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Thank you Marsha for answering a few questions for us! Please tell us about your work, your books, your agency.

I started Marcus Bryan & Associates, a literary agency, more than 12 years ago to help new writers keep writing. I knew most writers give up when they start getting rejection letters, and that was something I wanted to change. I have had more than 100 clients since then, and every day there are more e-mails from prospective clients requesting representation.

Besides being an agent, I have published three children’s books and two books for adults - one non-fiction and one traditional drama. I also have written eleven screenplays, and two of them have been optioned by production companies. In addition to that, I have opened an author services company, Michigan Avenue Media, which will help writers get their books ready for publication and handle their public relations so they can attain the success they dream about.

Have you ever received any awards?

I rarely apply to contests, but I have won two awards for my screenplays. Every time someone stops me to tell me they read one of my books and they like the stories I tell, that is much more gratifying than any award.

Do you also do speaking engagements, or seminars?

I have done a few book signings and talks at stores like Barnes & Noble and Walden Books in the Chicagoland area, and have been interviewed about my work on local television. I will be doing many more speaking engagements in the future, as well as book signings and readings of my books and poems to children. I have been asked to speak at several schools as well as a children’s museum in the Chicagoland area.

What kind of other works (books, scripts, poems etc.) have you had published? 

I have six books on Amazon right now. The Magical Leaping Lizard Potion, The Busy Bus - A Collection of Short Children's Poems, and Snack Attack are my children’s books. Sala, More Than a Survivor is a true story. My novel Love Changes is a drama, and I also published one of my screenplays, It's Never Too Late as a book. My readers have enjoyed my books and that is the reason I keep writing.

Is there any aspect to your profession that gets you in touch with your readers directly?

I recently started writing a blog, which will certainly keep me in close touch with my readers. With this blog I am hoping to help new writers understand this business a little better. I also try to assure new writers that there is a place for them; they just have to believe that all things are possible.

What type of work is the most rewarding or satisfying for you?

I would have to say fiction. I love creating new characters and seeing where their stories lead them.

What can you recommend for writers who are just getting started and are trying to make a name for themselves?

Before they try to make a name for themselves, I think they should try to learn the business and get better at their craft. You have to revise your work, get it edited, and keep improving. I think it takes time to be a good writer and you really should love writing to have an audience. If you keep at it, you will get better and build an audience.   

How did you get started as a writer?

I guess I just started to write. I never in a million years thought that I would ever have published books and optioned scripts. That’s the fun part.

Which is your favorite book/work published? Is there a favorite?

I would have to say “Love Changes” is still my favorite story and the one that was the hardest to write because of the amount of research it took. I first wrote it as a book, and then I wrote a screenplay based on the characters. It was a very hard book to write and, when I was finished, I missed my characters as if they were part of my family.  

What does a typical work day look like for you?

I don’t think I have had a typical day. I talk to production companies a lot, and I do talk to clients quite a bit. I know how I felt when I was starting out, and I don’t think I can stop helping new writers. My only problem is there are not enough hours in the day.

Have you ever had a mentor, or someone who sparked your passion for writing?

No, not really. I just love writing so much. I know that every day has a story behind it, and every day I try to find it in some small way – which gives me new ideas and great characters to write stories about.

Finally, a most important question: what was the last song you sang out loud when you were by yourself?  :)

“Bye Bye, Birdie.” After watching an episode of “Mad Men” where this song was featured, I kept humming it. Singing has never been a focal point of my life. I’m sure if people heard me sing, they would be glad I keep it to myself.

Thank you Marsha and congratulations on your new blog!