It is a beautiful, sunny Wednesday afternoon at the renowned Granada building in Los Angeles. Sherry Robb’s office is particularly chic in a loft environment with busy interns and clients moving in and out of meetings over their literary material.
Ms. Robb offers me some coffee and a glass of water in her brightly lit conference room, decked out in museum like pieces and materials both sentimental and of her past client’s achievements. When was the first time you decide to become a literary agent?
“Actually, I was working as a Sales Rep for a Book Company out of Chicago, with offices in LA as well. I had been made West Coast Regional Sales Manager to sell to fourteen states, including Hawaii (I really had fun on that gig). I was the Top Sales Rep for the company for 3
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years straight. One day I got a call from a writer, Bart Andrews (his claim to fame was that he had written Lucy Ball's book. There was nothing that Bart did not know about her. He also had relationships with other high profile celebrities.) Bart introduced himself and then said, "I am a writer doing a lot of celebrity bios and I am looking for an agent. I have been following your career and by the looks of it, you are very skilled in selling. I would like you to be my Literary Agent." Having already been active in looking for potential hardcover books that would be possible good matches for my publishing company (a paperback book only house), and having my publishing company listen to my ideas had led me to think about exploring the field of literary representation. We set up a meeting the following week. Each of us had different personalities--Bart was more the introvert/creative one. I was the more extrovert/sales person. The match seemed to work but one problem, I had no contacts as a literary agent with Editors and Executive of New York Publishing Companies. Bart's response when I told him my misgivings about taking the job was, "No problem. I have been researching the editors/executive, their interests, their primary interests, who they have worked with over the years (who knew who), and I can teach you all history so you will know who buys what. It all sounded feasible, however, I still had my doubts. We were finishing up our meeting and just before I was going to give Bart my answer, I blurted out, "I will be your Literary Agent on one condition." He asked, "What's that?" My response, "If you will be my partner." The next week we developed our logo, had business cards made under: Andrews & Robb Agents --and yes, that is how it began. A month later between the two of us we had 20 books to represent, including one that I had come up with after seeing Betty White talk on TV about how pets helped her climb out of her depression after her husband, Allen Ladden.
I called it Pet Love, A Michael Jackson Bio written by Bart's colleague, Mark Bego.”
Sherry sips her coffee as she places her phone on silent, not to interrupt our interview. Her poise and grace throughout beams through years of experience and 11 New York Times Bestsellers gracing the achievements of her literary agency. Ms. Robb is excited to talk about her clients and the art of writing.
You sold many works over the years and many of the writers including 11 New York Times Bestsellers, how did you choose and discover these exceptional writers?
“In the beginning, we focused on reaching out to celebrities (this became our niche initially) who had a passion about a specific subject, like Betty White's love for pets, or whose lives had been extraordinary -- Dreamgirls by Mary Wilson -- Bart knew someone that knew her and we went to meet her after one of her concerts to discuss her writing her Autobiography of the times she was with the 'Black is Beautiful" Supremes
Group. Several of our bestsellers were books that we actually went after the celebrity and convinced them to write, often assigning a co-writer to work along with them. Once we expanded our scope, I particularly went after experts in their respected fields to write self help books, including Marianne Neifert's Dr. Mom, Numerologist Jean Simpson's Hot Numbers, a fun tittle, How to Murder Your Plants was suggested by a friend who obviously did not have a green thumb, and a book on child abuse, Innocence, written by a psychotherapist.” What stood out about their work among others? “#1 and most important one is their passion for their subject.” Sherry laughs, her intern Mary lightly knocks on the door of the conference room. “Harper & Collins is on the line, what should I tell them?” Ms. Robb politely responds “Take a message and I’ll call them back, in a conference at the moment.” Mary nods her head and goes back to work. That was swift. Tell me about how you handle artists' work and publishing houses; what are they looking for? “Good questions, Nikki. Both agent and writer have to keep up with the market -- which publisher is buying what books, in the beginning, I would go out to bookstores, see what books they were promoting; what books were appearing on bestseller lists, which books/writers were winning awards. I'd go to book conventions, talk with publishers, and see what up-and-coming books were on their lists, the ones that they were pushing. You begin to see trends -- like the healing, spiritual books that were published by small publishers and that were going mainstream with the larger publishers. This marketing is not just up to the agent. The writer seeking representation should know where and how their book fits into the market.” Sherry pours herself some more water and smiles. Her exuberance and excitement when discussing writing is tremendous. At 72 years old, going on 40, energy-wise, Ms. Robb is a whirlwind of passion and delight towards writing. Apart from literary novels, you’re company handles screenplays both film and TV. How does the business of writing screenplays differ from the novels, and is your sales strategy the same? Sales strategy is pretty much the same. Help the writer create a dynamite Submission Letter, researching publishing houses or production companies looking for the writers subject matter or genre, calling up the potential editor or producer and pitching the writer's work, once getting permission to send, submitting it and then following through. Once there is a bite on the end of the hook, then my job is to close the deal with the best negotiation possible for the writer... and then executing a contract. Tell me about the Zodiac killer? “One day I get a letter and a stack of 22,000 words -- from a political cartoonist for the San Francisco Chronicle. In his query letter seeking a literary agent, he said that the material he was sending me had been sent to him by an anonymous writer claiming to be the "Zodiac Killer" himself. The writing to say the least was bizarre, Most of it in symbols and some sort of weird hieroglyphics. Being very fascinated by this 'thorough the eye of the murderer' stories, I took on the book, shaped a proposal, developed it into more of a book rather than just a raving and then sold it to a publisher. I got only one taker (editor) because at the time most publishers thought the contents too dark.” Sherry offers me some more coffee, I gladly accept. This is great coffee Sherry. “I bought it down in Burbank at the Armenian bakery “Masis”, fantastic cakes too.” The two things I love are coffee and cake, so Sherry is spot-on with this choice. The writing style in screenplays, which one do you gravitate towards when choosing writers and their work? “I look for a 'unique voice', a true wordsmith and storyteller -- a writer who has thoroughly researched their subject. I like an opening that grabs your interest and a pacing throughout that holds you to the page. If a thriller, a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat while reading -- a real page-turner. If a drama, characters that you empathize with, while they live their lives as you are reading; characters that are deep and emotionally layered. Another important thing is dialogue that not only sounds authentic, but that moves the story along; shows the growth of the character, their arc, etc.” Bird’s chirp lively outside the window, the sun still beams high, as the coffee cups empty. Even though our chat is lovely, I know Ms. Robb, a creative business woman has to get back to her work so I keep the interview short. To conclude, what would you say was the most important thing a writer should know when delving into the professional writing business both in literary and screenwriting? “They should approach a professional literary rep with the following items: A work that they have researched well and have re-written and polished, knowledge of their book or script's market; their genre, a carefully constructed list of all books or films that have been successful in their genre; their 'comparables' and competition -- even a list of the publishers or producers who the writer feels would be interested in their project. In addition, the writer should investigate the background of the rep that they are seeking representation from, their interests and what books that they have sold.” As I stand up to shake hands with this incredible and inspirational businesswoman, Sherry says “Thank you so much for your interest in my company and me. A mentor/teacher by nature, I love being an advocate for writers. It is so important, especially today for the artist not only writing, but having to be aware of markets and where they fit in. I see myself as a partner with my clients with the goal of publishing their creative work or having it seen on the small (TV} or big screen. We are a team in each other’s careers. Feel free to contact me any time with any questions. I really enjoyed our time together. In fact, you have inspired me to write a 'How To" book for writers -- now just to find the time, right?” Sherry laughs, I do too, such a sensational vibrancy that radiates about this extra ordinary businesswoman. “Thanks again, Nikki.” No thank you Sherry, for everything. You are one amazing woman. Leaving Ms. Robb’s office, I am filled with inspiration and drive. Her eagerness and powerful thoughts on the writing process and business of writing professionally both enlightened me and kept me feeling grateful for having her represent me as one of her screenwriters. Being one of her clients is a journey of many adventures and intellect. Ms. Robb’s extensive experience and expertise in the writing world has given me strong pointers and courage to work through my screenplays and continue indulging in the art of writing. “Passion and creativity are the keys to an artists freedom, one artist at a time” Sherry always says. On this warm sunny day, driving down the 101 Highway, passing the Hollywood sign I feel content and inspired by a woman, who wears many hats, and keeps her company, “The Robb Company” running, representing a diverse pool of talented writers from different nationalities and backgrounds, always striving for the best in her writers and encouraging aspiring writers to follow their dreams. My day could not have gone any better than this.
Annie Turnbo Malone was an entrepreneur and was also a chemist. She became a millionaire by making some hair products for some black women. She gave most of her money away to charity and to promote the African American. She was born on august 9, 1869, and was the tenth child out of eleven children that where born by Robert and Isabella turnbo. Annie’s parents died when she was young so her older sister took care of her until she was old enough to take care of herself.
Kathleen Orr, popularly known as Kathy Orr is a meteorologist for the Fox 29 Weather Authority team on WTXF in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was born on October 19, 1965 and grew up in Westckave, Geddes, New York with her family. The information about her parents and her siblings are still unknown. As per bio obtained online, Kathy Orr is also an author. She has written a number of books like Seductive Deceiver, The drifter's revenge and many others. She graduated in Public Communications from S. I. Newhouse which is affiliated to Syracuse University.
Devin Friedman is a creative storyteller who incorporates observant details in his writings, which makes the readers feel like as if they are part of the adventure. Devin attended the University of Michigan, and he was awarded as the winner of the Hopwood Contest. This contest was hosted by the university committee who appoints experienced judges and the Ann Arbor community to select winners in different writing divisions. In his recent years, Devin wrote for numerous publications such as The Best American Crime Writing, The Best American Travel Writing, The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, Esquire, People's Stories, and GQ. Out of the many articles Friedman has written in the past, “The Best Night $500,000 Can Buy,” “Famous People: James Franco,” and “The Unbearable Awkwardness of Being” are the ones I have chosen to read because of the interesting subject matters and the different writing styles.
When most people think of Texas legacies they think of Sam Houston or Davy Crockett, but they don’t usually think of people like Jane Long. Jane Long is known as ‘The Mother of Texas’. She was given that nickname because she was the first english speaking woman in Texas to give birth.
“Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.”- Dalai Lama. In my opinion, the chocolate chip cookie has an interesting story. A woman named Ruth Wakefield discovered this delicious treat and from then on, everyone came to know it as the famous chocolate chip cookie. In fact, the chocolate chip cookie is one of America’s favorite cookies. Ruth Wakefield was an amazing and very lucky baker.
Rachel Dein is a London Based artist, who studied Fine Arts at Middlesex University . She is most famously known for her tiles made of cement and plaster featuring molds of flowers. She currently runs and owns the Tactile Studio in North London to support herself and her three children. Before setting up her own studio, but after going to art school, she decided to take up an apprenticeship at The Royal Opera House and later branched out to other theaters to continue her prop making career including The English National Opera, The West End Theaters, London Transport Museum and Selfridges Christmas windows. Her time in prop making allowed her to explore her love of theatre, film, and opera while expanding her knowledge of 3d design. She also enjoys gardening, which is where she has gotten some of the materials for her craft.
Helene Melanie Lebel, one of two daughters born to a Jewish family, was raised as a Catholic in Vienna. Her father died during World War I when Helene was only 5 years old, and when Helene was 15, her mother remarried. Helene entered law school, but at age 19, she started showing signs of an illness. By 1935, her illness became so bad severe that she had to give up her law studies. Helene was diagnosed with Schizophrenia and was placed in Vienna’s Steinhof Psychiatric Hospital. Although her condition improved in 1940, Helene was forced to stay in Steinhof. Her parents believed she would soon be released, but in August, her mother was informed that Helene was transferred to Niedernhart. She was actually transported to Brandenburg, Germany where she was led into a gas chamber or room? disguised as a shower room, and was gassed to death. Helene was listed as dying in her room of “acute schizophrenic excitement”.
Ruth Posner is one of the many few holocaust survivors and a great dancer, choreographer and actress. Ruth was born on April 20, 1933, in Warsaw. She was raised in a Jewish family with her parents, but went to a Catholic school. At home, she spoke Polish. Ruth suddenly started hearing offensive comments by some of her close Polish Catholic friends. They said things like “you killed Christ.” It was an incredible shock.” That was just the beginning. By the time she was just 12, and the Second World War was underway, Ruth had lost both her parents and her world as she knew it. She was in the middle of the Holocaust.
What is it like to live a life with Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)? Narcissism is a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. People with this disorder can be vindictive, selfish, cunning person. They do not care who is harmed or hurt. Abigail was the leader of all of the girls that were seen dancing and calling on evil spirits. Abigail would threaten the girls by saying if they said anything, she would kill or harm them severely. She wanted what she couldn’t have, so that made her psychologically unstable. Abigail William’s would be convicted in today’s court because she gave many threats to kill the girls who were with her the night they were dancing if they spoke up in court, her behavior caused harm to many even though she may not have physically done damage herself and due to previous court cases, some people diagnosed with Narcissism were found innocent due to their mental instability but others were guilty because they were mentally unstable. As it is shown, Narcissistic Personality Disorder causes her to be selfish, arrogant, dangerous, and obsess over the man she could not have, because Abigail threatened the girls she was with the night they were dancing, to not confess to anything in court.
Alexie, Sherman. “The Joy of Reading and Writing: Superman and Me” Writer’s Presence: A Pool of Readings. 5th ed. Ed. Robert Atawan and Donald McQuade. Boston:Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2006. 73-76. Print
Pike, David L., and Ana Acosta. "Chapter 10 "The Story Of An Hour"" Literature: A World of Writing. New York: Longman, 2009. 442-44. Print.
3. I felt that The Age of The Literary Memoir Is Now by James Atlas has had an impact on me as a writer because the introducti...
and Other Greats : Lessons from the All-star Writer's Workshop. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2006. Print.
"Anna, would you like some tea," I offer as the screen door slams behind me. She doesn't move. "Anna," I try again, this time touching her shoulder with my elbow. She turns her chin towards me, but her eyes continue scanning the page until she has reached an appropriate stopping point. She lifts her slightly glazed, hazel eyes towards mine, unwilling to disengage from the world created by Anthony Piers or Terry Brooks. The corners of her mouth curl upwards, eyes slightly squinting from the bright sunlight, and she reaches out her empty hand, decorated with an intricate henna design, to grasp the sweating glass of tea.
Powell, Cheryl, Harms, Susan, & Barry, Thomas. (2006). The process of writing. New York: St. Andrews.