What is the 'right' age to attempt publishing?

4 posts / 0 new

Topic locked

Sat, 2012-01-28 17:21

I didn't know how to phrase the Subject, sorry about that.

I've been told that finding a literary agent is needed to get published or recognised by a publisher. But finding a good literary agent is a very complicated process. I was wondering if literary agents and publishers take age into consideration?

I've been writing a book since the age of eleven and gradually progressing with the same idea, up until my current age (I've just turned seventeen). I'm currently writing my second draft in-between studying for exams, but I'm always irritated by the fact a literary agent may not even consider reading what I've written due to my age.

About two years ago I sent in my prologue and book synopsis to a Publisher (that accepted material without a literary agent) and they emailed me back saying they wanted the whole manuscript. I decided against it because I was afraid the story wasn't complete(and that I had no idea of the publishing process.) I'm glad I didn't because it really needed a second draft.

I would love some advice and tips on literary agents etc, any comments are welcome. :) What age do you think is the 'right' age for aspiring to be published?

Sun, 2012-01-29 12:23

The Other Terre...

Firstly I don't think publishers are put off by your being too young - the potential is there for you to tap into the youth market and you have the added advantage that you're not going to conk out two books into a writing career. The main issue is are you ready yet? Not just is your book finished, but do you want to commit to this career totally so soon. It'll deprive you of all those years of shitty jobs that us middle aged writers tap into for inspiration. Once you've signed contracts you'll be a full time writer, deadlines to meet for your next book. The fact that you're posing the question on the forum suggests that you're unsure, so maybe think about what else you could do for the next few years, does the thought of doing something else disgust you or is it attractive? The options open are enormous, some excellent university courses in writing, or at 17, you can go out there and see the world. As for the question of being too young to write, one of my favourite books is Frankenstein by the 18 year old Mary Shelly, (although I've read 3 books by people in their 80s in the past year) Good luck with whatever you do

Sun, 2012-02-12 00:52

jennifer

If it's good, it's good - age has nothing to do with it! If you're worried you won't be taken seriously when approaching publishers and agents because of your age, then don't tell them it until they ask! You're right in one respect though - don't send anything unless you're convinced it's 'ready'! (although, if you're anything like me, it's never perfect, haha - there's a danger of overcooking the writing! And Christopher Paolini was a home-schooled teenager - 15 I think - when he wrote Eragon, did you know?! J x

Fri, 2012-03-16 23:29

mozzythefirefox

Idk if i can publish, for i am only 10 lol

Topic locked