TV/Film and Other Media

Jillian Davis headshot with the quote: You can still have a “brand” even if you don’t have hundreds of thousands of followers on social media. At the end of the day, in publishing, “brand” tends to mean voice, so corny as it sounds you need to stay true to you.

Literary Agents and the Book-to-Screen Pipeline: Q&A with Jillian Davis

I spoke with the head of the book department at LA-based Kaplan Stahler Literary Agency about working at the intersection of book publishing and Hollywood.
Image: a toy train laden with cargo sits in front of a juncture where three branches of tracks result in dead-ends but two others remain available.

Avoid a Creative Slump By Writing and Publishing in a Different Medium

When trying to best tell a particular story, consider that some medium other than words on a page might be the right solution.
Image: a couple sits on the sofa, eating popcorn and watching television with rapt attention.

How High Stakes Keep Readers (and Viewers) Invested

Shonda Rhimes’s Netflix series is a master class in amping up stakes and keeping viewers invested in the characters’ outcomes.
Image: behind a fence, the back of the Hollywood Sign looms over the valley below.

A Primer on TV & Film Adaptation for Writers (Where the Rules Change Often)

If your agent or publisher wants to pitch your book to Hollywood, they need to know the rules—or at least, the rules of the day.
Allison Hunter and Jennifer Weltz

How Are Books Adapted for the Screen? Two Agents Demystify the Process

Two agents discuss the importance of retaining film rights, option types, author involvement in adaptations, and much more.
Image: Netflix on the screen of an iMac computer.

What Kind of Book Translates Well to the Screen?

Well-constructed stories, snappy dialogue, and surprising twists can all contribute to a book’s chance of being chosen for adaptation.
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There’s Never Been a Better Time for Book-to-Screen Deals

Original and exclusive content is in high demand among all streaming services, creating increased opportunity for screen adaptations—especially for authors with a sizable backlist
Image: graphic of collaged film reels

Books to Film: The Option Versus The Shopping Agreement

If your goal is to see your book become a movie, it’s important to understand the rights you grant—and the money you earn—during initial development.
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Focus and Hustle Can Sell a Screenplay without an Agent

While it requires an enormous investment of time and energy, it is possible to network your way to a screenwriting career.
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The Peak TV Era: Are There Really More Opportunities for Authors?

Increased opportunities in filmed entertainment may not equate to easy success in the market—especially for unagented and unconnected authors.
writing for television

So You Want to Write for Television?

Author and TV industry vet Greg White offers insight on how to write for television if you're a beginner.
How a Book Becomes a Movie

How a Book Becomes a Movie

What authors need to know about the process of getting a book adapted to the big screen.
Clapperboard

How to Sell Your Screenplay (for Absolute Beginners)

Wondering how to sell your screenplay? Learn the most common paths to production for a first-time screenwriter.