How do you get a literary agent?

Honestly I don't know and I want to watch the development of this thread. I've written and illustrated a picture book about autism and don't have an agent and cannot find a publisher. I have heard, though, that you can go to book stores (like Borders, or B Dalton) and there are books there with lists of agents.

Once your book is as perfect as it can be (best selling authors do at least four drafts of their novels), you must seek out an agent. The best thing to do is go to the library and look at the Writer's Market. It is a reference book of publishers, agents, magazines and other publications. You must find an agent who is a) accepting new writers and b) is interested in your genre. Not all agents take all genres. If they don't like reading it, then they can't say whether it will sell or not. It is the agent's job to find a publisher and then get you all the publicity you need to promote the book. You do NOT PAY an agent to read your manuscript. If they ask for payment then they are not real agents. Do as much research as you can with the Writer's Market (or like reference book) including a website. You will be able to find updated information on the website with details on how to submit. Follow submission guidelines to a T. And finally, don't be disappointed by rejection. Even the best authors get hundreds of rejections before they get accepted. J.K. Rowling is a good example of that. If you get a good agent whose rejection letter gives you details as to why they have rejected your manuscript, pay attention and make the changes necessary. And remember, they are not rejecting YOU, they are rejecting the book. Good luck!

First, you must write the book. Then you seek an agent that accepts that genre of book. There are several places online that have listings of reputable agents. I also have a list of those that you should avoid, that are scammers. Yes, agents, can be scammers too. If you'd like more information let me know. What type of book do you wish to write?