Do I need a literary agent to self-publish a book?

Many publishers will suggest that the author hire a literary agent before publishing a book. Often called publishing agents or book agents, literary agents will simply submit your manuscript to multiple publishers in hopes that one will take notice, buy your manuscript, and begin publishing your book. Many literary agents work on a retainer or a fee-based arrangement with no guarantees of success for your project. In other words, hiring a literary agent won’t be a guarantee that your manuscript will be picked up by traditional publishers. Some unscrupulous book-publishing agents may even charge reading fees. In fact, 98 percent of all unsolicited manuscripts submitted to traditional publishers are rejected. Here are a few things to consider before deciding to work with a book agent:

• Literary agents can be expensive.
• Literary agents can’t guarantee your book will be published.
• There are no licensing requirements to become a literary agent.
• Unscrupulous publishing agents may charge read fees.

WestBow Press is here to help you avoid all the pitfalls and headaches that are commonly associated when working with a book agent. At WestBow Press, you can bypass literary agents. You’ll have an in-depth conversation with a publishing consultant to discuss your project goals and then choose the services that align with those goals. From copy editing to promotional press releases, you have the flexibility to create a custom project plan for the submission, production, and promotion of your book. You ultimately have the final say on how your book should be done.

If you have been considering hiring a literary agent or contacting various literary agents and want to learn more about self-publishing your book, you owe it to yourself to contact WestBow Press.