REPUTATION: WHAT WRITERS AND EDITORS SAY ABOUT JODIE RHODES
From: James Covington
Date: August 4, 2008 5:30:46 PM PDT
To: "Jodie Rhodes" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: STRIKING THE MATCH
Dear Jodie,
I am in your debt.
Your very informative advice is important, but more so is your remarkably kind attitude. I am often dismayed by agencies that after requiring 3 chapters, a synopsis, etc., send a rejection SASE without indicating knowledge of my name or a clue about the content of my query letter...Fortunate are the writers who get you as their agent.
I am very grateful for your elaborate, knowledgeable and persuasive response to my attempts to publish fiction.
With best regards and sincere thanks,
James
From: Roccie
Date: July 29, 2008 5:41:42 AM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: PW REVIEW
Hi Jodie,
You may have already seen this, but I wanted to let you know about it. I'm very, very excited about this good review in Publishers Weekly. Here is the link:
http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6581532.html
Thank you again for all you did for me, for selling the book to such a great, small publisher, and for never giving up.
I believe the publicist has scheduled a reading of 3 Minutes in San Diego for the fall, so I will let you know the date and place, if you don't mind, and hope to finally meet you then!
All the best,
Roccie
From: cthomas
Date: July 3, 2008 9:03:30 AM PDT
To: "Jodie Rhodes" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: WHEN A GIRL LOVES A BOY
I am amazed by your response times and the intricacy of your responses.
Thank you so much for your interest and suggestions. I worked on the attached corrections last night. I also completely reformatted the ms to all tabbed paragraphs.
I'm looking forward to discussing the creative suggestions with you.
Thanks Again
Charlene
From: Judith Gurewich
Date: May 2, 2008 3:05:40 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: LEAVING
Dear Jodie,
Frank Phelan is a beautiful writer and he knows how to tell his story well. The topic however is not quite right for us. But please send us more manuscripts. I can see you understand my love for good writing and heartfelt stories-
Best regards
Judith
From: "benzdr"
Date: April 27, 2008 3:47:09 PM PDT
To: "'Jodie Rhodes'" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: THE SECOND BIG BANG
Good heavens, Jodie, you certainly can come up with some superb non-fiction concepts. I don't think a history of the Standard Model has ever been done, I think it should be done, and it would make a hell of a book. I am definitely interested in the project.
Thanks!
Jim
From: Amy Gash
Date: April 15, 2008 2:43:56 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: FAMOUS BESTSELLING BIOLOGIST’S NEW BOOK
Jodie. Your books are always so fascinating. I'm interested in this topic and would love to see the proposal. I'm so glad you keep sending projects my way and I'm sure on one of them we're going to connect! Amy
From: "Aherne, John"
Date: March 5, 2008 3:23:20 PM PST
To: "Jodie Rhodes" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: DECISION THEORY
Hi Jodie,
Boy, am I glad I asked to see this. My colleagues and I really liked and responded to this proposal. We all thought it was great!
Thanks again for sending this wonderful proposal my way.
Best, John
John Aherne
Senior Editor
McGraw-Hill Professional
2 Penn Plaza, 23rd Floor
New York, NY 10121
From: "Jim Mahaffey"
Date: April 1, 2008 4:46:55 AM PST
To: "'Jodie Rhodes'" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: REPRESENTATION
Jodie,
I feel so fortunate to be represented by Jodie Rhodes, the best agent in the United States. You work hard, and always in my best interest.
Thanks.
Always,
Jim
From: Leeann
Date: February 28, 2008 9:59:50 PM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: good news
JODIE, YOU DID IT!!!
You believed in me, in my writing, and in our story. You made it happen. And I am grateful. Grateful for your professionalism. Knowledge. Business savvy. And interest in reaching out to new writers like me.
I wanted our story to change lives, to make an impact. You have made this a possibility. Thanks for taking a chance on me. I’m so excited! I can hardly wait to see the book in bookstores.
Leeann
From: "Pigeon, Bob"
Date: February 25, 2008 6:28:00 AM PST
To: "Jodie Rhodes" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: DECISION THEORY
Dear Jodie,
Your query letter has certainly aroused my curiosity and kindled my interest. Please do send this proposal and sample chapter as soon as convenient. Please send it to me via email attachment. Have you sent the proposal to any other imprint in the Perseus Books Group?
Looking forward to receiving the material.
Bob
Robert L. Pigeon, Executive Editor
Da Capo Press
From: arinzler
Date: February 23, 2008 7:42:14 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: offer on CURING AUTISM
Dear Jodie
I really appreciate your transparency in showing me the succession of
emails that led to this offer. Very interesting. Definitely a first.
In any case, it pains me to say this on many levels, but I recommend you
accept this offer. The editor has the passion for this that we just don't
have and I'm sure it will do much better in her shop than ours.
I do hope you and I can get together on another project soon. When are you coming to San Francisco next?
Alan
From: "Mary Cash"
Date: February 7, 2008 6:58:36 AM PST
To: "'Jodie Rhodes'" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: NEW YORKER WRITER'S YA NOVEL
Dear Jodie,
I cannot resist dropping you an email to tell you that your pitch letter for the novel MESSED UP by Janet Nichols Lynch was probably the most effective one I’ve ever read. Please send the rest of the manuscript.
Best wishes,
Mary
Mary Cash
Vice President and Editor-in-Chief
Holiday House
425 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10017
From: <jimstein
Date: February 5, 2008 1:44:38 PM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: news
Jodie,
You're a wonderful analyst.
That's a very provocative idea! I can certainly do that -- it would change the entire book from academic dull to hot pop culture
Thank you.
Jim
From: Miriam Boleyn-Fitzgerald
Date: January 24, 2008 7:51:17 PM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: exciting news
Dear Jodie,
This is fabulous news! I do not know how to begin to thank you for being the advocate you have been--for me and for PICTURES. I am absolutely thrilled with this outcome! I am, needless to say, incredibly grateful that you are BRILLIANT at what you do.
I cannot wait to get my teeth back into this book.
Have a wonderful evening.
My best,
Miriam
From: Raphael Kadushin
Date: December 26, 2007 8:04:48 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: PUSHCART PRIZE WINNER'S MEMOIR
Dear Jodie--Another book I would be glad to take a look at; could you send me the entire MS?
Thanks much, Raphael
ps congratulations. You have some very strong contenders here; very impressive
From: Elizabeth Cobbs Hoffman
Date: December 26, 2007 10:05:09 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: MEMOIR
Dear Jodie,
Is it true that the mind never sleeps? I can see that yours is turned on even when off! I will be delighted to work on all of the foregoing. Can't wait to start this coming weekend. What a pleasure it's been to have you as a pen pal and cheerleader these past months.
Happy New Years!
Lisa
From: Jennifer Martin
Date: December 29, 2007 6:12:21 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: WADING THROUGH THE WATER
Dear Jodie,
I'm sure I don't need to tell you what your response to my novel means to me. Cliche though it may be, writing Wading Through the Water really has been a labor of love for me
I also really appreciate that you've provided not just constructive criticism, but concrete constructive criticism that I can use.
I also appreciate your honesty about the chances of being published by a major publishing house, or any publishing house. I know that it is very difficult to sell fiction to publishers these days, especially fiction with a sad ending from an unknown writer.
Thank you again for everything. I'm looking forward to working with you.
Cheers -
Jennifer
From: Louise Young
Date: December 3, 2007 5:31:55 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: HAPPY NEWS
Hi Jodie --
I was working on my final copy of SEDUCING THE SPIRITS -- the first time I've read it in more than 6 months -- and I wanted to tell you how much I think your recommendations improved the book. I think that everything you asked me to rewrite (and everything you said should be deleted) were changes that should have been made. Thank you so much for the time you took to work on it, and for all of your thoughtful help. I really appreciate all you have done for my book – especially getting me a great publisher!
Saludos,
Louise
From: "Steve O'Hern"
Date: November 11, 2007 11:21:38 AM PST
To: "Jodie Rhodes" <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: NEWS
Dear Jodie,
I am back home and wanted to write you a proper thank you. You have done a great job in placing my book. First, you helped identify what the book really needed to be about resulting in a much better proposal. Then you quickly got it in the hands of several editors. Finally, you negotiated excellent terms for a first book by a new author.
Thank you.
Steve
From: Charles Spicer
Date: October 19, 2007 9:20:39 AM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: INSIDER EXPOSE ON PRIVATE CONTRACTORS
Dear Jodie:
I thank you for pitching this one to me - and, by the way, you write some of the most effective cover letters in the business. I'm always impressed! I'm afraid, though, that I just don't think this one will work on my list. But good luck with it.
Charlie
From: Jim Mahaffey
Date: October 17, 2007 11:46:26 AM PDT
To: 'Jodie Rhodes' <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: I'm a writer!
Jodie,
I just heard that Facts On File’s CEO has okayed my book in their
Edit meeting today.
You must realize that you’ve taken an absolute unknown and sold him to a publishing house in NYC. I’m very impressed!
Thanks for it all,
Jim
From: Elizabeth Lowry
Date: June 5, 2007 11:11:48 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: Windows Always Open
Hi Jodie,
Thank you for your email. I really appreciate the time you put into my novel, and the suggestions you gave me. I feel fortunate to have had such valuable feedback You were an attentive reader and an inspiring force when it came to a re-write.
In the end, what's most important to me is that you liked my work and that you were so generous with your time and help. I hope that sometime in the future (when I finish my next project!) you would be interested in seeing more of my writing.
Thanks again, and all the best to you,
Elizabeth
From: Frank Darmstadt
Date: May 31, 2007 2:14:08 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: RE: Ideas for THE NEW BIOLOGY
Thank you for being a sterling agent and a golden human being.
I am honored as always to know you.
fkd
From: "Mclaughlin, Ciara"
Date: May 11, 2007 7:00:15 AM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: LEAVING
Dear Jodie,
I want to tell you that I'm leaving Spiegel & Grau and today is my last day. It's been wonderful working with you and I hope we'll connect again in the future. You have such a talented roster of writers and I admire your unflagging dedication and loyalty to them--you are a dream agent.
Best,
Ciara
From: DedeHend
Date: May 28, 2007 12:09:03 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: Re: LICKING HONEY FROM THORNS
Dear Ms. Rhodes,
I am sorry you decided to pass on Licking Honey from Thorns, but I want to thank you so much for taking the time to explain why. Before your e-mail arrived, I was ready to put Licking Honey on the shelf with a big sign, "BAD BOOK." After learning you found a home for a manuscript that had been rejected 217 times, I am heartened that I, too, can find a dedicated agent who will help me. I will begin sending letters to agents and hope I will be fortunate enough to find one with your drive, determination, and love of books. Thank you Jodie.
Sincerely,
Dede Henderson
From: Karin Muller
Date: April 28, 2007 7:31:25 AM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: Combat
Dear Jodie,
THANK YOU! I know you're overwhelmed with work and this is the last thing you need to occupy yourself with. Your advice below is excellent and I will squeeze it into my no-more-than-one-page query letter. I was using my 2003 Literary Guide as a reference on Dos and Don'ts and came across an excellent article which I followed to the last detail - and then suddenly realized that you were the author. So thank you twice over for that. It was extremely well written and helped enormously.
I'm afraid that a long visit to he bookstore made me realize just how difficult this field is going to be to break into - virtually all of the humor books were by household names - Steve Martin, Ellen Degeneres, and the like. It may not be possible to sell humor nowadays unless you have a successful standup comic reputation that you can deliver on.
But I'm working on my next book, which will be truly literary
and bring me back to you. In the meantime, thank you for setting me on the right path.
You are a great friend, Jodie, and a really good person.
Karin
From: Daniel Chacon
Date: April 24, 2007 12:25:14 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: You're a genuis!
Jodie,
Last night I looked at the novel again and looked at the pages you isolated and saw how it would work as I think you see it, a linear story, from Victor dying to getting into art, to going to Paris etc.
I see how well it works.
My God, that you were able to see that from the beginning amazes me.
Revealing the story the way you are suggesting, I have found some things in the detail that I didn't notice but that make the story more true, more unified. For example, in doing it this way, I see how Equis fits into the narrative, deepens it. Among many other things.
I see.
I see also how part two is going to work, how much more meaningful it will be to the reader -- how the death of Sonya-Assis will assert its way into the later narrative in Mexico, how the unfinished business will be dealt with.
Also: I believe in the novel again. This seems the most important thing. I knew there was something wrong with what I sent you. It didn't move me.
Now, Victor's story is damn interesting.
How did you know that??
The funny thing is, only now, as I do these revisions and reshape the storyline (and see how well it works), I suddenly remember an early tug at my soul (years ago) that told me the novel needed to be first person and linear.
So thank you.
You have my deepest respect,
Daniel
From: "Dlouhy, Caitlyn"
Date: March 30, 2007 12:31:15 PM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Mira Tweti ms.
Hi there Jodie,
Thanks again for giving me the opportunity to consider HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE.
As always, I look forward to your submissions, Jodie. You always find something interesting!
My best,
Caitlyn
Caitlyn M. Dlouhy
Editorial Director
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Simon & Schuster Publishers
From: "Masterman, Becky"
Date: March 19, 2007 2:20:58 PM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: One Tough Broad
Jodie, I’m about to start shopping my first trade book with real sales potential and because I know you and respect your publishing opinion so much, I’m asking you to take a look at the attached.
I’d appreciate your consideration, Jodie. If not, I’d appreciate your letting me know how I might improve my query.
Thanks. Becky
Becky McEldowney Masterman
Senior Acquisitions Editor
Taylor & Francis Group
From: "Masterman, Becky"
Date: March 21, 2007 9:48:56 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: One Tough Broad
You’re such a dear for counseling me on all this, Jodie. I adore my character despite her flaws, because she’s so vulnerable and loves greatly. I’ll make sure that the story conveys her tenderness as well as her temper. Now I’ve taken enough of your time—go make a living.
Becky McEldowney Masterman
Senior Acquisitions Editor
Taylor & Francis Group
From: Juliet Grames
Date: March 19, 2007 11:26:15 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: FROM SANDRA CISNEROS
Dear Jodie,
I’m glad you thought of me for this project, and since I’m familiar with some of the exciting nonfiction components of your list I hope you’ll keep me in mind when you go out with some of those projects, too. Peter brought me on here in hopes that I can build the women’s fiction and nonfiction list, and I know I’ve seen some great women’s nonfiction from you.
Thanks for this!
Juliet
From: "Sternlight, Judy"
Date: March 20, 2007 10:14:23 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Train to Trieste_Domnica Radulescu
Dear Jodie,
We haven't worked together yet so I was especially looking forward to this submission. It has some interesting parallels with a novel on my list: Absent by Betool Khedairi (an Iraqi born writer) which we are publishing in trade paperback this summer.
I’m very happy that we’ve now made contact and would like to tell you about myself for future possibilities.
I am a Random House and Modern Library editor and my authors include Naeem Murr who just won the Commonwealth Prize for Europe and South Asia for The Perfect Man, Ana Castillo, Paula Deen, Peter Matthiessen, Joyce Carol Oates, David Cordingly, Margaret Mittelbach and Marsha Mehran.
For Modern Library I pursue new translations like NADA by Carmen Laforet in a new Edith Grossman translation (1945 post Spanish civil war classic that’s getting fantastic reviews). I acquire for our new Mortalis mystery program (international/historical thrillers and mysteries) and I am especially on the lookout for narrative non-fiction (current, history, popular science, animals and their bond with people, philosophy).
Best wishes, Judy
Judy Sternlight, Editor
Random House Publishing Group
From: Tonja
Date: December 7, 2006 7:09:58 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Tonja Krautter
Hi Jodie,
I just wanted to wish you a very happy holiday this year. I think about you often and continue to be incredibly grateful for all your help in publishing my book. I have been having fun with promotions. Things are going well. Take good care and have a safe New Year.
Sincerely, Tonja
From: Constance Hilliard
Date: December 29, 2006 12:07:53 PM PST
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: Re: The Israel book's theme
Wow, Jodie. I don't know how to thank you enough for the skillful way you fixed this proposal. It sounds great and now that I've read the revision I see how much more authoritative I seem as an author. You're a genius. I've just mailed back the two copies of the contract.
Also, please change the completion date to March 2008.
Thanks so much again. Please keep me posted.
Connie
From: Billyandshake
Date: October 17, 2006 2:22:30 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: Re: SMALL TOWNS
HI Jodie -- I just got back from two days in the city and got your e.mail. I'm thrilled with your suggestions and the fact that you took so much time to figure out the problems with the book. Since this was really taken from your slush pile I cannot thank you enough for your thoughtful analysis of what I need to do.
I figure it will take me a couple of weeks to do it since I work full time. Shaving off a hundred pages or so shouldn't be hard and I will take out the neurotic stuff and lighten up on the dog. And work on the typos (really embarrassed about that -- sorry).
When I have done what you suggested may I send it back to you?
And again, thank you a million times. You have been incredibly generous with me.
Hildy
From: Gayatri Patnaik
Date: July 13, 2006 2:43:14 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: GRINGO LAND
Jodie, this really sounds terrific. Let me ask at Tuesday’s editorial meeting about it. I like the flavor of your description very much and I’ll be in touch about it in a few days.
I like the clients you represent!
Best,
Gayatri
From: Laurence Lockridge
Date: July 11, 2006 8:35:11 AM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: AFTERTHOUGHTS
Dear Jodie,
I'm delighted at your enthusiastic response to Out of Wedlock and heartily accept your offer of literary representation. I sense this is the beginning of a wonderful partnership.
I so appreciate the information you sent on your agency and am most impressed with your diligence, wit, and thoroughness. Your willingness to keep authors informed along the way is, I know, unusual. Press Stories, the Brochure, and the Marketing file make for the kind of exciting reading that could go to an author's head. So I'm at the ready. You'll find me an obliging author, easy to work with.
I'm very happy.
Warmly, Larry
From: Agate Publishing
Date: July 11, 2006 4:02:32 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: LEADERSHIP BOOK BY AUTHOR WITH STRONG PLATFORM
Congrats on the big money from Wiley.
Jodie. I think you send us great stuff every time you reach out to me, and I've come very close on a couple of projects. I always, always appreciate it when you send us something. It's just that we're still so small, we only acquire a tiny fraction of the great stuff that comes our way.
Best,
Doug
From: "Potash, Chris"
Date: May 10, 2006 2:48:55 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: NEW CHAPTER ON MATH BOOK
Jodie
Wanted you to know that after six years here at Rodale, I'll be moving on. Hope to end up at a house that publishes the kind of books you usually pitch.
I have immensely enjoyed corresponding with you.
I like your mind. I wish you the very best with Stein's book, as well as with all other projects that come your way. You're a class act, Jodie, and perhaps we'll deal on a professional level again with each other. I honestly hope so. Meantime, keep doing quality books. The world needs you!
All best,
Chris
From: qeceggs
Date: May 11, 2006 9:53:44 AM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: McCall
Jodie:
You are the most reasonable and intelligent agent with whom I’ve ever dealt.
I’m going to rewrite the ending in keeping with your original suggestion.
Let me know what I can do to shove things along. Meanwhile, I'll try to locate all letters and get copies of them to you.
John
From: "Alexander, Caitlin"
Date: September 16, 2005 2:24:17 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: diag of love
Jodie, I'm more delighted than I could possibly convey in an e-mail-what a treat it will be to have this project with you! (And how privileged I feel to have any project with an agent so committed to her authors.)
Let's hammer out the terms and territories next week when you have a sense of the UK response. I'm really looking forward to chatting with Maggie at that point, too. And thanks for being such a dear-I think the worst part of an
editor's job is negotiations!
Hope you have a lovely weekend-
Caitlin
From: "Van Aalst, Mariska"
Date: April 19, 2006 7:19:50 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: BEA?
Dear Jodie,
I'm making plans for BEA -- are you planning to come? I would love to meet you, as we don't often get the opportunity to be on the same coast. I'd love to get together sometime on Friday, if you have a moment open on your roster.
I've attached an updated list of my books, for your reference. I admire your list very much and I'd love to do a project together soon.
Hope you're well,
Mariska
From: emily knudsen
Date: April 15, 2006 7:24:12 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: RE: PROPOSALS
Dear Jodie,
I loved talking with you and will be ever grateful for our conversation and your wise insights!
I just got everything you sent and loved your ideas for a beginning and end and for the title - I can't believe you just whipped that beginning story part out just now! Wow, you really are amazing!!
I plan on taking the time right now to do extensive research and homework in the way of memoirs as you suggested and to then take your ideas and write out an amazing proposal and outline!! So look for it in the future!
You've given me a lot of hope.
Thank you again,
Emily
Hello!
I was recently offered representation by Jodie Rhodes for a multicultural novel I've written and am excited about the opportunity! I was wondering what your experiences working with Ms. Rhodes has been, both positive and negative. Thanks so much for your time and thoughts.
Sincerely,
Laxmi Raman Rees
From: Susan Vanhecke
Date: July 30, 2006 3:42:29 AM PDT
Subject: Re: Jodie Rhodes
Hi Laxmi,
Congratulations!
You won't find a harder-working agent than Jodie Rhodes. Other agents give up on you and your project after the first round of rejections. Not Jodie. If she believes in your manuscript or proposal, she'll market it to every house she can find until she secures a home for it.
Then she shows her real skill: contract negotiation. Jodie's a bulldog, a tireless advocate for her writers. She'll get you the best terms, things you'd never have dreamed of. She'll ensure that you retain as many of your rights as possible, and help YOU to generate more income from them, not the publisher.
Jodie's a big-picture thinker –when it comes to landing a deal, securing a contract, maximizing revenue potential. And she'll keep you informed every step of the way. I've been amazed by her work.
Jodie also cuts right to the chase, which, I suppose, could be considered a negative if you have a thin skin. I find it refreshing myself, and a huge time-saver. If something's not working, she'll tell you in no uncertain terms, then guide you to a solution.
I'm thrilled to have Jodie on my side.
Hope this helps,
Sue VanHecke
*****************************************
Dear Laxmi (and please call me Kavita!)
Thanks so much for your note, and my apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
Congratulations on your book and possibly working with Jodie!
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about her. She is really passionate about what she does, and if she loves a project, throws herself into getting a deal for it. She's very honest and up-front, will always tell you what she thinks and is just, well, accountable, for lack of a better word. I would definitely encourage you to try out working with her. If you do your part, she will do hers.
Best
Kavita
From: "Robert Plotkin, Esq."
Date: August 4, 2006 12:20:37 PM PDT
Subject: RE: Jodie Rhodes
Dear Ms. Rees,
I have been extremely satisfied with Jodie's
representation of me.
I am a lawyer and a first-time author of a non-fiction book on the legal and business implications of computer-generated inventions.
This is an arcane topic but something I am passionate about. Jodie worked extremely hard over the course of a few months, marketing the book to publishers worldwide. I am thrilled to be on the verge of signing with Stanford University Press; Penguin India will also publish it. We are pursuing additional foreign rights.
I appreciate the way in which Jodie keeps me informed of the status of her efforts. Whenever she sends/receives an email to/from a publisher, she forwards it to me. As a result, I always know what is going on. And she always responds to my emails promptly.
In short, Jodie has exceeded my expectations and I look
forward to working with her on many additional books in the future!
Robert Plotkin
Attorney at Law (Robert Plotkin, P.C.)
Lecturer (Boston University School of Law)
From: Pat Moffat
Date: August 3, 2006 3:19:18 PM PDT
Subject: Jodie Rhodes
Hi Laxmi,
We can't recommend Jodie highly enough. (It's my husband who is writing the book on physics, I'm editing it.) She was so excited about the book proposal in the beginning, she wrote a wonderful pitch letter to editors, and worked very hard in selling it. She managed to get an auction going in Canada, and sold to a very good publisher in New York too. Now, 6 months after those sales, she is still trying to sell foreign and translation rights.
We think she is wonderful and are very happy with her successes with our book.
Good luck to you! I'd be curious to know what you decide to do.
Pat Moffat
From: Creisen
Date: July 30, 2006 12:47:06 PM PDT
Subject: Jodie Rhodes
Dear Laxmi Rees:
I've just signed up with Jodie Rhodes. She seems enormously energetic, and very inventive, and funny, and charming, and may have sold my novel -- I personally like her -- I will know in a couple of days about the book.
Craig Eisendrath
From: mlefflerm
Date: July 30, 2006 10:15:47 AM PDT
Subject: Re: From Jodie Rhodes
Hi there!
I had good results with Jodie. I have never met her, never spoken to her on the phone or anything. And, in fact, since I'm from the east coast I was sure that I would need a New York agent. Jodie was the only west coast agent that I queried, and the only reason I wrote to her was because she'd sold my friend's young adult novel really fast. I can tell you that within 3 weeks of offering me representation, she got my novel sold to Bantam. Jodie gets the job done. That's what I generally tell people. If she wants to take you on, it means she's passionate about what you've got. I also like that she kept me in the loop by forwarding to me every email that she sent out to publishers and their responses, so you, the writer, know exactly what's going on. That's basically all I can say. The job got done. My novel was sold--quickly, too. Good luck finding the best home for your novel. If you have any other questions, I'm happy to answer them.
Maggie Martin
From: "Many Ly"
Date: August 1, 2006 10:21:29 AM PDT
Subject: Jodie Rhodes
Hi,
Congratulations on the offer. Jodie is very aggressive, so she'll work hard for you. You probably already know that it is difficult to get representation from anyone, so I would not think lightly of this offer.
Take care and best of luck to you.
Many
From: "S. Traugh"
Date: April 12, 2006 11:57:49 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes
Subject: Re: BOOK SERIES
Dear Jodie,
When I read your e-mail to Steven, he said, "You gotta love that woman!" I agree. Not that I like being rejected of course...but I love your integrity and clear vision. One day I hope to write a book that will be a "fit." It would be fun to work with you.
In the meantime, take care.
Susan
----- Original Message ----- From: "Jodie Rhodes"
Sent: Wednesday, April 12, 2006 1:33 PM
Subject: BOOK SERIES
dear susan,
it was nice hearing from you and i think your NOW AND THENS series is a wonderful idea
however, even though i realize the strong need for books that kids with reading problems can comprehend, i am so personally turned off by "dumbed down" writing that I just could never represent it.
you seem to be very knowledgeable in this field and i'm sure you know what you're doing
however, i still harbor a hope that wonderfully dramatic and well written books can attract even the slow readers. to me, it's not a matter of dumbing down but avoiding highly sophisticated writing with words that can send almost anyone to the dictionary
i do wish you all success with your project
best, Jodie
From: "Potash, Chris"
Date: February 23, 2006 10:40:45 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: OF GODS, GENES, APES AND MAN
Oh, Jodie, bless you. You always are sending projects that sound fascinating to me, partly because I think you and I have similar tastes and partly because your cover emails are so well written and effective. I just now checked Amazon to see if you've been on the opposite side of the publishing fence, as an author: Are those your paperbacks from the 1980s?
Of course, connecting on a book that fascinates Rodale's sales, marketing, and publicity teams as well is a slightly different matter, but we're working on that....
Yes, please do send the proposal. I'm heading to NY in about an hour for an evening meeting, so if you email before then I'll take it with me to hopefully read on the bus.
Hope you've been well. FYI, JAPANLAND is set for paperback release in October or November. Looking for blurbs, I realized how much publicity the book got. We'll be trying for more in the fall.
Best!
Hi Jodie:
Thanks again for forwarding these messages. You asked if I had ever had an agent before. I did for a brief period right after my short story collection came out. We parted company because I felt she didn't do anything for me--didn't offer me one word of feedback, etc. I love working with you because you offer such quick and specific criticism and are so involved. I appreciate you so much!
Kathleen
From: Laura Bentley
Date: March 5, 2006 7:11:24 PM PST
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: MAN IN THE SILVER SUIT
March 5, 2006
Dear Ms. Rhodes,
I loved your suggestions but I had just rewritten my entire novel for another agent who had asked me to resubmit, and was not ready to start all over without a contract.
However, I have now reimagined my novel based on your wise and detailed suggestions, and I have added more flashbacks about Conor. and am hoping you will give my revised novel a second look.
All the best,
Laura
From: Daniel Craig
Date: February 21, 2006 9:50:32 AM PST
To: Jodie Rhodes
Dear Jodie,
I'm so lucky to have you, still working so hard despite all this rejection. If we get this book published I will always use you as an example of how faith and tenacity can eventually pay off. I will send Pegasus my manuscript by the end
of the week, formatted as per your previous instructions. Should I include the synopsis or ms. only? I was working on a revised Synopsis for Poisoned Press last night, and so far I think it's stronger than the original. If you want me
to send it I'll finish it off & send to you prior to review. Or should I send the one we've been using?
Thanks.
Dan
(p.s. After 65 rejections, I finally sold his book to Midnight Ink who made a very nice 3-book offer)
dear jodie,
i'm sending the first 50 pps of rewrite via mail today.
it's taken me a little while to let all the things you said in our last phone call sink in. i'm so appreciative of the feedback you've given, i've wanted to make sure to honor it by not rushing into the rewrite. you said i would not write something worthy if i kept forcing myself on my characters. i've stepped back so my characters can step forward.
again, many thanks. you are helping me become a better writer. i'm lucky for this and know it.
best,
liz ross
Dearest Jodie,
I am in a complete state of exuberance and gratitude. I am mostly happy and grateful because I feel you have given me a precious key to not only the improvement of this novel, but to novel writing in general. Nobody has ever done that for me.
I apologize for my initial pretentiousness about experimental writing, I can confess now that when I first got your message about my novel totally lacking cohesive narrative structure, I sat and cried for two hours non stop, so today when we started talking I felt so defensive.
But by talking with you I understood so well what was missing from my novel and it became so clear how I can make it work.
My head is exploding with ideas about making the transitions and adding more drama where needed. I will put this as my main priority and try to finish it within the next two months. You have truly inspired me.
I'll send the signed contract right away.
Thanks for everything.
Domnica
(NOTE: after 167 rejections, her book TRAIN TO TRIESTE was sold to Knopf in the U.S. and won at auction by DOUBLEDAY in the UK,
translation rights were grabbed up by 9 major overseas publishers, audio rights won at auction, endorsed by bestselling authors and extraordinary reviews are pouring in from major newspapers and magazines)
Date: September 9, 2005 4:31:43 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes
Subject: edited proposal
Jodie,
I just read your edited version of my proposal. You are good.
I am amazed that we have never met, yet you can describe me better than I can!
regards,
jake
From: jake banks
Date: September 9, 2005 4:17:26 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: POSSIBLE SOLUTION FOR HARD COPY - DRUGGED - A MEMOIR OF TRIAL LAWYER TURNED DRUG DEALER
Super Agent Jodie,
If I have failed to mention what a fantastic job you are doing representing my book, let me do so now. You are great! You are amazing! You are the best!
I am excited at the possibilities and I really appreciate your work.
jake
From: Scott Hagwood
Date: August 10, 2005 3:33:00 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: Re: Checking In
Dear Jodie:
Congratulations! You must be the hardest working literary
agent in the U.S.
Thank you for all the work you did for my friend. You are in a very influential position. I know that I often think of you and
thank you inwardly for the amazing opportunities you have
brought to me. The rewards are still coming. I am sure Jamie
realizes the harvest of having a great agent as well.
All my best,
Scott
From: Rosemary Ahern
Date: May 6, 2004 12:48:33 PM PDT
To: Jodie Rhodes <jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: RE: 3 MINUTES ON LOVE
You are one smart person/agent…Your authors are lucky to have you. I like the writing and sensibility in these pages. Please do send the rest.
Best,
R.
Hello Jodie Rhodes,
As Matt's publisher I am very excited about your representing LAND WITHOUT EVIL. I've read articles you've written and articles written about you, and I've been wanting to meet you. What comes across is your boundless energy wired with good organizational skills, clarity of intention, and directness.
Just know that I am available to assist you in anyway possible to help further Matt's book. Not only are you getting a quality book to represent, working with Matt is an absolute joy.
Warmest regards,
Barbara Villasenor
From: Niz9
Date: July 8, 2004 4:21:06 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: Re: Marketing
Dear Jodie,
I think you are the most amazingly sensitive, open, and enthusiastic agent I have ever spoken to or heard of (and I have heard of lots),
I trust you, and believe you will do the best thing you can for us and for the book.
And again, thanks for believing in me and the book.
Best,
Roccie
Dear Jodie,
You and I have never done a book together, and I'd love to try to change that this year. Would you like to have lunch sometime?
All the best--
Hope
---------------------------------------
Hope Dellon
Executive Editor
St. Martin's Press
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
(212) 674-5151, ext. 212
Dear Jodie,
Just to let you know I received your critiques and top pick today. Thank you so ever much. Your comments on the entries are absolutely fabulous, some of the best we've ever received. Your honesty is much appreciated, and I know the entrants will be immensely grateful for the feedback.
If you're ever interested in writing an article for the magazine, do let us know. You have very valuable advice for writers.
Best wishes,
Jane
Jane Friedman
Managing Editor
Writer's Digest
4700 E. Galbraith Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45236
From: Niz9
Date: April 9, 2004 12:27:24 PM PDT
To: jrhodes1@san.rr.com
Subject: i had been told you were amazing ....
Jodie
I had been told you were amazing at marketing, but this is far beyond what I imagined!!! You've got the whole world excited about my book.
Best,
Roccie
Dear Jodie:
I had no idea that you can perform magic! You are soooooooooo good! What can I say to tell you how impressed I am with your talent as an agent and with your considerate gesture in forwarding the messages. Your pithy sales pitch cannot be more powerful and your system of communication is outstanding.
With admiration and appreciation, Kim
__________________________________________________________
Howdy Jodie,
Congratulations on the three-page write-up about you and your agency in the new GUIDE TO LITERARY AGENTS. It’s a great article; I was so impressed I read it twice.
And I learned some interesting Information. I think you certainly nailed it when you talked about the many large, recognized agencies with their stable of established writers who turn out a book every year that sells with very little effort. I know about them because I’m their unknown, new writer in whom they are not interested.
Thank heavens for new agencies like yours who are willing to be an advocate for new writers. Your “Any Other Tips for Writers,” the closing section, was especially helpful to me. I wish, somehow, that your comments about enlightened perseverance could be required reading at every writers conference.
Kudos for Jodie. And congratulations on a well-deserved tribute.
Harry
Jodie,
I feel as though I have known you a long time. Your ability to come across so intelligently and genuinely in such a brief phone conversation makes it clear why you are such a successful agent.
A signed copy of the contract (delightfully brief and understandable!) will go out in Friday's mail, and I anticipate updating the proposal and sample chapters to be sent by e-mail at some point over the weekend. Let me know if you want me to send copies by snail mail.
I look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
Larry
>>Subject: Re: Reference for Jodie Rhodes
>Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2001 22:38:02
>
Dear Jerry,
I can't speak highly enough about Jodie Rhodes' ability and performance as an agent. She spent a lot of personal time polishing my proposal. When the revised proposal was in the mail, she wasted no time querying editors. Within two weeks of receiving my proposal, she held an auction for my book, with Time/Warner, Bantam Books, and St. Martins Press participating. It was incredible. She copied me on every reply from every editor/publishing house. In short, she did everything she said she would, and so much more.
I have spent the last seven years working with various agents, all reportedly outstanding, top-notch, successful agents. I will spare you the horror stories. Most of the seven years was spent waiting to hear anything. In spite of their boasting, not one ever copied me on an editor's reply, or even told me where they sent my proposal. To be honest, I had almost decided to publish on IPublish when I met Jodie. Unlike the others, Jodie is refreshing, open and enthusiastic. She is also a fellow author. I believed her when she told me I would be able to reach her. I am so grateful I met her.
My most recent New York agent, after waiting nearly a year to get back to me, informed me that the one editor she sent the proposal to "confirmed her suspicion that my book did not have a big enough audience". Jodie sent my proposal to twenty-one major publishing house editors, held an auction, and generated a sale (Time/Warner), all in two weeks.
Best wishes with your book. You will not go wrong with Jodie representing you.
Frances Kermeen
Jodie:
No matter what happens with "The Brave" I will be happy that this book touched your heart. I respect you more than this firefighter can put into words. For that alone, I have succeeded in telling my story.
I hope my honesty and dedication to this book, along with your unbelievable commitment to me will get this story where it needs to be.
If you were a firefighter I would want you with me in the tightest place should our lives depend on it. You have my instant and forever trust.
Sincerely and with great respect;
George Pickett
Dear Gary:
I am very happy to provide you my candid opinion of Jodie's work and will still call you as well if you would like. I attended a workshop that Jodie held at the Learning Annex that was very informative and helpful and provided some insight to her knowledge and experience with the writing industry. Based on my first impression of Jodie, I decided to attend her Wednesday night Workshop.
At the first workshop, I realized how insightful, straightforward and truly talented Jodie was. She made an immediate assessment of my writing and lack of professional guidance that was completely accurate. She told me the problems with my writing, why they were problems, what I needed to do to correct those problems and assessed the positive aspects of my writing abilities as well.
From the very first workshop, I realized why I had received rejection letters. This is something that the rejection letters did not provide; the answers. What I needed to "fix"; my answers were being given to me on a platter by Jodie. She had unraveled a frustrating mystery.
I feel that she has provided me with a key. The information she provides allows me to go back and create, and develop. Her words wake me at night, and I literally write based on the feedback she has provided. I love it! Although, I am very sleepy the next day. : )
I think she is wonderful!
I will still be happy to talk with you on the phone and I hope this helps.
Marguerite McCurley
From: "Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory"
To: "Jodie Rhodes" < jrhodes1@san.rr.com>
Subject: contract, turtles and sharks
Date: Thu, Aug 30, 2001, 6:33 PM
Hi - I received the contract, signed and mailed it - what a momentous occasion! The awful truth is - now that it's safe to admit it - is that I’ve been trying to sell this book for the last 10 (TEN!) years and 2 other agents tried and failed with it - Julian Bach and Max Gartenberg in New York - - so you have succeeded against even worse odds than you knew - at one point, Wisdom Publishing - a non profit Buddhist publisher in Boston said they were going to do it and then backed out in favor of another project of translating ancient Chinese material. - Fear not - there are no other skeletons in any closets concerning this or anything else.
Once again, congratulations in achieving the impossible!
Anne
Dear Denise,
I have been a client of Jodie Rhodes for approximately eighteen months. During that time, she helped shape my book proposal and presented it to the right people. Then she conducted an auction of the work with top literary houses, securing the best possible terms. After the work was sold, she cheered me on during the writing process. More than that -- and perhaps more importantly -- she has viewed my career as a whole, not just a book. I am currently working on another proposal, and she has been most enthusiastic and supportive.
She believes in the clients she serves. Her expectations are that you work hard, demonstrate professionalism, and show an ability to learn and receive feedback. I think of myself as fortunate to have such literary representation.
I hope this answers your questions. If you need any further information, please don't hesitate to ask.
Best,
Karen J. Foli
"Like Sound Through Water: A Mother's Journey Through Auditory Processing
Disorder" (Pocket Books, February 2002)
----------
>From: "Regina Coffman"
>Subject: 3 hours of talking
>Date: Mon, Jun 25, 2001, 10:18 PM
>
> Dear Ms. Rhodes,
>
> Yesterday I attended your Learning Annex Workshop. You spoke for three hours and I just want you to know that you did a fabulous job at holding my attention. You were concise, totally honest, inspiring, and emotionally provocative. I am betting your writing and negotiating skills are as good as your orating. Thank you for the information. I have passed it along to two other writers and will store it away for myself for another time.
>
> Kind Regards,
> Satisfied Listener
>
> Regina Coffman
> CEO Intelligent Nutrition
>