Jim Averbeck is an agent with the East West Literary Agency. Averbeck is an award-winning author and author/illustrator of numerous picture books including the Sophia series, introduced with One Word from Sophia (Atheneum Books for Young Readers), and Except If (Atheneum). He is also the author of the middle grade novel, A Hitch at the Fairmont (Atheneum). He has been an SCBWI Regional Advisor (SF/South), a knowledgeable conference and workshop presenter, an SCBWI critique group facilitator, as well as a long-time volunteer for We Need Diverse Books.Averbeck has a decade of experience mentoring new writers. His specialty is editorial feedback to help authors make their stories irresistible to editors. His resume includes a long list of childrenÕs creators who have achieved their goal to become published authors. In picture books, Averbeck is looking for illustrators with a strong, unique illustration style who also have well-developed writing skills and whose stories have a strong emotional core. In middle grade, YA, and graphic novels, Averbeck is interested in science fiction, low or historical fantasy, and literary fiction with memorable, quirky protagonists and steadfast supporting characters who break stereotypes and tropes. All submissions should feature strong, smart protagonists who cleverly overcome obstacles and bring a fresh spin or outlook to the story.