Lucy Carson of the Friedrich Agency

10.31.13

I have a book I think would make a good e-book—it's fiction but with lots of relevant (historical and political) links to videos, archival photos, cultural analysis. Is it a good idea to market this to agents and editors as a potential e-book? Or would that seem gimmicky? Also, would it make it seem less literary?

Monica from Soquel, CA
Lucy Carson
The Friedrich Agency LLC
19 West 21st Street
Suite 201
New York, NY 10010

An e-book original is, unfortunately, still perceived as a last resort for a book. Since, to my knowledge, e-book publishers operate on a no-advance payment structure (with higher royalties most of the time, to make up for that) pitching your project as a "good e-book" is like telling agents they might never make a dime on it. So, not an ideal foot to put forward! Instead, pitch the book based on all its general merit; then, in a separate paragraph, argue that your topic lends itself to unique opportunities for digital engagement in an e-book edition, which would be an asset to the overall publication if creatively constructed. Every print book is going to have an e-book edition as well, so this way your pitch sounds like there's a bonus aspect.

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