

Cathy Olliffe-Webster said...

I didn't see "curl up, bawl and eat chocolates" amongst the tips ... that's an important one, right? Oh, and all the other stuff sounds sensible, too. ;)

Enjoy being blitzed, Natalie. Hugs and love your way in this trying time. ox

Christine Rains said...

Marvelous advice! I think it important to give the agent's suggestions a try no matter how much you feel like you want to dig in your heels.

Happy blitz day, Natalie! :)

Suzanne Furness said...

Some advice well worth remembering, thanks for sharing.

Hope the blitz team visit shows Natalie we are all thinking about her.

Kim Van Sickler said...

A novel in verse as a debut? That is quite a challenging undertaking. Great job, Skila!

Joanne said...

happy blitz day. Lots of info in this post. Thanks

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Not becoming defensive is so important. The agent or editor really is trying to make the story better.
And happy Blitz Day, Natalie!

Susan Stuckey said...

Lovely informative post. Lots of information and insights. Thank you. #happyBlitzDay, Natalie

Nicole Zoltack said...

Awesome tips!

Awesome giveaways too! I'd love to win either and I tweeted.

Happy Blitz Day!

Bish Denham said...

I got it when Tina said to listen and look for the commonality in seemingly opposing opinions. That is excellent advice! And Skila's book sounds like a good one. I'm always interested in historical novels, whether from the distant past or not so long ago.

Oh... And HAPPY BLITZ DAY!

Laura S. said...

These are terrific tips. I'm tucking them away for future reference!

Wishing you well, Natalie. Happy Blitz Day!! :)

Happy reading and writing! from Laura Marcella @ Wavy Lines

Zan Marie said...

Wonderful tips! Thanks for sharing them. Happy Blitz Day!

PK HREZO said...

HAPPY BLITZ DAY NATALIE!!!!

Enjoy this special day because you so deserve it! You do so much to support this writing community and blogosphere, so sit back and enjoy the comments and don't worry about responding. Think of it as a day off.

I just can't imagine the blogosphere without a Literary Rambles. We are privileged to have you here. Thanks for all you do, Natalie! And Happy Easter!! ((hugs))

Ellie said...

Great tips! And what a cool and interesting sounding book!
Would love to have my query critiqued
Happy blitz day!

debi o'neille said...

I just shared this post on Facebook. I loved the tip on finding the commonality among conflicting suggestions for improvement. Great advice. I would love a query critique with Tina or the novel, Dear Killer.
and happy Blitz Day, Natalie.
Deb@ http://debioneille.blogspot.com
creativecottage@bevcomm.net

Karen Lange said...

Great tips. Filing this away for future reference. Will pass on the giveaway since I've nothing along those lines in the works right now.

Happy Wednesday!

VR Barkowski said...

Excellent advice. It's really important to keep in mind that feedback and a request to revise means the agent saw merit in your work. It should be a pat yourself on the back moment, not a get defensive moment.

Happy Blitz, Natalie!

VR Barkowski

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

I've already got SALVAGE on my TBR list. :)

Happy Blitz Day!

Greg Pattridge said...

Great interview with clear and honest answers. Caminar has a great premise and sounds like it will be an exciting read. Thanks for the opportunity for a query critique and Happy Blitz Day.

Sarah Ahiers said...

Woo! Happy Blitz Day, Natalie!

Great interview/post. Before I landed my agent, I had a total of 7 R&Rs (3 for a previous MS, and 4 for the one which got me agented) One of those R&Rs got me my first offer, so they're definitely worth taking seriously. But not too seriously. Best bet: keep your head down, get to work.

Kristin Lenz said...

Congrats to Skila and Tina, and their advice is right on.
Save the giveaway for someone who's actively querying agents - I'm finishing round 3 of revisions with my agent right now before she sends my novel out to editors!

Miranda Hardy said...

Very good advice! Love this post.

Happy Blitz Day!

Stephen Tremp said...

You've been officially blitzed! Enjoy!

Theresa Milstein said...

I would love to win a critique too. Wonderful advice about feedback. My feeling is that with each agent who's willing to take the time to give me advice, the closer I am to reaching my manuscript's potential.
Happy Blitz Day! Well-deserved.

Ann Finkelstein said...

Great advice. I particularly like the one about trying out new ideas before committing to an entire revision. I'll post this contest on facebook.

Julie Flanders said...

Glad to discover this blog thanks to the Blitz. Happy Blitz to you, Natalie!

Michael Di Gesu said...

HI, Natalie, Skila, and Tina,

This is a fountain of information! Thanks so much! And it's true... Listen to what an agent, publisher, editor, has to say.

I just recently did a COMPLETE rewrite of my latest novel. An editor at a publishing house contacted me after I was turned down. BUT... with her help I created a much stronger version of my book and now it's ready for submission.

Will they accept it? Not sure, but I am happy with the results and ready for shopping it around.

ALL the best Skila with your novel!!!

And, Natalie...

HAPPY BLITZ DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Good tips, thanks for sharing and enjoy Blitz Day!

Alison Miller said...

Great tips! Would love to win that query critique! Thank you for the giveaway!

Nicki Elson said...

Fantastic guest post! Most of this can be applied to working with an editor at a publisher too. I especially like the tip to just give it a try----that's what I did when it was suggested that I rewrite the entire ending of my latest novel---to scrap the ending that I LOVED. But I figured I'd at least give it a try before I told them it couldn't be done...and then, while writing I fell in love with this new ending too and saw that it was the right way to go.

I also appreciate Tina's added point #5---you can't lose as long as the revisions make the story stronger.

Tina said...

Wonderful advice. Not there yet with my novel, but I'm storing info for the future! This was a fun interview, hearing both POV.
Natalie - I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. We're thinking of you and hoping a Blitz will cheer you up!
Tina @ Life is Good
A to Z Team @ Blogging From A to Z April Challenge 2014

Jessica Lawson said...

CAMINAR is such a beautiful, heartbreaking, powerful book~ everyone should read it! Loved this revision advice from Skila and Tina

Anonymous said...

What terrific advice! Thanks to a guardian angel and a few spare miracles, I haven't gone the agent route for my (urban fantasy YA) series, but have had great good fortune with an amazing new publisher, Taliesin. But I'm going to be out there some day soon, and I'll just feel incredibly lucky if I make it to the revise and resubmit stages and get a chance to take advantage of your wise advice.

My condolences on your loss. I hope you enjoy the blitz day.

Unknown said...

Happy Blitz Day

Connie Keller said...

Great advice on R&Rs. Thanks.

Natalie, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss! I hope you find comfort in your grief.

I hope you enjoy the blitz.

Jacquie said...

Prayers for you at tgus tune,

Happy blitz day.

Erica said...

I am so excited to read a MG in verse! It's in the TBR stack right now! And a query critique is ALWAYS helpful, especially from someone as experienced as Tina! Thanks for the post and the contests. :)

Arlee Bird said...

This is a very useful and informative discussion to have on you Blitz Day. We should always be open to at least listening to suggestions and not take offense at them. Advice offered is time that person has taken to give attention to the recipient of the suggestion.

Lee
Wrote By Rote
An A to Z Co-host blog

Sandy said...

Happy Blitz Day, I'm not a writer but would imagine all who are much appreciate your info. Here on behalf of Natalie. My deepest condolences to her and her family.
Bridge and Beyond Blitz

Unknown said...

Love the feedback tips! If I should ever have an agent, I'll know what to do if (I should say when) I get feedback from them. Great post for Skila too!
Happy Blitz Day!

Unknown said...

Natalie, What a wonderful guest post. It's such useful information; I'll be storing it for future reference. I'm so very sorry for your recent loss. We are all here for you because writers, bloggers, editors, reviewers and readers are all 'family' in a sense. Enjoy your Blitz Day knowing that you're being thought of. Lily-Eva

Jenni said...

I really enjoyed this post. I haven't got an R/R before, but will be definitely filing this away for future reference. I'd love to be entered in the critique and book giveway. This book sounds amazing!
And happy Blitz day!

Kathleea said...

I'd love the critique from Ms. Wexler.

Crystal Collier said...

I think all of those thoughts should be applied to revisions/critique suggestions etc. Everyone is initially defensive about their own work, but if you can take a step back and see that suggestions are offered in the vein of improving the story from a purely objective standpoint, then you realize you're working in concert with the other person to create something not just good, but brilliant.

Great post!

Anonymous said...

Being in the muddy midst of submissions for my MG novel, this post is perfectly timed - great advice! Can't wait to read Caminar. My best to you and your family, Natalie.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Make the changes that feel right, but if you cater just to one agent too much, he or she may be the only one who like it.

Happy Blitz Day!

Rachna Chhabria said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rachna Chhabria said...

These are some great tips for revising. An MG book in verse sounds amazing. Must have been extremely difficult to write.

I would love to win that query critique from Tina.

Brandon Ax said...

Advice can always be used. Even if we don't use it, it can tell us about ourselves. Happy blitz day.

Brandon Ax: Writer's Storm

Amy Jarecki said...

Hey, Natalie! I love your blog...have been following it for years. Happy Blitz Day!

From the desk of... R.E. Hargrave said...

Some great info in this post! Happy blitz day!

Kelly Hashway said...

This is great advice. Thanks for sharing these tips, Skila and Tina!

Natalie, enjoy your Blitz Day!

LuAnn @ BackPorchervations said...

Interesting, valuable post! Thanks for having this. And have a Happy BLITZ Day, Natalie!

LuAnn Braley
AJ's Hooligans @AtoZChallenge
Back Porchervations

Jeff Chapman said...

Happy blitz day! Great advice in the post for today and so much to explore on the site. Natalie, sorry to hear about your recent loss.

Marcia said...

What an interesting, creative interview. Thanks for sharing!

Sherry Ellis said...

Happy Blitz Day! Natalie, I'm so sorry to hear about your husband. You will be in my thoughts and prayers!

Unknown said...

Lovely tips for the agents! Happy Blitz day :)

Damyanti, Co-host A to Z Challenge April 2014, My Latest post

Twitter: @AprilA2Z
#atozchallenge


Unknown said...

Great advice. Don't have anything for submission right now, but I appreciate this counsel as a matter of life practice as well. Here to blitz you and I am glad I came. Maria from "http://delightdirectedliving.blogspot.com/"

M Pax said...

Great tips on what to do with any feedback.

Hugs to Natalie.

cleemckenzie said...

Giving those suggested changes a try is great advice. I usually read the comments, mull them over for a while, and then try to see what that person is seeing. I've often found those changes are exactly right.

Happy blitz to you, Natalie. A well-deserved pat on the back.

Heather Musk said...

Some great advice here on how to respond to an agents advice. I'm nowhere near being in that position yet but one day hopefully I will :-)

Happy Blog Blitz to you! xxx

SK Anthony said...

Don't lose (the) heart...I think probably the most important one. We can follow all and any advice but we have to remember why we started in the first place. Great post! Happy Blitz Day, Natalie ;)

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Great post, I need to train my head to rethink, reedit and find out why I started to write in the first place. Be the best that you can be, all the best I can send you!

Jeremy [Retro]

Old is the New Cool...
[Being-Retro]

gillian.cummins@gmail.com said...

Great advice! Please enter me in the query critique.

Thank you,
Gillian.cummins@gmail.com

Khushboo said...

That is some awesome and really useful advice. Loved the tips :)

Happy Blitz Day to you. :D

Ink in the Book said...

I love all the advice! Very helpful and informative.
Happy Blitz day:)

Unknown said...

Excellent advice. Happy Blitz Day!

Ella said...

Wow, I love all that you shared-thank you so much~

Happy Blitz Day!

Unknown said...

Great post (as always)! HAPPY BLITZ DAY!

Beth said...

Great tips. Happy Blitz day. Thank you for taking the time to promote authors with all you have going on.

Stephen Kozeniewski said...

Congrats, Skila!

Masquerade Crew said...

Nice tips. I think they go for suggestions by an editor or a beta reading team as well. The more eyes that see a story ... the better.

Michelle McLean said...

Wonderful post! Great tips :D

Laura Clipson said...

Great advice!
Happy Blog Blitz!

KellieS said...

Very informative post! Thanks for sharing your wisdom and ideas on this difficult topic. And, yes, you're right, querying an agent is difficult and scary. This article helps to get inside the agent's head a little.
Happy Blitz Day, Natalie!

Gina Ciocca said...

Very informative post, and if the giveaway is still going on, I'd love to be entered for the book!

Happy Blitz Day!

Deanie Humphrys-Dunne said...

Very nice post, great job on including so much helpful information. Stopping by to wish you a Happy Blitz Day! Best wishes

Unknown said...

fantastic advice, and happy blitz day!

ELAdams said...

Really useful tips! Happy blitz day!

Unknown said...

Great advice! Happy blitz day!

Kate Larkindale said...

Fantastic advice. After having done this twice already this year, I know how hard it is to revise a MS you thought was already done.

Happy Blitz Day!

Susan Flett Swiderski said...

Lots of terrific info here. Thanks so much.

Happy Blitz Day! Enjoy.

Johnell said...

Great advice as usual. Happy Blitz Day.

M said...

Lots of good info here. Happy Blitz!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful advice. Came at just the right time, too. :)

Happy Blitz Day.

RB

Michelle 4 Laughs said...

I always have to let advice sink in a while before making changes. Something about giving it some time to stew helps me see the revision reasons.

Happy Blitz Day!

april said...

great tips. Happy Blitz Day!

Kimber Leigh said...

Listening is so important. I think we have a tendency to put our fingers in our ears and ignore advice we don't want to hear. All of these tips are great and will help once the agent is landed, the book sold, and the editor comes knocking with a new list of revisions.

Happy Blitz Day!!

Anonymous said...

Great tips! Happy Blitz Day! Love your site.

Timothy S. Brannan said...

That's good advice for a lot of situations in fact.

HAPPY BLITZ day.

--
Timothy S. Brannan
The Other Side, April Blog Challenge: The A to Z of Witches

GSMarlene said...

Great advice. I'm looking forward to testing my ability to use it someday!
Happy Blitz Day.
Marlene at On Writing and Riding

P.R. Stewart said...

Love the suggestions! Happy Blitz Day!

M.J. Fifield said...

Excellent advice!

Hello from the Blitz!

Unknown said...

Great advice! Happy Blitz Day!

dither said...

Sage advice. Writing is serious business, and it's important not to take it TOO seriously. Especially when revising and receiving feedback.

--Dither

Tyrean Martinson said...

Happy Blitz Day! I love that you have always found a way to share authors and their advice, Natalie! My thoughts and prayers are with you.

AJ Lauer said...

Those are great suggestions! I need to bookmark this to find again later.
So sorry to hear about your husband - you are in my thoughts.
Happy Blitz Day!

~Sia McKye~ said...

Skila--Congratulations on Caminar!

I think you gave some advice and it's something to keep in mind even when you have your set of beta readers read and critique. It's hard to remove you from the equation and let work be the focus. It's not personal. Your betas already want you to succeed and what they pick at are the weak points or the places that have a hole or not clear and therefore take away from the story. Especially when several mention the same thing. It's good to pay attention to the points.

As for agents, I've had several friends get agents in just this way. Revising. As you say, it's important to listen, look seriously at the intent of the critique and think about it, mull it over. Try the suggestions. Plus, it shows if both the author and the agent can work together. No one likes to work with a prima dona, lol! The agent's suggestions are to make the story stronger for selling (once sold, an author may get several pages of suggestions and revisions from the editor).
I appreciated hearing Tina's thoughts as well, especially what a good agent shouldn't be asking for and point #5.

Wishing you the best with your debut and hopes for many more!

Sia McKye Over Coffee

Carol Riggs said...

Oh, great points here. I especially liked the thoughts about revision, considering and trying before just dismissing an idea. And finding the common denominator, as in the example about 2 varying responses to romance in a story.

Tracy Campbell said...

Skila, thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge. And your book sounds wonderful. And Natalie, I'm sending prayers your way. Happy Blitz Day!

Michelle Wallace said...

Some great tips!
Happy Blog Blitz Day!

L.G. Keltner said...

These are some great tips! I'll have to keep them in mind.

Happy Blitz Day!

Charmaine Clancy said...

Thanks for the tips - Happy Blitz!

Suzanne said...

Really useful blog post - thanks :)
Suzanne @ Suzannes Tribe
x

Unknown said...

Great advice and I agree with all of it, especially the last tip. If you think the change doesn't make it a better story, don't do it just to "get an agent". Happy Blitz Day!

Myrna Foster said...

Those are great tips! Thanks for the advice and the giveaway. I'd love to be entered for the query critique. Thanks again!

Vicki Rocho said...

Good advice. Hope I can remember it when someone is telling me my baby isn't as perfect as I thought it was....
HAPPY BLITZ DAY!!!!!

Unknown said...

Those are some pretty good tips! I know it can be hard to take advice on something we feel is as close to our version of 'perfect' as possible. thanks for the post :)

Happy Blitz Day!

Jeff Hargett said...

Love the tips. We hear often about having a thick skin, but an open mind may be even more essential.

J Lenni Dorner said...

I'd love to enter both, but if it's down to one or the other-
Tina Wexler's query critique giveaway! (I can buy the book. I can't buy invaluable knowledge.)

I have shared on my Twitter, facebook account, and facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/j.lennidorner
https://www.facebook.com/WhatAreThey
https://twitter.com/JLenniDorner/status/456580244724412416
I will also add it to my blog's post for tomorrow.
http://jlennidornerblog.what-are-they.com/


Thanks for the contest and for this great post! :)

And also- have a Blitzriffic day! :)

Evelyn said...

Excellent advice! Thank you, Skila and Tina, for sharing. I would love, love, love to win your book, Skila. Of course, if I don't win it here, I'll buy it. Please don't forget to let me know when you're having a signing in Lexington. Natalie, happy Blitz Day to you.

Unknown said...

Those are wonderful tips, and I'd love to be considered for the Query Critique! :)

Samantha K said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

I’m a softy when it comes to critiques. I know that I need to have a thicker skin, but the advice in this post is great. Maybe it isn’t about having a thicker skin, but just changing how I precieve a critique.

Chrys Fey said...

Whenever an agent takes the time to give us feedback on our work, we should listen. Most often it's good advice that'll improve our work, but we still do have the say over whether or not we take their advice.

Great post! Amazing Tips! HAPPY BLITZ DAY!!!!! :D

Unknown said...

Thanks for the tips and happy blitz day!

Jocelyn Rish said...

Congrats to Skila - I've been seeing her book everywhere!

And lots of great advice in this post. You don't often read people talking about the R&R process, so this is very helpful.

I'd like to be entered in the query critique giveaway - thanks!!

Unknown said...

Great tips!

Happy Blitz Day!

Donna Smith said...

Wonderful tips, and you had a great reading audience on this fabulous Blitz Day!

mshatch said...

These are all great points, most of which I've had to consider at one time or another while revising to comments from my crit partners. This was good practice for the editing process of my novel; it helped me take a step back and see my work from a different perspective.

Leandra Wallace said...

Enjoyed getting to hear from an author and agent's pov! And it was great to meet you last weekend at the conference, Skila! Oh, and plz enter me for both- why not, right? =D Thanks!

Carrie-Anne said...

Wonderful tips on revising! I'm not a fan of revising for its own sake, but revising doesn't have to mean radically altering the entire book or story structure.

I'd like to enter the giveaway for the book.

Beth Hull said...

Wonderful tips--I especially like #s 4 and 5!

Dannie Morin said...

Sending belated hugs, my dear, on your blitz day! XOXO

Indywrites said...

Great tips for queries and to get that novel published. Really liked the style.
Thanks and happy blitz day.
http://www.inderpreetkaur.blogspot.in/2014/04/no-its-yes.html?m=1

Cheryl Blackford said...

#5 is a great reminder that the primary goal isn't representation but a stronger story.

I'd like to enter the giveaway for the critique.

Thanks.

dolorah said...

That's some good advice. I know when I received feedback for changes I did attempt it - after some crying and complaining. As you say, the author took the time to research the agent for compatibility, they should listen to the advice.

Good luck with Caminar.

.....dhole

Jennifer Kay said...

Happy Blitz Day!

Heather M. Gardner said...

Fantastic post! So glad we were all pointed in this direction today.

Query help is always appreciated.

BAZINGA! You've been blitzed!

Hope you had a great day!

Heather

E.G. Moore said...

Thank you for this post! It gave me a lot to consider! Please enter me in both give-a-ways. I'd love to read Caminar and have Tina look over my novel's query. I'll also tweet about it!

@egmoorewriter

Krysten Lindsay Hager said...

Great tips here! I'd like to enter the query critique giveaway. I tweeted about it, too.

Mark Koopmans said...

Aloha Nathalie,

I just wanted to add my sincere condolences on your loss and hope you can/have find/found some comfort somehow, somewhere.

Your family is in the thoughts and prayers of our family.

Lucy R said...

I love the five tips. Please put me in for the critique giveaway. Thanks for the opportunity : )

Anonymous said...

Very useful blog! I look forward to exploring it. Happy Blitz Day!

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Happy Blitz Day. Thanks for the tips. I would like to enter the query giveaway.

email: queendsheena(at)hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

Great tips, an interesting read.
Belated Happy Blitz Day wishes. :)

Rhonda Albom said...

Thank you for some excellent tips. Happy Blitz Day!

Frankie Miller said...

This is a very useful blog and I'll put it on my list to get back to after the A-Z frenzy.
Happy Blitz, and all the very best to you.

HeatherCRaglin said...

Thank you for a great list of R&R tips. I'd love to win Tina's critique. Thanks! heathercq(at)gmail(dot)com

Danielle H. said...

Excellent list to help you keep calm when asking for professional help on something so close to your heart! Thank you for the interview and giveaway. Difficult to choose, but please put my name in for the novel in verse. I enjoy these very much and can't wait to read this one! I will share on Facebook too.

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

Some great advice! And that book sounds amazing. I'd love to win the book or the critique! :) Thanks for doing the give away!

Nancy Kelly Allen said...

Wonderful tips and so logical. Please put my name in for the critique. I'll post on Twitter also.

Bevimus said...

Great tips for ANY kind of feedback!

ksw2 said...

Happy Blitz! And, thank you for your wonderful tips! I would love to win Tina's Query Critique Giveaway. ksw2(at)aol(dot)com. I will share on Facebook, too.

Rosi said...

Great interview full of terrific tips. I'm facing such a revision right now. This helps. If I win, I'd love the query critique. Thanks for doing all this. I hope all is better for you.

Carrie Butler said...

Great tips! The next time I go the traditional route, I'll be sure to keep them in mind. :)

Cherie Reich said...

Wonderful tips! They're perfect not just for the agent route but any feedback one may get on a novel.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing the wonderful tips. I'd like to be entered in the query critique giveaway. Happy belated blitz day!

kjmckendry said...

These are great tips! Thanks so much, I especially like the last one of not changing just to change but because it will be best for the manuscript. Sorry I'm late for Blitz Day! The book sounds fascinating, I'm entering to win. :)

Anonymous said...

Great advice. Years ago I revised per an agent's suggestion and lost the voice of a piece.

Mary Hill said...

Great tips. Happy Blitz Day.

kathrynjankowski said...

Thanks for sharing this. Food for thought. I'd love a query critique. Thanks!

Sue said...

Good post!

Susan Oloier said...

Great post for those venturing down the traditional publishing path. Happy Blitz day!

Nicole said...

Awesome tips! Thanks for posting them. Helpful reminders for the publishing journey.

Shari Green said...

Terrific post! Thanks so much to Tina and Skila.

Entering the query giveaway, please & thanks. Sharing on twitter (@sharigreen). :)

Margo Berendsen said...

Would love to win this book! I've been rooting for more diverse, multi-cultural books, and this is spot on!

Nora Lester Murad, Palestine said...

I read the post and bought the book. I also wrote to Skila and asked for advice about how to find agents interested in political and multicultural topics for middle grade. So, can you sign me for a chance to win the critique?

city clues said...

Thank you for this post. I would love to enter for either the novel or the critique.

Beth Graubart
bgraubart@earthlink.net

Vercingetorix said...

A appreciate the part about how the revision should improve the story. I made some revisions for an agent who passed on the book the second time around. But the changes improved the book, so the process was far from the time waster I thought it was at first.

I'm interested in the critique giveaway.

Bob Sweet

Dionna said...

Nice post! As always! I'd like to enter the query giveaway. YAHOOEE!

Sarah J Adair said...

Great advice to keep in mind for beta readers as well.

Sometimes you get criticism that doesn't make sense, not until you think about it for a while. On the other hand, you also get suggestions that just don't fit with your book at all. The trick is recognising one from the other, being able to recognise your gut instinct from pride.

Great idea for a giveaway, too.

T. M. Becker said...

Thanks for the great advice.

Please enter me in the critique giveaway.

Email: arabella2@embarqmail.com

Ty said...

Great advice! I would like to be entered in either give-away! Thanks!

Unknown said...

Would love to enter both giveaways, but if given one choice, I'd like to enter the query giveaway. Great interview!

Unknown said...

Wonderful advice, thank you! And I'd love to enter both contests!

Ginger Johnson said...

Great comments! Please enter me for both contests. Thanks!

Anthony M. Briggs, Jr. said...

Great Q&A :)
I'd like to enter for the critique, please.

Thanks!
Anthony

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

I would like to enter for the query critique, please! And I also shared on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BooksandBichons/status/462367858400317440

Elliah A. Terry said...

I love novels-in-verse and Ms. Wexler is on my dream agent list. Please put me in for both giveaways.

Elliah A. Terry said...

I forgot to say I also tweeted about the contest.

Unknown said...

Great post! I'd love to win either; and I'll go tweet as well. Thanks!

Unknown said...

Great tips! I'd be happy with either- thanks!

Deniz Bevan said...

Thanks for the tips Skila and Tina!

And happy belated blitz day to Natalie! {{hugs}}

Leslie Z. said...

I'd love to enter both for the book and the query critique, please. A great interview!