1-on-1 Coaching with Literary Agent Sam Hiyate

Meet with a personal writing coach and get the critical feedback, advice, editing, and regular doses of accountability you need to finish your book.

If group coaching programs aren't your thing, or if you're looking for a more intimate way to hone your craft, a 1-on-1 is for you. A 3 or 6 month mentoring program with Sam, a sought-after literary agent with decades of experience in the publishing industry, could save you years of additional work and self doubt and put you on the fast track to (finally) finishing your writing.

Learn what's not working in your book, what changes could make it better, and leave with actionable next steps to help you publish your best work.

How it Works

Over the course of 3 or 6 months you will meet with Sam every other week for a total of 6 or 12 sessions. Each session includes:

• 45 minutes 1-on-1 with an experienced literary agent with 30+ years of experience
• Tips on how to create a book outline and structure that flows
  
• Insight into understanding what's working in your story—and what's not
• Critique to help you improve your writing craft—including characters, plot, and dialogue
• A roadmap of actionable steps you can take to see real progress

About Sam Hiyate

Sam is President of The Rights Factory, an international literary agency based in Toronto.

In his 30+ year publishing career he has worked at literary magazines, small presses and with New York Times & Globe and Mail bestsellers. 

Sam has published bestselling authors including: 

• Jennifer Close (Girls in White Dresses, The Smart One, The Hopefuls)
• David Gilmour (CBC's Gilmour on the Arts, Lost Between Houses, The Film Club)
• Mariko Tamaki (Skim, Emiko Superstar, This One Summer)
• Andrew Kaufman (All My Friends Are Superheroes, The Tiny Wife)
• Margot Berwin (Hothouse Flower, Nine Plants of Desire)
• Lee Matthew Goldberg (The Mentor, Slow Down)
• Rupinder Gill (On the Outside Looking Indian)

Sam has edited and represented genres from debut fiction and memoir to narrative non-fiction and graphic novels.

He teaches creative writing at the University of Toronto, and publishing at Ryerson University. He is a regular lecturer and speaker at other colleges, universities, and writing conferences.

What Writers are Saying About Sam

"I can’t remember a more enjoyable and informative presentation. Sam's stories from the world of publishing vividly illustrated his points. His ability to focus on each person’s work and rearrange elements showed directorial genius… I am very glad I attended and look forward to querying Sam when I am further along in [my writing].”
— Tim Christian, Victoria

"I had a wonderful time with Sam yesterday. Could you please extend my appreciation to him for his time and all his invaluable advice? I cannot thank you and Sam enough for organizing this unique opportunity for new novelists such as myself. I hope to have another meeting with him in the future." 
— Yale Wang, Toronto

“What I love about working with Sam is that it gives me a greater understanding of the industry. You can try to study creative writing in a class, but it's hard to learn what will set you apart until you work with someone who sells books for a living! If your goal is to eventually publish, I think Sam's advice and support is invaluable. He has added tremendous value to my near-finished manuscript.”
— Amy Dixon, Toronto

The Details

Once you purchase your coaching package, we'll email you within 2 business days to schedule the date and time of your first meeting, and to chat about any specific requirements or requests you have. 

We'll also send you an intake form, which will involve questions surrounding your mindset, what you're looking to accomplish, and what you feel is standing in your way. You'll need to fill this out and send it back to us at least 5 days before your meeting so that Sam has a chance to review it thoroughly.

At the time of your meeting, Sam will contact you by Zoom to dive right in!

You'll walk away with excellent insight from a professional about how to stay motivated, build creative confidence, and write your book or other work!

Have a question? 

If you have any questions about working with Sam, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!