Tips on submitting to agents
Agents’ slush piles are full of queries coming from rookies. The majority of submissions should never have been sent yet because they are not ready and writers get impatient. ““Slush” is the inside term for unsolicited manuscripts, and slush stories are, for the most part, unoriginal, sloppily written, and messily presented.” 1
That means that if your manuscript is polished, it will stand more chances to catch and agent's eye. It also means that agents will spend less time reading your submission.
Avoid the mistakes that will hurt your chances to land an agent. Ready, set, check!
- Polish a complete manuscript. If you cannot remove any word or rewrite any part and you had feedback on it, you’re ready.
- Prepare a query and a synopsis before submitting. Make sure you get feedback on them and learn to write them properly. They can be a pain and take a lot of time to polish.
- Make sure you know the genre of your novel and which two other novels it compares to.
- Check the agent’s name to make sure it is not misspelled and make sure you know something about him or her.
- Check the reputation of the agent. Some are not worth your time.
- Send your manuscript to an agent who specializes in your genre.
- Follow the agent’s submission guideline to the letter.
- Do not submit to two agents working for the same company at the same time. If they think their colleague might like your idea and style, they will pass it on.
- Remove extra adverbs, adjectives, interrogation and exclamation marks from your manuscript.
- Number your pages and put your name and novel’s title on the front page, this way: Author Name: BOOK TITLE.
- Starts your first chapter with a first line that is a punch line. Absolute Write Forum has a place where you can submit your first sentences and get a feedback.
- Develop a unique voice and an original plot. Avoid clichés.
- In the first chapter, remove back story and daily life descriptions and get into a significant event in the main character’s life, something that is life changing.
- Avoid the prologue.
- Send only one to maximum three queries at a time.
- Check manuscript and query letter for grammar and spelling.
- Do not boast, but mention your credentials in the query.
- Clearly convey the concept of the novel in the first pages of the book.
- Up the emotion and the suspense in both manuscript and query.
- Show, do not tell. If you do not know what that means exactly, research it.
- Write in scenes, which means making sure each episode of your novel has a purpose. “A scene must have a definite purpose, which is to advance the plot, deepen characterization, or—preferably—both at once. Before you write a scene, you should know what it is supposed to accomplish, and how.” 2
- Do not forget to include your address, phone number and email in the query.
- Put the genre and word count of your manuscript after you describe it, not before.
- Include the first 250 words of your manuscript along with each query. “(You didn’t hear this part from me:) Even if the agent’s listing in Writer’s Market or elsewhere says, "Query only," include at least the first two pages of your book. Some agents are willing to look at as much as the first three chapters of an unsolicited ms. If your writing grabs them, agents will be more willing to take a risk and look at a complete ms. Therefore, your first two pages had better be pretty darn good.” 3
- Do not include racist, homophobic, or misogynistic comments in the first chapter.
- Do not write the query on the behalf of your character or on behalf of the writer. Agents like to deal with the real writer.
- Personalize your query to a specific agent. Mention why you have picked this agent. "I admire your client ____. I did some digging to find out who his or her agent was. This led me to your web site. Based on what you say there, I thought you might be interested in my manuscript. Let me tell you about it…." 4
- Show do not tell in your query. Tease. Evoke. “Here are Daniel Lazar's thoughts on querying: I think the best query letters are specific and evocative – not loaded down with too much boring detail, but just enough detail (little touches of description or turns of phrase) that show the letter is crafted by a real writer. For example, instead of saying "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, is a quirky kid," you could say "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, likes ketchup on his Frosted Flakes and never wears matching socks."” 5
- A query basically presents the main characters and their quirks (no more than two), then presents the problem/conflict that will carry all the plot; finally, describes a choice the main character has to make.
- Always send a SASE if you do not query by email.
- Include only one or two lines about you.
Do not take rejection personally. You will get a lot of rejection letters no matter how good your novel is. Think about querying as a long process. Be patient and persistent. Sending back an angry letter will not help your career, but might get you on a black list. The literary world is a small world. Be always polite and professional. Treat your query as an employment letter.
Agents’ slush piles are full of queries coming from rookies. The majority of submissions should never have been sent yet because they are not ready and writers get impatient. ““Slush” is the inside term for unsolicited manuscripts, and slush stories are, for the most part, unoriginal, sloppily written, and messily presented.” 1
That means that if your manuscript is polished, it will stand more chances to catch and agent's eye. It also means that agents will spend less time reading your submission.
Avoid the mistakes that will hurt your chances to land an agent. Ready, set, check!
- Polish a complete manuscript. If you cannot remove any word or rewrite any part and you had feedback on it, you’re ready.
- Prepare a query and a synopsis before submitting. Make sure you get feedback on them and learn to write them properly. They can be a pain and take a lot of time to polish.
- Make sure you know the genre of your novel and which two other novels it compares to.
- Check the agent’s name to make sure it is not misspelled and make sure you know something about him or her.
- Check the reputation of the agent. Some are not worth your time.
- Send your manuscript to an agent who specializes in your genre.
- Follow the agent’s submission guideline to the letter.
- Do not submit to two agents working for the same company at the same time. If they think their colleague might like your idea and style, they will pass it on.
- Remove extra adverbs, adjectives, interrogation and exclamation marks from your manuscript.
- Number your pages and put your name and novel’s title on the front page, this way: Author Name: BOOK TITLE.
- Starts your first chapter with a first line that is a punch line. Absolute Write Forum has a place where you can submit your first sentences and get a feedback.
- Develop a unique voice and an original plot. Avoid clichés.
- In the first chapter, remove back story and daily life descriptions and get into a significant event in the main character’s life, something that is life changing.
- Avoid the prologue.
- Send only one to maximum three queries at a time.
- Check manuscript and query letter for grammar and spelling.
- Do not boast, but mention your credentials in the query.
- Clearly convey the concept of the novel in the first pages of the book.
- Up the emotion and the suspense in both manuscript and query.
- Show, do not tell. If you do not know what that means exactly, research it.
- Write in scenes, which means making sure each episode of your novel has a purpose. “A scene must have a definite purpose, which is to advance the plot, deepen characterization, or—preferably—both at once. Before you write a scene, you should know what it is supposed to accomplish, and how.” 2
- Do not forget to include your address, phone number and email in the query.
- Put the genre and word count of your manuscript after you describe it, not before.
- Include the first 250 words of your manuscript along with each query. “(You didn’t hear this part from me:) Even if the agent’s listing in Writer’s Market or elsewhere says, "Query only," include at least the first two pages of your book. Some agents are willing to look at as much as the first three chapters of an unsolicited ms. If your writing grabs them, agents will be more willing to take a risk and look at a complete ms. Therefore, your first two pages had better be pretty darn good.” 3
- Do not include racist, homophobic, or misogynistic comments in the first chapter.
- Do not write the query on the behalf of your character or on behalf of the writer. Agents like to deal with the real writer.
- Personalize your query to a specific agent. Mention why you have picked this agent. "I admire your client ____. I did some digging to find out who his or her agent was. This led me to your web site. Based on what you say there, I thought you might be interested in my manuscript. Let me tell you about it…." 4
- Show do not tell in your query. Tease. Evoke. “Here are Daniel Lazar's thoughts on querying: I think the best query letters are specific and evocative – not loaded down with too much boring detail, but just enough detail (little touches of description or turns of phrase) that show the letter is crafted by a real writer. For example, instead of saying "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, is a quirky kid," you could say "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, likes ketchup on his Frosted Flakes and never wears matching socks."” 5
- A query basically presents the main characters and their quirks (no more than two), then presents the problem/conflict that will carry all the plot; finally, describes a choice the main character has to make.
- Always send a SASE if you do not query by email.
- Include only one or two lines about you.
Do not take rejection personally. You will get a lot of rejection letters no matter how good your novel is. Think about querying as a long process. Be patient and persistent. Sending back an angry letter will not help your career, but might get you on a black list. The literary world is a small world. Be always polite and professional. Treat your query as an employment letter.
Agents Who Represent Fantasy
Dear High Energy Agent,
Other titles:
Nice, Happy Face Guy, Wannabee Partner, Phone Friendly and Fee-less.
Your name is legitimate and I know you're from New York, so please represent me. You're the best!
I picked you because you represent only fiction, you are specialized in fantasy for kids, you have sold books in my genre and from my favorite authors who wrote similar novels.
Undercover, I'll admit that I discovered good reviews about you through the Association of Author Representatives (AAR) as well as from Preditors & Editors.
I also picked you because you managed many deals this year, some six-figure advances, and mainly with reputable publishing houses like Gollancz, Tor, Ace Books, Bantam Spectra, Orbit, William Morrow & Co., Doubleday, Ballantine Books, Del Rey, Harper Collins and Simon & Schuster specialized in fantasy.
Anyway, for my debut novel, I know I stand a better chance to query an agent who just started as long as he has experience with publishing, editing or publicity.
While you are wading through the slush pile, let me tell you that my novel will cry out to you: "Pick me, I'm a page turner. I'm not letting anyone put me down, not ever. I'm not first draft, not even second draft or fourth draft. I'm so polished, I glisten like a Rolls Royces dipped in chrome. I'm so unique, I'll blast your socks off. I'm unpredictable and full of tension. All your senses will be awakened. Watch for my body language too. Krrrrrrr, snap! I'm so believable, I even act weird, or lie, or get angry, cranky or obsessed. I have no inhibition. I will make you grin and chuckle and sometimes weep with plenty of emotional suspense."
I hope you can land me a hard cover deal rather than a paperback one. Because you will get 12 to 15 percent of my income, I expect you to offer editorial guidance, secure contacts with publishers and editors, explain the contracts to me, sell my rights, and help me find new opportunities like audio books or foreign deals. I sure hope you handle subsidiary rights.
Please, handle my novel personally and do not pass it to junior agents.
Please, notify me regarding all offers for my book. Remember you work for me.
Wishfully,
The Query Letter of the Well Advised Writer.
LINKS:
Check out Who Reps Whom? if you want to know who represents a specific author.
Megan Spooner's query letter with response from her agent Josh Adams.
Writing the Query Letter by Elana Johnson
A+B Works Amy Jameson
Adams Literary
Exclusively publishes children books.
Unforgettable, timeless, life-changing books:
- literary
- high-concept speculative
- unique fantasy adventure
- humor
- culturally diverse
Agents:
Tracey Adams wants characters in foreign settings. She wants many senses involved and details. She does not like telling, whiny characters, directly addressing the reader, violence and profanity (See: Cynsations)
Josh Adams likes details and likeable characters (See: Cynsations)
Quinlan Lee wants stories that appeal to boys. She likes high-concept dystopian stories that raise moral and life-changing questions. She does not like emotions spelled out (See: WritersDigest)
Clients: John David Anderson, R.J. Anderson, Matthew Armstrong, Michael Barakiva, John Claude Bemis, Joe Berger, Anne Blankman, Jennie K. Brown, A.E. Cannon, Clay Carmichael, Shana Corey, Kelly Creagh, Megan Crewe, Margery Cuyler, Jacqueline Davies
Susie Day, Stacy DeKeyser, Matt Dickinson, Julie Dillard, Kate Dopirak, Julia Durango, Kat Falls, Terry Farish, Tim Floreen, Jackie Garlick, Julia Golding, Rosemary Graham, Jo Watson Hackl, Margaret Peterson Haddix, Brittany Harrison, Marsha Hayles, Keith Heisler
Betty Hicks, Marilyn Hilton, Kate Hosford, Gene Hult, Amy Huntley, Sam Ita, Kathleen Jeffrie Johnson, E.K. Johnston, Sherryl Jordan, Kathleen Karr, Alan Katz, Amie Kaufman, Bert Kitchen, Fred Koehler, Julie Lamana, Sara B. Larson, Kim Liggett, Kimberley Griffiths Little, Emily Lloyd-Jones, Cynthia Lord, Heather Mackey, Lindsey Manwell, Kimberly Marcus, Barbara Mariconda, Geraldine McCaughrean, Joyce McDonald, Stephen Messer, Gwen Millward, Michael Morpurgo, Susan Nees, Henry H. Neff, Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, Amy K. Nichols,Jenny Nimmo, Lorin Oberweger, Barbara Odanaka, Coleen Murtagh Paratore, Charlie Price, Stacie Ramey, Jasmine Richards, Veronica Rossi, Jeffrey Salane, Adriana Brad Schanen, Wendy Shang, Megan Shepherd, Susan Spain, Meagan Spooner, Caissie St. Onge, Carrie Stringer, Jeremy Strong, Joann Swanson, Kristin O'Donnell Tubb, Susan Underdahl, Richard Ungar, Jenny Valentine, Kristin Clark Venuti, Adrienne Maria Vrettos, Jacqueline Wilson, Chris Woodworth, Caryn Yacowitz, Philip Yates, Orli Zuravicky
Exclusively publishes children books.
Unforgettable, timeless, life-changing books:
- literary
- high-concept speculative
- unique fantasy adventure
- humor
- culturally diverse
Agents:
Tracey Adams wants characters in foreign settings. She wants many senses involved and details. She does not like telling, whiny characters, directly addressing the reader, violence and profanity (See: Cynsations)
Josh Adams likes details and likeable characters (See: Cynsations)
Quinlan Lee wants stories that appeal to boys. She likes high-concept dystopian stories that raise moral and life-changing questions. She does not like emotions spelled out (See: WritersDigest)
Clients: John David Anderson, R.J. Anderson, Matthew Armstrong, Michael Barakiva, John Claude Bemis, Joe Berger, Anne Blankman, Jennie K. Brown, A.E. Cannon, Clay Carmichael, Shana Corey, Kelly Creagh, Megan Crewe, Margery Cuyler, Jacqueline Davies
Susie Day, Stacy DeKeyser, Matt Dickinson, Julie Dillard, Kate Dopirak, Julia Durango, Kat Falls, Terry Farish, Tim Floreen, Jackie Garlick, Julia Golding, Rosemary Graham, Jo Watson Hackl, Margaret Peterson Haddix, Brittany Harrison, Marsha Hayles, Keith Heisler
Betty Hicks, Marilyn Hilton, Kate Hosford, Gene Hult, Amy Huntley, Sam Ita, Kathleen Jeffrie Johnson, E.K. Johnston, Sherryl Jordan, Kathleen Karr, Alan Katz, Amie Kaufman, Bert Kitchen, Fred Koehler, Julie Lamana, Sara B. Larson, Kim Liggett, Kimberley Griffiths Little, Emily Lloyd-Jones, Cynthia Lord, Heather Mackey, Lindsey Manwell, Kimberly Marcus, Barbara Mariconda, Geraldine McCaughrean, Joyce McDonald, Stephen Messer, Gwen Millward, Michael Morpurgo, Susan Nees, Henry H. Neff, Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, Amy K. Nichols,Jenny Nimmo, Lorin Oberweger, Barbara Odanaka, Coleen Murtagh Paratore, Charlie Price, Stacie Ramey, Jasmine Richards, Veronica Rossi, Jeffrey Salane, Adriana Brad Schanen, Wendy Shang, Megan Shepherd, Susan Spain, Meagan Spooner, Caissie St. Onge, Carrie Stringer, Jeremy Strong, Joann Swanson, Kristin O'Donnell Tubb, Susan Underdahl, Richard Ungar, Jenny Valentine, Kristin Clark Venuti, Adrienne Maria Vrettos, Jacqueline Wilson, Chris Woodworth, Caryn Yacowitz, Philip Yates, Orli Zuravicky
Andrea Brown Literary Agency Various agents (California)
This agency publishes MG., YA. and adult fiction and non-fiction.
Agents:
Andrea Brown wants
Laura Rennert wants an unusual, rich new world. She likes 19th C. lit. and fairy tales. " I’ve always responded to the beauty, romanticism, darkness, and violence of these stories.As far as novels, television programs, and films subverting these classics, I love this!" (Lit Stack)
Caryn Wiseman wants children, MG and YA only. She likes speculative with smart and light SF or fantasy element, a twist on paranormal or dystopian (but dystopian is a hard sell). A MG hysterically funny. No zombies, horror, and high fantasy! She would like more contemporary multicultural novels.
"She adores a sweet, funny or poignant middle-grade novel, with a great hook that makes it stand out from the crowd." (Stacey O Neale)
Jennifer Rofé wants mainly children books and MG. She likes multi-cultural contemporary books. "I’m interested in picture books and early readers, but they have to be exceptional and unique. I love smart, beautiful picture books like the E.B. White Read Aloud Honor book Once Upon a Twice by my client Denise Doyen (illustrated by Barry Moser). I also like character-driven picture books in the vein of Olivia, and I’m open to character-driven early readers and chapter books" (Writer's Digest)
Kelly Sonnack wants a quirky and clever MG, an imaginative story with humor. Coming of age. She likes graphic novels. " I’d also love to see more memoir for kids – especially cultural memoir about growing up in different countries, identity, and living across cultures." (Writer's Digest)
Jennifer Laughran wants"great writing and/or a killer concept and great characters, plus a cool setting and an 'x-factor' that I can't define [...] I actually really like realistic middle grade stories, and teen stories about human teenagers. I wouldn't mind fantasy if it is really well executed historical-fantasy or adventure-fantasy. I like well-done mysteries and thrillers. I love a great romance. I am a sucker for unusual setting, and I like things to be upbeat -- Funny is great, bittersweet is great, but I am not into things that are depressing or unrelentingly bleak." (YA Highway)
Jamie Weiss Chilton wants unique twists, shocking reveals and highly emotional. "For teens, she is interested in literary/commercial fiction with intense emotional content (character driven, not issue driven plots); smart thrillers and mysteries; science-fiction and futuristic fiction; surreal stories and magical realism. ‘I'm looking for a YA writer who is reinventing and re-envisioning the genre, the way Francesca Lia Block did with her Weetzie Bat series in the 1990s. I'm looking for the Lady Gaga of YA fiction.’ As for picture books, Jamie gravitates towards quirky, unique, character-driven texts and illustrations" (Literary Ramblings)
Jennifer Mattson wants children books with a surprising turn of events. She likes sword-and-sorcery, witch-and-wizardry fantasies with a portal and alternate realities. "She is drawn to richly imagined fantasies that depart from old-hat heroic quests (alternate realities, magical realism, and steampunk are all styles/premises to have recently caught her notice). She has a special interest in dystopian fiction for middle graders and in sprawling, atmospheric tales with Dickensian twists and satisfying puzzles" (Writer's Digest)
Lara Perkins wants a great mystery (twists and turns that take her by surprise). She likes stories that have elements that are not supposed to work together but actually do. "For YA, I would love to find an absolutely devastating or absolutely hilarious, voice-driven contemporary story. I’m also on the hunt for a page-turning psychological mystery, or an unusual science/medical thriller. I love smart and raw YA fiction, with strong characters, and my taste tends to run dark." (Amy N. Newman)
Clients:
Lisa Mantchev, Chrystal Allen, Patrick Matthews, Neal Shusterman, Daniel M. Pinkwater, Brandi Dougherty, Kaye Messner,
Ellen Hopkins, Jay Asmer, Maggie Stiefvater, Emily Horner, Amjed Qamar, Jennifer Castle, Shannon Messenger, Gina Linko, Kimberly Derting, Christine Johnson, Joy Preble, Kris Chandler, L.K. Madigan, Tessa Graton, Meg Medina, Gwenda Bond, Nick James, Tracy barrett, Sharon Kemeron.
More clients listed here.
This agency publishes MG., YA. and adult fiction and non-fiction.
Agents:
Andrea Brown wants
Laura Rennert wants an unusual, rich new world. She likes 19th C. lit. and fairy tales. " I’ve always responded to the beauty, romanticism, darkness, and violence of these stories.As far as novels, television programs, and films subverting these classics, I love this!" (Lit Stack)
Caryn Wiseman wants children, MG and YA only. She likes speculative with smart and light SF or fantasy element, a twist on paranormal or dystopian (but dystopian is a hard sell). A MG hysterically funny. No zombies, horror, and high fantasy! She would like more contemporary multicultural novels.
"She adores a sweet, funny or poignant middle-grade novel, with a great hook that makes it stand out from the crowd." (Stacey O Neale)
Jennifer Rofé wants mainly children books and MG. She likes multi-cultural contemporary books. "I’m interested in picture books and early readers, but they have to be exceptional and unique. I love smart, beautiful picture books like the E.B. White Read Aloud Honor book Once Upon a Twice by my client Denise Doyen (illustrated by Barry Moser). I also like character-driven picture books in the vein of Olivia, and I’m open to character-driven early readers and chapter books" (Writer's Digest)
Kelly Sonnack wants a quirky and clever MG, an imaginative story with humor. Coming of age. She likes graphic novels. " I’d also love to see more memoir for kids – especially cultural memoir about growing up in different countries, identity, and living across cultures." (Writer's Digest)
Jennifer Laughran wants"great writing and/or a killer concept and great characters, plus a cool setting and an 'x-factor' that I can't define [...] I actually really like realistic middle grade stories, and teen stories about human teenagers. I wouldn't mind fantasy if it is really well executed historical-fantasy or adventure-fantasy. I like well-done mysteries and thrillers. I love a great romance. I am a sucker for unusual setting, and I like things to be upbeat -- Funny is great, bittersweet is great, but I am not into things that are depressing or unrelentingly bleak." (YA Highway)
Jamie Weiss Chilton wants unique twists, shocking reveals and highly emotional. "For teens, she is interested in literary/commercial fiction with intense emotional content (character driven, not issue driven plots); smart thrillers and mysteries; science-fiction and futuristic fiction; surreal stories and magical realism. ‘I'm looking for a YA writer who is reinventing and re-envisioning the genre, the way Francesca Lia Block did with her Weetzie Bat series in the 1990s. I'm looking for the Lady Gaga of YA fiction.’ As for picture books, Jamie gravitates towards quirky, unique, character-driven texts and illustrations" (Literary Ramblings)
Jennifer Mattson wants children books with a surprising turn of events. She likes sword-and-sorcery, witch-and-wizardry fantasies with a portal and alternate realities. "She is drawn to richly imagined fantasies that depart from old-hat heroic quests (alternate realities, magical realism, and steampunk are all styles/premises to have recently caught her notice). She has a special interest in dystopian fiction for middle graders and in sprawling, atmospheric tales with Dickensian twists and satisfying puzzles" (Writer's Digest)
Lara Perkins wants a great mystery (twists and turns that take her by surprise). She likes stories that have elements that are not supposed to work together but actually do. "For YA, I would love to find an absolutely devastating or absolutely hilarious, voice-driven contemporary story. I’m also on the hunt for a page-turning psychological mystery, or an unusual science/medical thriller. I love smart and raw YA fiction, with strong characters, and my taste tends to run dark." (Amy N. Newman)
Clients:
Lisa Mantchev, Chrystal Allen, Patrick Matthews, Neal Shusterman, Daniel M. Pinkwater, Brandi Dougherty, Kaye Messner,
Ellen Hopkins, Jay Asmer, Maggie Stiefvater, Emily Horner, Amjed Qamar, Jennifer Castle, Shannon Messenger, Gina Linko, Kimberly Derting, Christine Johnson, Joy Preble, Kris Chandler, L.K. Madigan, Tessa Graton, Meg Medina, Gwenda Bond, Nick James, Tracy barrett, Sharon Kemeron.
More clients listed here.
Barry Goldblatt Literary Various agents: Joe Monti, Beth Fleisher
Bent Agency Jenny Bent
Bliss Literary Jenoyne Adams
Bradford Literary Agency Laura Bradford
Caren Johnson Literary Agency Various agents
Charlotte Sheedy Literary Agency Meredith Kaffel
Cooke Agency Various agents: Sally Harding, Mary Hu
Curtis Brown, Ltd. Various agents: Ginger Clark, Maureen Walters, Sarah Lapolla, Nathon Bransford
D4EO Literary Agency Various agents
Donald Maass Literary Agency Various agents: Jennifer Jackson, Amy Boggs, Donald Maass, Cameron McClure
Doug Grad Literary Agency Various agents
Dystel & Goderich Literary Management Various agents: Michael Bourrett, Jim McCarthy, Lauren Abramo.
Agents:
Jane Dystel wants
Miriam Goderich wants
Michael Bourret wants "exceptional writers with unique ideas, no matter what the category." "Interested in film and television opportunities."
Stacey Kendall Glick wants
Jim McCarthy wants "literary women’s fiction, underrepresented voices, mysteries, romance, paranormal fiction, and anything unusual or unexpected."
Lauren E. Abramo wants "smart commercial fiction and well-paced literary fiction with a unique voice, including middle grade, YA, and adult and a wide variety of narrative nonfiction including science, interdisciplinary cultural studies, pop culture, psychology, reportage, media, contemporary culture, and history."
Jessica Papin wants
John Rudolph wants
Rachel Stout wants "literary fiction, narrative non-fiction, and believable and thought-provoking YA as well as magical realism."
Sharon Pelletier wants "witty literary fiction and smart commercial fiction featuring female characters who are strong but not necessarily quirky. She is also interested in compelling narrative non-fiction that tells a little-known story."
Agents:
Jane Dystel wants
Miriam Goderich wants
Michael Bourret wants "exceptional writers with unique ideas, no matter what the category." "Interested in film and television opportunities."
Stacey Kendall Glick wants
Jim McCarthy wants "literary women’s fiction, underrepresented voices, mysteries, romance, paranormal fiction, and anything unusual or unexpected."
Lauren E. Abramo wants "smart commercial fiction and well-paced literary fiction with a unique voice, including middle grade, YA, and adult and a wide variety of narrative nonfiction including science, interdisciplinary cultural studies, pop culture, psychology, reportage, media, contemporary culture, and history."
Jessica Papin wants
John Rudolph wants
Rachel Stout wants "literary fiction, narrative non-fiction, and believable and thought-provoking YA as well as magical realism."
Sharon Pelletier wants "witty literary fiction and smart commercial fiction featuring female characters who are strong but not necessarily quirky. She is also interested in compelling narrative non-fiction that tells a little-known story."
Epstein Literary Agency Kate Epstein
Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency Ethan Ellenberg
Fielding Agency Whitney Lee
FinePrint Literary Management Various agents: Peter Rubie, Suzie Townsend, Stephanie Evans
Folio Literary Management Various agents
Foundry Literary + Media Various agents
Fox Literary Diana Fox
Greenhouse Literary Agency (NYC)
They are specialized in children stories, MG and YA novels. They are looking for original stories with great potential.
Agents:
Sarah Davies loves adventurous and classic MG and contemporary and sexy historical YA. She would like a dark, intriguing and chilling YA thriller. No paranormal or dystopia. She likes real-world stories with a wow premise. She likes girl MG with rich images, a poetic voice and some wisdom to it.
John Cursick is looking for MG for boys and fast-paced/thrilling/heart-breaking stories. He likes “villains with vulnerability, bad decisions with best intentions and boldly imagined worlds with striking imagery.” He is looking for a fresh concept such as the Wildwood series or the Cold Cereal series with characters who have contradictions and arbor many shades of gray and have an emotional complexity about them. He does not want to see another “chosen one” in YA.
Polly Nolan is looking for fiction by UK, Irish, Commonwealth (including Australia, NZ and India) authors.
Clients:
Sarah Aronson, Harriet Goodwin, Lindsey Leavitt, Winifred Conkling, Megan Miranda, Kathryn James, Tricia Springstubb, Shawn Stout, John Mayhew, Annemarie O'Brien, Sarah Lean, Caroline Carlson, etc.
They are specialized in children stories, MG and YA novels. They are looking for original stories with great potential.
Agents:
Sarah Davies loves adventurous and classic MG and contemporary and sexy historical YA. She would like a dark, intriguing and chilling YA thriller. No paranormal or dystopia. She likes real-world stories with a wow premise. She likes girl MG with rich images, a poetic voice and some wisdom to it.
John Cursick is looking for MG for boys and fast-paced/thrilling/heart-breaking stories. He likes “villains with vulnerability, bad decisions with best intentions and boldly imagined worlds with striking imagery.” He is looking for a fresh concept such as the Wildwood series or the Cold Cereal series with characters who have contradictions and arbor many shades of gray and have an emotional complexity about them. He does not want to see another “chosen one” in YA.
Polly Nolan is looking for fiction by UK, Irish, Commonwealth (including Australia, NZ and India) authors.
Clients:
Sarah Aronson, Harriet Goodwin, Lindsey Leavitt, Winifred Conkling, Megan Miranda, Kathryn James, Tricia Springstubb, Shawn Stout, John Mayhew, Annemarie O'Brien, Sarah Lean, Caroline Carlson, etc.
Harvey Klinger Agency
Note: They have a form online for queries.
They handle also adult and non-fiction.
Agents:
Harvey Klinger does not handle children's books.
David Dunton specializes in music-related books
Andrea Somberg wants strong and complex heroes.
Sara Crowe wants YA memoirsI love a great love, a realistic novel with one part thriller, one part mystery, and a slice of romance. She is looking for children’s nonfiction.
Clients:
Peggy Eddleman (Sky Jumpers),
Note: They have a form online for queries.
They handle also adult and non-fiction.
Agents:
Harvey Klinger does not handle children's books.
David Dunton specializes in music-related books
Andrea Somberg wants strong and complex heroes.
Sara Crowe wants YA memoirsI love a great love, a realistic novel with one part thriller, one part mystery, and a slice of romance. She is looking for children’s nonfiction.
Clients:
Peggy Eddleman (Sky Jumpers),
Inkwell Management Various agents: Richard Pine, Catherine Drayton
Irene Goodman Literary Agency Miriam Kriss
JABberwocky Literary Agency Various agents: Joshua Bilmes or Eddie Schneider
Jean V. Naggar Literary Agency Various Agents: Jennifer Weltz, Jessica Regel
Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency Jennifer De Chiara
Jill Grinberg Literary Management Jill Grinberg
Judith Erlich Literary Management Emmanuelle Alspaugh
Knight Agency Various agents: Nephele Tempest, Lucienne Diver, Pamela Harty
KT Literary Kate Testerman
Larsen Pomada Literary Agency Laurie McLean
Laura Dail Literary Agency Tamar Rydzinski
Levine Greenberg Literary Agency Various agents
Liza Dawson Associates Caitlin Blasdell
LJK Literary Management Susanna Einstein
Lowenstein Associates Inc. Various agents: Barbara Lowenstein, Kathleen Ortiz
Marsal Lyon Literary Agency Various agents: Kevan Lyon, Jill Marsal
Martin Literary Management Kate Folkers
McCarthy Agency Shawna McCarthy
Meredith Bernstein Literary Agency Meredith Bernstein
Mic Cheetham Literary Agency Mic Cheetham
Morhaim Literary Agency Various agents: Kate McKean, Kate Menick, Howard Morhaim
Nancy Coffey Literary Agency Joanna Volpe
Nancy Yost Literary Agency Various agents: Nancy Yost, Natanya Wheeler
Nelson Literary Agency Various agents: Kristin Nelson, Sara Megibow
Prospect Agency Various agents: Emily Sylvan Kim, Becca Stumpf
Rights Factory Ali Mcdonald
Regal Literary Michelle Andelman
Sanford J. Greenburger Associates Various agents: Matt Bialer, Michael Harrio
Sara Jane Freymann Literary Agency Jessica Sinsheimer
Schmalz Agency Wendy Schmalz
Susan Schulman Literary Agency Susan Schulman
Scovil Galen Ghosh Literary Agency Various agents: Russell Galen, Ann Behar
Signature Literary Agency Ellen Pepus
Spectrum Literary Agency Eleanor Wood
Spencerhill Associates Jennifer Schober
Sternig & Byrne Literary Agency Jack Byrne
Stimola Literary Studio
Agent: Rosemary Stimola.
"I look for the "stand out" in a concise and well-written query: a premise that intrigues, a character that appeals, an approach that breaks new ground. There is a wide spectrum for YA these days, pushing to boundaries of adult fiction and even crossing that boundary from time to time, so I am always looking for something new and wonderful in that realm." (Interview in Cynsational Notes)
- Middle grade humorous for boys
- African/east multi-cultural
- Supernatural
- Fun "puzzling" mysteries
Clients:
Pam Abrams · Jodi Lynn Anderson · Brian Anderson · Dianna Hutts Aston · Swati Avasthi · Matthew J. Baek · Hester Bass · Michael D. Beil · Lynne Berry
Click on Literary Rambles for more.
Agent: Rosemary Stimola.
"I look for the "stand out" in a concise and well-written query: a premise that intrigues, a character that appeals, an approach that breaks new ground. There is a wide spectrum for YA these days, pushing to boundaries of adult fiction and even crossing that boundary from time to time, so I am always looking for something new and wonderful in that realm." (Interview in Cynsational Notes)
- Middle grade humorous for boys
- African/east multi-cultural
- Supernatural
- Fun "puzzling" mysteries
Clients:
Pam Abrams · Jodi Lynn Anderson · Brian Anderson · Dianna Hutts Aston · Swati Avasthi · Matthew J. Baek · Hester Bass · Michael D. Beil · Lynne Berry
Click on Literary Rambles for more.
Stringer Literary Agency Marlene Stringer
Strothman Agency Lauren MacLeod
Stuart Krichevsky Literary Agency Shana Cohen
Trident Media Group Various agents: Allana Ramirez, Scott Miller, Ellen Levine, Kimberly Whalen, Alyssa Henkin, Stephanie Maclean, Alex Glass
Unter Agency Jennifer Unter
Upstart Crow Literary Various agents: Michael Stearns or Danielle Chiotti
Virginia Kidd Literary Agency Various agents
Waxman Literary Agency Various agents: Holly Root, Jason Pinter
Wolf Literary Services Kirsten Wolf
Wolfson Literary Agency Michelle Wolfson
Writer's House Various agents: Merrilee Heifetz, Robin Rue, Jodi Reamer, Stephen Malk, Daniel Lazar, Rebecca Sherman
Zack Company Andrew Zack
Tips on submitting to agents
Agents’ slush piles are full of queries coming from rookies. The majority of submissions should never have been sent yet because they are not ready and writers get impatient. ““Slush” is the inside term for unsolicited manuscripts, and slush stories are, for the most part, unoriginal, sloppily written, and messily presented.” 1
That means that if your manuscript is polished, it will stand more chances to catch and agent's eye. It also means that agents will spend less time reading your submission.
Avoid the mistakes that will hurt your chances to land an agent. Ready, set, check!
- Polish a complete manuscript. If you cannot remove any word or rewrite any part and you had feedback on it, you’re ready.
- Prepare a query and a synopsis before submitting. Make sure you get feedback on them and learn to write them properly. They can be a pain and take a lot of time to polish.
- Make sure you know the genre of your novel and which two other novels it compares to.
- Check the agent’s name to make sure it is not misspelled and make sure you know something about him or her.
- Check the reputation of the agent. Some are not worth your time.
- Send your manuscript to an agent who specializes in your genre.
- Follow the agent’s submission guideline to the letter.
- Do not submit to two agents working for the same company at the same time. If they think their colleague might like your idea and style, they will pass it on.
- Remove extra adverbs, adjectives, interrogation and exclamation marks from your manuscript.
- Number your pages and put your name and novel’s title on the front page, this way: Author Name: BOOK TITLE.
- Starts your first chapter with a first line that is a punch line. Absolute Write Forum has a place where you can submit your first sentences and get a feedback.
- Develop a unique voice and an original plot. Avoid clichés.
- In the first chapter, remove back story and daily life descriptions and get into a significant event in the main character’s life, something that is life changing.
- Avoid the prologue.
- Send only one to maximum three queries at a time.
- Check manuscript and query letter for grammar and spelling.
- Do not boast, but mention your credentials in the query.
- Clearly convey the concept of the novel in the first pages of the book.
- Up the emotion and the suspense in both manuscript and query.
- Show, do not tell. If you do not know what that means exactly, research it.
- Write in scenes, which means making sure each episode of your novel has a purpose. “A scene must have a definite purpose, which is to advance the plot, deepen characterization, or—preferably—both at once. Before you write a scene, you should know what it is supposed to accomplish, and how.” 2
- Do not forget to include your address, phone number and email in the query.
- Put the genre and word count of your manuscript after you describe it, not before.
- Include the first 250 words of your manuscript along with each query. “(You didn’t hear this part from me:) Even if the agent’s listing in Writer’s Market or elsewhere says, "Query only," include at least the first two pages of your book. Some agents are willing to look at as much as the first three chapters of an unsolicited ms. If your writing grabs them, agents will be more willing to take a risk and look at a complete ms. Therefore, your first two pages had better be pretty darn good.” 3
- Do not include racist, homophobic, or misogynistic comments in the first chapter.
- Do not write the query on the behalf of your character or on behalf of the writer. Agents like to deal with the real writer.
- Personalize your query to a specific agent. Mention why you have picked this agent. "I admire your client ____. I did some digging to find out who his or her agent was. This led me to your web site. Based on what you say there, I thought you might be interested in my manuscript. Let me tell you about it…." 4
- Show do not tell in your query. Tease. Evoke. “Here are Daniel Lazar's thoughts on querying: I think the best query letters are specific and evocative – not loaded down with too much boring detail, but just enough detail (little touches of description or turns of phrase) that show the letter is crafted by a real writer. For example, instead of saying "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, is a quirky kid," you could say "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, likes ketchup on his Frosted Flakes and never wears matching socks."” 5
- A query basically presents the main characters and their quirks (no more than two), then presents the problem/conflict that will carry all the plot; finally, describes a choice the main character has to make.
- Always send a SASE if you do not query by email.
- Include only one or two lines about you.
Do not take rejection personally. You will get a lot of rejection letters no matter how good your novel is. Think about querying as a long process. Be patient and persistent. Sending back an angry letter will not help your career, but might get you on a black list. The literary world is a small world. Be always polite and professional. Treat your query as an employment letter.
Agents’ slush piles are full of queries coming from rookies. The majority of submissions should never have been sent yet because they are not ready and writers get impatient. ““Slush” is the inside term for unsolicited manuscripts, and slush stories are, for the most part, unoriginal, sloppily written, and messily presented.” 1
That means that if your manuscript is polished, it will stand more chances to catch and agent's eye. It also means that agents will spend less time reading your submission.
Avoid the mistakes that will hurt your chances to land an agent. Ready, set, check!
- Polish a complete manuscript. If you cannot remove any word or rewrite any part and you had feedback on it, you’re ready.
- Prepare a query and a synopsis before submitting. Make sure you get feedback on them and learn to write them properly. They can be a pain and take a lot of time to polish.
- Make sure you know the genre of your novel and which two other novels it compares to.
- Check the agent’s name to make sure it is not misspelled and make sure you know something about him or her.
- Check the reputation of the agent. Some are not worth your time.
- Send your manuscript to an agent who specializes in your genre.
- Follow the agent’s submission guideline to the letter.
- Do not submit to two agents working for the same company at the same time. If they think their colleague might like your idea and style, they will pass it on.
- Remove extra adverbs, adjectives, interrogation and exclamation marks from your manuscript.
- Number your pages and put your name and novel’s title on the front page, this way: Author Name: BOOK TITLE.
- Starts your first chapter with a first line that is a punch line. Absolute Write Forum has a place where you can submit your first sentences and get a feedback.
- Develop a unique voice and an original plot. Avoid clichés.
- In the first chapter, remove back story and daily life descriptions and get into a significant event in the main character’s life, something that is life changing.
- Avoid the prologue.
- Send only one to maximum three queries at a time.
- Check manuscript and query letter for grammar and spelling.
- Do not boast, but mention your credentials in the query.
- Clearly convey the concept of the novel in the first pages of the book.
- Up the emotion and the suspense in both manuscript and query.
- Show, do not tell. If you do not know what that means exactly, research it.
- Write in scenes, which means making sure each episode of your novel has a purpose. “A scene must have a definite purpose, which is to advance the plot, deepen characterization, or—preferably—both at once. Before you write a scene, you should know what it is supposed to accomplish, and how.” 2
- Do not forget to include your address, phone number and email in the query.
- Put the genre and word count of your manuscript after you describe it, not before.
- Include the first 250 words of your manuscript along with each query. “(You didn’t hear this part from me:) Even if the agent’s listing in Writer’s Market or elsewhere says, "Query only," include at least the first two pages of your book. Some agents are willing to look at as much as the first three chapters of an unsolicited ms. If your writing grabs them, agents will be more willing to take a risk and look at a complete ms. Therefore, your first two pages had better be pretty darn good.” 3
- Do not include racist, homophobic, or misogynistic comments in the first chapter.
- Do not write the query on the behalf of your character or on behalf of the writer. Agents like to deal with the real writer.
- Personalize your query to a specific agent. Mention why you have picked this agent. "I admire your client ____. I did some digging to find out who his or her agent was. This led me to your web site. Based on what you say there, I thought you might be interested in my manuscript. Let me tell you about it…." 4
- Show do not tell in your query. Tease. Evoke. “Here are Daniel Lazar's thoughts on querying: I think the best query letters are specific and evocative – not loaded down with too much boring detail, but just enough detail (little touches of description or turns of phrase) that show the letter is crafted by a real writer. For example, instead of saying "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, is a quirky kid," you could say "Joe Smith, the hero of my novel, likes ketchup on his Frosted Flakes and never wears matching socks."” 5
- A query basically presents the main characters and their quirks (no more than two), then presents the problem/conflict that will carry all the plot; finally, describes a choice the main character has to make.
- Always send a SASE if you do not query by email.
- Include only one or two lines about you.
Do not take rejection personally. You will get a lot of rejection letters no matter how good your novel is. Think about querying as a long process. Be patient and persistent. Sending back an angry letter will not help your career, but might get you on a black list. The literary world is a small world. Be always polite and professional. Treat your query as an employment letter.