“There’s […] a real sense of solidarity and urgency in the work that we do, especially given the political challenges we face today with book banning, the war on truth, the devaluing of libraries… I can’t say I knew this was the job of an activist when I first started ten years ago, but that reality has become clear, and I feel privileged to be in a position to help elevate voices whom, I believe, make the world a better place.”  -Chad Luibl, Janklow & Nesbit

“I want clients to know that it is most important to find joy and meaning in each step of the writing and publishing process.”  -Julie Stevenson, Massie & McQuilkin

“I look first and foremost for a strong voice. I want a voice that will carry me anywhere.” -Carrie Howland, Howland Literary

“As long as we remain honest, forthright, and dedicated to working as hard as we can towards achieving our common goals, the relationship should remain healthy and (hopefully!) prove fruitful.”  -Saba Sulaiman, Talcott Notch Literary Services

“Remain faithful to the original vision of what drew you to the publishing industry, which is ultimately a love of writing, literature, and publishing. That will be the fuel for the fire.” -Mark Gottlieb, Trident Media Group

“Know your vision and listen to the expertise of others.” -Lauren E. Abramo, Dystel, Gederich & Bourret

“Read, read, read. Develop a community of writers around you.” -Cherise Fisher, Wendy Sherman Associates

“An agent is the MOST IMPORTANT part of publishing. Editors leave. Publishing houses go up and down. You could be with your agent forever. ”  -Seth Fishman, The Gernert Company

“Focus on what you can control. Focus on your journey.”  -Eric Smith, P.S. Literary

“I want writers to know that it’s often better to wait for the right thing than to jump for the first thing, and part of my job as an agent is to empower them to do just that!” -Maggie Cooper, Aevitas Creative