After successful 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 events in Chicago, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2024 Writing Workshop of Chicago — a full-day “How to Get Published” writing event in Chicago, IL on June 22, 2024.

This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (200 total). All questions about the event regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2024 Writing Workshop of Chicago! We are very proud of our many success stories where attendees sign with agents following events — see our growing list of success stories here.

(Please note that this is an in-person event. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next WWOC is an in-person event happening in Chicago on June 22, 2024. See you there.)

WHAT IS IT?

This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the Congress Plaza Hotel. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.

This event is designed to squeeze as much into one day of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. We will have literary agents onsite to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well. This year’s agent and editor faculty so far includes:

• literary agent Abby Saul (The Lark Group)
• literary agent Miriam Cortinovis (Arthouse Literary Agency)
• literary agent Jenna Satterthwaite (Storm Literary)
• literary agent Christine Goss (The Purcell Agency)
• literary agent Leah Moss (Steven Literary)
• editor Stacy Abrams (Entangled Books)
• literary agent Marcy Posner (Folio Literary)
• literary agent Tina Schwartz (The Purcell Agency)
• literary agent Dan Cramer (Page Turner Literary Agency)
• literary agent Elisa Moles (Painted Fire Literary)
• literary agent Lindsey Smith (Speilburg Literary)
• editor Josh Gregory (Albert Whitman & Company)
• literary agent Vicky Weber (The Purcell Agency)
• literary agent Lori Colvin (Birch Literary)
• and more to come.

By the end of the day, you will have all the tools you need to move forward on your writing journey. This independent event is organized by coordinator Brian Klems of Writing Day Workshops. E-mail him to register for the event at WDWconference@gmail.com.

EVENT LOCATION & DETAILS:

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2024 — at the Congress Plaza Hotel.

(Please note that this is an in-person event. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next WWOC is an in-person event happening in Chicago on June 22, 2024. See you there.)

THIS YEAR’S SESSIONS & WORKSHOPS (JUNE 22, 2024):

What you see below is a quick layout of the day’s events. The topics below are mostly set, but subject to change. You can see a more detailed layout of the day’s classes on the Schedule Page here.

Please Note: There will be 2-3 classes/workshops going at all times during the day, so you will have your choice of what class you attend at any time. The final schedule of topics is subject to change, but here is the current layout:

8:30 – 9:30: Check-in and registration at the event location.

BLOCK ONE: 9:30 – 10:30

1. Understanding the Publishing Industry in 2024 — From Hybrid Publishing to Artificial Intelligence and Everything in Between. How are traditional publishing and self-publishing changing? What kind of writer is attractive to an agent currently? What is hybrid publishing? How will A.I. (artificial intelligence) help or hurt writers in the years to come? All these questions, and more, will be addressed during the speech.

2.Book Marketing from Your Couch: Social Media 101. Analyze your audience and ascertain the best social media vehicle to dominate. This class is for veteran authors as well as writers seeking to grow their platforms in the hopes of landing an agent or publishing deal.

BLOCK TWO: 10:45 – 11:50

1. Everything You Need to Know About Literary Agents and Writing an Awesome Query Letter. This workshop is a thorough crash course in dealing with literary agents and writing an amazing query that gets attention.

2. How to Improve Your Novel With Scintillating Dialogue. Learn techniques to change narrative into dialogue, and how to avoid bland conversations and turn them into conversations that leap off the page.

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

LUNCH ON YOUR OWN: 11:50 – 1:15

Lunch is on your own during these 85 minutes.

BLOCK THREE: 1:15 – 2:30

1. “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest (room). This is a chance to get your first page read (anonymously — no bylines given) with attending agents commenting on what was liked or not liked about the submission.

2. Picture Book Tips & Trends. A workshop that highlights and examines current trends in the general trade picture book market, and where those trends might be heading.

BLOCK FOUR: 2:45 – 3:45

1. Open Agent Q&A Panel. Several attending literary agents will open themselves up to open Q&A from WWOC attendees. Bring your questions and get them answered in this popular session.

2. Twenty Questions You Need Answered Before You Seek an Agent or Self-Publish Your Book. Before you publish your work or query an agent, there are plenty of things you need to know to give yourself the best chances at success.

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

BLOCK FIVE: 4:00 – 5:00

1. Creating Amazing Characters Agents & Readers Will Love. This is a workshop that explores a few techniques on how to get to know your characters and how to develop them into three-dimensional beings that jump off the page.

2. Ponder, List, Outline, Plot: The Four Keys To Outlining Your Book. Are you a Plotter or a Pantser? Plotters sometimes find that intricate outlines kill their muse. Pantsers often waste time writing dead-end chapters. Discover a hybrid approach for plotting that makes it easy to sketch out the hook, character, and story structure of your next kidlit book.

SESSIONS END: 5:00

At 5 p.m., the day is done. Speakers will make themselves available by the workshop’s bookstore for a short while to sign any books for attendees.

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.

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PITCH AN AGENT OR EDITOR:

Abby Saul is a literary agent and the founder of The Lark Group. A zealous reader who loves her iPad and the ebooks on it, she still can’t resist the lure of a print book. Abby’s personal library of beloved titles runs the gamut from literary newbies and classics, to cozy mysteries, to sappy women’s fiction, to dark and twisted thrillers. She’s looking for great and engrossing adult commercial and literary fiction and is a member of the AALA. She is seeking: Adult literary fiction and adult commercial fiction (including historical fiction, women’s fiction, mysteries, and thrillers). Learn more about Abby here.

Marcy Posner is a literary agent with Folio Literary. In fiction, she is seeking: thrillers, psychological suspense, historical fiction, women’s fiction, mystery, YA (contemporary, historical, romance, mystery), and middle grade (contemporary, SFF, historical, mystery). In nonfiction, she is seeking: narrative nonfiction, cultural/social issues, journalism, nature and ecology, psychology, women’s issues. Learn more about Marcy here.

Leah Moss is a literary agent with Steven Literary. She is seeking children’s picture books and board books, many types of young adult novels (including retellings), and adult fiction. In adult fiction, she likes books with YA crossover appeal (new adult), swoonworthy romance and rom-coms, stories set at college, and fantasy. “Across the board, I am looking for stories from marginalized writers. I’m particularly interested in uplifting BIPOC voices, but I also really want to see work from LGBTQ+, disabled, neurodivergent, and other marginalized writers as well.” Learn more about Leah here.

Josh Gregory is an editor with Albert Whitman & Company. He is interested in picture books, chapter books, and contemporary middle grade & young adult fiction. “I’m drawn to stories that encourage readers to push themselves in new directions, challenge preconceived notions, and pursue any goals they might have, no matter how seemingly out of reach. I want to read about characters who have unique perspectives, come from diverse backgrounds, think outside the box, and aren’t afraid to be different. Learn more about Josh here.

Christine Goss is a literary agent with The Purcell Agency. In adult fiction, young adult fiction, and new adult fiction, she seeks the same genres and stories: upmarket/commercial fiction, romance, fantasy/romantasy, dystopian/utopian. In middle grade through adult, she enjoys graphic novels. In nonfiction, she likes cookbooks (original family recipes with anecdotes sprinkled throughout); stories about motherhood, unspoken troubles and hardships of new motherhood; and any story that would compel readers to take care of themselves or expand sympathy/understanding for themselves. “I am always looking for LGBTQ+ and stories by underrepresented authors.” Learn more about Christine here.

Jenna Satterthwaite is a literary agent with Storm Literary Agency. In adult fiction, she seeks psychological and domestic suspense full of twists; murder mystery, cozy or traditional, contemporary or historical, serious or humorous, hijinks welcome and big family drama very welcome.; fantasy – cozy with low stakes, high/epic, portal and romantasy; rom-coms and romance – in particular I’m interested in POC voices in romance, body-positive romance, LGBTQ+ romance, and adventure romance; women’s fiction / beach reads; science fiction with a human connection; speculative stories rooted in the present that has that one, addictive speculative twist; upmarket and book club fiction. In nonfictiobn, she seeks voicey memoir (platform a plus);  the next big ex-evangelical voice, and both feminist and LGBTQ+ voices in the Christian context; spiritual deconstruction / reconstruction; self-help from an “expert” millennial or Gen Z voice; and books highlighting alternative approaches to death (living funerals, death doulas, at-home body care, etc.). In young adult, she likes fantasy, sci-fi, thriller, mystery, suspense, speculative, and horror.  In middle grade, she reps graphic novels, fantasy with series potential, contemporary stories that explore the multicultural / multilingual experience; and horror. In picture books, she’s only looking for author-illustrators and is very select. Learn more about Jenna here. 

Miriam Cortinovis is a literary agent with Arthouse Literary Agency. In general, Miriam is eagerly looking for everything and anything speculative (fantasy and science fiction) across most age ranges — adult, young adult, and middle grade. Similarly—for horror, thriller, gothic, and historical, they would love to champion manuscripts that utilize the speculative to challenge, endanger, and transform the psyche anew. Miriam takes an interest in young adult contemporary novels that draw on their fascination with American high school from immigrant perspectives and with summer camps/adventures. Miriam is also on the lookout for selective works of literary fiction and creative nonfiction. For everything listed above, they’re also highly interested in novellas. Learn more about Miriam here.

Stacy Abrams is the VP of Operations and an editor-at-large at Entangled Publishing. Her current wish list includes high-concept “romantasy” for the breakout New Adult fantasy imprint Red Tower, commercial rom-coms/women’s fiction for the Amara imprint, all genres of Teen fiction, and picture book manuscripts with a social justice bend for the new Little Lark picture book imprint. Learn more about Stacy here.

Vicky Weber is a literary agent with The Purcell Agency. She is seeking: Picture Books (anything heartfelt, educational, or lighthearted); Young Adult (fantasy, mystery, horror, thriller, suspense); Middle Grade (fantasy, mystery, magic); and Adult Fiction (fantasy and thrillers). Vicky specializes in picture books. She wants to be dropped into the moment and experience the story alongside the characters. She is always seeking underrepresented authors, BIPOC, LGBTQ+. Learn more about Vicky here.

Lindsey Smith is a literary agent with Speilburg Literary. Lindsey is excited to work with first-time authors as well as those who are established. She is seeking nonfiction only, specifically prescriptive nonfiction that is compelling, and voice-driven, with the ability to shed light on a topic that might be unknown. She especially loves projects and people that bring humor to serious situations. Lindsey is interested in cookbooks, lifestyle, health, pop culture, gender issues, self-help, true crime, and current events. She is especially interested in podcast-to-book ideas, journalists who specialize in specific research, and cookbooks that have a niche and/or narrative voice. Please do not pitch diet books. Learn more about Lindsey here.

Lori Colvin is a literary agent with Birch Literary. She is seeking: If a book doesn’t grab Lori on the first page, she generally won’t read any further, so bring out your best right away. Lori’s looking for fresh viewpoints in multiple genres, including women’s fiction, thriller, book club fiction, mainstream/commercial fiction, mystery (but no cozy), and more. Things she’s not seeking at the moment: romance, middle grade, or picture books. If you can make Lori laugh, cry, gasp, or stay up all night reading, you may be a good match. Learn more about Lori here.

Elisa Moles is a literary agent with Painted Fire Literary Agency.  She is seeking: Especially interested in upmarket fiction. “In one word, what defines fantastic fiction narrative? Consequences. Consequences give structure. And stories with cohesive and creative structures, true to each writer’s background and voice, stand the test of time beyond the trendy topics and gimmicks of the day. I especially love psychologically complex characters. I’m looking for distinctive and compassionate voices who are telling organically unexpected stories in a wide variety of styles and genres. Surprise me.” Please do not pitch: nonfiction, poetry, children’s books, middle grade, YA, graphic novels, screenplays, westerns, horror, nihilist, or erotic work. No previously self-published works please. Learn more about Elisa here.

Tina P. Schwartz is a literary agent and founder of Purcell Agency. She is seeking: middle grade fiction, young adult novel, some Women’s Fiction (mostly book club), contemporary realistic fiction, romance, coming of age stories, #ownvoices, and LGBTQ stories. Schwartz is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). Learn more about Tina here.

Dan Cramer is a literary agent and founder of Page Turner Literary Agency. He specializes in representing children’s picture books — both fiction and nonfiction. “While I love all books, my heart beats for children’s literature for many reasons, but the main reason is children’s literature is fearless. These books and their authors are not afraid to tackle tough topics, to celebrate diversity, or bring awareness to issues that others would turn their backs on. Children’s literature never ceases to surprise me with its fortitude.” Learn more about Dan here.

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ADDED ONLINE PITCHING: To ensure that writers have a robust and diverse lineup of agents & editors to pitch, 2024 Writing Workshop of Chicago attendees will have the ability to also pitch literary agents at the Writing Day Workshops *online* event that follows the 2024 WWOC on our calendar.

That event is the Texas Writing Workshop, July 26-27, 2024, which will have 30-40 agents taking one-on-one Zoom virtual pitches.

This means that 2024 Chicago attendees can have access to pitching all those online TWW agents — pitches still at $29 each — without being a formal registrant for the online July 2024 event. (That said, if you want to formally register for the Texas conference and have access to all classes and panels, let us know, as there is a discount for confirmed Chicago attendees.)

If you are interested in this added pitching opportunity, the first step is to get formally registered for Chicago. Following the Chicago conference on June 22, 2024, we will be in touch with all Chicago attendees and ask them if they want to partake in pitching online agents at the 2024 TWW (July 26-27). At that time, you can communicate your pitch requests and purchase meeting time.

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        More 2024 agents to be announced as they are confirmed. You can sign up for pitches at any time, or switch pitches at any time, so long as the agent in question still has appointments open.

These one-on-one meetings are an amazing chance to pitch your book face-to-face with an agent, and get personal, individual feedback on your pitch/concept. If the agent likes your pitch, they’ll request to see part/all of your book — sending you straight past the slush pile. It also gives you an intimate chance to meet with an agent and pick their brain with any questions on your mind.

(Please note that Agent/Editor Pitching is an add-on, separate aspect of the day, for only those who sign up. Spaces are limited for these premium meetings, and pricing/detail is explained below.)

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PRICING:

$199 — EARLY BIRD base price for registration to the 2024 WWOC and access to all workshops, all day. As of fall 2023, registration is now OPEN. To register, just email coordinator Brian Klems at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Chicago event.

Add $29 — to secure a 10-minute one-on-one meeting with any of our literary agents or editors in attendance. Use this special meeting as a chance to pitch your work and get professional feedback on your pitch. (Spaces limited.) If they wish, attendees are free to sign up for multiple 10-minute pitch sessions at $29/session — pitching multiple individuals, or securing 20 minutes to pitch one person rather than the usual 10. Here are four quick testimonials regarding writers who have signed with literary agents after pitching them at prior Writing Day Workshops events. (Our bigger, growing  list of success stories an be seen here.)

“I met my client, Alison Hammer, at the Writing
Workshop of Chicago and just sold her book.”
– literary agent Joanna Mackenzie of Nelson Literary

“Good news! I signed a client [novelist Aliza Mann]
from the Michigan Writing Workshop!”
– literary agent Sara Mebigow of KT Literary

“I signed author Stephanie Wright from
the Seattle Writing Workshop.”
– literary agent Kathleen Ortiz of New Leaf Literary

“I signed an author [Kate Thompson] that I
met at the Philadelphia Writing Workshop.”
– literary agent Kimberly Brower of Brower Literary

“I signed novelist Kathleen McInnis after meeting her
at the Chesapeake Writing Workshop.”
– literary agent Adriann Ranta of Foundry Literary + Media

Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Brian Klems, one of the day’s instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Writing Workshop of Chicago attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?

Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 10-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:

• Young adult (contemporary, thriller, romance only), romance/romcoms, mysteries/thrillers, general/literary fiction, book club fiction, women’s fiction (in-person critiques): Faculty member Jilly Gagnon, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you in person at the event for 15 minutes sometime during the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• More options possibly forthcoming.

How to pay/register — Registration is now open. Reach out to workshop organizer Brian Klems via email: WDWconference@gmail.com, and he will provide specific instructions for payment and registration to get you a reserved seat at the event. Payment is by credit card, PayPal, or check. Because Brian plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Chicago workshop specifically.

REGISTRATION:

Because of limited space at the venue (Congress Plaza Hotel), the workshop can only allow 200 registrants, unless spacing issues change. For this reason, we encourage you to book sooner rather than later.

(Please note that this is an in-person event. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next WWOC is an in-person event happening in Chicago on June 22, 2024. See you there.)

Are spaces still available? Yes, we still have spaces available. We will announce RIGHT HERE, at this point on this web page, when all spaces are taken. If you do not see a note right here saying how all spaces are booked, then yes, we still have room, and you are encouraged to register.

How to Register: The easy first step is simply to reach out to workshop organizer Brian Klems via email: WDWconference@gmail.com. Brian will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The WWOC will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Brian plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Chicago workshop specifically.

Refunds: If you sign up for the event and have to cancel for any reason at any time, you will receive 50% of your total payment back [sent by check or PayPal]. The other 50% is nonrefundable and will not be returned, and helps the workshop ensure that only those truly interested in the limited spacing sign up for the event. (Please note that query editing payments and manuscript editing payments are completely non-refundable if the instructor has already edited your work.)

Thank you for your interest in the 2024 Writing Workshop of Chicago.

Lindsey Smith is a literary agent with Speilburg Literary.

Lindsey Smith got her start in the publishing industry as an author. After her own publishing success, she started working with other writers to help launch their books and shape their careers. To date, Lindsey has worked with over 1,000 authors and negotiated book deals even before becoming an agent. Her unique perspective helps shape her passion for the industry and her role as an advocate for her clients. 

Formerly a publicist and hailing from the world of self-publishing, Lindsey understands the importance of branding, and she works with each client not only to sell a book but to build a career. 

Lindsey is excited to work with first-time authors as well as those who are established. She is seeking nonfiction only, specifically prescriptive nonfiction that is compelling, and voice-driven, with the ability to shed light on a topic that might be unknown. She especially loves projects and people that bring humor to serious situations. 

Lindsey is interested in cookbooks, lifestyle, health, pop culture, gender issues, self-help, true crime, and current events. She is especially interested in podcast-to-book ideas, journalists who specialize in specific research, and cookbooks that have a niche and/or narrative voice. Please do not send diet books.

Miriam Cortinovis is a literary agent with Arthouse Literary Agency.

Born and raised in Italy, Miriam (they/she) moved to Chicago as a teenager and has since earned a BA in Creative Writing and an MA in Writing & Publishing from DePaul University. After an excellent internship at Aevitas Creative Management, for which she also freelance read, she landed at ArtHouse Literary as an intern. They became Associate Agent through intense months of professional growth and supported learning. When not reading or writing SFF fiction of their own, Miriam enjoys playing videogames with their partner and scheming on Dungeons & Dragons with her friends. Their MSWL is inspired by all these speculative passions on top of their non-binary, bisexual, and chronically ill identity.

She is seeking:

In general, Miriam is eagerly looking for everything and anything speculative (fantasy and science fiction) across most age ranges — adult, young adult, and middle grade.

For fantasy, Miriam seeks intersectional diverse stories that make of magic—whatever its definition—an instrument of identity and/or social discovery. They want portal trilogies like A DARKER SHADE OF MAGIC, D&D-inspired adventures like TIL DEATH DO US BARD, alluring paranormal glimpses like TOGETHER WE ROT, and the triumphal return of urban fantasy through the likes of LEGENDBORN. They would love epic tales set in worlds similar yet different from ours like THE JASMINE THRONE, coming-of-age powerhouses like WITCHLINGS & PERCY JACKSON, riveting academia plots like CURIOUS TIDES, and retellings that deviate from the Western canon—with a special interest in medieval romance & the Arthurian cycle. Above all, Miriam is on the frontlines of championing queer perspectives, especially trans, non-binary, and asexual voices, through all human facets: rage, joy, healing, and messy glory. Think, HELL FOLLOWED WITH US and VESUVIUS.

For science fiction, Miriam is eager to have their brains teased and blown. While not keen on hard sci-fi, they relentlessly chase the necromantic high of GIDEON THE NINTH. They would also love space shenanigans à la TREASURE PLANET and JUNKER SEVEN. On earth or otherwise, Miriam awaits dystopian novels that fearlessly interrogate and exaggerate modern society with the timeless insight of THE HUNGER GAMES, the cutting genius of PARABLE OF THE SOWER, and the ruthlessness of HBO’s WESTWORLD.

Similarly—for horror, thriller, gothic, and historical, they would love to champion manuscripts that utilize the speculative to challenge, endanger, and transform the psyche anew. Less splatter, more mind metamorphosis. To note that Miriam isn’t looking for historical novels set during or after WWI-WWII unless told from a non-Western perspective.

Miriam takes an interest in young adult contemporary novels that draw on their fascination with American high school from immigrant perspectives and with summer camps/adventures, in the veins of YOU SHOULD SEE ME IN A CROWN. They’re also looking for queer YA horror & thriller the likes of HOW TO FIND A MISSING GIRL and HOLLOW.

Miriam is also on the lookout for selective works of literary fiction and creative nonfiction. For everything listed above, they’re also highly interested in novellas.

What they don’t want: Poetry. Picture Books. Trade Nonfiction. Contemporary Mafia Fiction. Contemporary Adult Romance. Erotica.

Jenna Satterthwaite is a literary agent with Storm Literary Agency.

In Adult Fiction, she’s especially looking for:

• Psychological and domestic suspense full of twists. Think: Lucy Foley, Vera Kurian, Andrea Bartz, May Cobb, Eliza Jane Brazier, Laurie Elizabeth Flynn, Jeneva Rose, Jessica Strawser
• Murder mystery, cozy or traditional, contemporary or historical, serious or humorous, hijinks welcome and big family drama very welcome. Think: Louise Penny, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It, Lucy Foley, Tana French, Before She Disappeared, Dial A for Aunties, Rhys Bowen, Knives Out, Only Murders in the Building.
• Fantasy – cozy with low stakes, high/epic, portal and romantasy. Think: Legends & Lattes, The Ten Thousand Doors of January, Every Heart a Doorway, Sarah J Maass, Leigh Bardugo.
• Rom-coms and romance – in particular I’m interested in POC voices in romance, body-positive romance, LGBTQ+ romance, and adventure romance (think The Lost City). If you can give me a strong hook, an ‘impossible’ situation, and real, quirky characters I can root for, I’m sold. Think: Tia Williams, Emily Henry, Angie Hockman.
• Women’s fiction: give me that heartfelt beach read. Bonus points for sister relationships, complex family dynamics, intergenerational tensions, and upmarket writing.
• Sci fi – I don’t want my sci-fi cold; give me human connection, make me cry, give me that high concept worldbuilding and heartache that lasts for a week. Think: This Is How You Lose the Time War.
• Speculative – give me speculative twists on rom-coms, thrillers, mysteries, etc. Give me time loops, robots, parallel worlds, fantastical creatures, etc. Give me a story rooted in the present that has that one, addictive speculative twist. Think: The Rehearsals, Groundhog Day, Bone Gap, Stranger Things.
• Upmarket and book club fiction. Think: Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, Britt Marie Was Here, Great Kitchens of the Midwest, Taylor Jenkins Reid.

In Adult Nonfiction, Jenna is selective. She’s especially looking for:

• Voicey memoir (solid platform is a huge plus)
• The next big ex-evangelical voice, and both feminist and LGBTQ+ voices in the Christian context. Think: Rachel Held Evans, Matthew Vines, or Beth Allison Barr’s The Making of Biblical Womanhood.
• Spiritual deconstruction / reconstruction. Think: Kate Bowler’s Everything Happens for a Reason and Other Lies I’ve Loved.
• Self-help from an “expert” millennial or Gen Z voice on topics such as divorce, sexuality, pregnancy, parenting.
• Books highlighting alternative approaches to death (living funerals, death doulas, at-home body care, etc.)

In Young Adult, she’s especially looking for:

• Fantasy, cozy or epic, contemporary or infused with sci-fi. Think: Iron Widow, Only a Monster, Where Dreams Descend, Caraval, Sarah J. Maass, Girl of Fire and Thorns, Leigh Bardugo, Brigid Kemmerer’s A Curse So Dark and Lonely.
• Sci-fi that makes me feel as much as it makes me think; bonus if you can make me cry. Think: The Ones We’re Meant to Find.
• Thriller/suspense and mystery. Think: One of Us Is Lying, Come Find Me.
• Speculative. Think: The Grace Year.
• Atmospheric horror or extravagantly satirical horror. Think: House of Hollow, Wilder Girls, Bodies Bodies Bodies.

In Middle Grade, she’s looking for:

• Graphic Novel – mostly interested in author-illustrators; fantasy or contemporary. If my ten-year-old would love it, we’re on to something! Think: Amulet, Smile, Drama.
• Fantasy with series potential. Think: Chris Colfer, The School for Good and Evil, Wings of Fire.
• Contemporary stories that explore the multicultural / multilingual experience
• Horror

In Picture Books, she’s only looking for author/illustrators and the following very specific projects:

• Books that explore neurodiversity, in particular, high sensitivity/sensory processing
• If you have What Happens on Wednesdays but set in Chicago, please send that my way!
• Books that celebrate the joy, grittiness and diversity of urban living
• Books highlighting the multicultural experience (bilingual books English/Spanish), especially from the point of view of a refugee child

She is not currently looking for:

• Picture books (unless it’s a referral/request or fits the above)
• Chapter books
• Hardcore/gory horror
• Erotica
• Military Science Fiction
• Anything with child abuse or gruesome child death described in detail on the page (okay to refer to it as part of a character’s backstory, but I can’t take it on the page; exceptions made if you are Tana French) … my heart can’t take it!
• Poetry or screenplays

Tina P. Schwartz is a literary agent and founder of Purcell Agency.

She is seeking: middle grade, young adult, some Women’s Fiction (mostly book club), contemporary realistic fiction, romance, coming of age stories, #ownvoices, and LGBTQ​.

Tina 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).
​

Vicky Weber is a literary agent with The Purcell Agency.

Vicky is a former elementary school teacher turned children’s book author. In addition to her own publications, she runs At Home Author, a coaching and consulting company that teaches current and aspiring authors how to get their books published and marketed for success.

She is seeking:

1. PICTURE BOOKS: Anything heartfelt, educational, or lighthearted.
2. YOUNG ADULT: Fantasy, Mystery, Horror, Thriller, Suspense,
3. MIDDLE GRADE: Fantasy, Mystery, Magic
4. ADULT: Fantasy and Thrillers.

Vicky specializes in picture books. She wants to be dropped into the moment and experience the story alongside the characters.

Picture Book Wishlist:

• Stories by underrepresented authors, both fiction and nonfiction. I especially love bilingual books.
• Books that are educational (fiction or nonfiction) in a way that makes learning fun, especially if they are musical in some way.
• Lighthearted, playful humor with heart.
• Familiar storylines with a fresh twist or perspective
• Rhyming stories must be exceptionally well written with perfect meter.

She also loves Young Adult and Fantasy.

ALWAYS SEEKING: Underrepresented authors, BIPOC, LGBTQ+

No erotica, romance, or memoirs please. Vicky is not the best fit for potty humor, graphic novels, or nonfiction adult books.

Dan Cramer is a literary agent and founder of Page Turner Literary Agency.

He specializes in representing children’s picture books — both fiction and nonfiction.

“My love of reading started when I was young with The Chronicles of Narnia. I loved that I could escape into a world where magic and adventure existed. That love of books grew and has followed me into adulthood. Some of my best friends and greatest loves, through the years, have been fictional characters. They have inspired and motivated me in almost every facet of my life, from my first career as a Forensic Scientist with the FBI to owning and operating Page Turner Literary Agency.

“While I love all books, my heart beats for children’s literature for many reasons, but the main reason is children’s literature is fearless. These books and their authors are not afraid to tackle tough topics, to celebrate diversity, or bring awareness to issues that others would turn their backs on. Children’s literature never ceases to surprise me with its fortitude.

“I live in Burr Ridge, Illinois with my husband and our rescue dog, Henry. When I’m not reading, I enjoy the outdoors, horror movies, and baking (and I’m definitely not imagining I’m on the Great British Bake Off… ok, I’m totally doing that.)

“I have two undergraduate degrees from West Virginia University: Forensic and Investigative Sciences and Psychology. I have two graduate degrees from Benedictine University: MBA and MS Management and Organizational Behavior. Prior to starting my own agency, I was an Associate Literary Agent with Flannery Literary.”

Christine Goss is a literary agent with The Purcell Agency.

Christine is a graduate of Lake Forest College with a BA in communications. Formerly a sales representative, she has skills that pair well with her love of reading and story development. As an author herself, she is aware of what it requires and the hard work it takes to get to the final product of a completed book. Christine is drawn to stories with high stakes and tension. The first pages need to draw her in with action. She wants to be sucked into the world on the pages through a unique voice. When she’s not working, reading, or writing, she’s usually chasing her two boys who are likely chasing her fur baby (dog).

She is seeking:

I am always looking for LGBTQ+ and stories by underrepresented authors

Adult fiction:

– Upmarket Fiction/Commercial
-Romance:
-Fantasy/Romantasy
– Dystopian or utopian

Young Adult / New Adult:

– Upmarket Fiction/Commercial Fiction
-Romance
-Fantasy/Romantasy
– Dystopian or utopian

Middle Grade through Adult:

-Graphic Novels

Nonfiction:

– Cookbooks: Original family recipes with anecdotes sprinkled throughout. A true story of cooking.
– Stories about motherhood, unspoken troubles and hardships of new motherhood.
– A story that would compel readers to take care of themselves or expand sympathy/understanding for themselves (Re: YOU SHOULD REALLY TALK TO SOMEONE).

——–

Christine would love to see books about approachable ways for a sustainable lifestyle. With work resuming and people going back to the office, how can the environment still be top of mind? Anything exposing fast fashion and how fashion is detrimental to the environment, and not only that but how to practice “slow fashion”.

Favorite Authors: Ali Hazelwood, Talia Hibbert, Isabel Cañas, Chloe Liese, Jessica Joyce, Meryl Wilsner, Ashley Poston, Rebecca Ross, Amy Lea, K.A. Tucker

What I’m NOT looking for at this time: Picture Books, children’s book, Middle grade chapter books (though would take graphic novels), religious, police procedural, anything including the death of a small child.

Leah Moss is a literary agent with Steven Literary.

Leah graduated from Lake Forest College in 2020, where she studied Creative Writing, Publishing, and Digital Media Design. A lifelong reader, she’s spent the past few years working at libraries and has always dreamed of working in the book publishing industry. When she isn’t being a professional bookworm, Leah can probably be found playing her harp or tending to her Stardew Valley farm.

She is seeking:

Across the board, I am looking for:

• Stories from marginalized writers. I’m particularly interested in uplifting BIPOC voices, but I also really want to see work from LGBTQ+, disabled, neurodivergent, and other marginalized writers as well.
• Lush, spellbinding storytelling. I love prose that is lyrical, beautiful, and can really evoke the senses. If your writing can draw me into your world and make me want to stay there, I want to read it. Strange the Dreamer, Caraval, and Kingdom of the Wicked are great examples of stories that completely sucked me in.
• High-stakes conflict. I love it when stories have a sense of urgency, as they keep me on the edge of my seat flipping pages. Even if there isn’t something huge at stake, I’d still love to see a core driving force that keeps the story steadily moving forward throughout.
• Unique, out-of-the-box content! I love being surprised by new concepts and ideas.
• Stories featuring self love and acceptance.
• Anything that can capture the cozy, peaceful vibe of Stardew Valley or Harvest Moon.

In Picture/Board Books, I am looking for:

• Stories about self-love/acceptance for young Black children. I especially love stories that explore natural hair, like Stella’s Stellar Hair, Magic Like That, and Hair Love.
• Stories that teach kids about topics like mental health and neurodiversity.
• An introduction to fantasy tabletop RPGs like Dungeons and Dragons.
• Alphabet books with unique concepts like P is for Pterodactyl or M is for Melanin.
• Fun, wacky, and borderline absurd stories like Creepy Pair of Underwear, I Want My Hat Back, and Have You Ever Seen a Flower?
• Stories about space, like 7 Little Planets and Moon’s First Friend. Bonus points if it explores the topic in a fun and innovative way, like Stella’s Stellar Hair.

In YA, I am looking for: ​​​

• Retellings of traditional fairytales, mythology, folklore, and fables, as well as classics like Les Miserables, and The Phantom of the Opera. I’m a big fan of retellings that have vastly different settings, explore side characters, or completely recontextualize the original story.
• Stories that fit trendy aesthetics. Give me cottagecore, dark academia, fairycore, piratecore, balletcore, and princesscore, please!
• Faeries. I love faerie stories like The Cruel Prince and These Hollow Vows and want to see more of them in the YA space.
• Stories with tough/taboo subjects and themes.
• Stories told from the POV of the villain. I love Breaking Bad and find it so interesting how it was framed in a way that made me root for and empathize with Walter White throughout the show, despite the fact that he’s objectively a terrible person.
• Stories that show a character’s journey to the dark side, like in Give the Dark my Love.
• Morally grey characters.
• Mystery stories across all genres. As long as the mystery is properly developed and set in a place with concrete and understandable worldbuilding, I’d look at a good mystery in any genre, from contemporary (like One of Us is Lying) to sci-fi (This Splintered Silence.)
• Stories about cults
• Lesser explored fantasy/paranormal beings. As much as I love faeries, vampires, werewolves, and witches, I’d love to see other beings get their time in the spotlight. If your story features elves, angels, mermaids, selkies, goblins, or any other lesser-seen creature, I’d love to see it.
• Cute romcoms!

In Adult Fiction, I am looking for:

• Books with YA crossover appeal. I’m mainly a kidlit reader, so I’m very selective with the adult titles I pick up. Stories with protagonists in their late teens/mid-early twenties appeal to me the most. If it could be categorized as “New Adult,” I’m interested.
• Stories set at college. I’d love to see stories set at smaller campuses or community colleges in addition to larger schools.
• Swoonworthy romances and rom-coms! Bonus points if they’re nerdy!
• “Late bloomer” protagonists! Show me a protagonist who doesn’t have their first kiss until their 20s, or who still lives with their parents in their 20s. Coming of age doesn’t have to just be a YA trope.
• Fantasy. As with the other categories, I am always looking for fantasy stories with lush worldbuilding and interesting magic systems. The Binding by Bridget Collins and The Wolf and the Woodsman are perfect examples of what I’d hope to find in an adult fantasy manuscript.
• Romantasy! <3

I am not a good fit for:​

• Dragons (if they’re a main focus of the story. I’m not opposed to them being in the story, but I don’t care much for them as a big part of the plot.)
• STEM Romances
• Nonfiction
• Traditional high fantasy stories, especially male-led ones. (As much as I love The Lord of the Rings and The Name of the Wind, I’m just not the best person to work on that type of story.)
• Stories about police brutality
• Stories where racism, homophobia, transphobia, or the hatred toward marginalized communities is the main focus. I’m ok with these elements being part of the story if they are “necessary” and are handled in a respectful way, but just not as the main plot point.
• Hard Scifi
• War/Military Stories
• Stories with intense on-page violence toward children
• Historical fiction
• Overtly religious themes

Marcy Posner is a literary agent with Folio Literary.

She is “looking for distinctive voices in the commercial space, but I am really not interested in genre or super literary fiction.”

She is seeking:

• Thrillers
• Psychological suspense
• Historical fiction
• Women’s fiction
• Mystery
• YA (contemporary, historical, romance, mystery)
• Middle grade (contemporary, SFF, historical, mystery)
• Narrative nonfiction
• Cultural/social issues
• Journalism
• Nature and ecology
• Psychology
• Women’s issues

“I have spent a lifetime in books. I started out with a brief stint as a librarian, but found it a bit too staid, so moved on to publishing. My first job was at Pinnacle Books where as assistant to the President I was given a book to edit the third week of my employment. I then moved on to Rodale Press and then Salem House where I helped bring British books to the US, finally moving up the publishing ladder to Pantheon’s Associate Publisher, where I worked with some of the major cultural icons of our time. After fifteen years on the editorial side of the business, I made the jump to agenting – spending twelve years at the William Morris Agency as an agent and as Vice President and Director of Foreign Rights; five years as president of my own agency; five years at Sterling Lord Literistic as an agent and Director of Foreign Rights; and I’m now here – and very happy – at Folio. Editorial skill and a deep knowledge of the publishing industry sets me apart from many of my colleagues. When I work with my authors, I’ll focus editorially on how to make the book as strong as it could be – whether that book be terrific women’s fiction or an extraordinary YA debut (or any of the other categories I represent). During that process, I’m able to bring to bear all the institutional memory I possess, knowing which editors and which publishing houses have a penchant for a certain subject, or a different voice, or a particular kind of author.”

Her clients include: Lexie Elliott, Christina Clancy, Rachel J. Webster, Rebecca Stafford, Michael McGarrity, Erika J. Kendrick, Women’s Prize for Fiction winner Patricia Wood, New York Times bestselling author Sheri Reynolds and Newbery Honor winner and New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Kelly.

Abby Saul is a literary agent and the founder of The Lark Group.

Abby founded The Lark Group in 2016 after a decade in publishing at John Wiley & Sons, Sourcebooks, and Browne & Miller Literary Associates. She’s worked with and edited bestselling and award-winning authors as well as major brands. At each publishing group she’s been a part of, Abby also has helped to establish ebook standards, led company-wide forums to explore new digital possibilities for books, and created and managed numerous digital initiatives.

A zealous reader who loves her iPad and the ebooks on it, she still can’t resist the lure of a print book. Abby’s personal library of beloved titles runs the gamut from literary newbies and classics, to cozy mysteries, to sappy women’s fiction, to dark and twisted thrillers. She’s looking for great and engrossing adult commercial and literary fiction and is a member of the AALA.

She is seeking: Adult literary fiction and adult commercial fiction (including historical fiction, women’s fiction, mysteries, and thrillers)

She does NOT want: Science fiction, nonfiction, children’s books (including YA), or screenplays.

A magna cum laude graduate of Wellesley College, Abby spends her weekends—when she’s not reading—cooking and hiking with her husband and children. Find her @BookySaul on Twitter.

Stacy Abrams is VP of Operations and editor-at-large with Entangled Publishing.

She’s been with the company since its inception in 2011, leaving the hustle and bustle of New York City and her job as an editor at Bloomsbury Children’s Books to dive into the world of romance. Stacy earned her bachelor’s in English at Northwestern University and currently resides in the frozen tundra of Chicago with her husband, three children, and too-cute puppy.

Though Stacy mostly runs the day-to-day operations of Entangled and edits a small list of existing authors, she is open to acquisitions in a limited capacity. Her current wish list includes high-concept “romantasy” for the breakout New Adult fantasy imprint Red Tower, commercial rom-coms/women’s fiction for the Amara imprint, all genres of Teen fiction, and picture book manuscripts with a social justice bend for the new Little Lark picture book imprint.

 

 

Josh Gregory is an editor with Albert Whitman & Company.

“I’m drawn to stories that encourage readers to push themselves in new directions, challenge preconceived notions, and pursue any goals they might have, no matter how seemingly out of reach. I want to read about characters who have unique perspectives, come from diverse backgrounds, think outside the box, and aren’t afraid to be different.

“Picture books are my main focus, and I especially like to see stories that approach social and emotional issues—even the most difficult ones—through a kid’s perspective. I’m also interested in stories that highlight underrepresented cultural traditions, historical tales about little-known figures whose accomplishments could resonate with a modern audience, and stories about kids making a difference in their communities or the world at large. Right now, I am also very interested in acquiring holiday stories and books about bullying.

“In chapter books, I’d like to see manuscripts with unique, relatable characters and a strong core concept that can be used to drive future stories in a potential series. For those who are comfortable working with established properties, I am also seeking potential writers for some of AW’s ongoing series.

“In middle grade and young adult novels, I mostly want to see realistic, contemporary stories where characters are dealing with issues that will be relatable to readers. I am open to genre elements, but they should not be the primary focus, and regardless of the setting, readers should be able to see themselves in the characters and situations depicted.”

Lori Colvin is a Literary Agent with Birch Literary.

Lori has a special empathy for authors, having penned over 150 books herself, under a successful pen name. A fierce advocate for her fellow writers, Lori understands the publishing industry from many different viewpoints, and she does her absolute best to tailor her approach to meet each author’s needs.

She is seeking:

If a book doesn’t grab Lori on the first page, she generally won’t read any further, so bring out your best right away. Lori’s looking for fresh viewpoints in multiple genres, including women’s fiction, Thriller, Book Club Fiction, Mystery (but no Cozy), and more.

Things she’s not seeking at the moment: Romance, MG, or PB.

If you can make Lori laugh, cry, gasp, or stay up all night reading, you may be a good match.