Whether a one day session, one week conference, or a month-long writing workshop, writing related events are a good way to commune with other writers. They are opportunities to network and get your name out there. In some instances, you can meet and mingle with editors and agents. Some offer critiques or pitching sessions. Nowhere will you find a higher concentration of introverts enjoying each other's company. Local conferences are a good place to meet potential critique groups or recruit members. Note that information for this list is accurate as to what was available in December 2021. Dates and formats may change. Some events may be postponed or cancelled. Some are free. Some require a fee. Some are more social than others. Many are for new writers, but a few dig deep into craft. You should choose an event that speaks to your needs and desires. Unfortunately, with the pandemic, many in person events have been cancelled. Some have been replaced with virtual events, podcasts, or

  A literary agent is someone who shops your manuscript to acquisition editors at publishing houses. They are notoriously difficult to approach and to get them to champion your book, so why should you bother to have one? How does it benefit you? If you wish to go the traditional publishing route, they are necessary. Agents have connections with the Big 5 publishers and their multiple imprints and smaller publishers. Most of the Big 5 publishers will only accept agented submissions. The agency is expected to vet your work before they try to sell it. Agents have a finger on the pulse of publishing markets. They know what is hot, what is not, and what is probably coming down the pipeline. Agents negotiate on your behalf to make sure you are getting the best deal. They also negotiate foreign edition, audiobook, movie, and merchandising rights. Some of the larger agencies have film and television departments for shopping your rights. They know the legal ins and outs of intellectual property