It may come as no surprise that a $2 billion industry attracts many new entrants. Such is the industry of children's literature--it is one of the most competitive in the writing world. Finding a literary agent to represent you can be a major factor in your success. But there are so many children's books literary agents out there. It is critical to find the right one for you.
Because the children's book industry is so huge, excellent resources have been created for finding information on children's books. Comprehensive directories of the children's book industry, including directories of literary agents, can be found in your local bookstore, library, or Internet stores. Here are some of the best ones I have found:
Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market. This directory gives 750 updated listings, along with dozens of articles and a spectrum of opportunities for children's book writers and illustrators to sell their work, including children's book publishing firms and magazines, literary agents and art reps, greeting cards and children's play publishers. It also offers advice from some of the top names in the world of children's literature today.
Writer's and Illustrator's Guide to Children's Book Publishers and Agents. This provides listings for over 800 publishers (like Scholastic), editors, and agents in the world of children's publishing. It gives an up-to-date collection of names, addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and Web sites for the best of the best in the children's book industry, plus all the critical basics you need to uncover the most promising publishing opportunities. You'll also find interviews and articles from children's writing insiders who reveal the secrets to big-time success in this ultracompetitive arena.
Click here to find out exactly what a children's book literary agent can do for you.