Paul Rodeen: Behind the Book

Reported by Kerri Kokias

Paul Rodeen, the founder and president of Rodeen Literary Management, spoke about his path to becoming an agent. He developed from a self-described jock who hid his interest in literature, to the editor of the student-run fiction magazine at his college, to a graduate student at Denver Publishing Institute, to an agent at Sterling Lord Literistic, and finally to being the founder and president of Rodeen Literary Management.

He currently represents between 20 and 25 clients and would like to build his list up to about 50. The five things that Paul looks for when reading submissions are: conflict, voice, character development, setting, and pace.

Dana Sullivan offers room service

Lucky Paul Rodeen! Well, sort of.

Paul Rodeen literary agent #scbwiwwa

Paul Rodeen Literary Management is a young company, founded about 18 months ago (he was at Sterling Lord Literistic earlier).

He's based in Chicago. He also moonlights for his clients as a life coach, financial adviser, and relationships counselor. (Why did he look at Peter Brown when he said this?)

Most of his clients came to him unpublished or with one book under their belts. He prides himself on being able to launch careers. He's had the most success with picture books from writers, illustrators, or double-threats. He's also sold MG, YA, and even nonfiction projects.