Still shopping for a literary agent. There aren’t a large number who represent children’s chapter books. I think that I have contacted the majority who do. I have concentrated primarily on agents in New York City, but have tried a couple in California.
My initial thought was to self-publish the Adventures of Pochi series, hire an illustrator, take care of the copyright myself and handle the marketing. The problem is that for more widespread distribution, especially in the markets that I am interested in — bookstores, libraries, schools, online, foreign markets — there is really a need to go with a big publishing house. Also, the literary agent adds a lot of value as an editorial resource, in negotiating foreign rights and distribution, representing the author’s best interests and adding value to the whole process.
The publishing house brings in the artistic talent, takes care of the copyright on the finished product and takes care of the ISBN number and other incidentals. Although the author makes less money per book going this route, it offers more in the long run and is probably the best path for a series of chapter books. (potentially a long series)
For now, Pochi’s adventure has not officially started. He is still awaiting discovery. What could be a blockbuster favorite among young readers sits in dry dock waiting for its ship to sail.
