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7 Insider Secrets to Get a Top Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal
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Literary Agent Directory
Important: Visit each agent’s website (links in their listings below) to see if they’re open to submissions before querying.
- The results are being filtered by the character: J
Biography
Nathaniel Jacks is a literary agent with InkWell Management. He joined InkWell Management after graduating from Columbia University with a BA in literature. Among the books he represents are The Birth of Cool by New Yorker contributor Nicola Twilley, The Heavenly Table by Guggenheim Fellow Donald Ray Pollock, American Hookup by sociologist Lisa Wade, Ph.D., The Code of Trust by behavioral expert Robin Dreeke, and Broad Influence by TIME Washington correspondent Jay Newton-Small. He is excited to work with ambitious authors whose books enlighten everyday life, demystify systems, explore the mind, question the status quo, and empower self-improvement. He also oversees contracts at InkWell.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mainstream Fiction, Mystery, Short Story Collection, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Autobiography, Biography, Business Book, Celebrity, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Gift Novelty, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Technology, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Eleanor Jackson
Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary AgencyAccepting SubmissionsQuery Method(s): Email or Postal MailBiography
Eleanor Jackson is a literary agent with Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary Agency. She has been agenting since 2002. Previously, she was an agent at Markson Thoma and at InkWell Management. She is a graduate of Colby College and the Columbia Publishing course. Her list includes authors of fiction and non-fiction in a wide range of categories, including literary, commercial, memoir, art, food, science and history. She looks for books with deeply imagined worlds, and for writers who take risks with their work. She lives in Brooklyn NY.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Science, Travel, True Crime, Upmarket Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books
Biography
Heather Jackson is a literary agent with and the founder of the Heather Jackson Literary Agency. She decided to vault over the desk to the agent side in 2016 after a highly successful career as a trade editor. In her 20+ years as an editor she acted as the creative midwife to multiple dozens of New York Times bestselling authors and titles, including: Tim Ferriss, Jillian Michaels, Dr. Steven Gundry, Ron Fournier, Joy Bauer, Rick Hanson, Dr. Robert C. Atkins, Dr. Arthur Agatston, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, Dr. Susan Love, Dr. Alice D. Domar, Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, Mallika Chopra, Barbara Sher, Martina Navratilova, Joe and Teresa Graedon, B. Smith and Dan Gasby, Howard Dully…among many others. The selective client list she and we are cultivating has one unifying theme: to represent authors and books that entertain, elevate, inform, or make some type of positive difference to the individual reader or our larger society. Works that make you want to press the pause button on everything else–ditch the screens, the duties, the worries–to sit down and read for hours. Books that can ignite or shift a conversation and that might unite us rather than divide us further. And, most importantly, books that can connect deeply and widely with masses of readers. We specialize in commercial non-fiction, both narrative and prescriptive, and in contemporary fiction. We represent top-tier authors in health and well-being, psychology/self-help, politics and current affairs, as well as memoir and personal finance. We are always on the hunt for brilliant writing and deeply moving journalistic narratives that share insights into unseen aspects of our culture, subcultures, and the function or workings of our world. We love big ideas and groundbreaking big think books. We love historical and contemporary fiction penned with propulsive storylines, sharp and textured writing, and peopled with vivid characters. Lastly, we are steadfastly looking for a reliable narrator who isn’t a psychopath, a multi-generational family saga that surprises, and, well, something that is just pure magicÉreminding us that a creative hand can take us places we didnÕt even know we wanted to go.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Diet Nutrition, Economics, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Politics, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Upmarket Nonfiction
Biography
Jennifer Jackson is a literary agent with the Donald Maass Literary Agency. Jennifer Jackson is Vice President at the Donald Maass Literary Agency, which she joined in 1993. Once upon a time, she worked as a bookseller for Waldenbooks, and also did a stint at Forbidden Planet, the retail division of LondonÕs Titan Books. She maintains a personal website at http://www.jenniferjackson.org/ and her blog is archived at http://arcaedia.wordpress.com/ Growing up reading science fiction and fantasy led naturally to a concentration in that genre, which she continues to champion. She initiated the expansion of the agency into the area of womenÕs fiction, and has also expanded her genre reach into the thriller and suspense categories. Her current roster includes, among others, New York Times best-selling fantasy writer Jim Butcher, Hugo Award winning science fiction author Elizabeth Bear, USA Today best-selling author Anne Bishop, New York Times best-seller Kim Harrison, evil genius Seth Dickinson, Nebula Award winner Martha Wells, Compton Crook Award winner Nicky Drayden, Nebula finalist Saladin Ahmed, New York Times best-selling author Yoon Ha Lee, Icelandic novelist Alexander Dan Vilhj‡lmsson, and Shirley Jackson Award nominee and debut novelist Tamsyn Muir.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Lisa Jackson is a literary agent with the Alive Literary Agency. She is the Executive Vice President of the agency. She is a passionate advocate for her clients. She has the experience, insights, and expertise necessary to not only help authors shape their message, but also to successfully navigate the ever-changing demands of todayÕs publishing market. A publishing veteran with more than three decades of experience, Lisa has always been a fan of the written word. She started out as a local newspaper reporter and editor, then worked as an associate magazine editor. Lisa then led the nonfiction team at Tyndale Publishing House before moving to Alive Literary Agency in 2014. With extensive experience in both the general and Christian publishing markets, Lisa has a proven track record for recognizing and developing key voices. She considers it an honor to serve as a champion for authors in the book publishing world. She and her husband live in beautiful Manitou Springs, Colorado. She enjoys nature and spending time with her two objectively perfect grandchildren.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Religious Fiction NONFICTION: Cookbook Cooking, Dating Relationships Sex, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Inspirational Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Nonfiction, Parenting, Religion, Self-Help, Spirituality CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Nonfiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Melanie Jackson is a literary agent with the Melanie Jackson Agency. Melanie is a leading literary agent. She founded the highly respected Melanie Jackson Agency. Among the many awards won by her clients are: the Nobel Prize in Literature, four Pulitzer Prizes, the National Book Award, and the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Autobiography, Biography, Business Book, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, General Nonfiction, History, How-To, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Reference, Science, Technology
Biography
Michelle Jackson is a literary agent with LCS Literary Services. She represents books that evoke heartfelt emotions and fervent conversations among readers. Her mission is to mentor and develop authors, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and help them build a brand of quality and authentic reads. Originally from Jamaica, West Indies, Michelle is now a literary agent with LCS Literary. She began her agenting career as an intern and then a Literary Associate with Olswanger Literary. She is also a published author and has earned educational degrees from New York University, SUNY at StonyBrook, Teachers College Columbia University and Argosy University. Michelle looks forward to bringing adult fiction and select young adult and non-fiction works of new authors to the masses, especially BIPOC and underrepresented authors. She is also a content editor and loves developing and working with new authors to help them hone their craft. She is looking for stories with strong character arcs and hooks. Intriguing plot lines that keep her up at night until she gets to the last page. Romances that make her heart swoon, thrillers that keep her guessing and heartwarming, uplifting tales. Stories about sister friends, mother-daughter relationships. Stories with themes of friendship, forgiveness, love and second chances. Michelle has a soft spot for fellow educators who are writers and for stories featuring educators. She is also looking for those who want to write category romancesÐshe also loves Amish romances!
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, New Adult Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cookbook Cooking, Dating Relationships Sex, Family, Health Wellness, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Self-Help, Spirituality, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Devra Ann Jacobs is a literary agent with Dancing Word Group. She has been an influential businesswoman and speaker. She founded and served as editor-in-chief of Mystic Pop Magazine for 9 years until its sale in 2008. Devra has been a successful literary agent, owner of Dancing Word Group Agency, since 2008, representing both mainstream and higher consciousness authors… As a Representative of Excellence Devra has an extensive networking model, which aids her in representing her authors. She has established contacts with both large and small publishing houses. Her drive to represent the interests of her clients comes from a deep-seated base of ethics, concern, experience and understanding.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Mind Body Spirit, New Age, Nonfiction, Self-Help, Spirituality
Biography
Hillary Jacobson is a literary agent with CAA/ICM.She represents a wide array of adult and young adult fiction, as well as select non-fiction. She began her career at ICM in 2015 and joined CAA in 2022 following the agencyÕs acquisition of ICM. A lifelong obsessive reader, she is always on the hunt for writing that provokes a strong emotional reaction, adds an important perspective to the cultural conversation, or challenges the reader’s beliefs. She is particularly drawn to suspense, coming-of-age narratives, sweeping family sagas, moving love stories and rom-coms, as well as speculative fiction. To submit your work, please send your pitch and the first 10 pages of your manuscript in the body of an email. She responds to every query, and her average response time is approximately one month.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Rachel Jacobson is a literary agent with the Alive Literary Agency. She’s a tireless advocate dedicated to helping her clients build deeply rich and lifegiving publishing careers. As an in-your-corner type of gal, Rachel enjoys helping authors hone their ideas, tap into their generative creativity, and share their messageÑbecause she wholeheartedly believes books can be a positive force for good in the world. Prior to joining Alive, Rachel worked as a literary agent at D.C. Jacobson & Associates before serving authors as an acquisitions editor at Baker Books. She draws on her marketing and business experience and a strong creative eye to help authors tap into marketplace needs and catch the attention of publishers. Rachel lives in OregonÕs beautiful Willamette Valley (the traditional land of the Kalapuyans) with her husband, Blair. A self-proclaimed ambivert, she will undoubtedly say yes to 80s dance nights, bike rides, and good books.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Religious Fiction NONFICTION: Dating Relationships Sex, General Nonfiction, Inspirational Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Nonfiction, Religion, Self-Help, Spirituality, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Nonfiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Amanda Jain is a literary agent with the BookEnds Literary Agency. Amanda came by her love of reading honestly, inheriting it from parents who always had books close to hand. She began her career in publishing at W. W. Norton, where she spent seven years before pursuing a masterÕs degree in history of the decorative arts. She rejoined publishing shortly thereafter at Inklings Literary Agency, and is excited every day to encounter new writers and their stories. Amanda currently reps adult romance, mystery, womenÕs fiction, and upmarket fiction, with a special emphasis on historical fiction in all genres. She also represents narrative nonfiction, especially projects exploring the literary world, art history, material culture, archaeology, food history, or social history. She loves projects with a strong sense of place and those that create a completely immersive world. She is particularly interested in books that add something important to the conversation, that explore stories we havenÕt yet heard, and that introduce new voices to our reading experience. Amanda currently lives outside of Washington, DC with her husband and two kids. When sheÕs not reading, she likes to cook, root for the Cubs, and spend as much time outside as she can.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Environment, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Gardening, Gift Novelty, History, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Science, Sports, Technology, Travel, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s Issues
Biography
Amy Jameson is a literary agent with A+B Works. Amy began her career in publishing working with renowned literary agent Lynn Nesbit. During her seven years at Janklow & Nesbit Associates, Amy had the privilege of working with acclaimed authors such as Michael Crichton, President Jimmy Carter, Tom Wolfe, Gore Vidal, Joan Didion, Jeffrey Eugenides, and many others. She also sold audio and first serial rights for several years at J&N while building her own select client list. In 2004, she left Janklow and partnered with her husband Brandon to form A+B Works. Amy has always had a passion for young adult and middle grade fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Sharon Creech, Jerry Spinelli, Madeleine L’Engle, E.L. Konigsberg, Louisa May Alcott, Susan Juby, Cynthia Rylant, Karen Cushman, Susan Cooper, and, of course, her own clients. Amy enjoys spending time with her children, trying to grow things in her garden, cooking, singing, and reading really great books.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, General Fiction, Romance CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Joylanda Jamison is an Associate Literary Agent with Embolden Literary. She is a writer and editor living in the Blueridge Mountains of Virginia. Her writings have been published in various faith-based outlets such as Think Christian as well as non-religious publications. Joylanda previously served as a guest poetry editor for Frontier Poetry. She has a passion for amplifying the voices and stories of BIPOC writers and thrives when helping others cultivate their creative voice. Joylanda takes the utmost care in guiding authors along their writing journey and ensures that their story remains an authentic reflection of themselves.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Poetry CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Chapter Book Fiction, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction
Biography
Sarah Jane Freymann has been a literary agent since the 1970s. She is the founder and president of the Sarah Jane Freymann Literary Agency.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mainstream Fiction NONFICTION: Cookbook Cooking, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Journalism, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Parenting, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Travel, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Luke Janklow is a literary agent with Janklow & Nesbit Associates. Luke Janklow represents an eclectic list of authors with multiple talents ranging from imaginative storytelling to broadcasting, cooking, politics and rock-and-roll. There is one governing principle to LukeÕs taste: books that are prime examples of their type. His list features fiction and narrative nonfiction, journalism, idea books, celebrity, sports and cookbooks. In fiction, satire is a particular favorite, as is high concept science fiction, humor, thrillers/spy stories and young adult. Luke is focused on where publishing is going and what it will look like in the near and far future. He is open to exploring new publishing ideas and how authors can maximize and broaden their earning power and cultural impact. Having graduated from Wesleyan University with a degree in Cinema Studies and Art History, Luke is engaged by the worlds of film, television and digital. He is also exploring branding, products and other unusual ways for storytellers to expand their reach. As a professional musician who once wrote and made records, LukeÕs experience in the music business provided valuable lessons that he applies to his work with authors. As a songwriter, he experienced how difficult it is to sit alone and create something and then present it to a sometimes indifferent world. Creating an original work takes imagination and guts; artists and authors need strong advocates in their corner. He saw the music business implode in the digital revolution, and sees preventable parallels that publishing can avoid in this transitional time. We are in the storytelling business and there are stories everywhere.
Notes
FICTION: Crime Fiction, Espionage Military Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Humor Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Satire, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Design, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Journalism, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, Upmarket Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
John Jardin is an Agent at Folio Literary Management. He is a Literary Associate at Folio Literary Management where he supports Steve Troha and Frank Weimann, while also actively working to build his own list. Prior to joining Folio, John received his undergraduate degree in public relations from the University of Georgia. In nonfiction, John is looking for narrative nonfiction from folks with strong, clear, and historically underrepresented voices with an eye always toward justice and anti-imperialism Ñ stories that challenge dominant narratives about the world and our place in it. He is especially interested in books relating to sex, gender, and sexuality; race; labor and class; Indigeneity; ecology and the natural world; the American South and Appalachia; strange science; voicey, gay memoir; and the supernatural. In fiction, they are drawn to experimental, atmospheric stories with fresh and interesting points of view that are unmistakably queer. He is interested in everything ranging from LGBTQIA+ speculative fiction to queer body horror; angsty, sexy, gay satires; and literary, up-market thrillers. Any book that is heavily influenced by place and setting Ñ could be anywhere from the rural south through to dystopian amusement parks or community swimming pools Ñ are of particular interest.
Notes
FICTION: Dystopian Fiction, Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, Dating Relationships Sex, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Science
Biography
Renee Jarvis is a literary agent with Triangle House. Born and raised in New York City, she graduated from Brooklyn College with a BFA in Creative Writing. She previously worked as an assistant and agent at MacKenzie Wolf Literary and spent two years as a writing teacher at the non-profit organization Legal Outreach. RenŽe is seeking narrative nonfiction, adult speculative, upmarket, and literary fiction, and childrenÕs books. She is looking for works that center POC and LGBTQIA+ voices and is particularly drawn to the work of Black writers across the African diaspora. In nonfiction, she is interested in pop culture analysis, cultural histories, linguistics, food writing, international stories, and explorations of music, fashion, and art. In fiction, she loves robust plots, bold characters with a sense of humor, unique formats, stories that explore friendship and family, and lyrical prose.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Satire, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Speculative Fiction, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Beauty Fashion Style, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Design, Environment, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Gardening, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Photography, Pop Culture, Psychology, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Technology, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Melissa Jeglinski is a literary agent with The Knight Agency. A graduate of Clarion University of Pennsylvania, where she majored in English with a writing concentration, Melissa began her career as an editor with Harlequin Enterprises. Looking to work with a variety of authors and genres, she joined The Knight Agency in 2008. With over two decades experience in the publishing industry, Melissa has fostered her clients to National prominence including a recent Newbery Honor. She is a member of RWA and AAR.
Notes
FICTION: Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Carole Jelen is a literary agent with Waterside Productions, Inc. Book and online training agent for technology and business. Premier publishing agent for over two decades, author of the top-selling book for authors, Creating Your Author Platform: The New Rules. Carole secures 100+ publishing contracts per year, represents millions in author/client revenues and books sold. As former publishing executive and editor, Carole is designated as a ÒCareer BuilderÓ Literary AgentÉ Current: ¥ Premiere publishing agent representing bestselling authors, creating and growing author publishing relationships ¥ Acquiring/promoting in top-selling specialty areas of technology, business and self-help arenas. ¥ Profile presence in media ¥ ÒCareer BuilderÓ Literary Agent designation ¥ Representing millions of copies in print. Past: ¥ Senior Editor, Addison-Wesley Publishing ¥ Acquisitions Editor, Sybex Publishing, division of Wiley ¥ Publishing Representative, Prentice-Hall Publishing ¥ Publishing consultant to IBM, Apple, Adobe, Sybase, Novell and more As Vice President/Literary agent, seeking out, creating, and managing author/publisher relationships as well as application of new ideas to online courses and apps. Publishing management in creating and negotiating contracts, advances, royalties as well as managing electronic and global rights within all computer-related and business arenas. Success in over two decades of creating top publications, moving cutting edge concepts to print, and as collaborative content provider to corporate/college book and training series, networking 2,000+ authors to companies seeking writing and training experts and reviewers. Speaker at writing and publishing conferences. Specialties: Literary agent, editorial, content provider, author, corporate consultant to book and online publishing. Connecting authors to publishers in all top series such as the branded ÒFor DummiesÓ line. Building author careers with single titles and full series lines. Education ¥ University of California, Berkeley, MA University of California, Los Angeles, BA
Notes
NONFICTION: Business Book, Nonfiction, Self-Help, Technology
Biography
Carolyn Jenks is a literary agent with the Carolyn Jenks Literary Agency. Her professional career began at age twelve in Chicago as an actress in film, television, radio and theatre. She studied acting with Flovia Drazy of the Moscow Art Theatre and voice with Titto Ruffo from the LaScala Opera in Milan. She earned a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, with a double major in Comparative Literature and Speech/Theatre. While an unemployed actress in New York City, a chance introduction to publisher Ian Ballantine led to a second career in publishing, with a focus on subsidiary rights, and eventually the combining of her passions for books, theatre, film, and art into the establishment of her literary agency. Her personal journey created the activist within and the tumultuous events of the late sixties and seventies found her participating in civil rights and anti-war activities. As an aftermath of witnessing suffering up close, she returned to school and earned two graduate degrees: one in Theology from Emmanuel College in Boston, and the other in Social Work from the University of Connecticut. She practiced as a licensed therapist with a Diplomate in Clinical Social Work until resurrecting her agency in the 1990s in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where it continues to this day.
Notes
FICTION: Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Alyssa Jennette is a literary agent with the Stonesong Literary Agency. She joined Stonesong in June 2015 after interning at the Sarah Jane Freymann Literary Agency. She grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from the Maryland Institute College of Art with a BFA in Illustration in 2010. As a result, she has unique insight and expertise when it comes to design-heavy or illustrated works. Alyssa is a very editorial agent; she finds a lot of joy in shaping stories alongside the author and delights in building long-term partnerships. In her spare time, she’s the co-founder of a three-year-old book club called #readmorewomen, and a snuggler of cats. Alyssa Jennette represents childrenÕs and adult fiction and picture books, graphic novels, and select pop culture nonfiction. She values diversity and inclusion; in fiction she enjoys ensemble casts with distinct voices, stories about poor characters and communities, and formats that are specific to a story and give it its own context. Alyssa is particularly interested in art/art history/art conservation, archaeology, mythology, language/translation, and criminal justice reform. Her client list includes sex educator and GIRL SEX 101 author Allison Moon, Instagram sensation/art restorer Julian Baumgartner, illustrator Jessica Roux, internet storyteller Mollyhall Seeley, middle grade authors Chris Negron and Brandon Hoang, and more.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Beauty Fashion Style, BIPOC Nonfiction, Crafts, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Illustrated, Journalism, Law Legal, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Science, Technology, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
William Jensen is a literary agent with the William K Jensen Literary Agency. William has worked in book publishing for 45 years. HeÕs discovered, launched, and championed the publishing careers of numerous bestselling authors whose books worldwide have sold well over 70 million copies. Bill has worked in every genre of book publishing. His ability to recognize target markets, develop messages for a mass audience, and bring creativity to the entire publishing process has made him a trusted collaborator with authors, BillÕs gift for creativity is likely his greatest asset to an author and their book project. It’s Bill’s desire to partner with authors in building up the Church through books that bring a fresh revelation of the grace of God, builds dynamic faith, and encourages believers in all aspects of life. Bill is married to Sheila and has four daughters and five grandchildren. His other loves include fly-fishing Oregon rivers, which he runs in his driftboat. He has been a cooking enthusiast for years and a perennial flower gardener. HeÕs also passionate about classical music and opera. Bill served as a board member for Eugene Opera for three years and has attended over 80 opera performances.
Notes
NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Jeff Jernigan is a literary agent with Hidden Value Group. He is a board certified mental health professional, hospital administrator and engineer. These describe Jeff’s 35 year career focused on influencing change in people and organizations by capitalizing on growth and change through leadership selection and development. His work in healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, and higher education has taken him to 42 countries around the world. As an internationally recognized thought leader and educator on the prevention of burnout and self-directed violence associated with mass violence and disasters, Jeff has also worked with military and government agencies on three continents. Jeff is rated by the Wellness Council of American as one of the top 1% of wellness experts in the country. Serves on a number of boards and is an author and speaker known for addressing psychological safety in the workplace. He has extensive experience in Human Resources and Operations Management nationally and internationally supporting and directing companies through creating, continuing, and capitalizing on growth and change. Known for excellence in human capacity management, success has been acknowledged through numerous awards for business excellence. Jeff has been an internationally published author since 1983. Chief Executive Officer for Hidden Value Group, LLC. HVG is a network organization bringing healing, health, and hope to people and groups around the world. Its mission is to resolve problems and provide solutions through education, healthcare, and leadership development.
Notes
NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Nancy Jernigan is a literary agent with Hidden Value Group. As President of the Hidden Value Group, Nancy is an internationally recognized leader known for leadership development and developing healthy teams in the midst of growth and change. She is an executive coach, master life coach and educator. A recognized leader in the publishing industry. She is on the Board of Olive Branch International, Inc – http://www.olivebranchintl.com and oversee’s their financial and marketing initiatives. She is known for supporting and directing organizations through creating and capitalizing on growth and change. Nancy also serves as a leadership expert with an emphasis on mental health and beating stress and burnout for WELCOA. (Wellness Council of America) as well as a member of the AAS Taskforce for Improving Mental Health Access to Resources for Veterans. As a consultant with churches and faith based non-profit organizations she finds great joy in inspiring strong leadership teams to work together effectively for Kingdom purposes and develop strong generational leadership. She has been creating marketing successes for organizations like Focus on the Family, BUY.COM, Interplay, NEST Entertainment and Christianity Today, Inc and recently working with USC (University of Southern California) in hiring a Vice President For Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX as well as the Professor of Music and Director of the Trojan Marching Band. Nancy is also a favorite speaker for leadership conferences, women’s ministries, having served as well on church staffs such as Saddleback Community Church, in small group ministries, youth ministry and adult discipleship programs. Nancy serves alongside Jeff as the President of the Hidden Value Group focusing on humanitarian aid around the world bringing healing, health and hope to organizations, schools and places needing healthcare and educational breakthroughs. She passionately serves non-profits, educational institutions and organizations looking to grow, transform and improve their leadership development and employee services.
Notes
NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction
Biography
Bethany Jett is a literary agent at MacGregor & Luedeke. She has an affinity for projects with strong commercial appeal and potential for literary recognition. Since becoming an agent, Bethany has drawn on over a decade of industry experience. A multi-award winning author with an MFA in Communication, she brings a sharp editorial eye and strong market instincts to every project she takes on. Bethany teaches at conferences nationwide and loves to help writers position their work with clarity and purpose. She is a lifelong planner enthusiast, proud boy mom, and military spouse who lives outside of D.C. with her family and their not-spoiled-at-all Pomeranian.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Crafts, Design, Food Drink, Gardening, Gift Novelty, How-To, Lifestyle, Nonfiction, Religion, Self-Help CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Jennifer Joel is a literary agent with CAA/ICM. She is co-head of the literary department of the agency. She says: “When I left my first job as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs to become a literary agent, most of my new colleagues were aghast at what they perceived IÕd given up for the privilege of working in a creative field. More recently, IÕm commended for my wise and prescient career change. IÕm extremely fortunate to be able to spend my time representing a diverse group of writers of both fiction and nonfiction, whose work has in common two essential elements: theyÕre good stories, well told. My clients include literary and commercial novelists for adults and young readers, historians, biographers, memoirists, journalists, strategists, adventurers, entertainers and other extraordinary individuals with big ideas to share. IÕm also a member of The Library Council at the New York Public Library and a Term Member at the Council on Foreign Relations.”
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Biography, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoir, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Politics, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, True Adventure CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Brianne Johnson is a literary agent with HG Literary. After working at independent bookstores, a book warehouse, a literary magazine, and in book publishing, Brianne started as a starry-eyed intern at WriterÕs House in 2007. She worked her way up to Senior Agent before moving to HG Literary in 2021. Brianne represents childrenÕs books of all stripes, with a particular focus on character-driven middle grade and young adult fiction. She also selectively represents picture books and adult fiction. Some of her clients include: winner of the Edgar Award and #1 New York Times bestselling author Wesley King, authors of the recent HBO Max film UNPREGNANT Jenni Hendriks and Ted Caplan, Edgar nominated author Greg Howard, award winning playwright and author Kate Scelsa, Joya Goffney, Heather Fawcett, Laura Sibson, Cheryl Klein, Camilla Bruce, and others. Brianne is particularly passionate about social justice stories, amplifying under-represented voices and perspectives, sex positivity, alternative lifestyles, quirky romances, well-researched historical fiction, and witchy/mythy genre benders. She loves pushing the envelope on balancing big, universally important themes with hope and humor in unexpected ways. The one link Brianne has throughout the genres she focuses on is humor and whimsy, particularly in darker settings. She loves stories that can illuminate something about humanity in a fresh and quirky way, AND make her laugh. Life is serious enough. Reading should be a joy.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Romance, Science Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Chapter Book Fiction, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction