Young authors are often discriminated against by literary agents. So, if you’re a young author make sure you read this article. I’m going to help you decide whether you should tell literary agents how old you are in your query letter.
When I was a literary agent, I often received submissions from young authors… and I was biased (but not the way you might think). You see, I was one of the few that actually liked young authors.
The idea of discovering the next new talent was exciting to me.
Young authors are less likely to be masters of their genre. But young authors
can also be more attractive to the media, because their age can be another
talking point for the press.
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Young Authors – Advantage
Everyone’s intrigued by the next young author prodigy. So, being young can actually be a positive. This is especially true if you’re writing books for young readers… because young readers relate better to young authors.
I’m not saying that it should be this way.
I’m just telling you how it is.
If you’re going to let agents know that you’re a young author, provide extra proof that you’re a good author… one that’s more educated and professional than authors twice your age. Unless you have a really good reason (that’s relevant to your work) don’t mention your age… especially if you’re a young author.
There’s a good chance that you won’t get the respect you deserve.
So what’s the point?
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Young Authors – Conclusion
Why not have literary agents focus on your book? Let your future literary agent find out how old you are long after he or she has already been won over by your writing… perhaps when you meet for the first time, to celebrate your six-figure book deal.
It’s hard enough to get the attention of literary agents, and have them take you seriously. Don’t let agents underestimate you… simply because you’re a young author.
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
Your “Undercover” Agent
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MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
Hi Mark,
I was wondering if you would still be willing to look at my work and help me find an agent, even though you aren’t a literary agent anymore?
Hi Marilyn! Apologies for the delay… I’m slow to respond this month due to the holidays. I’m able to answer questions online here (no cost), but I can’t give feedback on things like pitch materials, samples pages, websites/blogs, etc. unless someone signs up for a introductory coaching call with me (more information about that below). If you’re interested in that, I’d love to help you if I’m able.
If I can help you with anything else let me know, but I want to make sure you know that I’m a former agent. Today I’m a coach and consultant helping authors get top agents, publishers, and book deals. To that end, I have several websites devoted to helping authors get a top literary agent, publisher, and book deal. You can see a complete list here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/websites/.
Plus…
Don’t miss my upcoming Internet radio show airing this Saturday, where you can listen to one of my coaching clients, Dave Hamme, share how he got a top literary agent, resulting in offers from 3 well-known publishers: Amacom, Palgrave Macmillan, and Mc-Graw Hill (who recently published Dave’s book in hardcover). See how you can listen here at http://thebestsellingauthor.com/radio-show/. Would love to see you there if you can make it.
Also…
If you haven’t already done so, click here now for access to all the valuable resources in my private, members-only area (no charge): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address, click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (and text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.
I’m also happy to answer any questions that you have online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And, if you’re serious and believe we’re a good fit, you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here (there is a fee for that): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work… and I’ll point you in the right direction.
Have a great week!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hi Mark,
We got in touch over my email to you, and I’ll be blunt. My book is NOT young adult fiction, and going on with that, I need help. Where do I find an agent?
Hi Tanner,
When you sign up at any one of my sites, you should always end up afterward on a welcome page. That page has a link to the directory, along with other things, all in one place so it’s easy to get to things. Have you ever seen that page?
Two more things that might help. First, make sure you’re using Directory of Literary Agents that you can access here: https://literary-agents.com/directory-literary-agents/. Second, read my multi-part article about finding the right literary agent for you and your work: https://literary-agents.com/finding-a-literary-agent/.
If I can help you with anything else let me know, but I want to make sure you know that I’m a former agent. Today I’m a coach and consultant helping authors get top agents, publishers, and book deals. To that end, I have several websites devoted to helping authors get a top literary agent, publisher, and book deal. You can see a complete list here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/websites/.
Also…
Don’t miss my upcoming case study/success story with Amy Jo Goddard at http://thebestsellingauthor.com/radio-show/ …if you aren’t already familiar with her story. I helped her get offers from five top literary agents which led to a 6-figure book deal with Penguin Books. She’s an inspiration but she also has good advice.
And…
If you haven’t already done so, make sure you take advantage of all the resources (no cost) on our main website here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. I’m also happy to answer any questions that you have online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And, if you’re serious and believe we’re a good fit, you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here (there is a fee for that): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work… and I’ll point you in the right direction.
Have a great weekend!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Are you still a literary agent?
Hi Hanna, I’m no longer an active literary agent. I’m now committed to helping authors find and get agents. I have a great deal of information on my new website that I’m sure you’ll find helpful, starting with the complimentary mp3 that you can learn more about here: https://literary-agents.com. You can also get complimentary access to my Directory of Literary Agents by going here:https://literary-agents.com/directory-literary-agents. And sorry it took me a while to respond. We’ve been in the process of changing webservers, which caused some delays. Mark
Young Authors | Hi Mark!
First of all, thank you so much for answering my other comment and leaving this link for me to look at.
I found this really interesting, and thinking on it, it’s true how being young can be to my advantage. It was helpful too because I wasn’t sure whether or not I should say my age (after reading this I have decided that I won’t). I’m going to take the advice you put in here, now I just need to happy I’ve actually written a book that’s good enough. Thank you! I appreciate it! | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Alexandra, I thought you might like that. By the way, I wrote a similar article for older authors as well. 🙂 They’re up against the same kind of discrimination, just from another angle. Everyone has their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Just don’t set yourself up for negative judgments by advertising your age and you’ll do fine. Keep writing, keep believing, and keep me posted on your progress!!! Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | Can you please suggest me a literary agent or a publishing company we could help me make my dream come true? I would greatly love your guidance on this matter. do reply. Thank You…:-) | Young Authors
Young Authors | My website is filled with articles and mp3s to help you do just that. If you want more help, please post a specific question or consider signing up for an introductory consulting call with me here: https://literary-agents.com/book-marketing/book-marketing-coach. Either way, I’m happy to help. Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hello Mark. I wrote my first novel at the age of 10, but it was quite childish, so I didn’t consider publishing it, then at the age of 13, I started writing my 4th novel. I had submitted my novel to Dorrance Publishing, and they loved my book, but they asked me to pay $9600, which was not possible for me to pay, of course. Then I contacted SBPRA, who also loved the synopsis, I’d given them. But then I thought of searching through the internet before submitting my manuscript to them. | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Mark,
Sorry for not talking with you, but I have been feverishly tring to get you the money to guide me though the red tape of delivering my word to the pulbic. I have more interesting story’s but it has been hard getting though the mind field in witch holds me froze in my steps. Truely the public has the right to know, and it still keeps on growing. I avoid the FBI and most my family but my true testamony will be revealed with a little help from my friends. Hang tough pal, and I’ll have you the green backs which will lock us together. I want to learn from you and I promise to use the tools and the expertise you offer to sit them on thier butts. Man, I can’t wait, Mark but my fortune says patience is a virtue. Any way I’m still hear and I’ll be in contact. You’ll hear from me soon.
Thanks Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hey there brother Dave, you’re ears must have been burning because I’ve been thinking about you. Like I said before my friend, it takes as long as it takes and I’m not going anywhere. I’m ready when you are. When the time is right, we’ll do our thing. Until then, have a fantastic 4th of July and be well. Looking forward to working with you. And say hello to your better looking half for me the next time you see her. 😉 Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Mark,
That was a good idea! (Not telling my age 🙂 ). I will definitely try that. I have another question for you. You see, I’m Indian, and we use British English. So my novel is written entirely in British English. So will the American literary agents see some words (for example, American: color, British: colour) as spelling mistakes and reject the submission? How can I solve this problem?
Rahul | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Rahul! It would be better to change the language, but if your book is brilliant… the British English shouldn’t deter agents from wanting to work with you. Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Mark! Here’s my take on that age-old question of “age”
I believe – young or old – in the “don’t ask don’t tell” policy.
YOU (the writer) aren’t asking the agent’s age and, unless you make specific references (e.g., times & places growing up), they may not be able to tell unless they’re downright rude and ask outright. Which, after they’ve asked, by the way, it’s perfectly okay to be demure and dodge the question. “I’m over 21” works for me.
If you make the bottom line all about the story and entice the agent with a spellbinding tale, he or she isn’t going to care how old you are – they’re going to care about what happens next in your story and want more.
The best way to get this across, quickly, is by having an outstanding query letter which focuses on just that – the story, not the author. The characters have to be fully fleshed out. The story line has to be crystal clear. YOUR vision of where you are going on your journey is the focus.
The little bit of bio you offer can be vague, e.g XXX College Graduate, not XXX College Graduate 2011 (and try not to divulge how long you’ve been driving or when you graduated high school – an old business trick to get to your age without asking outright as well).
Be a little bit of a mystery – young or old – it just might may the agent want “more.” Happy Writing & Good Luck! & Thank YOU, Mark! Best, Lois Crockett | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Lois! I’d apologize for taking a week to reply to your comment… but you’re one of my clients that’s been keeping me busy (in a good way) so I haven’t had as much time to reply as usual. 🙂 Agents really won’t ask your age unless maybe they’re talking with you on the phone and you have one of those “little girl” voices that sounds like you’re 13. “Um, excuse me, your book is great but maybe you should have your mom or dad review your contract with us?” Laughter. You shared some great tips by the way, half the time authors don’t even realize that they let their age slip by talking about something that didn’t need to be there in the first place. Amen to mystery. Happy early birthday and talk soon. Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Mark, thanks for another revelation. Just curious, what’s the reason for agents and publishers to discriminate against old authors like someone middle-aged and older? | Young Authors
Young Authors | The dream client for an agent is one that he/she can have a career with, not just one or two books before who-knows-what-might-happen. So middle-aged isn’t a problem. But I got a query letter once from a man who made a point of telling me that he was really old and probably didn’t have much time left… so he figured he should finally try to get his book published. No agent wants to take on a client and have them pass on before the book comes out, or something along those lines. Sounds awful, but it’s true. It’s simply best not to mention your age. 🙂 Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | I’m excited to win a free book! I’d like Walking on Alligators. I own or have read the rest, and this one sounds fascinating.
THANKS.
I think you have my snail mail address. | Young Authors
Young Authors | Hi Laura, a little bird tells me that your book is on its way… should arrive in just a day or two. 🙂 Mark | Young Authors
Young Authors | I was young when I started writing my first novel, but by the time I went through all the drafts to get it right I wasn’t so young anymore. ;D
But there is something to be said for seasoned writers as Geri writes about. I have taught college lovel Creative Writing classes, and my older students always produce more interesting characters. From an agent or editor’s perspective I suppose one might consider a “young” writer” is likely to have more years ahead, and he or she will look better on the book jacket, but an older writer has more flexibility.They have more life experiences to draw from.
. . | Young Authors
Young Authors | That’s simply awesome. Very funny. And yes, the wise agent sees the pros and cons of young, old, and in-between. It usually doesn’t help or hurt an author, their age… that is. But better to not mention it unless you’re sure it will help. Talk soon, Mark | Young Authors
LYING FOR AGE & AUTHORSHIP SAKE
Years ago I worked in the music entertainment field with Capitol and Enigma Records. I also worked with artist in development. It was common to LIE about their age. Not again Mark say it ain’t so. I guess I will be perpetually thirty something. Not to old not too young. I have to say, “I remember growing up in the ’80s”… omitting the fact I was in college… or worse
Young Authors | Hi Tarone, how’s it going? It’s not that bad, really. An author can be any age, just be careful about mentioning it unless it’s truly relevant to the project. 🙂 All my best. Mark | Young Authors
It always bugs me when authors are snubbed without good reason. I get it if that author isn’t sellable, you have to go with what works. But to look an author over solely based on age? Doesn’t surprise me though.
Hi Dale, just to clarify, I’m not saying that lots of agents are rejecting authors solely on age… but why mention your age and make it harder for an agent to be objective, when you know that it can be a stumbling block? Although it might not be popular or politically correct, I’ve always said that stereotypes exist for a reason. It doesn’t mean that you should judge people based on them… but most stereotypes have some element of truth to them which is how they got started in the first place. I’d love to give some examples of men and women stereotypes… and even stereotypes about Americans vs. Europeans, etc. But I don’t want to push any one’s buttons any more than I already have by writing this article. LOL. I should probably add, before someone blasts me for NOT saying it… that, yes, I’m aware that some stereotypes have no truth to them and they are absolutely ignorant. 🙂
True, and I too won’t get into the reasons why some stereotypes are truth, and ect. But at the same time, a writer doesn’t want to be judged without merit. And I never thought about putting my age down, but some writers may think they should. So it’s a great point. Let your writing do the talking.
Young Authors | You’d be amazed how many authors list their age directly, or reveal it inadvertently… by mentioning the year they graduated college, etc. While I was an active agent, I even had my fair share of authors send me photos of themselves… as though I was a casting director. 🙂 Funny. Mark | Young Authors
It was nearly ten years ago when I returned to college and my playwriting professor informed the three 40+ year olds in the class of typical college age students that our chances of being published were very low due to our “advanced” age. Of course we were outraged by the discrimination and, unfortunately, I took it to heart.
During the class I found the work of the older classmates much more rich with knowledge of word usage, natural flow of dialogue, and dimensions to their characters that the younger “generation” had not achieved.
The older generation offered broad topics and more profound situations whereas the younger generation wrote of drugs, drinking and pregnancies out of wedlock. The younger students often wrote arguments and physical fighting as a catalyst for creating “drama” where the older writers were prone to create characters with inner conflicts.
The younger writer’s characters were almost always people of their own age with an occassional obligatory or cliche’ adult figure who served a minor role. The older students offered a spectrum of well purposed characters from precocious children with purposeful dialogue to bitter octogenarians who’d lived lives unfulfilled.
The only young student whose talent stood out was in graduate school and wrote a piece about breast cancer based on a true story. Her ability to recognize the human condition reinforces that there are those of us, regardless of age, who truly have the gift of storytelling.
I teared up when I read her play and even more when one of my favorite young actresses at the university performed it.
I felt a deeper since of honor that one of my plays, a comedy about college students of all things,
was selected as one of the winning plays to be performed during the festival along with her “Boobies”. I also performed in one of her plays (albeit the cliche’ mother-in-law) that I felt was a good story but had, what I considered, a stereotypical abusive husband as a catalyst to create “conflict” and “drama”. Still, I wonder where Catherine is now?
I made excellent grades in my playwriting courses, as did the other older adults, mostly due to our commitment to not only complete our assignments but edit our work over and over again until we were satisfied with its presentablility.
Most of the younger students just turned in what they scratched down, usually not following the correct format, believing their work was so dynamic that their egos alone would make it a literary masterpiece. Having taken two writing courses with many of the same students, if I were an agent, out of that group I’d take the older writers (with the exception of Catherine) any day, if for nothing else, their work ethic and desire to improve their writing skills. After all, that is why the three of us returned to school.
Hi Geri, I love your concrete examples… illustrating what older or more experienced writers bring to the table, compared to young authors. As a former agent who’s evaluated lots of talent, I’ve realized there are pros and cons to everything and everyone. Young authors and old authors both have the ability to write moving pieces about the human condition, as you said… although their “range” might be more narrow because their life experience is more limited. Of course, young authors and old authors alike also have the ability to simply educate or entertain (which is also needed). Not every book has to be life-changing, obviously. Any agent worth anything understands that the most important thing they need to evaluate is the writing itself. And authors (young authors and old authors) can help agents do just that by NOT mentioning their age. After all, 95% of the time… the author’s age isn’t relevant. Thanks for taking the time to write such a thoughtful post. I know that everyone who reads it will appreciate it… young and old. 😉 Mark
Maybe one can be a prodigy at sixty for after all who knows in todays modern age one could live to be nienty or more which means a good thirty-something years of writing.
Hi Paulina, I love it. By the way, many authors didn’t even start writing until their fifties or sixties… and then they went on to have long publishing careers. So absolutely. I just wouldn’t “advertise” my age as an author if I was under thirty or over fifty… heck, I wouldn’t tell agents how I was period… unless I thought it was going to help more than hurt. Usually, it has the potential to hurt more than help. So it’s best to leave that information out and let your book do all the talking. Thank you for taking time to say hello and comment! Mark