Question about magazines

Tburger · Apr 27, 2008

Sorry to keep asking questions, but there is a lot to learn. I write science fiction and urban fantasy and wondered. Does anyone know if agents read the genre magazines to find talent? I've been told by several people that writing short stories is a great way to build credibility, and I know on the literary side, agents will often subscribe to magazines to spot new talent.

Does anyone know?

IceCreamEmpress · Apr 27, 2008

Absolutely. There's a huge connection between success in the magazines and novel publication in the science fiction and fantasy field. Go for it!

Susan Breen · Apr 27, 2008

I'll second that. I've heard a number of agents and editors say they read through magazines looking for talent.

Toothpaste · Apr 27, 2008

Definitely. At the same time if you are not a fan of writing articles or short stories, you do not need to have those credentials in order to get a novel published. But I can't see how publishing in those magazines could be bad either!

astonwest · Apr 27, 2008

Plus, it can boost your confidence to have some short story sales while you're waiting for agents to stop rejecting you.

waylander · Apr 28, 2008

Yes but only at the top level magazines. If you start selling short fiction to F+SF or Asimov's then people are going to notice you, if you get stories picked up for Year's Best Collections that too will get you noticed.

eqb · Apr 28, 2008

I've been contacted twice by editors who read my stories in Asimov's and Strange Horizons. Both of them said they make a point of scouting new talent that way.

Question about magazines

Tburger

Wahoowa

IceCreamEmpress

Hapless Virago

Susan Breen

Toothpaste

THE RECKLESS RESCUE is out now!

astonwest

2 WIP? A glutton for punishment

waylander

Who's going for a beer?

eqb

I write novels