What's Happening?
Susan Canavan, a literary agent at WLA Books, shared insights into her career transition from editing to agenting. After experiencing burnout at Harcourt, Canavan embraced the entrepreneurial nature of agenting, allowing her to be more agile in the market.
She has successfully sold sports books, a niche she entered after her first bestseller, 'The Perfect Mile' by Neal Bascomb. Canavan approaches sports books as compelling nonfiction, focusing on stories of individuals taking risks and dedicating themselves to their passions. She emphasizes the importance of authors having a fan base and treating their books as if they are the CEO, highlighting the writer's role in finding readers and selling their work.
Why It's Important?
Canavan's insights reflect broader trends in the publishing industry, where literary agents play a crucial role in shaping market dynamics. Her success in sports books underscores the demand for engaging nonfiction narratives that resonate with readers. The emphasis on authors having a fan base and actively participating in marketing their books highlights the evolving nature of publishing, where writers are increasingly responsible for their own success. This shift impacts how books are marketed and sold, influencing the strategies of publishers and agents alike.
