What the AALA’s Ethical Code Really Means for Writers: A Guide for Authors and Aspiring Agents

Learn the rules on reading fees, client money, and editorial services to find a legitimate literary agent or build an ethical practice. Host: Dr. Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander PhDAI Co-host: Ethos (a persona of Google Gemini, with its imperfections documented for authenticity) Listen to “Literary Agent Ethics: The AALA Rules on Fees, Editing & Client Money” on Spreaker. … Read more

The Legitimate Literary Agent: AALA Membership, Ethics, and No Upfront Fees (Part 4)

While many reputable agents are AALA members, membership is not mandatory for an agent or agency to be legitimate. The key indicator of a reputable literary agency, whether an AALA member or not, is that they do not charge upfront fees to the author and work on a commission basis, earning money only when they … Read more

Literary Agent Querying Best Practices (Part Three)

In a comprehensive podcast analysis, Dr. Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander PhD explores the essential strategies for authors seeking literary representation, drawing directly from the expertise of Bookends Literary Agency. The discussion reveals critical insights into the modern querying process, emphasizing efficiency, professionalism, and strategic alignment between authors and agents. Listen to “Literary Agent Querying Best Practices” … Read more

What is a Lo-Fi Audiobook Podcast? | A New Way to Experience Books

Dr. Hakeem Alexander explains his project to create serialized lo-fi audiobook podcasts. Learn how the aesthetic of analog imperfections—tape hiss, vinyl crackle, and ambient noise—brings a new layer of atmosphere to audiobooks and spoken-word content. Listen to “The Art of Lo-Fi Audiobook Podcasts: Serializing Books with Analog Soul” on Spreaker. Currently Complete Lo-Fi, AudioBook PodCasts … Read more