Why read the Maven Game?

For over a decade, I’ve written The Maven Game for a small but influential group of authors, editors, agents, and literary insiders who care deeply about the craft and business of using words to inform, inspire, and engage. The MG is now on Substack, where I’ll continue to share my insights from the front lines of professional idea production, one essay at a time.

Hi, I’m David Moldawer. I began my career as a nonfiction editor in Big Five publishing, acquiring for imprints including St. Martin’s Press and Portfolio. After a bracing stint in startup world, I spent another decade as a top nonfiction book collaborator. Today, I’m a literary agent at Writers House, one of the world’s premier literary agencies, where I represent nonfiction authors with big ideas and powerful voices. (If you’re interested in working with me, you can find my submission policy here.)

In short, I’ve helped many authors create many books, more than a few of which have been very successful. Along the way, I’ve learned valuable lessons about creativity, productivity, and keep-your-sanity. Eventually, those lessons have found their way into The Maven Game. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned pro, I hope these brief, weekly essays offer you fresh insight, renewed momentum, and the occasional much-needed kick in the pants to your creative pursuits.

No spam. No sales funnel. Just writing about writing: how to do it, why to do it, and what to do when life gets in the way.

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Advice, motivation, and provocation for authors, editors, agents, and others engaged in the serious business of using sentences to inform, inspire, and engage.