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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
Victoria Sanders is a literary agent with Victoria Sanders & Associates. She says: “I founded Victoria Sanders & Associates in 1992, following law school graduation, and after working in the legal/contracts department of Simon & Schuster, and at two literary agencies. I represent a multi-cultural roster of internationally bestselling and award-winning authors, I endeavor to seek out and champion new and diverse voices and viewpoints. As a literary agent for these 25 years, I’ve taken great pride in having represented many of my clients for their entire careers. I am honored to work with the extraordinary group of visionary writers and thinkers who grace this agency, the publishing marketplace, and their devoted readers.”
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cookbook Cooking, General Nonfiction, History, Multicultural Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Elisa Saphier is a literary agent with MacGregor & Luedeke. From her first job in a library, to being the editor-in-chief of her high school literary magazine, to working in four bookstores (and owning one), Elisa has always managed to surround herself with books and writers. Elisa long dreamed of opening her own bookstore and in 2012, after her wife decreed that no more bookshelves were allowed in their house, she took the leap. Elisa and her bookstore, Another Read Through, quickly became known as champions of local writers and local small publishers, and as community builders. She works toward equity in publishing and in writersÕ career development with the nonprofit she is co-launching in 2022, Amplify Writers. She believes that books and writers have important things to say, and she wants to help writers get their work out there, and for readers to find them. As a reader and as an agent, she is open to most genres, as long as the novel or memoir is well-written, but she is partial to character-heavy stories that tell her something about herself or the world around her. She is hoping specifically to represent marginalized writers and their stories, doing her small part toward equalizing the publishing playing field. She is almost never interested in religious or experimental writing, but is otherwise open to being won over by just about any piece of excellent writing.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Cultural Social Issues, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Travel, Upmarket Nonfiction, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Jenna Satterthwaite is a literary agent with the Storm Literary Agency. She reached agenting sideways, as many do. She didnÕt know agenting existed until she wrote her first novel back in 2014 and learned she had to do this thing called Òquerying.Ó Fast forward many years during which she wrote many novels and became agented herself, and she had an aha moment. Agenting was the nexus where her two decades of business experience in sales, pitching, project management and contract negotiation met her decade of bookish experience. After completing internships with Liza Dawson Associates and Rees Literary, Jenna joined Storm as an agent in 2024. SheÕs looking to represent authors over the course of their careers who are passionate about their work and willing to arm themselves with the tenacity that it takes to succeed in the world of publishing. She is an editorial agent who wants to help make your manuscript the best and most sellable version of itself, and then pitch the heck out of it to the right editors. Jenna is here to help you navigate this career that can unfold in so many different ways, advocate for you, and seek your best interests. SheÕs not afraid of multi-genre writers, (sheÕs one herself!) and she is ready to try and break your name into as many genres and age groups as you want to write. YOU are your brand! Omnivorous in her taste, Jenna is seeking to represent adult, Young Adult and Middle Grade commercial fiction in most genres, graphic novels from middle grade to young adult, adult non-fiction, and very select picture books. (See submission guidelines for more details.) Jenna is also fully bilingual English/Spanish, so dual language projects are most welcome! Jenna lives in Chicago with her family, and when she’s not agenting, reading or writing, you can find her trying a Milk Street recipe, making music in living rooms with friends, or plotting when she can get sushi next.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Nonfiction, Parenting, Religion, Self-Help, Spirituality, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Eva Scalzo is a literary agent with Speilburg Literary Agency. Eva Scalzo was born in New Jersey, but has lived in Houston, Buenos Aires, San Juan, and Boston before settling down outside of Binghamton, New York. She has a B.A. in the Humanities from the University of Puerto Rico and a M.A. in Publishing and Writing from Emerson College. Since graduating, she has spent her career in scholarly publishing, working for Houghton Mifflin, Blackwell Publishing, John Wiley & Sons, and Cornell University in a variety of roles. She has been with Speilburg Literary since 2013, and started accepting clients in 2017. Eva is a member of SCBWI and the AALA. She serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the AALA Newsletter and is a member of the Communications and USBS Committees. In Adult Fiction, Eva represents Romance (all subgenres but inspirational), as well as select Upmarket, Thrillers, and Science Fiction/Fantasy. She also represents all subgenres of Young Adult Fiction and select Middle Grade.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Christopher Schelling is a literary agent with Selectric Artists. Christopher provides a unique level of personal service, strategically managing and nurturing the careers of each client personally, and the editorial process is integral. With over four decades of publishing experience, he has a wide network of deep connections. Prior to opening Selectric Artists in 2011, he spent 13 years at Ralph M. Vicinanza Ltd, an iconic literary agency. Before this, he was an Executive Editor at Dutton and HarperCollins. He also had a clandestine career as a book cover model. Christopher lives with his husband, the author Augusten Burroughs, and their three dogs.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, General Nonfiction, Illustrated, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Photography, Pop Culture CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Wendy Schmalz is a literary agent with the Wendy Schmalz Agency. Wendy is also the principal and founder of the Wendy Schmalz Agency, founded in 2002. Representing a wide range of writers for both the children’s and adult markets for more than twenty-five years, her current client list includes Myla Goldberg, Julie Anne Peters Seymour Simon, and April Henry to name a few. She began her career at Curtis Brown before moving on to Harold Ober Associates, where she was a principal of the company.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, New Adult Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Jessica Schmeidler is the founding literary agent of Golden Wheat Literary. Jessica has a B.A. in English, Literature, a B.A. in Political Science, Pre-law, and a Paralegal Certificate. Prior to becoming a literary agent she was the Managing Editor of a traditional press, a Professional Editor, a Paralegal, and a Ghostwriter. In addition to being a literary agent Jessica is also a Freelance Editor, a Ghostwriter, the Host of #JustPitchIt, the Co-host of #SecretShop, the Co-founder of Post Script Services, and the Co-host of #FromPitchToPublished workshop. Jessica’s tastes are eclectic in genre and readership, but she consistently favors character driven plot with rich, atmospheric description.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Gardening, Memoir, Nature, Nonfiction, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Sports, Travel, True Adventure CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Chapter Book Fiction, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Deborah Schneider is a literary agent with the Gelfman Schnedier/ICM Literary Agency. Deborah Schneider grew up in Chicago. In 1981, seeking a less corporate environment, Deborah partnered with Jane Gelfman as an agent in the New York office of the venerable British Literary Agency, John Farquharson Ltd. Deborah began building her American client list and in 1992, she and Jane bought the agency and established the Gelfman Schneider Literary Agents Inc. that exists today. Deborah represents a large variety of prominent and bestselling writers, across all categories of literary and commercial fiction and nonfiction. She is a member of the AARÑthe Association of Authors Representatives, served two terms on their Board, and has served on their Royalty Committee for twenty-five years.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Current Events Affairs, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Science, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Eddie Schneider
Jabberwocky Literary AgencyAccepting SubmissionsQuery Method(s): Email or Online Form or Postal MailBiography
Eddie Schneider is a literary agent with Jabberwocky Literary Agency. He is also is the Vice President of JABberwocky Literary Agency, which he joined back when the nerve center was still Joshua BilmesÕ living room. These days, the agency is in a real office, sandwiched between Grand Central Station and Times Square in midtown Manhattan, and the bustling new digs only serve to motivate Eddie in his pursuit of great authors, both new and new to JABberwocky. Eddie is an Iowa graduate, where he studied fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. He has an M.S. in Publishing from New York University, and his client list includes Hugo, Andre Norton, Philip K. Dick, and Bram Stoker Award winners, as well as New York Times bestselling authors Brandon Sanderson, Daniel JosŽ Older, and Alison Wilgus. When he isnÕt agenting, reading, or editing, he has been known to run ultramarathons, and is technically an award-winner himself, although his form wouldnÕt necessarily get rave reviews.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Science Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Environment, History, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Photography, Science, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Heather Schroder is the founder of Compass Talent. Before founding Compass Talent in 2014, Heather got her start at ICM in foreign rights and worked as an agent for over 25 years . Her clients include authors of literary and commercial fiction; upmarket non-fiction, including memoir, journalism, history, science and cookbooks; and a select list of middle grade and YA. Heather has represented numerous bestsellers, including Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell, The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, Billy LynnÕs Long Halftime Walk by Ben Fountain, Methland by Nick Reding, and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by Bryan Mealer and William Kamkwamba, among others. She is also proud to represent Guggenheim fellows, MacArthur Geniuses, National Book Award winners, and TED Fellows. Heather has spoken at numerous workshops and writersÕ retreats and is currently serving on the board of the Association of Author Representatives (AAR).
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Romance, Thriller NONFICTION: Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Current Events Affairs, Economics, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, History, Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoir, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Reference, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, Upmarket Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Susan Schulman is a literary agent with the Susan Schulman Literary Agency. The Susan Schulman Literary Agency specializes in representing motion picture, television and allied rights, foreign rights, live stage including commercial theater, opera and dance adaptations, new media rights including e-book and digital applications, and other subsidiary rights on behalf of North American publishers and literary agents. The agency also represents its own clients domestically and internationally in all markets. The agency has a particular interest in fiction and non-fiction books for, by and about women and women’s issues and interests, as well as all levels of childrenÕs books including picture books, middle-grade and young adult, history, science, pop culture, and memoir. Our primary interest however is in authors and their projects which explore big ideas about the world and being human.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Sports Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Computers, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Economics, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Law Legal, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Photography, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Reference, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, Travel, Upmarket Nonfiction, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Tina P. Schwartz is the founder and owner of The Purcell Agency. She admits to being a reluctant reader as a child. In fact, she says she is still very picky when it comes to choosing a book, and isn’t afraid to judge one (at first) by its cover! Ask her kids, and they won’t believe you! They’ll tell you her nose is constantly in a book, or staring at her Kindle Fire, her iPad mini, or even reading mss on her phone! When not reading manuscripts, marketing website, social media, or industry blogs, you can find Schwartz on her laptop enjoying her own writing time. (She’s written 10 traditionally published books.) Schwartz is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). Tina says, “I’m thrilled to have founded The Purcell Agency, LLC and look forward to reading many wonderful submissions from talent all over the world!”
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Contemporary Fiction, Dystopian Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Sports Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Family, General Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Reference, Sports CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Lauren Scovel is a literary agent with the Laura Gross Literary Agency. She says: ÒI grew up outside of Seattle and graduated from Emerson College with a degree in Writing, Literature, and Publishing as well as Theatre Studies. I began my publishing career as an editorial intern at Aevitas Creative Management (formerly Zachary Shuster Harmsworth). My editorial work can be seen at The Millions and Pangyrus. I also worked as an indie bookseller for several years. I am looking to amplify underrepresented stories and voices, and am especially interested in both fiction and narrative nonfiction with a timely, distinctive story and a diverse cast of characters.Ó
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, History, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Vicki Selvaggio is a literary agent with the Storm Literary Agency. For Victoria, books have always played an important role in her life. From an early age, she could easily be found reading in a corner with stacks of books or the opposite, crafting her own. In her early teens, anything written by Stephen King became a must readÐÐthe thickness of those books was not intimidating. Those perfect words linked together to create such thought-provoking scenes. She was hooked! So hooked that she began writing constantly. Though, to the dismay of her high school college writing course teacher, Victoria did not pursue writing in college. She also did not pursue her vocation of becoming a CPA, even with the high recommendations (and grades) of her teachers, parents, and peers. Instead, upon graduation Victoria obtained her Real Estate License and after matching her very first homebuyer with the very first house she toured with him (that she selected out of hundreds), she quickly realized she could sell. This empowered her. She changed the trajectory of her path by combining all of her passions and skills and started her own business at the age of twenty. Within the first year of operation, she had expanded from having no employees to ten. Running a successful business never replaced her love for reading and writing, which she shared consistently with her children. Curling up with them to read and enjoying all of those classics again, through their emotions compelled Victoria to revisit writing. Becoming traditionally published, though, was not something that she knew much about and after self-publishing two books, Victoria was introduced to SCBWI (The Society of ChildrenÕs Book Writers and Illustrators). Once again, she was hooked! There was so much to learn about the publishing industryÐÐ and learn she did! From query letters to submissions (with snail mail!). Like all passions, Victoria immersed herself in all things publishing. She participated in any and all writer-related events and volunteered for her local SCBWI chapter and within time, became the Regional Advisor for SCBWI: Northern OhioÐÐa role that she was honored to master for many years. A role that also empowered her and provided a new path. Becoming a literary agent. After interning for The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency, she joined the agency in 2013 as an associate agent. Within six months of agenting, she had sales under her belt and a growing list of very talented clients. Additionally, she accepted numerous invitations to present at conferences and eventsÐÐthrilled to have the opportunity to meet like-minded creatives, while also building her reputation in the industry. Grateful for her earlier agenting days, Victoria missed the behind-the-scenes business side. The running of the business. In 2018, she joined Storm Literary Agency as a co-owner where she devoted her time to building the agency from within with talented agents and a supporting staff. With over thirty years of business-ownership and publishing experience, Victoria became the owner of Storm Literary Agency in 2022. Her list features both debut and award-winning authors. She represents all age categories and all genres except Erotica Romance. Currently, she is closed to submissions but does plan to open for a limited time in 2024 (Victoria does accept and opens for submissions as a presenter at conferences). Her favorite authors include: Stephen King, Judy Blume, Shel Silverstein, Lois Lowry, Margaret Atwood, E. B. White, C. S. Lewis, Suzanne Collins, and so many more. In her spare time, Victoria can be found on a sixteen-foot ladder painting or knocking down a wall in one of her remodeling/flipping home projects.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Computers, Cookbook Cooking, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Inspirational Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Reference, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Chapter Book Fiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Charlie Serabian
Global Lion Intellectual Property Management, Inc.Accepting SubmissionsQuery Method(s): EmailBiography
Charlie Serabian is a literary agent with Global Lion Intellectual Property Management, Inc. Charlie brings an eclectic mix of skills to the forefront of Global Lion. A graduate of SCADÕs film and television department, his focus on writing for the screen and stage slowly transitioned to the world of books. Having worked closely with Peter Miller for several years, heÕs taken the Literary LionÕs teachings to heart. He lives in Hollywood, Florida with his two black cats Bob and Betty, who he finds increasingly difficult to tell apart.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Film Entertainment, Health Wellness, History, Illustrated, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Sports, Technology, Travel, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Sara Shandler is a senior agent at The Book Group. She joined The Book Group in 2025 after twenty-six years in publishing, most recently as the Editor-in-Chief of Alloy Entertainment, where she collaborated with authors from the inception of their stories through publication. SaraÕs introduction to publishing began around the dinner table with her can-do-anything hippie parents who encouraged her to write the bestselling book Ophelia Speaks, which gave voice to the experience of teenage girls and was published when she was just eighteen-years-old. This early success inspired SaraÕs lifelong passion for connecting the dots between a blue sky idea and a best seller. Sara is proud to have worked on many New York Times best sellers, Book Club selections, and award winning novels, including two National Book Award finalists, a Printz Honor, Walter Dean Myers Award Honors, the Waterstones ChildrenÕs Book Prize, the Carnegie Medal, the William C. Morris Award, the Stonewall Award for Teens, the Lambda Literary Award and the Coretta Scott King-Steptoe Award for New Talent. Many of the novels Sara developed and edited have been successfully adapted to TV and film. She lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband, three children and dog, and spends summers in Fire Island. Sara is interested in working with authors across a range of genres, especially upmarket and book club fiction, plot-driven and emotionally resonant YA and middle grade, narrative non-fiction, topical personal development, social psychology and parenting non-fiction and author-illustrators telling stories in unconventional ways. She is compelled by narratives that connect with readers and contribute to cultural conversations. A few books I loved reading in my free time… Like Mother, Like Mother by Susan Rieger, Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera, The Guest by Emma Cline, Nobody Will Tell You This But Me by Bess Kalb, Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam, Wintering by Katherine May, This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub, Untangled by Lisa Damour, Ph.D., Essentialism by Greg McKeown, None of This is True by Lisa Jewell, You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith.
Notes
FICTION: Fiction, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Cultural Social Issues, Illustrated, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Psychology, Self-Help CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Alec Shane is a literary agent at Writers House. He says: “I began my career at Writers House as an intern in September of 2008 and simply refused to leave, so I was given the wonderful job of Assistant to Jodi Reamer. I am now also in the process of actively building my own list and currently represent a fairly eclectic mix of Children’s and Adult fiction and nonfiction. I’m eagerly looking for both. On the fiction side, I love mysteries, thrillers (although I’m experiencing a bit of terrorist fatigue at the moment), bad-ass protagonists with a chip on their shoulders, beautifully told historical fiction (The Vietnam War, the Maccabees, and The American Revolution fascinate me in particular),well-researched adventure stories, and great horror – I haven’t been scared to turn off the light in far too long and something needs to be done about it. In terms of children’s books, getting boys to read again is especially important to me, and thus I’m particularly on the lookout for a fun middle-grade adventure series, ghost story, or anything else geared toward younger male readers. On the nonfiction side, I’m attracted to odd, quirky histories, military history, biographies of people I didn’t even know existed (but definitely should have), “guy” reads, humor, narrative nonfiction that sheds light on under-the-radar events and lifestyles, and all things sports. I’m also currently up in the air as to whether or not I believe in ghosts, hauntings, and the supernatural, so if you have something that can convince me one way or the other, I’d love to see it.”
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Crime Fiction, Espionage Military Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Sports Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Biography, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Military War Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Science, Sports, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Denise Shannon
Denise Shannon Literary AgencyCLOSED to SubmissionsQuery Method(s): Email or Postal MailBiography
Denise Shannon is a literary agent with the Denise Shannon Literary Agency. Denise formed her own agency in 2002 after sixteen years representing authors at Georges Borchardt, Inc. and International Creative Management (ICM). She is a frequent guest at writers’ conferences and publishing institutes, delivering talks and conducting workshops.
Notes
FICTION: Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Thriller NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Photography, Politics, Pop Culture CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Tori Sharp is a literary agent with the Jennifer DeChiara Literary Agency. She joined The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency as an Associate Literary Agent in 2020 after interning for two years. Tori has a BFA in Sequential Art from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and her graphic memoir, JUST PRETEND, is forthcoming from Little, Brown in spring 2021. When sheÕs not reading, writing, or making comics, she can be found swing and blues dancing, playing tabletop games, or exploring coffee shops in beautiful Seattle, WA. Tori represents all manner of childrenÕs literature.
Notes
CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Chapter Book Fiction, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Katie Shea Boutillier is a literary agent with the Donald Maass Literary Agency. Katie Shea Boutillier joined the Donald Maass Literary Agency in 2011. She is the Rights Director handling the agencyÕs translation and audio rights, and selected film/TV and electronic rights. In addition, Katie is focusing her list on womenÕs fiction and YA: realistic, contemporary, upmarket, historical (1920s +), domestic suspense, psychological suspense/thrillers, magical realism, light fantasy, light sci-fi. Memoir and narrative non-fiction only on referral. She loves books with big voices and strong hooks. She is a cum laude graduate of Marist College.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Horror, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Charlotte Sheedy is a literary agent with and the founder of Charlotte Sheedy Literary Agency. After working at the Dial Press for thirteen years, Charlotte established the Charlotte Sheedy Literary Agency in 1974. In 1995, she joined Sterling Lord Literistic, Inc., as an affiliate agency.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Horror, Literary Fiction, Mystery NONFICTION: Art, Autobiography, Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Rebecca Sherman is a literary agent with Writers House Literary Agency. She says: “Writers House is a leading full-service literary agency that offers the many resources of a large company and the personal attention of a small agency. It has been my home for over fourteen years now, where IÕve built a list of dynamic and award-winning picture book illustrators and author/illustrators, as well as middle grade and young adult novelists. Further information about clientsÕ work can be found below (sorry if it sounds like IÕm braggingÉ#ProudAgentMama). I have taken on clients who came to me as childrenÕs book veterans and others for whom IÕve sold their debut works. Now, I am actively seeking additions to my client list again. In general, I am looking for stories that meet kids where they are (not those that talk down to them or go over their heads) and that genuinely can get them laughing.
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
Sophie Sheumaker is the Global Rights assistant and literary assistant to Naomi Davis at the BookEnds Literary Agency. She studied writing, literature, and publishing at Emerson College, graduating in the spring of 2023 and has recently begun building her list of authors and illustrators. She can be found at the library checking out more books than she could ever possibly read, crocheting like it’s a full-time job, or taking her anxiety-ridden dog for a walk through the streets of Boston. She is a firm believer that everyone should read children’s books, walnuts should never be in banana bread, and the 2005 Pride and Prejudice is better than the BBC version.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Ella Marie Shupe is a literary agent with the Belcastro Agency. Ella Marie has been a literary agent since 2008. She was drawn to helping authors achieve their dreams after she studied English at Youngstown State University. She realized her biggest joy was recommending new books to fellow college students. She turned her dream into a career when she became a junior agent with the Belcastro Agency. As an agent, Ella Marie has discovered many new authors and she soon became a senior agent. She continues her hunt for new manuscripts with a voice that jumps off the page and a colorful plot. Her main goal is nurturing a collaborative relationship that will lead to publication and long lasting writing careers.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Arianna Siddiqui is an Agent at FinePrint Literary Management. She earned dual degrees in political science and economics from Trinity University and completed the Columbia Publishing Course at the University of Oxford. She also started her professional career selling used Mercedes before transitioning into a career in publishing. With experience as an assistant at Lucinda Literary and William Morris Endeavor, and as a mentee with the Writers House Mentor Initiative, she has a strong eye for engaging stories and market trends. Arianna is currently pursuing a part-time masterÕs in creative writing at the University of Cambridge. In her free time, Arianna writes speculative romance and fosters litters of kittens. At this time, Arianna is particularly drawn to mysteries, romance, and speculative fiction across young adult and adult audiences. SheÕs also open to adult nonfiction that explores unique narratives or perspectives. In mysteries, Arianna is captivated by stories that subvert traditional tropes and bring fresh perspectives to the genre, especially those told by voices that have historically been underrepresented. SheÕs particularly intrigued by locked-room mysteries, non-linear narratives, and stories infused with a ticking clock or ever-present sense of urgency. What excites her most are unconventional sleuthsÑamateurs or experts in adjacent fields such as historians, librarians, art restorers, or forensic accountantsÑrather than traditional law enforcement or military protagonists. In romance, Arianna delights in stories that blur genre lines and deliver the unexpected. She loves narratives that combine romance with horror, paranormal elements, or a mystery. Romantic comedies with sharp wit and distinctive voices also hold a special place in her heart. While romantasy can be a tougher sell for her, sheÕs open to it if the story brings a truly fresh perspective or a bold, innovative world. AriannaÕs tastes in speculative fiction lean toward grounded and intimate storytelling. She has a particular fondness for low fantasy and magical realism, especially narratives inspired by non-Western cultures, mythologies, and traditions. Speculative fiction that focuses on relationships, identity, and emotional journeys resonates strongly with her. SheÕs not currently interested in science fiction. Though more selective about nonfiction, Arianna seeks projects with strong, distinctive voices that offer new insights or perspectives. SheÕs particularly drawn to narrative-driven works that blend memoir, cultural commentary, or history in compelling and original ways. Arianna, above all, seeks to champion historically marginalized voices, including disabled, BIPOC, and queer writers.
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FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Fantasy, Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, Romance, Speculative Fiction NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, History, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Britt Siess is a literary agent with and the founder of Britt Siess Creative Management. Britt focuses primarily on graphic novels and illustrated works. She also represents select middle grade fiction and Adult science fiction and fantasy. Prior to founding BSCM, Britt earned her English Literature degree at the University of Washington and trained with the Taryn Fagerness Agency, the Wales Literary Agency, and Martin Literary & Media Management. She also worked in the sales division of the UK based publisher, The Quarto Group, selling both foreign and domestic rights. Britt has a passion for comics and sequential art, as well as a keen editorial eye that she brings to every project.
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FICTION: Fiction, Graphic Novel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Jeff Silberman is a literary agent with Folio Literary Management. He says: “IÕm a new horizon hunter. My interests are wide, my passions run deep, and the books I represent cut a wide swath. A videogame impresario who has explored new technology, outer space, and the oceanÕs depths with equal passion. A neuroscientist who created ground breaking technology for studying the brain, and whose prose is utterly stunning. A rock and roll legend who bares his soul. A scholar in Timbuktu who risked his life to save ancient Egyptian and African manuscripts that helped pave the way for Western civilization. A biomedical engineer bridging the gap between art and science, and creating things that matter. An ingŽnue who left rural North Carolina and found womanhood as she became a part of the cultural explosion of FelliniÕs Rome and the French New Wave. A Hall of Famer the players nicknamed God. ThereÕs nothing quite like rich narrative non-fiction or a daring memoir. Making science and technology sing. Savoring food, diving deep into important social issues Ð or the animal kingdomÉ I havenÕt done a math book yet, but IÕd love to. History? IÕm in. Humor, health, pop culture – thereÕs pretty much no category of non-fiction that doesnÕt intrigue me and for which I wouldnÕt happily accept an invitation to take a ride. Fiction: I am currently representing a number of novelists working on their debuts, and their work runs the gamut from book club / commercial to literary, and in one case, literary hilarious. IÕd love more. I seek books that in some way leave us different than we were before. It could be because a new world was opened up to us, or our relationship to the one we thought we knew was changed, because we learned something, or had our hearts opened wide, or simply guffawed nonstop. I work closely with everyone I represent, from editorial input to deal making to marketing, and all points in between. Heart and soul.Ó
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FICTION: Action Adventure, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Espionage Military Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Animals, Art, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Celebrity, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Design, Economics, Environment, Film Entertainment, Fitness, Food Drink, Gardening, Gift Novelty, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Parenting, Photography, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Reference, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, Travel, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction