A literary agent is one of the first people to enlist in your effort to get your book published. Having a good literary agent — one who has contacts with publishers who publish the type of book you write — goes a long way to giving you a chance to say, "Yes, I'm a published author." The following list contains some of the ways a literary agent benefits you:
Helps shape your proposal
Targets the right editor
Establishes instant credibility
Helps prepare sample materials
Uses influence with the publisher
Generates excitement among publishers
Sets the appropriate price for your work
Acts as your advocate throughout
