Bill Clegg Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Bill Clegg is a renowned literary agent and author based in New York City. Raised in Sharon, Connecticut, he attended Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland. After completing his studies, Clegg moved to New York City, where he began his career in publishing. His passion for literature and keen eye for talent led him to co-found his own literary agency, The Clegg Agency, representing a diverse roster of authors. Despite professional success, Clegg faced personal challenges, battling addiction to crack cocaine and alcohol. His memoirs, Portrait of an Addict as a Young Man (2010) and Ninety Days (2012), candidly chronicle his journey through addiction and recovery, offering readers an unflinching look into the struggles and triumphs of overcoming substance abuse. These works have resonated with many, shedding light on the complexities of addiction and the resilience required for recovery. Transitioning to fiction, Clegg authored Did You Ever Have a Family (2015), a novel that received critical acclaim and was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize. The narrative delves into themes of loss, grief, and interconnectedness, further establishing Clegg's versatility and depth as a writer. His subsequent novel, The End of the Day (2020), continues to explore complex human relationships and the intricacies of personal histories. In addition to his books, Clegg has contributed to esteemed publications such as The New York Times, Lapham’s Quarterly, New York Magazine, The Guardian, and Harper’s Bazaar. His writing offers insightful perspectives on human experiences, drawing from his own life and observations. Balancing his roles as a literary agent and author, Clegg remains a significant figure in the literary world. His dedication to storytelling, both in nurturing other writers and sharing his own narratives, underscores his commitment to the transformative power of literature.