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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.
- You are searching within category(ies): Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Steven Axelrod is a literary agent with The Axelrod Agency. Steven has been an agent for over 30 years and president of his own agency for more than 25 years. Prior to agenting, he was an editor at The Literary Guild, managing editor at Harcourt Brace and a reader for a number of paperback houses. His present clients include two-time Edgar Award-winning mystery author S.J. Rozan, as well as many top women’s fiction authors, including #1 New York Times bestsellers Christine Feehan, J.R. Ward and Julia Quinn, as well as multi-New York Times Bestsellers Jayne Ann Krentz, Susan Elizabeth Phillips , Suzanne Brockmann and Catherine Anderson.
Notes
FICTION: Crime Fiction, Erotic Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s FictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Jennifer Azantian is a literary agent with the Jennifer Azantian Literary Agency. Jennifer established Azantian Literary in 2014 and focuses primarily on fiction across genres for mg, YA, and adult readers. She represents bestselling and award-winning writers, and is always on the lookout for new talent. Prior to ALA, Jennifer was at the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency followed by a stint with the Paul Levine Literary Agency. Before publishing, she earned her B.S. in clinical and developmental psychology from UCSD where she was an executive editor for the Triton Psychology Report. She brings to her clients a passion for literature born of a writer’s heart, an editorial eye honed from reviewing thousands of projects, and the connections to help bring wonderful books to life.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Satire, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Chapter Book Fiction, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Bernadette Baker-Baughman is a literary agent with Victoria Sanders & Associates. She says: “After completing a MasterÕs Degree in Writing at Portland State University, and spending several years in-house (first editorial, then marketing) I began agenting in 2005. I have worked with VSA since 2010. I am drawn to strong storytelling in all genres, though I have a special interest in thrillers, contemporary novels, magical realism, young adult, and books for kids. I am also open to pop-culture, gift books, and memoir. I love smart writing, high concept books, work with great emotional resonance, and humor. I am always looking for authors with a distinctive voice. IÕve represented a number of New York Times bestselling and award winning writers and illustrators, including Leslye Walton, Faith Erin Hicks, Tony Cliff, Maris Wicks, Liv Constantine, and Carson Morton, to name a few.”
Notes
FICTION: Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket FictionNONFICTION: Art, Biography, Cultural Social Issues, General Nonfiction, Gift Novelty, History, Humor Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Reference, Upmarket NonfictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Claudia Ballard is a literary agent with WME Books. Claudia has been a literary agent at WME since 2008. She represents fiction, from established short-story writers to debut novelists and beyond, as well as creative nonfiction and journalism. She is looking to work with writers who surprise readers, who make us laugh, can tap into our deepest emotions, and who can introduce us to new ways of thinking about and seeing our complex world. Among the clients she works with are New York Times bestselling authors, Pulitzer Prize winners and finalists, National Book Foundation 5 Under 35 honorees, Granta Best of Young American Novelists, Cullman and Guggenheim fellows, Whiting Award winners, and recipients of the NYPL Young Lions Awards as well as the Nobel Prize. Originally from California, she now lives in New York City with her family.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, General Fiction, Romance, Thriller, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Art, Cultural Social Issues, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Religion, Science, SpiritualityCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Stephen Barbara is a literary agent with InkWell Management. He was born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, and graduated from the University of Chicago with a B.A. in English language and literature, winning awards for writing and student leadership while at the college. He began his publishing career in 2005 as an editorial assistant at HarperCollins, and then worked for three years as the Contracts Director of the Donald Maass Agency. Following six years as a literary agent at Foundry Media, he joined InkWell Management at the start of 2015.Stephen works with writers, storytellers, thinkers, and entertainers of talent and ambition. A sampling of his clients includes New York Times and international bestseller Lauren Oliver, USA Today bestseller and British Fantasy Award winner Paul Tremblay, Newbery Medal winner and New York Times bestseller Laura Amy Schlitz, National Book Award nominee Lisa Graff, Printz Honor awardee Susann Cokal, bestselling fantasy graphic novelist Ethan Aldridge, and childrenÕs author Minh L , whose picture book Drawn Together appeared on more than 20 ÒBest OfÓ Lists at the end of 2018; he also represents nonfiction authors Meghan Cox Gurdon, Eleanor Herman, and Tom Venuto. In his capacity as agent for media and content company Glasstown Entertainment, Stephen has worked with actress Krysten Ritter, activist Dylan Farrow, novelist Alma Katsu, and bestselling fantasy author Sara Holland, among others.Film/TV is a stated area of interest for Stephen. In the spring of 2019, Amazon Studios announced their first-ever YA series, Panic, based on Lauren OliverÕs novel; two other novelsbased on books represented by Stephen have been adapted into films, and many other projects based on books of his are in active development. While selective in taking on new clients, Stephen is always drawn to compelling stories that marry quality writing to bold, imaginative concepts.
Notes
FICTION: Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Mystery, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, ThrillerNONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Nonfiction, Science, SportsCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Chapter Book Fiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Denise Barone is a literary agent with the Barone Literary Agency. Denise says: “I opened my literary agency on June 1, 2010. A lawyer licensed to practice in the State of Ohio and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, I am also a published writer. After writing for many years, I have acquired a knowledge of books, book contracts and the publishing world. I have been a member of RWA since 2000.”
Notes
FICTION: Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s FictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Anjanette Barr is a literary agent with Dunham Literary. She has been working in various branches of the writing and publishing world for over a decade, and being an agent is the perfect way to synthesize her interests and talents.She spent the pandemic earning a certificate in Literary Representation from UCLA Extension. She also holds a B.A. in Japanese Studies from William Jewell College.Anjanette lives with her family of six in Juneau, Alaska.Member:Association of American Literary AgentsSociety of Children’s Book Writers and IllustratorsAlaska Writers GuildCatholic Writers Guild
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, New Adult Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Art, Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Crafts, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, Family, Fitness, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Illustrated, Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Parenting, Poetry, Psychology, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Travel, Upmarket Nonfiction, Women’s IssuesCHILDRENÕS 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
Biography
Stephen Barr is a literary agent with Writers House Literary Agency. Writers House has been around for over forty years, and in addition to being an actual house (it’s true! Check our website!), it’s one of the largest literary agencies in the industry, representing fiction and non-fiction of every stripe.He says “I’ve been with Writers House for a little over fifteen years now, and while I’m not an actual house (couldn’t get the permits), I’m a pretty omnivorous agent. At the moment, I’ve got a particular hankering for…- intricate, heart-on-its-sleeve, voice-abundant YA like King Dork or Baby & Solo (bonus points for unrequited love stories!)- audacious, experimental YA mysteries or fantasies that handcuff humor and tragedy to the same radiator- middle grade that takes on heavy themes with a light, optimistic, eccentric touch- sweet and/or silly and/or heartbreaking picture books from adventurous author/illustrators- unexpected memoirs with itchy voices- narrative non-fiction that tackles hard-to-tackle issues, like Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma- and any fiction that rewards the reader line-by-line and gets to know at least one character really, really well (recent favorites include The Night Watchman, The Searcher, The Five Wounds, and I am Homeless if This is Not My Home).I’m also willing to be a sucker for…- detective stories that bend reality- ghost stories that blow reality to hell- Secret Book X (I don’t know what Secret Book X is, but suffice it to say, I’m open to the occasional curveball).I have almost zero emotional baggage, so I’m ready to fall in love (with your book)!
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket FictionNONFICTION: Food Drink, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, SportsCHILDRENÕS 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
Biography
Andrea Barzvi is a literary agent with Empire Literary. After graduating from Colgate University Andrea Barzvi went on to study law at Cardozo Law School where her passion for the entertainment industry began to deepen. When forced with a game-time decision to choose between pursuing a career as a criminal defense attorney or becoming an agent, she smartly chose the latter. Born and raised in New York City, her first job in publishing was as an agent at ICM Partners where she stayed for 14 years before starting her own agency in November 2013, which she aptly named Empire Literary given her strong roots to the city as well as her successful track record of helping her authors build their empires. With over 30 New York Times bestsellers on her list, she continues to secure major deals on behalf of her authors. Some of the projects sheÕs represented are New York Times Bestsellers HeÕs Just Not That Into You by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo, the This Man trilogy by Jodi Ellen Malpas, Body Reset Diet by Harley Pasternak, Master Your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels, G-Free Diet by Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Fortytude by Sarah Brokaw, The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan, The Hunger Fix by Dr. Pam Peeke, HereÕs The Deal: DonÕt Touch Me by Howie Mandel as well as Ilana Wiles, the creator of the Mommy Shorts blog, Lexi Kornblum of LexiÕs Clean Kitchen and Jen Widerstrom, the co-host of The Biggest Loser among many others.Andrea represents projects that look to make a difference in peopleÕs lives and is always looking for fresh new voices as well established authors.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, ThrillerNONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Diet Nutrition, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Photography, Pop Culture, Reference, Science, Self-Help, SportsCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Erica Bauman is a literary agent with Aevitas Creative Management. She represents a wide variety of authors across middle grade, young adult, and commercial adult fiction, including acclaimed YA author Andrew Auseon and Broadway performer Tiffany Haas.Erica is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and has worked in the publishing industry since 2012. Prior to Aevitas, she worked at Spectrum Literary Agency.Based in New York, Erica is most interested in commercial novels that feature an exciting premise and lyrical, atmospheric writing; imaginative, genre-blending tales; speculative worlds filled with haunting, quietly wondrous magic; fresh retellings of mythology, ballet, opera, and classic literature; sharply funny rom-coms; graphic novels for all ages; fearless storytellers that tackle big ideas and contemporary issues; and working with and supporting marginalized authors and stories that represent the wide range of humanity.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Romance, Science Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Gwen Beal is a liteary agent with the United Talent Agency (UTA). She began her career as a floating assistant in WMEÕs mailroom in 2016. She is now an agent in the UTA publishing group with a specialty in childrenÕs literature, and represents a growing list of talent. She has omnivorous tastes and cherishes honest, collaborative working relationships with each of her clients. Gwen is actively signing authors and artists of books for young readers from preschool to young adult with an eye towards unforgettable voice and perspective. Gwen graduated from Trinity College in Hartford and lives in Manhattan.
Notes
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
Biography
Maile Beal is a literary agent with Arc Literary Management. She joined Arc Literary Management in 2021 after over 5 years at the Carol Mann Agency. She began her career as an intern before becoming subrights manager and assistant to Myrsini Stephanides and eventually growing her own client list. She is passionate about advocating for writers and artists so that they are empowered to create work that will have a lasting impact – books in which readers will see themselves represented, find tools for social change, learn something new, connect with a different perspective, and deepen their understanding of the world. Originally from Hawaii, MaileÕs first home on the east coast was Philadelphia, where she earned her B.A. in English from Drexel University. She can usually be found caring for her growing collection of indoor plants, attempting overambitious recipes in the kitchen, or starting yet another new crafting hobby. All, of course, with her rescue dog, Rufus, somewhere underfoot. Maile is interested in adult non-fiction as well as childrenÕs, middle grade, and YA fiction and non-fiction. In all categories, she is looking for projects that amplify underrepresented voices and untold stories.In adult nonfiction, Maile is interested in journalistic, investigative deep dives, narrative retellings of untold histories, business and leadership resources centering underestimated identities, lifestyle and cookbooks with a fresh, personal hook, and unexpected humor and gift books. In childrenÕs, Maile is seeking fiction and non-fiction in all age categories. In picture books and MG, she gravitates toward heartfelt, earnest stories that use humor and silliness to connect with readers. In YA, sheÕs drawn to voice driven projects focusing on community and relationships with strong, complex characters that will stick with readers beyond the last page.
Notes
NONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Gift Novelty, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Photography, Politics, Pop Culture, Science, Technology, True Crime, Women’s IssuesCHILDRENÕS 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
Biography
Rachel Beck is a literary agent with Liza Dawson Associates. She joined Liza Dawson Associates in 2020 after working at a boutique literary agency for 4 years. She has been in the publishing industry since 2009 and worked at Harlequin editing romance novels for nearly 6 years before transitioning her skills to the agent world in order to be an advocate and champion for authors. She lives in southern California with her husband, young son, and endlessly entertaining cat.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Speculative Fiction, Sports Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, General Nonfiction, Gift Novelty, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Religion, Self-Help, Sports, Technology, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s IssuesCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Arifa Begom is a literary agent with Crescent Literary. She is a geologist and environmental scientist by day and a literary agent, by day, too. With a stint at a small press as an acquiring editor, she now brings her publishing experience and background in law and policy to her role as an agent.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Science FictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Sharon Belcastro is a literary agent with the Belcastro Agency. She was born and raised in Northeastern Ohio. It only took her 37 years to get sick of the snow, cracked fingers and chapped lips before she picked up and moved to the much warmer and sunnier Tampa Bay area. Her love of books goes back to early childhood where some of her fondest memories were spent with Gulliver in Lilliput and Ishmael and his voyage on the Pequod. She has had a book in her hand and her nose in a book ever since. Forced to grow up and face the real world, Sharon earned her Engineering degree from Youngstown State University and her masterÕs in business from Case Western Reserve University. She spent several years in product development, sales and the development and streamlining of key business processes before she returned to her passion for books attended classes in publishing at NYU and applied her experience to the founding of Belcastro Agency.
Notes
FICTION: Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Cookbook Cooking, Fitness, Food Drink, Gardening, Health Wellness, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Psychology, Self-Help, True CrimeCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Faye Bender is a literary agent and partner with The Book Group. With a focus on strong collaborative working relationships with her authors, Faye Bender represents fiction for readers aged eight to adult. Her authors have won numerous awards and honors, including the Newbery Medal, the Schneider Family Book Award, the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, the Rona Jaffe Foundation WriterÕs Award, the Indies Choice Book of the Year Award, the Guardian ChildrenÕs Fiction Prize, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award, and the International Latino Book Award, and have been finalists for the National Book Award and the Impac Dublin Literary Award. Her clients’ books have been #1 New York Times bestsellers, New York Times Book Review Notable Books, and selected for Best Books of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, The Washington Post, School Library Journal, NPR, the Wall Street Journal, the American Library Association, and the New York Public Library, among others.Faye is always excited to discover authors with a strong narrative voice and an eye for imaginative storytelling, and she works with her authors for the length and breadth of their careers. Born and raised in Denver, Faye lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two children.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, General FictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Chapter Book Fiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Elizabeth Bennett is a literary agent with the Transatlantic Agency. Elizabeth has spent her career in the childrenÕs publishing industry with positions in marketing, product development and editorial at such companies as Scholastic, ReaderÕs Digest and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Prior to joining the Transatlantic Agency, I was an Executive Editor at HMH where I focused on brand-forward publishing around classic properties like Curious George, Little Blue Truck and The Little Prince as well as novelties, board books and picture books. During my tenure I established an IP program launching several middle grade series including The Next Best Junior Chef, Survivor Diaries, and Junior Ninja Champion.As an agent, I represent a balanced list of talented picture book, graphic novel, middle grade and YA authors and illustrators. I love books that pull at the heart strings, make me laugh, make me think, make me smile; and especially books that make even a reluctant reader want to curl up in a nook and read.Contrary to evidence suggesting otherwise, my favorite book is not Pride and Prejudice.
Notes
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
Biography
Tina Bennett is a literary agent with and the founder of Bennett Literary. She established the agency in 2020 after working with Janklow & Nesbitt Associates and William Morris Endeavor Entertainment.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, RomanceNONFICTION: Biography, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Politics, Pop Culture, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Technology, True CrimeCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Jenny Bent is a literary agent with the Bent Agency. She says: ÒIn the course of my career, I have represented a great many award-winning and New York Times-bestselling authors, a list which includes Stephanie Garber, Liv Constantine, Gary John Bishop, Lori Nelson Spielman, Goldy Moldavsky, Tiffany D. Jackson, Elise Kova, Yangsze Choo, Dustin Thao, Arvin Ahmadi, Lynsay Sands, JT Geissinger and Samantha Bailey.IÕm currently looking for literary and commercial fiction and young adult fiction as well as select non-fiction in the areas of self-help and lifestyle. My client list is diverse and I welcome submissions from BIPOC authors.In adult fiction, IÕm looking for high concept, upmarket womenÕs fiction; grounded fantasy; speculative fiction and horror (I particularly love a good scary ghost story, along the lines of writing by Simone St. James and Jennifer McMahon); and domestic suspense, but the bar is very high in suspense right now so it has to be an extremely creative concept. I also rep some romance and rom-com, but no other genre fiction: IÕm not a good choice for high fantasy, cozy mystery, or sci-fi.In young adult fiction, IÕm pretty open to genre Ñ I love fantasy, rom-coms, suspense, contemporary, almost anything except for sci-fi. I do notice that my YA taste does tend to skew towards older readers, more in a crossover direction.In general, I tend to prefer plot-driven books to character-driven ones and pacing is very important to me. I also love novels Ñ for adults or young adults Ñ that have an element of magic or fantasy to them or that take me into a world that is new to me, whether real or imaginary. And while I love books to be dark and weird in terms of content, I find that I am more drawn to traditional, rather than experimental, methods of structure and storytelling. Finally, I am not the right fit for books with overtly political or extremely complicated plotlines. In nonfiction, I am looking for authors with a unique approach and a very large existing platform. IÕm not generally the right choice for memoir or narrative non-fiction, but IÕm always open to hearing a pitch just in case.All of the books that I represent speak to the heart in some way: they are linked by genuine emotion, inspiration, and great writing and storytelling. I love books that make me laugh, make me cry, or ideally do both.”
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Inspirational Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Self-HelpCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Kendall Berdinsky is a literary agent with Dystel, Goderich & Bourret, LLC. A native Texan, she fell in love with the Junie B. Jones books she discovered in kindergarten and has been an avid reader ever since. She is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, where she earned her bachelorÕs degree in professional writing with a minor in English literature. During her junior year abroad, she interned in the childrenÕs department at Simon & Schuster UK; after graduation, she served as an editorial assistant at Foundry Literary + Media and attended the Columbia Publishing Course. She is not taking on clients at this time, but in the future, would be interested in seeing upmarket romance, book club fiction, historical fiction, and narrative nonfiction. Overall, she is looking for work from underrepresented communities with new stories to tell.
Notes
FICTION: Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Art, Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Health Wellness, History, Investigative, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Travel, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s IssuesCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Amy Berkower is a literary agent with Writers House Literary Agency. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Cruz, Amy moved back to New York to find a job in publishing. An ad in the NewYork Times led to a gal Friday position at Writers House where she has been working ever since. Amy is now a partner, and President of the company. In 1978, Al Zuckerman, the founder of Writers House, had the insight to ask Amy to start a children’s book department. Recognizing the need for kid friendly books that would appeal to the fast growing paperback original market, Berkower initially focused on series. Her first sale, an interactive children’s book, grew into a series called CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE consisting of over one hundred titles, and was soon followed by a succession of popular franchises: SWEET VALLEY HIGH, THE BABYSITTERS CLUB, JUNIE B JONES and CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS. Determined to apply what she learned about branding series to the marketing of individual authors, Amy developed a list that includes some of the most respected names (Sharon Creech, Laurie Anderson, Andrew Clements, Jack Gantos) in the business. Her colleagues have built upon that foundation, growing Writers House’s children’s book department into one of the largest and most successful in the world. Writers House clients include a mix of mega hits ( TWILIGHT and ERAGON) and Newbery, Caldecott, Printz, and National Book Award recipients such as Neil Gaiman, Ingrid Law, Grace Lin, Kadir Nelson, Susan Patron and Robin McKinley. Amy also has a growing list of adult authors including Nora Roberts, Ken Follett, Erica Jong, Ridley Pearson and Barbara Delinsky.
Notes
FICTION: Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Literary Fiction, Mainstream Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Thriller, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Current Events Affairs, History, Humor Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, PoliticsCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Meredith Bernstein
Meredith Bernstein Literary AgencyAccepting SubmissionsQuery Method(s): Online Form or Postal MailBiography
Meredith Bernstein is a literary agent with the Meredith Bernstein Literary Agency. Meredith has been a literary agent for over 30 years. Prior to becoming a literary agent, she worked as a story editor for film producers on both the East and West Coasts, as well as a freelance reader. In addition to being a literary agent, Meredith Bernstein has packaged two romance lines and co-authored SEXUAL CHEMISTRY with Julius Fast (M. Evans/Pocket). In nonfiction, the agency seeks platform-driven works that shed new light on a given subject and is also open to any area of nonfiction that is well executed. We love personal memoirs that bring out heroic individualism, and are further interested in writers of ÒspecialÓ projects and creative endeavors that supersede genre.Meredith Bernstein also has been very successful in representing individuals who have accomplished memo-rable and outstanding achievements in their lives. Among such clients are Miep Gies (the woman who hid Anne FrankÕs family and found her diary), Patricia Ireland, the former president of N.O.W., and Dennis Conner, of sailing fame.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Business Book, Crafts, Environment, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Inspirational Nonfiction, Journalism, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Money Finance, Nonfiction, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Spirituality, Travel, True Crime, Women’s IssuesCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Elizabeth Bewley is a literary agent with Sterling Lord Literistic. A graduate of Northwestern University, Elizabeth was an editor at various imprints including St. MartinÕs Press, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers before she joined Sterling Lord Literistic, Inc. in 2017. She loves to read all sorts of books for kids and adults. On the childrenÕs side of her list, she represents young adult and middle grade fiction, and the occasional picture book. On the adult side, she is eager to represent more upmarket commercial fiction and narrative nonfiction. ElizabethÕs clients include Shana Youngdahl, Raquel Vasquez Gilliland, Alyson No‘l, Dwayne Reed (aka: AmericaÕs Favorite Rapping Teacher), Dawnn Karen, Jenny Elder Moke, Elissa Sussman, Mercedes Helnwein, Joan Bauer, Roland Smith, Jennifer Lynn Alvarez, Chrystal Giles, and Yvette Clark, amongst others. In addition, she represents some literary estates, including those of Marguerite Henry and Lois Duncan. ElizabethÕs current submission wish list includes high-concept young adult novels, especially from underrepresented voices, accessible middle grade novels that will foster a love of reading (think: fun, funny, or both!), young adult romance, high-concept adult love stories similar to One Day by David Nicholls, and any upmarket commercial fiction with a witty voice and eye for detail. She also loves working with clients who are boldly creating positive change in our world. If youÕre doing something big and think that it should be explored in a book, reach out to Elizabeth.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: Biography, General Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Narrative Nonfiction, NonfictionCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Tamanna Bhasin is an assistant agent with The Rights Factory. Having realized her passion for literature far outweighed her childhood dream of fashion design, Tamanna earned her BA in English Literature and History from the University of Toronto. After honing her skills by working with various literary journals and editorial internships, Tamanna joined The Rights Factory as an Associate Editor in 2020.
With a keen eye for detail cultivated through her prior editorial work, Tamanna seamlessly transitioned into publishing. Her dedication to diverse narratives shines through as a literary agentÑwhere she now combines her love for reading with her expertise in spotting compelling manuscripts across genres.
Tamanna remains on the lookout for stories that resonate long after the final page has been turned.
Notes
CLOSED to Submissions | New Literary Agents |Middle Grade Fiction | Young Adult Fiction | BIPOC Fiction | Crime Fiction | Fantasy | Historical Fiction | Humor Fiction | LGBTQ Fiction | Literary Fiction | Magical Realism | New Adult Fiction | Romance | Speculative Fiction | Women’s Fiction |
Biography
Matthew Bialer is a literary agent with Sanford J. Greenburger Associates. Matt has been in the publishing community since 1985, and worked at two major literary agencies before joining the Greenburger team in 2003. He represents fantasy, science fiction, thrillers, and mysteries as well as a select group of literary writers, and also loves smart narrative nonfiction including books about current events, popular culture, biography, history, music, race, and sports. While his list includes many veteran authors, he also enjoys finding unique new voices.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, ThrillerNONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Current Events Affairs, General Nonfiction, History, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Science, Sports, TravelCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Lauren Bieker is a literary agent with FinePrint Literary Management. After a brief career in the fashion industry, Lauren made her move to publishing as an intern for agent Paige Wheeler. She moved to FinePrint to assist with day-to-day administrative tasks, but is now developing her client list and is open to queries.Lauren is looking for commercial and upmarket womenÕs fiction and some well-crafted and differentiated YA novels. She is also open to select dystopian science fiction, as well as high concept and literary fiction works. She appreciates great storytelling and is a ÒsuckerÓ for outstanding writing and convincing characters. While primarily interested in fiction, she will consider non-fiction proposals related to the world of fashion.Lauren writes during her free time and has been published on various online platforms. She has attended many writing workshops and intensives, including the National Academy of WritingÕs intensive at Cambridge University in the UK.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s FictionNONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Women’s IssuesCHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Katie Bircher is a literary agent with and the founder of Sara Crowe Literary. She spent nine years as an editor and staff reviewer for The Horn BookÕs publications and served as chair for the 2018 Boston GlobeÐHorn Book Award committee. She also has more than seven years of experience as an indie bookseller specializing in childrenÕs and YA literature. She can most often be found lost in a good book with a fluffy cat in her lap.
Notes
FICTION: FictionCHILDRENÕS 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