Check out a free chapter taken from the Guide, entitled is available “When Nothing Happens to Good (or bad) Writers”
“The most helpful book I bought was Jeff Herman’s Guide, and I highly recommend it.”
“On the road to becoming a best-selling author, my first step was buying Jeff Herman’s Guide.”
“Herman’s Guide is packed with information that every writer who wants to get published needs to know.”
“Nothing beats Jeff Herman’s guide.”
Writers, agents, and editors all agree that Herman’s Guide is the must-have, go-to reference for everyone who writes. This book will get you past the slush piles and into the hands of the people who have the power to publish. You will learn the names and contact information for hundreds of agents and editors, and will be given the “code” for how to win them over. More comprehensive than ever, this 17th edition will give you all the insid- er information you need to get published, including how to write knockout pitch letters and proposals and an expanded Canadian section.
Some Reviews
Good Information
This guide is unique in that it gives all the detail of Literary Agents and Publishers in a friendly, relaxed chit-chat format. Very complete and thorough. Mr. Donald Mclennan
A Classic That Is Better Than Ever!
Let me tell you, I work in publishing and know many colleagues who buy this book every year to update their rolodexes. Publishing changes quickly and no one wants to send a polished query, proposal, or manuscript to an empty desk. This really is the ultimate insider’s guide. Jeff Herman is highly respected in publishing and works hard to put together the most useful and knowledgeable guide for writers—that editors and agents use it to keep up with the industry is a plus. Plus he’s a pretty nice guy and has great advice for writers—with his trademark quirky humor peppered throughout the book. This book is the best writer’s guide out there and this new 2007 edition, which I’ve already seen, is better than ever with more information, more publishers, and a big fat index. Frederic Wood
Worked for me
No, this isn’t the only resource I used. But, yes, this is the one that gave me the contact information for the wonderful agent Gary Heidt of Imprint Agency. And Gary sold my novel, OR NOT, to Llewellyn/FLUX. The contacts, the advice and articles—all good. Bought the 2005 edition of Jeff Herman when my manuscript was ready for an agent. And OR NOT is coming out in October of 2007. What more can I say? Brian Mandabach
Jeff Herman’s book changed my writing life
Jeff Herman’s book has, over the years, changed my life as a writer. This is a truly wonderful resource – buy it and have my experience! Christopher Catherwood, author
One of the Very Best Publishing Guides
Jeff Herman’s guides have always been at the top of the heap when I recommend resource books to aspiring or published authors. He provides enough detail for the profiled agents and editors that it genuinely helps readers pinpoint appropriate “targets” for their work. For just one example of how these guides might be effective, I believe that my client Cara Lockwood found us through this book. I’ve placed many books for her since and also a made a movie deal with Lifetime (I DO BUT I DONT stars Dean Caine and Denise Richards.) Deidre Knight
The End of the Agent Search
Jeff Herman’s book is the only one you will need if you are looking for clarity and information about publishers, agents and how to approach them. Writers, agents and publishers trust this guide to bring them together and eliminate wasted contacts. Therese Tappouni
The Best
I work in the publishing industry and Jeff Herman’s guide is hands down one of the most efficient and accurate versions on the market. A must read for anyone trying to learn the business! Elaine Spencer
Huge Help for First-Time Writers
Jeff Herman’s insider knowledge of the book publishing industry helped me get my first book published. “Sex with Kings” was on the New York Times bestseller list six weeks last summer and is now out in 12 languages. I don’t think I could have pulled it off without his books. This annual guide, the excellent advice on submitting queries and manuscripts, was invaluable, as was his book “Ten Perfect Book Proposals.” E. Dyment
From a no book author to a 3 book deal reading this book
Read this book and other books by Jeff Herman, follow the advice and even if you are a flight attendant who has never published a book before, as I was, you can go from a having no books out to four books out, including a 3 book deal from a division of the largest publisher in the world. Marsha Marks
Jeff is a genius
I have given these books out as presents. Every potential author needs this book. It should be considered the publishing bible. Rick Frishman, author
Full of Information
If you write or plan to sell written materials this book is full of useful information you need. Catherine D. Taylor
Beg, borrow or steal
If you cannot afford a latest edition, even the previous incarnation, 2003, 2004, still has much useful info. I am just hoping that people will give this as gift to inspire all those authors (just born or lost hope of being in print). Thank you, Jeff, for the good work. Dr. Mohammed Taher
This book literally changed my life!
This book – and its predecessor editions – literally changed my life. No more sitting on slush piles, unread by junior executives in publishing houses! I am now a published author with a great literary agent – and all this is thanks to reading Herman’s book. As he says, and as I can say more easily on his behalf, this really does knock the daylights out of “Writer’s Digest.” If you want to get a book published, read, buy, mark and inwardly digest everything that Herman says – and good luck to you thereafter! Christopher Catherwood, author
Take it from a best-selling author of 12 books: You can use this book!
Every year or two I buy an updated copy of Mr. Herman’s book, and it’s always a great investment. I sell most of my books to publishers, directly. Perhaps 6 of my 12 books were sold to individuals I found in Herman’s editions. Herman’s book provides me with an up-to-date listing of editors who can acquire my titles, along with their phone numbers, and topical interests. I can’t tell you how much time his research saves me, especially when I’m shopping an idea for a new project. If you want to sell something, it pays to have a great, “smart” list, and that’s what Herman’s book provides. Dr. Gary S. Goodman
My Career as a pro began by reading this book
In summary, without this Guide I would not have learned how much there was to know about things that I didn’t even know I needed to know, and I would certainly not have learned the “right answers” to all these unasked questions. Nor would I have happily left my previous career “day job” far behind me long ago, and be making a very nice living as a full-time professional writer.
Many of my clients have used this book- and gotten published!
I know 50 authors who have loved this book and tell me it helped them get published. I use the book all the time- There is great information here! I applaud Jeff- this is a useful book. Get it. Rick Frishman, Pres. Planned TV Arts, and author
Still a Winner
When I marketed work for Writers’ Showplace I always used Jeff Herman’s book as a reference. Now that Writers’ Showplace has closed its door I’ve opened another business, The Writer’s Guide.Com and I still have Mr. Herman’s book close at hand. Francesca Vrattos
Overflowing with information!
The Writer’s Guide to Book Editor’s, Publishers, and Literary Agents, 2002-2003 is the best REFERENCE BOOK available for new and experienced writers. This book is overflowing with information – it includes everything you will need to connect yourself with the top editors and agents in the industry. Purchasing this book is a must for anyone serious about his or her writing career. Sheri L. McConnell, MAOM Founder of the National Association of Women Writers
A Winner!
Jeff Herman’s Writer’s Guide provides more information about publishing resources than any other book I’ve seen on the market. Much of the reason that my business partner and I have had so much success in matching writers with legitimate editors and agents is due to books such as this. It’s a tool when it comes to marketing. When you open the book to that first page, you’re entering a world of opportunity. Francesca Vrattos, Cofounder Writers’ Showplace Inc.
Excellent and helpful
This is well worth the money. I particularly like the fact that editor’s names and interests are listed. Overall, a very useful and unique book. Mike
A mandatory tool for all writers
Providing a wealth of information needed to succeed in the writing industry, “Writer’s Guide…” is an excellent tool for both aspiring and established writers. A most successful literary agent and author, Jeff Herman possesses a thorough knowledge of the industry which he shares an in-depth volume for writers. In the late 1970s, Herman made a living by cleaning public toilets. Just a decade later, he launched what would become the most credible and successful literary agency in the United States. His laborious efforts that paved his way to success have been channeled into his work, cutting out multiple steps and energies for other writers. As he writes, “The publishing business is a mysterious place, even for veteran (writers)...This book will help you to break the code, unmask false wizards, and empower you to challenge the obstacles.” In an industry where nepotism and knowing the right person seems to be the only way to get published, Herman’s work encourages and inspires writers to remain persistent and optimistic. He states, “Growth and success cannot be known by those who give up or fail to even try.” His own rags to wealth story lends credibility to this statement. In over 550 pages, Herman lists a multitude of United States publishers, University and religious publishers, as well as Canadian publishers, who are all anxious for innovative writing and new ideas. Each publisher listing provides the address and telephone number of the publishing house, a brief history of the company, the types of books published and several sample titles of recently published works. Writers are also provided with the contact names of whom they need to query. In the case of larger publishers, each editor is listed with a brief description of what he or she is looking to publish, so that writers may send their work to the correct individual. Herman provides an agent listing of about 200 pages. These listings provide thorough information on the agents such as their work experience, preferred clients, works sold, what they prefer to and not to market as well as a brief statement giving advice to writers on soliciting manuscripts. Also provided are the commission fees of the agents and, in a few cases, reading fees. Following the listings, Herman and company have written various articles geared toward increasing a writer’s chances for success. For example, the writer will find advice on how to properly contact agents and publishers, how to write the perfect query letter, how to write book proposals, how literary agents work, as well as many other useful article that will keep the writer inspired, optimistic and informed. A writer without the Writer’s Guide… is comparable to a traveler without a map. Except for writing the manuscript, Jeff Herman has done all the laborious work for the writer. By utilizing the tools provided by Herman, the writer will save many hours of aggravation and wasted effort.
The best book re: who’s who and where of publishing
I always recommend this book to every author or literary professional who doesn’t own it already. I find it invaluable in running my literary agency, can’t imagine NOT owning it. Julie Hill, Literary Agent and Book Publicist
I did it, so can you
I’m the author of two novels (Ground Zero and Earthquake Games, publisher G.P. Putnam) and I sold my first novel using the information from Mr. Herman’s book. I sold my novel unagented after many years and countless rejections. How? The same way any novelist gets published; a darned good book and a steely resolve not to give up, ever. Bonnie Ranthum
Wonderful book!
I love the resume format for each literary agent! Helped me tremendously in making a decision.
Read this if you are serious about getting published
Jeff Herman is one of the top literary agents in New York. In this book, he offers his own insights, and he also calls on many of the key players in the publishing industry to explain, from their perspective, exactly how the business really works. Learn what an acquisition editor looks for; what motivates an editor to want to publish your book; and the mechanics of the whole process. Armed with this information, you are in a much better position to contact the editors and agents listed in the book. There are other more famous books about markets available to writers… but this one is the best one… in my humble opinion. Oh… in case you think I’m prejudiced… Jeff is my agent and has done wonders with the material I’ve given to him: We’ve submitted four projects, and have four sales! I follow his advice, and do whatever he tells me to do with hesitation. Ed Bernd, Jr.
There is no other book like it!
This book is all that you will need to succeed. (BELIEVE ME!) I can’t stress it enough. I became an self-publisher (Good Girls Stay Empty-Handed) after being told so many times that poetry is dead, and that I will never find anyone who would be willing to represent me. After reading “Writer’s Guide to Book Editors, Publishers, and Literary Agents. I am putting the finishing touch on my second poetry book (The Powere of Love), and preparing to complete my first novel (Soft Words From A Man) for publication by May 2002. I have everything that I need to become successful right before my eyes. Rea Unique
A must have for writers
Jeff Herman’s book is absolutely essential for all aspiring writers, as well as established, published authors. I have recommended this book numerous times, and bought copies to give away as gifts. I can’t imagine tackling the awesome task of selling my work without the knowledge that Jeff Herman so readily provides. Through the help of his book, I have sold numerous short pieces, as well as obtained a contract for my soon to be released book, Under God’s Wings. Another non-fiction proposal has recently received excellent representation. I honestly doubt I could have come this far without the help of Jeff Herman’s book. This is a writer’s Bible-no one serious about getting published should be without it. Thanks Jeff!
A Perennial Resource!
Jeff Herman does it again, as he has year after year, with the latest updated information on the publishing industry. No serious writer can work without the benefit of this invaluable resource. As both an author and a literary agent, I keep Herman’s book alongside the Literary Market Place on my shelf. It works for agents as well as authors! My agency has garnered top authors thanks to this resource. James Schiavone, Ed.D.
Stunning—& it really works!
I’ve used this book year after year to sell my own book proposals. Three of my published books, including two auctions for books, have resulted directly from Jeff Herman’s suggestions of key editors. It also has loads of helpful advice for shaping the book proposal. I can’t recommend this book enough to prospective or successful authors. Thanks Jeff. Erich Hoyt, author
from an agent
As an agent, I ALWAYS recommend this book to aspiring writers.I must recommend it 3 times a day….I send proposal writers right to p.797 of the 2000 edition—need to check the page on the newest edition, BUT it’s the best book for any writer who is serious about learning how to be published, bar none. Julie Hill, Literary Agent
If you want to sell your book, this book will show you how!
I am the best-selling author of 12 books. I have sold the last five titles by using Herman’s book. I haven’t sold them to teeny, tiny presses that don’t pay advances. I’ve sold them to top publishers. Herman’s book paid for itself in the first hour I used it. In fact, I’ve become so adept at selling titles that I’m considering agenting other authors’ nonfiction, how-to books. What I especially like is that I can look up a category of publishers in the index, i.e. those who publish sales titles, and concentrate on calling them. It’s fast and effective. Do yourself a favor and buy this book! It may seem pricey, but it’s a true bargain. Dr. Cary S. Goodman
Avoiding the Slush Pile
If you are a first-time writer looking for an agent or, perhaps, a publisher, you need this book. It may not be perfect, but it goes a long way toward getting you in the door. What a new writer needs most is NAMES, and this book supplies them. With a name, you can query an individual and that raises the chance your query will be treated in a serious manner. This book doesn’t solve all your problems, but it narrows the list considerably. Joe
Spectacular information
When I met literary agent Sheree Bykofsky at a writers’ conference, she recommended this book as having great information on each agency, publisher and on editors. She was right! I have always relied on Writer’s Market, which also is helpful, but Herman’s “Writer’s Guide to Book Editors, Publishers and Literary Agents” is about the best book I’ve found to help new and seasoned writers. Herman gives great advice and encouragement for the “morning after” phase, when a writer is rejected. He gives great insight into writing a good book proposal. A must-see for writers! Andrea Egger
Nothing like this
If you don’t know where to start looking for an agent, start here. You learn not only what they like, but what they are like. Information is in a Q&A format that lets agents say more than just what kind and number of books they sell. They answer questions about what kind of clients they like or dislike, and what kind of queries are most likely to succeed with them. R. Johnson
Every year I buy the new edition as fast as I can
This book is one of my favorite resources because it is is reader-friendly and contains insider information that has become invaluable to me as I pitch my book ideas. It is more than a directory—it includes essays about book publishing, and really helps you to get to know the people you are trying to reach in the industry. I recommend it to anyone who says to me, I have this idea for a book, what do I do first? Julie
I recommend it to all my students
As a writing instructor, adjunct faculty member at Harvard University, and president of WriteDirections.com, the Web’s first virtual distance learning writing university, I find myself recommending this book to all my students who are interested in landing an agent and finding a good home for their books. Repeatedly students report back to me that this book proved invaluable, in that it cut their research time in half. I’ve now lost count of the number of students who have successfully found agents and published their books.
This book brought me success!
Thanks to Jeff Herman’s book I was able to secure both an agent and a publisher in record time. Filled with accurate, up-to-date information and tips that are current to the field. Very helpful! Elizabeth Pantley, author