An Accomplished Literary Icon with a Track-Record of Elevating Authors to International Stardom
Linda Kaplan has earned her place as a trailblazer in the publishing industry, renowned for her expertise in subsidiary rights and her role in bringing countless books to international audiences. Over a career spanning decades, Kaplan has transformed the global reach of literature, orchestrating deals that have elevated authors like Gillian Flynn and Andy Weir to international stardom. In addition to the above, Linda has negotiated numerous high-profile deals for esteemed authors such as Anthony Marra, Martha Stewart, Tim Ferriss, Deepak Chopra, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Byron Katie, and Haylie Pomroy over the course of her career. Her expertise has played a pivotal role in expanding the global reach of these authors and their works.
At Crown Publishing, she was instrumental in negotiating the subsidiary rights for Flynn’s Gone Girl, a cultural phenomenon translated into over 40 languages and adapted into a critically acclaimed film grossing over $369 million worldwide. Similarly, Kaplan was pivotal in expanding Andy Weir’s The Martian into global markets, helping it reach millions of readers and securing a blockbuster film adaptation that garnered over $630 million at the box office.
Kaplan’s meticulous negotiation skills and deep understanding of the complexities of foreign markets and multimedia adaptation have made her one of the most sought-after professionals in the literary world. As the founder of Kaplan/DeFiore Rights, she has continued to drive the global success of books by North American literary agents and independent publishers, ensuring that impactful stories reach readers across continents. Her work has not only propelled individual authors to unprecedented success but has also enriched the cultural exchange of ideas through literature on a global scale. Kaplan’s achievements underscore her status as a visionary in the publishing industry, with a legacy that continues to shape how stories are shared and celebrated worldwide.
Early Career and Entry into Subsidiary Rights
Kaplan’s journey in publishing began with a passion for books and a keen interest in the business side of literature. She quickly found her niche in subsidiary rights—a specialized field that focuses on the sale of rights for books to be published in other formats, languages, and territories. Over her career, she mastered the art of leveraging a book's potential beyond its original market, ensuring authors and publishers could maximize their works’ value and reach.
A Legacy at Crown Publishing
Kaplan’s career reached new heights during her 15-year tenure as Vice President and Director of Subsidiary Rights at Crown Publishing Group, an imprint of Penguin Random House. At Crown, she negotiated rights deals for a diverse array of authors, helping to bring their works to international markets, film adaptations, and audiobooks. Notable successes include Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl, which became a global bestseller and a critically acclaimed film, and Andy Weir’s The Martian, which sold millions of copies worldwide and was adapted into a blockbuster movie.
Kaplan’s strategic approach to subsidiary rights elevated Crown’s portfolio, contributing to its reputation as a leader in publishing innovation and excellence. Her work ensured that authors not only reached a broad audience but also reaped the financial rewards of their creative endeavors.
Founding Kaplan/DeFiore Rights
In 2016, Kaplan transitioned to a new chapter in her career by partnering with DeFiore and Company to establish Kaplan/DeFiore Rights. This boutique agency specializes in representing North American literary agents and independent publishers in international markets. Through this endeavor, Kaplan has continued to connect authors with opportunities to expand their reach, building bridges between cultures and bringing diverse voices to readers around the globe.
Championing Global Literature
Kaplan’s impact extends beyond individual books and authors. By negotiating deals that bring works to foreign markets, she has played a significant role in fostering cultural exchange through literature. Her efforts have introduced readers to new perspectives and stories, enriching the global literary landscape.
Legacy and Influence
Linda Kaplan’s career exemplifies the transformative power of subsidiary rights in modern publishing. Her ability to recognize a book’s global potential has not only propelled the careers of celebrated authors but also expanded the reach and impact of storytelling across borders. As a pioneer in her field, Kaplan has left a lasting mark on the industry, ensuring that stories resonate with readers worldwide.
Kaplan joined DeFiore and Company in 2015 after a distinguished 15 years as Vice President and Director of Subsidiary Rights at Crown Publishing Group. Before her time at Crown, she was part of Hyperion, the Walt Disney Company’s start-up publishing group, where she collaborated with Brian DeFiore. With nearly three decades of experience, Kaplan has successfully licensed works across a diverse array of categories, from children’s literature and history to science, cooking, spirituality, self-help, and fiction.
In addition to her work at DeFiore and Company, Kaplan directs Kaplan/DeFiore Rights, a boutique agency representing North American literary agents and independent publishers in UK and translation markets. Her expertise has facilitated the international success of numerous authors, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in the field.
Originally from Minnesota, Kaplan holds a B.A. in History from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She now resides in Montclair, New Jersey, with her husband and twin daughters.
Please note: Linda Kaplan is not a literary agent and does not accept submissions. Unsolicited submissions will not be reviewed. Thank you for your understanding.
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