It’s up to you, but we highly recommend it. In addition to helping you find a publisher, literary agents also handle the delicate negotiations that occur once a writer is offered a contract, and can give you expert guidance and advice. Contract negotiations can be lengthy and difficult to navigate. If you’re unfamiliar with a publishing contract and you sign on the dotted line because you’re just so excited about seeing your book in print, there’s a chance you might be giving away the farm. Publishers don’t design their contracts to benefit writers.

If you have someone on your side to help you negotiate, you can shift the balance a bit (particularly if you’re a good writer).

If an agent contacts you via Pubmission, rejoice. A good, reputable agent (and only reputable agents will be allowed on Pubmission) can do wonders for you.