Writers and Artists yearbook - all agents?

[Teatime]

Hi all,

I was under the impression that the Writers' and Artists' yearbook listed all agents and publishers in the UK (and US). My copy arrived today, but I couldn't see John Jarrold in there for one - am I missing something obvious, or is the book not as comprehensive as I first thought?

Thanks (and apologies John if I've just missed your name, but I have double checked!)

Jon

[John Jarrold]

No, you have to ask to be in there - and you have to give your street address, which leads to many, many people sending you typescripts without first contacting you. I don't want that! I receive 99.9% of my submissions by e-mail and often through people seeing my name on websites or by word-of-mouth, which suits me. As a one-man operation I have plenty to do!

[Havlen]

I'm not sure if there is any list out there that is 100% comprehensive. Personally, I use AgentQuery the most, but it is mainly focused on US agents. But I also check other sites to find agents not listed with AgentQuery.

I'm sure there are similar sites focusing on UK agents.

[Teatime]

Fair enough. Are there a good number of agents out there 'unlisted'? Or are the majority in the book?

Thanks

[John Jarrold]

The majority are in that or THE WRITERS' YEARBOOK - or both. But as Havlen says, it's worth taking some time to investigate further, via the net and google...

[Pete Rebb]

There are also lists online that can give some good detail like the Yearbook. Also, if you buy the writers and Artists Yearbook, they are online too now! (have their own website) I haven't checked out how comprehensive the online list with them is, but, maybe it is updated all-year-round? I think the best way is to look for agents/publishers, then see if they have a website with further details. Sometimes, you can find little extra nuggets of information.

[John Jarrold]

Basic point: never expect all information to be placed in your lap, in the information age. Seek it out, in as many ways and places as possible. Use your initiative.

[Havlen]

Also, don't assume because a publisher/agent is listed in a book that the publisher/agent is legitimate. Was just in a discussion on another board where someone sent in an ms. to a publisher found in the N&SS Writer's Market and received a reply back to them a pitch referral to a subsidy publisher. You can find scams even in the best of listings.

[Pete Rebb]

If you invested all those months in writing your manuscript, another month or two of research won't matter! It would be like spending years building a perfect house, then rushing the paint job! 'Mmmm, not sure lime green and fire-engine red match!?'

Take your time. It's your baby. Make sure her first steps don't involve crossing a busy street. Do your homework.