Author: Robert Brown
Date:   02-29-08 08:52

Wonky, that is an excellent question and one that I'm sure not only writers would like to know but also agents. This would be some valuable information, given the competitive nature of this business.

From my own experience, I'd say it depends on the agent, his or her connections and his or her ability to pick good reads that are highly marketable. One important thing to remember is that anyone can sell a great book. What makes an agency great is its ability to attract great writers. Size and location mean nothing. Everything hinges on writer's perception and from most of what I read here, that perception is kind of slanted in one direction. One thing I will add is that just because a writer goes to a big agency does not mean that he or she will get a big agent. Most popular agents have filled client lists, so when you go to a big agency, you might be dealing with someone who is new to agenting and who might not have that many contact. Agents are very competitive so the new agent at the big agency might or might not be able to get contacts or advice from others at his parent agency. Again, this all hinges on the agency.

To answer your question directly. I don't think anyone publicizes those kind of stats--not in this business.