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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
Dee Mura is a literary agent with and the founder of Dee Mura Literary. Dee began her career in the editorial and marketing departments of Newsweek Magazine, and in the trading and futures departments of Goldman Sachs. With an offer from the Brazilian government to produce sporting and concert events in Rio de Janeiro and S‹o Paulo, Brazil, Dee launched her own production company and public relations division representing artists from around the globe. A close relationship with several of these artists led to the development of Dee Mura Enterprises, a talent and literary personal management company with a hands-on approach to developing performing artists and writers for film, television, personal appearances, and corporate events. When several of her film and TV writers expressed the desire to write for publication, Dee Mura Literary was born. The company now flourishes under the direction of DeeÕs diverse experience in media, marketing, editorial, finance, and personal management, with the goal of contributing quality, innovative literature to the publishing world.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Erotic Fiction, Espionage Military Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Paranormal Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance, Satire, Science Fiction, Sports Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Animals, Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Current Events Affairs, Environment, Family, Film Entertainment, Gardening, General Nonfiction, Government, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Inspirational Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, New Age, Nonfiction, Parenting, Photography, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Sports, Travel, True Adventure CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Dana Murphy is a literary agent with Trellis Literary Management. She joined Trellis Literary Management in 2022, after a decade building her list at The Book Group. She represents a wide range of fiction and nonfiction for both adult and teen readers. Books by her clients have been New York Times and international bestsellers and chosen as Barnes & Noble Discover, Book of the Month, Read with Jenna, Indie Next and NYT Editors’ Choice picks. Across genre, Dana falls in love at the story and line-level simultaneously. She’s always searching for language and plot that move in equal measure, one in constant support of the other. She believes this symbiosis can exist anywhere on the commercial-to-literary spectrum and is most drawn to writing that aims to transform the reader, disrupt hegemony, and center community Ñ particularly by marginalized writers who have historically been boxed out of traditional publishing spaces. In fiction, Dana looks for books (and authors!) with a soft heart, a sense of humor, and a deep earnest affection for their characters and story. Her forever favorites are genuinely hilarious romantic-comedies that read like the best kind of fan fiction, coming-of-age that captures the specificity of being young today, high-concept and/or speculative novels that press on our shared cultural bruises, and anything that celebrates found families and friendships as their own glorious love stories. Dana’s nonfiction taste trends towards narrative nonfiction and essay collections about pop culture, class, gender, race, science, food and so on. She will always reach for well-researched cultural criticism that interrogates the power structures shaping our collective understanding of “good” taste or reckons with “low” and “unworthy” pop culture in a smart, serious way. Born and raised on Long Island, Dana moved to New York City to study Critical Film Theory and Sociology at NYU, lived there for ten years, and now calls Philadelphia home. If she’s not answering your emails, she’s probably snuck off to one of her favorite places: a campsite in the woods, the beach in her hometown, or a quiet dive bar to drink their cheapest beer and read a book she isn’t working on. Dana’s favorite non-client authors (if your work is similar, please get in touch!): Hanif Abdurraqib, Emily Henry, Casey McQuiston, Shea Serrano, Mary HK Choi, Kate Racculia, Kristen Arnett, Morgan Rogers, Anna Weiner, Megan Stielstra.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Art, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Sports CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Erin Murphy is a partner and literary agent with Aevitas Creative Management. Erin built her publishing career mostly in the arena of childrenÕs books. She founded and led childrenÕs book-focused Erin Murphy Literary Agency for more than 25 years before merging it with Aevitas in 2025. Previously she was editor-in-chief at a regional publishing house in Arizona, where she worked on adult nonfiction and lifestyle books as well as childrenÕs books. As an agent, she has represented bestsellers and books that have won notices including a Caldecott Honor, a Newbery Honor, Sibert Medal and Honor, Stonewall Medals, APALA silver and gold, American Indian Youth Literature Honors, a National Jewish Book Award finalist, a Schneider Award, and multiple Edgar, Sydney Taylor, Boston Globe-Horn Book, AmŽricas, Golden Kite, Jane Addams, Margaret Wise Brown, and Orbis Pictus awards or honors, among others. Erin’s favorite part of being an agent is strategizing clientsÕ long-term careers. While she is perhaps best known for her representation of picture book writers, she is currently looking to balance her list with more fiction for middle-graders and young adults, and is especially seeking novels that celebrate unlikely underdog alliances, close siblings/fierce friendships/found families, and queer and BIPOC community and joy. In middle-grade, sheÕs hungry for cozy, emotionally resonant fantasy and literary-leaning multi-layered mysteries. In YA, sheÕs hoping to find sweeping fantasy set in fully realized unique worlds, especially those inspired by non-European cultures, as well as thrillers with strong hooks. She is open to well-researched, propulsive narrative nonfiction for MG and YA. In all categories, she looks especially for authors from marginalized communities, and as you might expect from someone who has focused so much on picture book texts, she most appreciates writing in which every word counts, attention has been given to making it work on multiple levels at once, and she is effortlessly engrossed in the world on the page. She is also open to bringing on select author-illustrators whose visual voice is clear and unique and whose writing is as strong as their art. Erin lives and works in southern Maine and can be queried only on Query Tracker.
Notes
CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
James Mustelier is a literary agent with The Bent Agency. He says: “IÕm looking for a range of commercial and literary fiction and non-fiction. In all genres (but particularly in literary fiction) I prize economical prose, complex characters, steadily building tension, narrative gravity, and the momentary relief of dark humor, even (or especially) amid dire circumstances. In commercial fiction IÕm looking for compact horror and mysteries with big hooks and intricate plotting. In sci-fi and fantasy IÕm drawn to stories that are grounded in reality and have high stakes that touch on contemporary issues Ñ more speculative fiction and alternate histories than high fantasy or space opera. In nonfiction IÕm looking for books that give me a vivid look into subcultures and events I might not otherwise have had the chance to explore. Much of my favorite nonfiction melds a distinct narrative voice with rigorous research. In YA and MG IÕm interested in epic fantasy, grounded sci-fi, and irreverent retellings of fairy tales, classic myths, and historical events. IÕm specifically seeking stories written from diverse perspectives that draw from underrepresented cultures.”
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Satire, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, General Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Eric Myers founded Myers Literary Management, LLC in 2017, following two years with Dystel, Goderich, & Bourret, LLC and thirteen with The Spieler Agency. A graduate of UCLA and the Sorbonne, Eric entered publishing as a journalist and author. Books he has written include Screen Deco: A Celebration of High Style in Hollywood, Forties Screen Style: A Celebration of High Pastiche in Hollywood, and Uncle Mame: The Life of Patrick Dennis, all published by St. MartinÕs Press. His writing has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine and Arts and Leisure sections, Time Out New York, Opera News, Art and Auction, Variety, and Quest. As an agent, Eric concentrates on non-fiction, especially in the areas of history, biography, psychology, health and wellness, and pop culture. He also is open to memoir from writers who already have a strong platform.
Notes
FICTION: Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Mystery, Thriller NONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Film Entertainment, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Sports, Technology, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Jen Nadol is a literary agent with The Unter Agency. She has worked in publishing for fifteen years, first as a Young Adult author with novels published by Bloomsbury USA and Simon and Schuster. She joined The Unter Agency in 2018 and represents adult, YA and middle-grade fiction as well as narrative non-fiction and memoir. She does not represent picture books, novellas or high fantasy. Jen is originally from Reading, PA, graduated from American University with a BA in literature and has lived in Washington D.C., Boston, NYC, and now, an old farmhouse north of the city with her three sons. She is a member of the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA) and the Westside Agents Group (WAG).
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Environment, Fitness, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Travel, True Adventure, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Lizz Nagle is a literary agent with Victress Literary. She used to read books while walking to school as a kid and got lost in stories at the Allentown Public Library. She then stayed local, graduating from Cedar Crest College in May of 2009 where she studied English with a creative writing concentration and picked up another Communication major along the way. After graduating college, mothering, office managing for a Chiropractor, substitute teaching for the Allentown School District, working construction for a little while, and writing for fun herself, Lizz began her agenting career in 2019 at Victress Literary under the mentorship of Victress founder, Shannon Orso. She immediately began seeking out layered, character-driven stories with social relevancy that challenge stereotypes, soften hearts, and spread hope with a message of resilience. With a client list including but not limited to Young Adult, WomenÕs Fiction, Horror, and Fantasy titles, Lizz thrives in a creative atmosphere working on a wide variety of books that mashup genres and are propelled by characters. As an agent she values communication, community and collaboration. When not reading, writing, painting, practicing guitar, traveling, or at a concert, she might be found on a hiking trail or with her menagerie of kids and rescue animals.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cookbook Cooking, Fitness, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Spirituality, Sports, Travel, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Kimiko Nakamura is a literary agent with Dee Mura Literary. Kimiko is a graduate of Skidmore College and Boston UniversityÕs Book Publishing Program. She worked within Shambhala Publications and Harvard Common Press before becoming a literary agent. She partners with aspiring and published authors alike, enjoys well-worn library books, and is always up for a game of Scrabble. She loves projects that reimagine whatÕs possible, characters with something (or nothing) to lose, unique viewpoints, trailblazing heroines, and anything with elements of magical realism.
Notes
FICTION: Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Cookbook Cooking, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Liz Nealon is a literary agent with and the founder of Great Dog Literary. She represents both adult and childrenÕs books, largely non-fiction. Previously, Liz was an award-winning executive producer and media industry leader who played an integral role in shaping the indelible youth brands Sesame Street, Kidz Bop, and MTV. She served as Worldwide Creative Director for Sesame Street and traveled the world as SVP of MTV International, launching channels in Europe, Brazil, Japan, and Australia. Not surprisingly, given her many years working in television and interactive media, Liz is drawn to illustrated books, for both children and adults. Her tastes skew to non-fiction and her instincts are decidedly commercial, so sheÕs always looking for just the right mix of pop appeal plus intellectual content. She likes nothing more than packaging serious non-fiction in an alternative, surprising frame. Liz is more interested in thought-provoking than provocative, though sheÕs been known to represent some deeply edgy content. Across all the media in which she has worked, Liz Nealon has demonstrated a commitment to seeking out and amplifying diverse creative voices, starting with recruiting, mentoring, and supporting a diverse staff, and then empowering that team to source and develop breakthrough content.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Environment, Family, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Health Wellness, Humor Nonfiction, Illustrated, Inspirational Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Parenting, Poetry, Politics, Pop Culture, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Technology, Travel, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Edward Necarsulmer IV
Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary AgencyAccepting SubmissionsQuery Method(s): Email or Postal MailBiography
Edward Necarsulmer IV is a literary agent with the Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary Agency. He began his career in book publishing as an intern at Random House Books for Young Readers. He went on to assist Marilyn E. Marlow at Curtis Brown Ltd. and then joined McIntosh & Otis, Inc. in 2004 to oversee their children’s literature business. He is known for cultivating strong new voices in teen & middle grade as well as picture books. He represents New York Times Bestselling, Newbery, and Caldecott winning authors, illustrators, and estates. He is keen to continue to team up with authors and artists who wish to look beyond the obvious and strive for the exceptional.
Notes
FICTION: Crime Fiction, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Literary Fiction, Mystery NONFICTION: Art, Business Book, Economics, General Nonfiction, Humor Nonfiction, Money Finance, Nonfiction, Photography, Science, Technology, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Kristin Nelson is a literary agent with and the founder of the Nelson Literary Agency (2002). She says: ÒMy goal as an agent is simple: I want every client of mine to make a living solely from writing and 90% of my authors do without help from any other source of income. I established Nelson Literary Agency, LLC, in 2002 and over the last decade+ of my career, IÕve represented over forty New York Times bestselling titles and many USA Today bestsellers. Although IÕm a very nice Midwesterner, IÕve heard through the grapevine that editors call me Òa hard-working bulldog agent that will fight for you.Ó What a compliment! When not busy selling books, IÕm quite sporty. I enjoy tennis, pickle ball, and golf. I also love playing Bridge (where surprisingly IÕm not the youngest person in the club). On weekends my husband Brian and I can be found hiking in the Mountains.
Notes
FICTION: Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Mainstream Fiction, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Patricia Nelson is a literary agent at Looking Glass Literary & Media. She joined Looking Glass Literary in 2025 after more than ten years as an agent with Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. Her clients include New York Times and USA Today bestsellers, a National Book Award finalist, and winners of ALA Youth Media Awards including multiple Printz Honor and Stonewall Honor recipients. Patricia represents young adult and middle grade fiction in all genres, adult book club/upmarket fiction (including upmarket fiction with speculative and horror elements), and the whole spectrum of commercial womenÕs fiction Ñ everything from lighter beach reads and romcoms to darker stories with a mystery or suspense thread. Across the board, she looks for stories that hook her with a unique plot, fantastic writing, and complex characters that jump off the page. She enjoys working closely with both debut and established authors to build successful long-term careers. Patricia received her bachelorÕs degree from the College of William and Mary, and also holds a masterÕs degree in English Literature from the University of Southern California and a masterÕs degree in Gender Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. Before becoming an agent, she spent four years as a university-level instructor of literature and writing.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Rachel Neumann is a literary agent with and the founder of Wave Literary. She specializes in creating books that you pick up before knowing why you picked them up and donÕt put down until theyÕre done. For the past 15 years, she has worked in book publishing in New York and California with an emphasis on developing culture-shifting narrative nonfiction. As Publisher and Editorial Director of Parallax Press, Rachel transformed a small nonprofit into a multimillion-dollar trade publisher. She used her gift for finding books that make spiritual concepts useful to daily life to create Thich Nhat HanhÕs best-selling 8-book Mindfulness Essentials series. As the Associate Publisher and Editorial Director of Shambhala Publications, Rachel focused on developing diverse and underrepresented authors in wellness, psychology, health, politics, and creative living. She has co-created two successful childrenÕs imprints and has worked with publishers large and small on expanding and diversifying their audiences. Rachel has been the personal editor and collaborator for internationally-revered teachers Thich Nhat Hanh, Pema Chodron, as well as dozens of other best-selling authors. She is the author of four books. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Nation, and other national and international publications. Rachel is based in the Bay Area and speaks and teaches regularly around the country. SheÕs happiest in the ocean, in the middle of a good book, or upside down. Not all at once.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Multicultural Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Beauty Fashion Style, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Inspirational Nonfiction, Law Legal, Lifestyle, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Photography, Politics, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Technology, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Esther Newberg is a literary agent with CAA/ICM. Based in the New York office, she represents many of the worldÕs leading authors across publishing, motion pictures, television, music, theater, branded entertainment and digital media, including Caroline Kennedy, Lesley Stahl, Lynn Sherr, Patricia Cornwell, Pete Dexter, Steve Martin, Carl Hiaasen, Thomas L. Friedman, Frank Rich, Maureen Dowd, Michael Beschloss, Ina Garten, Frank Fukuyama, John Sandford, Mike Lupica, Dennis Ross, Michael Beschloss, George Saunders, Michael Sandel,Sally Jenkins, Seymour Hersh, Bob Iger, Henry Winkler, Tom Hanks, John Stamos, Fran Lebowitz, Stephen Hunter, the Jimmy Breslin Estate, the Robert B. Parker Estate, and the Pete Hamill Estate. Newberg was Partner and Co-Head of the Literary department at ICM Partners before joining CAA in 2022 following the agency’s acquisition of ICM. Prior to joining ICM, Newberg was involved in running Senator Edmund S. Muskie’s 1972 presidential campaign in New York and Congressman Morris Udall’s 1976 presidential campaign in New York and Connecticut. She also served as staff director for Congresswoman Bella Abzug and on the staffs of Senator Robert F. Kennedy and Abraham Ribicoff. A graduate of Wheaton College, Newberg is a member of the Advisory Council of the American Museum of Natural History, The Council on Foreign Relations, and the board of the Sag Harbor Cinema.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Mystery, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Money Finance, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Photography, Politics, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion, Self-Help, Spirituality, Sports CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Jen Newens is a literary agent with Martin Literary Management. At different phases of her publishing career, Jen has been an author, editor, and publisher, giving her experience in all sides of the business. She comes to us after a seven-year stint as publishing director at West Margin Press, an Ingram Content Group company. There, she acquired a wide range of different genres, but holds a special place in her heart for young peopleÕs literature. She began to acquire graphic novels in 2019 and sees it as an exciting and burgeoning way to tell childrenÕs stories. A subject matter expert in food and drink titles, Jen spent two decades as a cookbook editor and writer (she even went to culinary school!). SheÕs experienced in working with celebrity chefs, business owners, cooking brands, and food bloggers, as well as accomplished home cooks. In her role as Senior Literary Manager, Jen applies her 360-view of the publishing business to MLM, seeking out fresh, original voices and developing exciting new talent. On the children’s side, Jen is interested in picture books with sharp writing and compelling messages; MG/YA stories that resonate with the challenges faced by todayÕs youth; and graphic novels with quirky narration and original art. In the food and drink space, Jen is keen to find original takes on popular topics, books that reveal a riveting personal story, and books with a health and wellness slant.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, Graphic Novel, LGBTQ Fiction NONFICTION: Cookbook Cooking, Diet Nutrition, Fitness, Food Drink, Health Wellness, How-To, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Nonfiction, Self-Help CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Kiana Nguyen is a literary agent with the Donald Maass Literary Agency. Kiana Nguyen joined Donald Maass Literary Agency in 2016, where she assisted several agents, and is now building her own client list. She is seeking YA fiction across genres, particularly those with POC and queer voices. She is also interested in Adult romance and thrillers.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Mariah Nichols is a literary agent with the D4EO Literary Agency. She has a great passion for storytelling and for the publishing industry. With a BS degree in Business she wanted to apply her degree towards the world of books. After interning at Howland Literary her senior year, she soon transitioned to the role as a reader and in-house editor for the D4EO Literary Agency, working with Bob Diforio in all aspects of the business, with the intention of being named a D4EO literary agent. She enjoys working with new authors, offering editorial suggestions and copy editing of their manuscripts, helping to ensure that the work submitted to publishers is the best it can be. She is actively seeking compelling stories and growing her client list. Mariah is interested in adult and young adult fiction with genres including thriller, upmarket, romance/rom-com, horror, family drama, science fiction/paranormal, and womenÕs fiction. She is also wanting to represent nonfiction in categories such as cookbooks, memoirs, self-help, lifestyle, and how-to. Stories that showcase diversity and highlight mental health or special needs is something that she would especially like to see.
Notes
FICTION: Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Animals, Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Celebrity, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Design, Film Entertainment, Fitness, Food Drink, Gardening, Health Wellness, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Self-Help, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Amy Nielson is a literary agent at The Purcell Agency. She spent nearly twenty years sharing her love of books with young readers on the other side of the writing aisle as a youth librarian. Daily immersion in story took root, and she started penning her 2024 YA debut, Worth It, behind her checkout desk. She left the library after her youngest son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and began writing full-time. She also began working with other authors helping them to elevate their craft and go on to pursue publication deals. While she will always enjoy pursuing her own writing goals, helping other authors has become a passion. She is honored to now serve as an associate literary agent at The Purcell Agency. Amy also has a background in television production and creates book trailers for authors to use as a marketing tool. She started Mayflower Media where she works collaboratively with writers to bring the heart of their stories from the page to the screen. In addition to her debut, Amy is the author of It Takes a Village: How to Build A Support System for Your Exceptional Needs Family, the picture book, Goldilocks and the Three Bears: Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Teaching Television Production, Beyond the Morning Newscast. She is the co-author of the upcoming title Navigating the Wild World of Publishing: A Workbook for Indie and Self-Published Authors and the co-host of the Author(ish) podcast. When not writing or reading she and her family can be found boating in Tampa Bay. You can find Amy at http://www.amynielsenauthor.com.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Dystopian Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Cultural Social Issues, Nonfiction, Parenting CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Trodayne Northern is a literary agent with Prentis Literary. Trodayne was an English teacher, freelance writer, and editor before entering the publishing world, interning with The Literary Group. It was not long before he found a more permanent home at Linn Prentis Literary. As if mirroring CampbellÕs notions of the monomyth, soon Trodayne was taking part in a true apprenticeship, not unlike something ripped from the very fantasy novels heÕd so long loved. While with Linn Prentis Literary, he developed his own client list, working with award winning authors, NYT bestsellers and top editors. He played Luke to LinnÕs Yoda, Bilbo to LinnÕs Gandalf, staying on with the agency through LinnÕs retirement. Then with Linn initially playing an advisory role, he co-founded Prentis Literary alongside Leslie and Terry. As a youth, Trodayne cooked his pillow nightly in an effort to conceal the 120 watt blade of disobedience that would leak defiantly into the hallway after his parents expressly had ordered him to bed. His passion is good storytelling. While his desire to refine his own storytelling in music, writing and visual media was strong, his thirst to cultivate and nurture othersÕ talents has always been equally strong. Science Fiction and Fantasy will always be his first love, but his genre interests have always been wide ranging. You would be just as likely to see him on the subway re-reading Native Son as the newest Mass Effect book. ItÕs not just the story in each book that fascinates and invigorates but the story of each book as well. It is the process itself that he finds gratifyingÑthe helping to polish a novel, the matchmaking of author to publisher, assuring that each author is happy with the end product, ultimately the very success of the book, all of it, is the bookÕs story. Playing a role in that story, in how an author is able to tell his or her stories gives him great satisfaction.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Chapter Book Fiction, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Lynnette Novak is a literary agent with The Seymour Agency. Prior to joining The Seymour Agency, Lynnette spent 17 years freelance editing. She worked with new writers, advanced writers, as well as the New York Times and the USA Today bestselling authors. Lynnette earned a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Manitoba, where she specialized in English and French. She excelled in Advanced Creative Writing in university and studied writing for children and teens through the Institute of ChildrenÕs Literature. She was a Pitch Wars mentor in 2015 and 2016. Both her mentees acquired an agent. Although Lynnette was born and raised in Manitoba, Canada, she now lives in Minnesota with her husband, twin girls, and many pets. Her personal interests include reading, writing, exercising at the gym (okay, thatÕs a love/hate relationship), working on an assortment of crafts, all things having to do with animals (if she could own a farm, zoo, and animal shelter, she would), and enjoying time with family and friends. She loves dark and suspenseful, mysterious twists, unique worlds, light and funny, a good love story, and lots of voice. Lynnette is always looking for diverse and LGBTQ+ authors and wants to share more of these marginalized voices with the world. Currently looking for: (Always looking for BIPOC, diversity of all kinds, and LGBTQ+!!!) Picture books: fiction and nonfiction picture books (non-rhyming preferred). MG genres: horror, contemporary, mystery, magical realism, contemporary/grounded fantasy YA genres: horror, rom-com, thriller, romantic fantasy, fantasy, magical realism Adult fiction genres: thriller, psychological suspense, horror, mystery (traditional and amateur sleuth) Adult nonfiction genres: memoirs, spirituality/New Age, self-help, health/fitness, parenting/family, motivational/inspirational, business, celebrity, lifestyle, pets, psychology, relationships & dating, and true crime. You must be an expert in the field and have a platform. What kind of platform do you need for nonfiction? Are you a celebrity with a story to tell? An expert in the field (doctor, CEO, trainer, psychologist, etc.)? Do you have a direct route to the consumer? Are you a social influencer or public speaker?
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FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Animals, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Celebrity, Crafts, Dating Relationships Sex, Family, Fitness, Health Wellness, Inspirational Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, New Age, Nonfiction, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Self-Help, Spirituality, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Lori Nowicki is a literary agent with Painted Words. Painted WordsÕ founder, Lori Nowicki, holds a MasterÕs Degree in Education and worked extensively as a teacher and specialist in public schools for ten years prior to starting her agency. As a special needs teacher she helped students in all areas, but found a passion for inspiring reluctant readers to love books. Her favorite project was teaching her sixth grade classes how to write and illustrate comic books. In 1992, she began representing several of her illustrator friends, while teaching part-time. In 2006 she formed Painted Words, a boutique literary arts agency focused on representing diverse talent. Lori has brought her background in education to the field of publishing, helping aspiring authors and illustrators tell their stories. In her nearly thirty years of representing artists, she has mentored up-and-coming talent and worked with award-winning and bestselling creators on a range of projects in the publishing industry and beyond.
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FICTION: Fiction, Graphic Novel NONFICTION: Biography, Nonfiction, Pop Culture 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
Renee Nyen is a literary agent with KT Literary. Several years in the editorial department at Random HouseÕs Colorado division provided Renee with the opportunity to work with bestselling and debut authors alike. After leaving Random House, she came to KT Literary in early 2013. She loves digging into manuscripts and helping the author shape the best story possible. Though this is great for her profession, it tends to frustrate people watching movies with her. With a penchant for depressing hipster music and an abiding love for a good adventure story, Renee is always looking for book recommendations. Even if that means creeping on people reading in public. Which she does frequently. She makes her home in Arizona with her husband, and their two three children.
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CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Lee O’Brien is a literary agent with the Looking Glass Literary & Media. They say: “IÕm a junior agent at IGLA. Across all age categories, IÕm looking stories with a distinctive voice, immersive world, and clear stakes, whether those stakes are physical or emotional. I love pacy, stories with a strong commercial hook, as well as quieter character driven stories that can still keep the pages turning. IÕm interested in a range of genres, from fantasy, to horror, to psychological thrillers/domestic suspense, to romance, to contemporary. Here are some specific things that IÕm looking for right now: Fantasy of all kindsÑEpic secondary world fantasy, dark fantasy full of dangerous secrets and strange magic; grounded fantasy with compelling characters and a strong sense of place; nonwestern fantasy and fantasy from underrepresented voices Fun, pacy queer middle grade and YAÑbooks full of wonder and mischief and mystery, about queer&trans kids going on adventures and getting into trouble. Non-binary and trans books, across all genres Books with a strong central mystery, whether itÕs a murder, a long-buried secret, or slowly unspooling intrigue. Books full of twists and turns, that take us in deeper the more that we know. Slow building atmospheric horror, and horror stories with a literary edge. I would also love to see MG horrorÑAtmospheric ghost stories, monster books, and scary stories to read with a flashlight Queer romanceÑfirst crushes, love triangles, friends-to-lovers, enemies-to-lovers, rom-coms, slow burns, and shippable characters with dangerous amounts of chemistry. I would absolutely go to war for a sweepingly epic ace-spec love story of any kind. Aro best friends who would burn cities for each other. Demisexuals who team up to save the world then accidentally fall in love. All of it. Atmospheric middle grade, and MG page turners with a more literary voice. YA thrillers with fast pacing and a compelling voice, that can drive up the stakes and still cut to the heart. Thoughtful retellings that speak back to their source, but can still stand on their own. Retellings of stories that we donÕt often hear, as well as fresh takes on old favorites. Some other things that are pretty evergreen for me are secrets, love triangles, magic, monsters, girls with swords, trans folx with medieval weaponry in general, puzzles, intrigue, heists, disaster queers, and hauntings of all kinds. I am actively seeking underrepresented voices, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA, disability, neurodiversity, and mental illness #OwnVoices, and books where multiple identities intersect. IÕd also love to see more positive fat rep, and books with a diversity of body types.”
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FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Mark O’Brien is an Associate Agent with the Azantian Literary Agency. Mark joined Azantian Literary Agency in 2024 with nine years of experience in the book publishing industry. Prior to ALA, Mark interned at Entangled Publishing, Stonesong, Triada US Literary Agency, and Writers House, and worked as Sales Coordinator at NetGalley for three years. Mark has also worked as a freelance editor and sensitivity reader, as well as a volunteer with organizations like #DVpit, Tessera Editorial, and Quillers SWANA. Authors Mark has worked with in these roles include Becky Albertalli, Kelly Loy Gilbert, Victoria Aveyard, Ryan La Sala, Lydia Kang, J. Elle, Gabe Cole Novoa, Varian Johnson, Jessica Kim, Sayantani DasGupta, and many more.
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FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Romance NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Kevin O’Connor is a literary agent with the O’Connor Literary Agency. Since his first job out of college at Sesame Workshop, Kevin has always worked at the intersection of business and creative. He has hands-on experience in a variety of media: animation, live action TV, toys, live shows, music, educational apps, and Òthe sweetest plumÓ: t-shirts*. In addition to Sesame, heÕs worked for Fisher-Price, VTech, Kidz Bop, Barnes & Noble, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. HeÕs inked deals with Chrysler, Nestle, Pearson, and all the major publishers. As an agent, Kevin takes on serious adult nonfiction (Brian McCulloughÕs How the Internet Happened, Claude Andrew CleggÕs The Black President). On the adult fiction side, he represents Afghan and Iraq War Vet Adam Kovac (The Surge), as well as upcoming boks food writer Kristin Griffin (Irish Goodbye), award-winning TV writer Fracaswell Hyman (A Maze of Stunted Trees) and the acclaimed Colin Winnette (So You Think You Can Dance?). For middlegrade readers, heÕs the agent behind the Russell GinnsÕs Samantha Spinner series; Cas HymanÕs Mango Delight; and Steven B. FrankÕs Armstrong and Charlie. He reps the picturebooks Papa, Daddy & Riley by Seamus Kirst; Honeysmoke by Monique Fields; and A Is for Audra by John Robert Allman, illustrated by Peter Emmerich. He is a Columbia College grad and the founding director of The Center for Nonfiction, a Columbia University Community Scholars Project dedicated to helping journalists and scholars understand the formal needs of trade publishers.
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FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Computers, General Nonfiction, History, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Science, Technology CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Molly O’Neill is a literary agent with Root Literary. She says: ÒIf I can visualize exactly how to form a web of connections around a book and its creator while IÕm reading an early draft, then itÕs a fantastic signal that I also know how to help that author or artist build their way into a meaningful, and potentially lucrative, career.”
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FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Romance NONFICTION: Illustrated, Memoir, Nonfiction, Science CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Katherine Odom-Tomchin is a literary agent and the Director of Audio Rights with Folio Literary Management. She began her publishing career at Heritage Publishing, Inc., which publishes magazines, guides, and directories for health care, seniors, tourists, and attorneys throughout Florida and Southeast Georgia. During her time there, she held various positions in the editorial, graphic design, and information departments. Her many jobs included producing original content for their many publications and assisting in ad placement. At Folio, Kat enjoys working with and being a part of FolioÕs closely-knit team of skilled agents. Kat is FolioÕs Audio Rights Director, and she works hard to strategically place the agencyÕs audio rights with the most effective audio publishers possible. She also acts as a subagent for BenBella, an independent publishing house based in Dallas, TX known for publishing a range of nonfiction titles, and places audio rights for the storied authors of Harold Ober Associates and Emma Sweeney Agency.
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FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Celebrity, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Economics, How-To, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Technology, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction