What Is a Subagent

Glossary > Subagent

What is the role of a subagent?

Subagents act as intermediaries, connecting authors and their literary agents with international publishers seeking to acquire translation rights to specific works. Their expertise in foreign markets and their established connections with international publishers make them valuable partners for literary agents and authors seeking to sell translation rights for their works.

As subagents possess in-depth knowledge of various regions' literary preferences and market trends, they can effectively pitch a book to the right publisher in a particular territory. This expertise ensures that the author's work is presented to potential foreign publishers in the best possible light.

What are the benefits of working with a subagent?

1. Access to global markets: Collaborating with a subagent opens doors to a worldwide audience, extending an author's readership beyond their native language and country. This expanded reach can significantly boost an author's income and reputation.
2. Expertise in foreign markets: Subagents have a deep understanding of the intricacies of foreign publishing markets, including the preferences of readers and publishers in different regions. 
3. Strong network of connections: Subagents maintain an extensive network of contacts with international publishers, which can speed up finding the right publishing partner for an author's work in a specific market.
4. Negotiation skills: Subagents are experienced in negotiating contracts with foreign publishers, ensuring that authors receive the best terms for their translation rights.
5. Streamlined communication: Working with a subagent simplifies communication between authors, literary agents, and foreign publishers.