Paige Wheeler has a solid history of literary management and business expertise. In spite of, or perhaps because of her entrepreneurial spirit, she is as friendly and helpful as her picture suggests. She is dedicated to furthering the careers of her clients. In addition, she has a busy speaking and conference schedule where she guides new writers in some of the basics of a writing career.
Some of the best-selling authors of Folio Literary Management, LLC, include Garth Stein, author of The Art of Racing in the Rain, Will Lavender, author of Obedience, and Charles J. Shields, author of I am Scout: The Biography of Harper Lee.
Becoming a Literary Agent
Ms. Wheeler tells Suite101 what drew her to publishing, and what she finds most memorable about her career choice.
- Suite101: Why did you decide to take the career path of a literary agent?
- I have always been a voracious reader and the publishing industry totally captivated me. I also have an entrepreneurial streak, so the merger of art and business was best met as an agent. I find that literary agents are able to use their creative skills, their business savvy and their people skills to an author's advantage.
- Suite101: What is your most memorable experience or book sale as an agent?
- I have had lots of wonderful experiences as an agent. I think, though, what resonates most with me are memories of book auctions. It's fascinating to take an author around to meet with various interested editors. Their excitement can be almost palpable and their attempt to win over an author can be heady. The negotiations can become tense, but that's all part of the experience.
- Suite101: What qualities are you looking for in writing submissions?
- First, I'm looking for a core competency. The idea may be completely brillant, but if the ability to execute it stylistically isn't there, then I just don't procede further. I also like fresh twists to storylines and a voice and character that really resonates with me.
Advice to Writers
Ms. Wheeler gives short, but succinct advice to writers who would like to become published authors.
- Suite101: What prime piece of advice would you give to aspiring authors?
- Take the time to really study the craft of writing but bear in mind the necessity of delivering a commercially viable work.
- Suite101: Is there anything else you want writers to know about you?
- Although I'm very selective, I work with my authors to build an incredibly solid publishing career. My list is comprised of both authors who started off as debut novelists as well as writers who had been previously published and were looking for a change. In terms of nonfiction, platform as well as content, is key.
- Suite101: Thank you for sharing these thoughts with the readers of Suite101.
More Information About Paige Wheeler from the Folio Literary Management Website
Paige Wheeler is a founding partner of Folio Literary Management, LLC. Prior to forming Folio Literary Management, Ms. Wheeler founded Creative Media Agency (CMA) in 1997 and served as its President for nine years until she merged CMA into her new company, Folio, in 2006. Her goal was to create a literary agency that truly serviced its authors and their intellectual property. With the formation of Folio, she is now able to provide the ability to sell both domestic and foreign rights, as well as offer the services of a marketing department, a speakers bureau and licensing capabilities.
Writers interested in seeking representation from Ms. Wheeler should read her submission guidelines carefully and pay attention to the types of fiction and nonfiction she represents. The Folio Literary Management website has several in depth and informative articles for writers about getting published, the agent/client relationship, and more. Just click on the resources tab to read them.
Learn how to Write a Query Letter That is Pitch Perfect.
Another agent interview to read is with Scott Eagan of Greyhaus Literary Agency.
Read more about finding an agent in Three Steps to Researching and Finding a Literary Agent.
Suzanne Pitner - Suzanne Pitner is a teacher and published writer. A member of RWA and YARWA, she writes fiction as Suzanne Lilly.
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