Back to Home > Content > Pitching an Agent: The Robert E. Shepard Agency

Pitching an Agent: The Robert E. Shepard Agency

This Berkeley-based solo operation specializes in narrative nonfiction and has a great track record with interesting, unexpected books.

By Jill Singer – April 20, 2004

Number of agents: One
Number of clients: About 50
Notable clients: Stefan Fatsis, the Wall Street Journal reporter and NPR commentator who wrote Word Freak, about the world of competitive Scrabble; and Anthony Shadid, the recent Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporter. Money magazine columnist and Today correspondent Jean Chatzky also has two books on Shepard's list.
Percentage of unsolicited material accepted: Less than one percent.
Fiction vs. nonfiction: Nonfiction only.

Background: Robert Shepard has been in the publishing business, in one form or another, for 20 years. He worked in both editorial and sales at the trade division of Addison-...

AvantGuild Sign Up Now!Sign Up Now!
The How to Pitch series is worth its weight in gold. In just the first month I'd already benefited enough to consider the cost of joining well worth it. -- Gaen Murphree
AvantGuild benefits give you access to:
  • Premium content, including our How to Pitch Guides, an indispensable tool for freelance writers. view sample >
  • Savings of up to $35 per class on mediabistro.com courses and seminars.
  • Insurance discounts for freelancers and small businesses, including medical, dental, auto and home.
  • Lots of other professional discounts, including ZipCar (a $50 value) and your choice of magazine subscriptions (a $10 value).

... and much more! View all benefits or Sign up now!

Already an AvantGuild member?

Log in here to view the full page.

Email
remember me
Password
forgot your password?