I am deeply saddened to report the death of Craig Virden, my agent. I never had a chance to meet Craig in person, but from his first letter responding to my novel's first three chapters; I knew he was the agent for me, the perfect match. Craig had an impressive career in publishing and as an agent, including being named president and publisher of the Random House Books for Young Readers group.
The more I learn about him, the more it hits home as to what a truly unique and special person he was. It seems everyone has a story to tell about Craig Virden. It may seem strange, but it's true, you can miss someone without ever having met them. Whenever I've really connected with someone, it's always been from the moment I met them, or spoke to them on the phone, or in Craig's case the first time I received a letter from him, and boy what a letter it was. He let me know that his wife was not a fan of rodents, the main characters in my first MS, but he was alright with them! I could tell right away he was a joker and someone who probably loved life more than the most of us. From that moment on, I knew he was the exact agent I was looking for as if sent from above, a real person, someone who "gets it", someone I'd be proud to work with and more proud to know.
My heart goes out to the people who knew him and loved him, especially his wife, Nancy, and their two children.
If you'd like to learn more about Mr. Virden or attend his memorial service in NY on May 27th, Please click here. http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6656912.html?industryid=47074
I've known Craig Virden for years, a wonderful man and then some. He will be missed.
ReplyDeleteYou would have had a wonderful time learning from both Craig and Nancy. It should be comforting to know that Craig thought highly enough of your writing talents to sign you. The best thing you can do in his memory is just keep writing.
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