Stephanie Thwaites at Curtis Brown talks us through the basics of a good submission
Stephanie Thwaites
Curtis Brown is one of Europe’s most renowned and longest running literary and talent agencies. Stephanie Thwaites joined Curtis Brown in November 2003 and represents mainly children’s and Young Adult titles along with some adult fiction and non-fiction. In the fourth of our interviews with literary agents, Stephanie emphasises the importance of agents and authors forming strong working relationships.
What inspired you to become a literary agent?
Having just completed an English degree I was completely in awe of ‘the author’ and I was amazed to discover that there was a job that actually involved speaking to authors on a daily basis, working with them and even advising them! Obviously I loved books but what really appealed was being a part of the process that would bring a book to life.
Did you receive any formal training?
There wasn’t anything formal about it! But I cut my teeth working for two top agents, Viv Schuster and Ali Gunn on the adult side and then I started representing my own authors alongside Janice Swanson who ran the Children’s list. I was really fortunate to be able to learn from such impressive, and incredibly supportive, women.
How did you come to work for the Curtis Brown?
I came in through the familiar work experience route. I spent six weeks at Midas PR where they very kindly showed me the ropes so I wasn’t utterly clueless when I arrived at CB. Now we run a three-month-long intern scheme but at the time I just came in for two weeks and found I was in the right place at the right time and I started working as an assistant shortly after that.
What makes Curtis Brown different to other literary agencies?
I think one of the advantages of CB is that agents can focus time and attention on their own individual lists while benefiting from the resources and support a large organisation can bring. Despite being one of the oldest agencies there is a really modern feel to the company, but we also look after these incredible Estates. It’s certainly a lively and friendly place to work with a strong sense of team spirit.
What kind of books do you take on?
I focus on Children’s and Young Adult books but I also represent some adult non-fiction and fiction too. I do love having the freedom to represent anything that grabs me.
Which publishing houses have you worked with?
Mostly all of the larger houses and a number of the small, independent publishers too.
What happens to a submission once it reaches your office?
It is logged in and then joins the pile! I tend to receive around ten submissions each day - more after the Summer or Christmas holidays. People are often surprised to hear how little of an agent’s day is spent reading submissions but there are many, many other jobs to attend to - from just addressing emails, to drawing up contracts, to processing permission requests, and of course keeping in touch with existing authors. Reading seldom takes place in the office.
How can a new author get past the slush pile?
I like a well presented submission with a clear, short covering letter, a brief synopsis and a straightforward, no-nonsense font. But, most importantly, I just have to want to keep on reading. It’s as simple and subjective as that!
Once you have accepted a manuscript for representation, what happens next?
I think it’s important to meet an author wherever possible before moving forward. The idea is that we’ll be working together for a long time so we do need to make sure we will be able to get on well and form a lasting relationship.
What is your favourite part of the process?
Well it’s undeniably exciting securing a deal, which is also the most challenging part of it. I do really like the problem-solving aspect of the job. Every day brings a different dilemma and challenge and I find that, and the variety it brings most stimulating.
Whose writing has excited you recently?
I couldn’t possibly single one person out! I’m excited by all my authors!
What would you say the main challenges are for an aspiring author?
Clearing all the hurdles. There are so many people a writer needs to have on board before a book can be published - and beyond that - an agent, an editor, sales and marketing teams, booksellers and then finally, the reader.
What advice would you offer an aspiring writer?
Writing is, in some ways, like any other job - there are bound to be highs and lows so keep that in mind and try to stay positive and professional. Be prepared to work endlessly and tirelessly for something that may not come to fruition and be ready to bounce back from rejection or disappointment.
If you’re persevering without any success ask yourself honestly if your writing is as strong and your idea as creative and exciting as you first thought. It might be time for a rethink or to move on, and not necessarily to another book project.
For further information, please visit www.curtisbrown.co.uk
Other literary agencies featured in this series include Annette Green Author’s Agency, the Marsh Agency and the Ampersand Agency
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