Questions From Writers

Occasionally I receive questions from writers (thank you!), so I thought it would be easier to answer them here on my blog so that others can see the answers as well.  Below are the last three questions I've received.


Nonfiction Proposal

Question: The Olswanger website indicates that you want only completed manuscripts. Is that true for nonfiction as well, or is a full proposal sufficient?

Answer:  For me, I would like the manuscript to be complete so that I can see if I'll be a good match for the project before making a decision. Other agents may only require the proposal.


Ghostwriting / Help Writing a Memoir

Question: I guess my question for you is how do I go about getting my story out? I believe I need a ghost writer to help because I’ve tried to write this story myself but I can’t seem to get my experiences written in a way that truly depicts what my children and I went through.

Right now I’m not financially capable of hiring a ghost writer

Answer:  My recommendation would be to write your memoir and seek out critique partners and/or beta readers who can offer feedback. There are also lots of free online resources to help as well that provide tips and ideas for how to write a memoir. Checking out memoirs from the library and reading them can also help you get a feel for how to write your story and get critical moments down in a way that help readers connect to your story. Writing takes lots of practice, so I hope you'll keep at it!


An Exception to My Query Policy While Closed

Question: I have carefully read your wish list and believe you would be the ideal agent to represent me. You talk about science fiction, military, and space opera. These words resonate perfectly with my book. I know you don't accept queries. I was wondering if by any chance you would be in a position to take an exception.

Answer:  Unfortunately, I was not able to make an exception. The reason I close to queries is so that I can catch up with the queries and submissions I currently have, and so that I can focus on my current clients. I am always happy (and excited) to take a look when I reopen.

** Please note that I am unable to make exceptions for any query submission while I'm closed.