perfectpawn

I've long debated going to the BookExpo Writer's Conference, as I've read you're guaranteed a few minutes of book-pitching time with each agent and editor. This year of course the conference is in Los Angeles, whereas it's been in NYC for the past few years. I live in Dallas so this is more of a trip for me; I'm thinking about just scheduling a cruise out of Long Beach to maximize my vacation!

My question is, has anyone had any success or luck at the BookExpo conferences? I've never gone to a conference before. I've had limited publishing success but I have yet to sell a novel. I know what's killing me is the usual over-the-transom stuff; agents receive my query letters with a mass of others, and pass me off as just another unknown schmuck from nowheresville. I have a friend who's into Christian fiction, and he goes to a wealth of Christian fiction writer conferences (trust me, there seem to be a panopoly of them here in Texas). At these conferences he's always meeting agents who remember him, who ask to see his manuscript. Sure, he's yet to get one sold, but at least they know him from Adam (so to speak).

So please, let me know your recommendations. Should I attend the conference? Do you really get a chance to meet agents, or what with the hubub of the conference are your pitches lost in the din?

Thanks!

PS: This is my first post here, so please let me know if I'm posting my query in the wrong forum.

Jocelyn

I've been to a local conference and found it very useful--for the contacts and camaraderie, more than anything else. It is my goal, though, to go to the BookExpo conference. If I'm not mistaken, it is in NYC in 2009, so I already have it in my mind to go and be at a point where I can share something worthy with any agents/editors I meet.

If you go this year, please report back. I would be very interested to hear about your experience.

perfectpawn

Another question -- what do writers generally wear to these things? I'm thinking jeans and a collared tea. Business casual, in other words. Or do people show up in suits and ties?

Swamp Thing

I've been to a few book events in Los Angeles. Jeans or khakis and polo shirts will be just fine.

I've read that most people find these things useful as network building opportunities. I've not had much sucess with that, but then I never put much effort into it when I was attending.

As Joc requested, do report back I'd like to hear what you thought.

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