If I had a nickel for every time somebody said to me, “I’ve always wanted to write a book,” I’d be a rich woman and I’d never have to write another word.

But seriously, folks. The two questions I am always asked are, 1, how to get published, and 2, how to get an agent. My answer to the first is “Write a good book.” My answer to the second is to attend writers conferences (like, say, the Kachemak Bay Writers Conference) where there are often agents (and editors) in attendance, and, today’s topic, to join the Authors Guild.

AG president Doug Preston is currently leading what I can only describe as a charge into redressing the way the law governs intellectual property. That alone should be enough to make you want to support the organization and be first in line for updates, but there is much more. The summer 2021 issue of the Authors Guild Bulletin (above) contains articles on screenrights, publishing with university presses, and promotion, among many other things including news of your fellow members.

Best of all, they have a website that is not only easy to navigate but is loaded with current information essential to your understanding of the business as well as the craft. There is a writer’s marketplace (need an editor? a publicist?), legal services, and, drumroll please, they will review your book contract which will help you negotiate better terms. The discussion board is lively, representing questions and answers daily from authors published and un. In writing this post I checked to see what was on topic and saw posts about Amazon, InDesign files, speaking fees, reversion of rights, and literary journals.

And for what you get in return, membership is dirt cheap.

Join today. Nothing substitutes for hanging with your peers.

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