Agents Like Us - Saba Sulaiman

Another Agents Like Us and today it's all about Saba Sulaiman from Talcott Notch Literary Services.

Saba has just reopened to queries and is seeking a whole lotta awesomeness: up-market, literary and commercial fiction, romance, psychological thrillers, memoir, young adult, middle grade, and nonfiction humor. Check out more about her tastes and guidelines here and here, and follow her on Twitter @AgentSaba. Her answers are below in bold.

Saba on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish they would do their research and make sure I’m acquiring the kind of book they’ve written.

• My favorite part about being an agent is ... I’m going to cheat and include three: 1) reading critically for a living 2) making my clients’ dreams come true, and 3) having independence and flexibility.

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story are compelling, multidimensional, characters with quirks and vulnerabilities, complex relationships, and gray morality.

• Whenever I make a book deal, I feel happy, relieved, and motivated to make more!

• I really wish I saw more fully-developed non-stereotypical marginalized main characters with agency and personality in the slush. Bonus points if they’re POC.

Saba On Clients

• My ideal client would be honest, kind, and have a great work ethic (because talent is a given, right?).

• What I love most about my current clientele is that they’re all honest, kind, and have a great work ethic (aside from being incredibly talented!).

• What I want most for any client is their happiness and contentment, in whatever forms they may take.

Saba On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be in academia, harboring not-so-secret hopes of being a professional singer.

• My favorite (non-client) books are most recently (because there are WAY too many otherwise) I loved INSIDE OUT AND BACK AGAIN by Thannha Lai (MG in verse), THE HATING GAME by Sally Thorne (romance), and ALL THE UGLY AND WONDERFUL THINGS by Bryn Greenwood (adult literary).

• Secretly, I'm terrified of my safety and that of other marginalized people.

• My secret boyfriend is ...only one? c’mon — I rotate between Idris Elba, Rahul Khanna, and Fawad Khan. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I should probably nap but instead I eat an obscene amount of cake in bed and catch up on Bollywood gossip.

• My favorite drink is a vanilla milkshake.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Lauren Spieller

It's been a while since we've had an awesome agent interview on the blog. Today, I'm so happy to have Lauren Spieller with TriadaUS Literary Agency here--and she has some agent secrets to share.

Lauren is seeking Middle Grade and Young Adult fiction, as well as select Adult fiction and non-fiction. Whatever the age category or genre, Lauren is passionate about finding diverse and underrepresented voices.You can learn more about Lauren's tastes and guidelines here and follow her on Twitter @LaurenSpieller. Her answers are below in bold.

Lauren on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish they would research me first, and make sure I'm a good fit for their work.

• My favorite part about being an agent is advocating for authors!

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is a great voice.

• Whenever I make a book deal, I celebrate with cocktails!

• I really wish I saw more diverse Middle Grade in the slush.

Lauren On Clients

• My ideal client would be hard working, well-read, and dedicated to craft.
• What I love most about my current clientele is their passion and work ethic. Oh, and their gorgeous books!
• What I want most for any client is creative fulfillment.

Lauren On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be a writer. Which I already am! ;)

• My favorite (non-client) book is Dumplin'. For now. Ask me again in ten minutes.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of grammatical errors in a tweet.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I dance in my living room. Sometimes I do it when people are around, too.

• My favorite drink is Ramos Gin Fizz.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Writers Like Us - Becky Albertalli

So because of this news, this blog series totally got away from me--but I'm back and ready to push the series to 50 interviews. Check them all out here, which include advice and insights from Sara Zarr, A.S. King, and many, many others.

This week, Becky Albertalli stops by to share her writing, publishing, and life advice. She's the author of the hilariously swoony Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and the forthcoming The Upside of Unrequited. You can find her tweeting at @BeckyAlbertalli. Her answers are below in bold.

Becky on Writing

• I've written two books, and 1.5 have seen the light of day (second one is floating around in bound manuscript form, but it will be released in April of 2017!).

• My favorite type of scene/character/setting to write: flirty scenes, first kisses, and drunk Simon Spier.

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with overusing words – and the specific words change, depending on the character’s voice! My editor always has a few things she wants me to clean up in find/replace. 

• A typical comment from my critique partner is, “I think it would be okay for this to wrap up less neatly.”

• The book I wished I wrote is HOUSE OF ORANGE by Lianne Oelke (coming in 2017!)

Becky on Getting Published

• When I was querying, I felt like I was seventeen. So much yearning and nervousness and hoping to hear from someone.

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was nudging agents with an offer over Thanksgiving week. It couldn’t be avoided, and it worked out perfectly, but I feel guilty that there were agents reading during that time!

• What I love most about my agent is how easy he is to talk to, and how excited he gets about even the little victories for my books.

• While my book was out on submission, I did not actually expect it to sell. Brooks (agent) sold it in five days. 

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was that I need to convince Brooks Sherman that I’m about 75% less awkward than I am in real life.

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I took a screenshot and sent it to my mom.

Becky on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a psychologist (I actually am a nonpracticing licensed clinical psychologist).

• Secretly, I'm terrified of bees.

• My secret girlfriend/boyfriend is Jim from the Office (but only in an alternate universe where I’m Pam, because I cannot break up my OTP).

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I wear pajamas all day. Sometimes when everyone is around, I wear pajamas all day, too.

Becky Albertalli is a clinical psychologist who has had the privilege of conducting therapy with dozens of smart, weird, irresistible teenagers. She also served for seven years as co-leader of a support group for gender nonconforming children in Washington, DC. These days, she lives in Atlanta with her husband and two sons, and writes very nerdy contemporary young adult fiction.

Writers Like Us - Cynthia Hand

So because of this news, this blog series totally got away from me--but I'm back and ready to push the series to 50 interviews. Check them all out here, which include advice and insights from Sara Zarr, A.S. King, and many, many others.

This week, Cynthia Hand stops by to share her writing, publishing, and life advice. She's the author of the Unearthly Series (aka the best angel fantasy ever), the tear-jerking The Last Time We Say Goodbye, and the co-author of hilarious My Lady Jane. You can find her tweeting at @CynthiaHand. Her answers are below in bold.

Cynthia on Writing

• I've written six and a half books, and six have seen the light of day.

• My favorite type of character to write is a conflicted villain.

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with pacing. Almost all of my books require an overhaul from first draft to last, just to get the pacing right.

• A typical comment from my critique partner is "where's the rest?"

• The book I wished I wrote is The Knife of Never Letting Go, by Patrick Ness, or The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater.

Cynthia on Getting Published

• When I was querying, I felt, well, I never technically queried. I got my agent when a few agents contacted me about a literary short story I published while I was in grad school.

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was um, see above, but I have never been any good at writing the darned query letter. I'd rather write a novel than a query letter for a novel.

• What I love most about my agent is all the different hats she wears with me. Sometimes she's my friend. Sometimes my fierce defender. My financial advisor. My cheerleader. My editor.

• While my book was out on submission, I ate a lot of chocolate.

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was that I must be dreaming--the whole thing was very surreal.

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I cheered. The day I sold my first novel I went to a Barnes and Noble, ordered a caramel frappachino, looked at the YA bookshelves, and cried with utter happiness.

Cynthia on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a very bored office assistant or a literature professor.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of elevators getting stuck.

• My secret girlfriend/boyfriend is Jamie from the Outlander series.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I make myself a batch of homemade fudge, which is a real treat since no one in my family likes it but me.

Cynthia Hand is the New York Times bestselling author of several books for teens, including the UNEARTHLY trilogy, the contemporary novel THE LAST TIME WE SAY GOODBYE, and the new historical comedy, MY LADY JANE. Before turning to writing for young adults, she studied literary fiction and earned both an M.F.A. and a Ph.D. in fiction writing. She currently resides in Boise, Idaho, where she teaches creative writing at Boise State University.

Writers Like Us - Courtney C Stevens

Writers Like Us is alllllmost at 50 author interviews, and I've been lining up a stellar line up of inspiring and fun writers to count us down. You can check out all the interviews here, which include advice and insights from Sara Zarr, A.S. King, and many, many others.

This week, Courtney C Stevens stops by to share her writing, publishing, and life advice. She's the author of Faking Normal, The Blue-Haired Boy, and The Lies About Truth. You can find her tweeting at @Quartland. Her answers are below in bold.

Courtney on Writing

• I've written eight point seven books, and four point five have seen the light of day.

• My favorite type character to write is someone who feels real and unreal at the same time.

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with sleeping. No, seriously, I still have trouble with everything. The more I write and know, the harder it gets, because I want to level up.

• A typical comment from my critique partner is here’s a link to the difference between farther and further.

• The book I wished I wrote is the one I’m working on now.

Courtney on Getting Published

• When I was querying, I felt like maybe I should just take pictures of baby hedgehogs.

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was trying to squash hope to protect myself. Many artists are scared to hope. I’m scared not to.

• What I love most about my agent is she’s aware of how my personal life affects my artistry.

• While my book was out on submission, I worked my day job and wrote the next book. I had a really keen sense that if it happened, it happened. If it didn’t, I'd write my way to where I wanted to be with the next thing.

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was I still have to do my day job tonight. How am I going to do my job tonight? I need to call my mom.

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I went to my local librarian and thanked her.

Courtney on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be an FBI agent. 

• Secretly, I'm terrified of losing my hearing.

• My secret girlfriend/boyfriend is if I told you, well, you see the problem here. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I drive fast on country roads and listen to music and look for places that no one else sees. (I also consider trespassing when there is an old silo with vines crawling up the sides, because … how awesome are those things?)

Courtney C. Stevens grew up in Kentucky and lives in Nashville, Tennessee. She is an adjunct professor and a former youth minister. Her other skills include playing hide-and-seek, climbing trees, and being an Olympic torch bearer. She is also the author of Faking Normal, which Kirkus Reviews called “a story that resonates” and Publishers Weekly called a “rich debut,” as well as the e-novella The Blue-Haired Boy, and the recently released The Lies About Truth.

Writers Like Us - Darcy Woods

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for another round of Writers Like Us. This series started in January of 2013 and has included over 41 authors so far. I'm so excited Darcy Woods is number 42 and will kick off this new round of interviews. You can check them all out here.

Darcy Woods' Summer of Supernovas is out on shelves now and I just adored it to pieces. If you're looking for a fun, swoony romance to kick off your beach reading, pick this one up. In the meantime, let's learn a little about Darcy...

Darcy on Writing

• I've written 2.5 books (I rewrote my first ms from page one, hence the .5 for recycled premise), and so far one has seen the light of day. But technically not till May 10th!

• My favorite type of scene to write is forbidden first kiss scenes with toe-curling tension.

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with commas. I've been known to drop them randomly like f-bombs. My brain is not equipped for grammar-ing. 

• A typical comment from my critique partner is "*snorts*" "But why?????" ":)"

• The book I wished I wrote is Jandy Nelson's The Sky is Everywhere for ALL THE OBVIOUS REASONS. #genius

Darcy on Getting Published

• When I was querying, I felt like Houdini challenging people to punch me in the stomach. There were times it was absolutely grueling and hurt like hell. But you have to believe in yourself MORE than the pain of rejection. I've been cumulatively rejected almost 200 times. This does not make me a special flower. But it makes me tenacious, a necessary attribute from every author. 

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was not being myself. When I queried my first ms, I was soooooo nervous! And I'm quite sure I used pompous phrases like "esteemed cadre of authors." Which I would NEVER EVER EVER use in real life. Not even if you held my feet to smoldering flames. I was just so afraid to be me. The irony, of course, is that YOU is precisely what they want to see. 

• What I love most about my agent is her tireless belief in me. During my rocky submission process, Catherine Drayton's certainty was unfailing. Unrelenting. You cannot put a price tag on that kind of loyalty. It is everything when the chips are down.

• While my book was out on sub I got carpal tunnel refreshing my email. Grew ulcers. Drank wine and ate lots of French fries--often all of these were simultaneously.

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was this is a joke. We'd already had a couple offers fall through, so I couldn't quite wrap my gray matter around it actually happening. Then when I finally realized my agent wasn't kidding, I did this weird, hysterical laugh-cry thing. And she said, "Darcy, you're going to be a published author!" I wept like a babe.

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I exploded like a supernova. I think every one of my atoms lit up like sparklers. It was an unforgettable moment.

Darcy on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a Professional Closet and Refrigerator Feng Shui-er. So let's hope authoring pans out. ;)

• Secretly, I'm terrified of seaweed. Oh, I'll happily eat it, but do NOT ask me to swim where I can touch it.

• My secret boyfriend is Captain Jack Sparrow. Maybe it's odd to adore a man who wears more eyeliner than me, but I don't care. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I sing Broadway show tunes to my cats. I also tell my plants they're doing a great job making oxygen.

Young adult author Darcy Woods had three big loves in grade school: Reading, writing, and pizza day. Some things never change. She lives in Michigan with her madly supportive husband, two tuxedo cats (who overdress for everything) and a closet full of neatly organized shoes. Once upon a time, she served in a US Army aviation unit and threw live grenades. Now she throws words.

Darcy’s Golden Heart®-winning debut YA romance, SUMMER OF SUPERNOVAS, comes out from Random House/Crown May 10, 2016.

Agents Like Us - Melissa Sarver White

Today's a double agent interview day! Melissa Sarver White from Folio Literary Management stops by to chat agenting secrets, clients, and life with us.

She is looking for YA and MG of all kinds and a wide range of adult Non-Fiction (narrative, memoir, business, health & wellness, cookbooks and food writing). You can learn more about Melissa's tastes and guidelines here and follow her on Twitter @mjsarver. Her answers are below in bold.

Melissa on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish they didn’t assume I want to read their work and instead write something dynamic that makes me stop everything and want to dive in. Also, be professional! This is a business – we are not friends. And please follow my submission guidelines and do a bit of research to make sure I represent the genre you are writing.

• My favorite part about being an agent is sharing good news with authors, whether it be an offer for their project, a great review, that they’ve landed on a bestseller list, anything! This business tends to kick people around so I relish the times I can deliver happy news.

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is unique voice that I haven’t heard before, interesting setting, clever conceit, well-formed relationships, tightly paced story with payoff. I really hate when I get into a story with good writing and characters but feel like it’s not really going anywhere. I’m left with that “so what?” feeling. 

• Whenever I make a book deal, I ... I don’t have a ritual to celebrate each book deal – some are big and some are small. But closing a deal is always very gratifying.

• I really wish I saw more tightly paced stories, high concept YA, literary MG, mysteries in YA and MG in the slush.

Melissa On Clients

• My ideal client would be someone who is always open to revision. That, in my opinion, is the difference between getting a book deal and not. And someone who trusts that I am always looking out for his/her best interest.

• What I love most about my current clientele is I’ve been working with many of my authors for many years and it’s exciting to see them grow and change as writers and expand their audiences with each book. 

• What I want most for any client is well, beyond their book getting the attention it deserves and finding an audience, I want them to be able to build a career as a writer. That won’t mean for most of them to be able to live solely off of their book money; but to be able to write and continue to see their books published and their audience grow over time, that’s the goal.

Melissa On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be ... if you asked my 25-year-old self, I would probably say journalist! But now I enjoy working with and representing journalists much more than the idea of being one. I’d probably do something like college admissions if I weren’t an agent. 

• My favorite (non-client) book is a recent pick would be SALVAGE THE BONES; so raw and beautiful. It wrecked me in the best of ways and stayed with me long after I finished reading. All time favorites include A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN and THE HANDMAID’S TALE.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of drowning. I can swim and I enjoy water, but the idea of drowning is terrifying.

• My secret boyfriend is a tie between Idris Elba and U2’s The Edge.

• I have a total girlcrush on Ruth Wilson (have you seen The Affair? Love, love it, and her…)

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I do dance routines to music like I would have done when I was younger. They aren’t pretty but I just can’t help myself after 20+ years of dance classes.

• My favorite drink is beer. Usually a Hefeweizen.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Heather Flaherty

This week Heather Flaherty from The Bent Agency stops by to chat agenting secrets, clients, and life with us.

She is looking for young adult (contemporary and horror), middle grade (contemporary and historical), adult (thrillers and commercial women's fiction), as well as nonfiction. You can learn more about Heather here, find her submission guidelines there, and follow her on Twitter @HeddaFlaherty. Her answers are below in bold.

Heather on Agenting

• My favorite part about being an agent is ... everything. It’s a fantastic job. You get to bridge both the creative side with the market side of publishing. You get to push out books that should get out there, whether it’s because they are wanted, or teach the right lessons, or offer new perspective, or are just truly gorgeous. And my clients’ amaze me everyday with their work. Helping their words get to readers is beyond exciting.

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is voice, voice, and more voice. Full, real characters immediately pull me into any story, whether it’s a quiet story or a loud one.

• I really wish I saw more variety, quirkiness, innovation… (I know, so helpful.)  in the slush.

Heather On Clients

• My ideal client would be all of my current clients. Hard-workers who are willing to try, writers I can be VERY honest with, and people who enjoy a chuckle.

• What I love most about my current clientele is all of the above! Though some do more chuckling than others…

• What I want most for any client is the right home for their future as an author.

Heather On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be a large animal vet. (I know right? Weird.)

• Secretly, I'm terrified of not doing everything I want to do ever.

• I have a total girlcrush on Allie Bosch, Amy Schumer, and Angelina Jolie. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I wear extremely ripped jeans. (And not just sometimes. All the time)

• My favorite drink is rye.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Caitie Flum

This week Caitie Flum from Liza Dawson Associates Literary Agency stops by to chat agenting secrets, clients, and life with us.

She is looking for commercial and up market fiction, middle grade, young adult, and new adult, as well as nonfiction. You can learn more about Caitie here, find her submission guidelines there, and follow her on Twitter @CaitieF. Her answers are below in bold.

Caitie on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish that authors would would follow my guidelines. About a third do not. I also really wish authors would have someone read their query who does not know their book at all. Sometimes it is confusing and the author or their beta reader is too close to it. Make sure it makes sense!

• My favorite part about being an agent is authors! I love authors, that is why I do this. I love working with authors, fighting for authors, and having that partnership. 

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is a voice I adore. If I don't like the voice enough, I can't be the champion for it.

• Whenever I make a book deal, I make sure the author celebrates and is properly excited. I also have some champagne. 

• I really wish I saw more mysteries in the slush for all age groups. A good mystery is timeless.

Caitie On Clients

• My ideal client would be someone who wants to be a long-term writer, someone who will grow and improve with every book. 

• What I love most about my current clientele is they are enormously talented, incredibly kind, work really hard, and are just the loveliest people ever. 

• What I want most for any client is whatever is best for them, whether that is a print deal, digital, or some combination. I want them to be happy and feel supported and to know that I have their back. I want them to have the career that they want and will do everything in my power to make it happen.

Caitie On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be working somewhere else in publishing or maybe in a library? I can't imagine doing anything else. 

• My favorite (non-client) book is I just finished ILLUMINAE by Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman (had to change the billing since Jay is always second because of the alphabet) and it was AMAZING. Best book I read this year. It could easily move into the running for top 5 oo 10 favorite books of all time.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of I can't do heights when there is a chance of falling. I love tall roller coasters and flying, but I had high seats at a stadium Taylor Swift concert and had to exchange them because I started shaking.

• My secret boyfriend is Chris Hardwick because he is so nerdy and cute. I know that is a really weird answer!

• I have a total girlcrush on Viola Davis. Have you WATCHED How To Get Away With Murder? The woman is brilliant and beautiful.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I sing along to Hamilton. Sometimes I even rap REALLY badly.

• My favorite drink is Moscato wine. I love all wine, but that is my favorite!

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Jennifer Unter

After a year hiatus, I'm so excited to bring back my blog series, Agents Like Us! And here to help kick things off is Jennifer Unter from The Unter Agency.

She is looking for fiction and general nonfiction, with a particular interest in memoir, food/cooking, nature/environment, biography, pop culture, travel/adventure, true crime, politics and health/fitness as well as all kid lit (picture books, middle grade, and young adult projects). You can find her submission guidelines here, and follow her on Twitter @JenniferUnter. Her answers are below in bold.

Jennifer on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish they would do their homework. I’m not a “Sir”, I don’t do a lot of genre fiction and I’m more inclined to ask for something if I see that they know what I have agented in the past.

• My favorite part about being an agent is the excitement of the day-to-day work. Every day I have something new to do, whether it’s meeting new clients, poring over a contract or talking to the publicity team at a publishing house with an author for their new book. I feel like I get to do many jobs at once!

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is something that moves me. I love an emotional tale. Anything that makes me cry, if done well, is usually something I’ll take on.

• Whenever I make a book deal, I get very excited for the author. Their work is going to go out into the world, and that’s the reason why I do what I do.

• I really wish I saw more books for the “in between middle grade and YA” in the slush. There aren’t enough of those books being published.

Jennifer On Clients

• My ideal client would be someone with whom I share a sensibility and connection. Also someone who is willing to do the work to get their book to the best possible place before going to a publisher. 

• What I love most about my current clientele is their willingness to get out there and push for their book. Writers have to be their own best publicists and it’s sometimes difficult for them to do, but they all do it.

• What I want most for any client is to feel that their work is being taken seriously and that they have a support system in their publisher and in me.

Jennifer On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be an environmentalist of some sort or farmer.

• My favorite (non-client) book is anything by Michel Faber.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of being buried alive!

• My secret boyfriend is Mark Wahlberg.

• I have a total girlcrush on Cindy Sherman.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I do yoga or take a nap.

• My favorite drink is rose.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Writers Like Us - Mónica B. Wagner

I could not be more thrilled to welcome Mónica B. Wagner to the Writers Like Us series. Not only is Mónica my agency sister, but she was my mentor for The Writers Voice back in 2012. Mónica has been a great friend, a wonderful mentor, and overall amazing human being. Her new adult series, FROSH, debuts from Paper Lantern Lit on October 20, 2015--and I get to help reveal the cover today.

You can add it on GoodReads and follow Mónica on Twitter and Facebook.

Mónica on Writing

• I've written ten books, and so far only one has seen the light of day (actually, will see it on Oct. 20th 2015).

• My favorite type of scene to write is any romantic scene with lots of tension! 

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with the first paragraph. First paragraphs drive me crazy. I need to write them like twenty times from scratch, since I get super nervous starting a book. 

• A typical comment from my critique partner is  “:)” or “??” or “I like this! But how about [this other thing] instead?”

• The book I wished I wrote is hmm, okay, I’d say something really emotional and literary, but then, I kind of love how my kids are crazy about Harry Potter. So I’ll go with that.

Mónica on Getting Published

• If my agent really knew how crazy I was, she would find out that sometimes I dream about my characters as if they were real people.

• When I was querying, I felt like… Aaaah!!! Seriously. I kind of wanted to scream all the time. I was obsessed revising my email, feeling hopeless and hopeful at the same time.

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was calling former agent Nathan Bransford “Ms. Bransford.” Bwhahaha! I felt so embarrassed when I realized my mistake that I’ll never forget it. 

• The craziest thought I've ever had while writing is I could totally write two books at the same time. Yeah, right. 

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was actually, my call wasn’t like that. Since I live in Chile, it was an email to schedule a Skype call. But I think I cried with that email. And now, I’m happy it was an email only—otherwise, I would’ve cried during The Call.

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I think I cried, too. Yeah, I cry a lot when I’m happy.

Mónica on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a businesswoman. Something to do with economics maybe? I know, it might sound a bit boring, but I love economics.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of tunnels. And underground parking lots.

• My secret girlfriend/boyfriend is they change. They’re usually main characters of the book I’m reading. All look a little like Channing Tatum in my mind, though. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I put Latin music loud and dance and sing along.

Mónica was born in a Peruvian city by a snow-capped volcano. Growing up, books were her constant companion as she traveled with her family to places like India (where she became a vegetarian), Thailand (where she *almost* met Leonardo di Caprio), France (where she pretended to learn French), and countless other places that inspired her to write. Now, Mónica lives in Chile with her husband, three boys, eleven hens, and stray dog.

Writers Like Us - Joy Hensley

Last spring, I attended Joy Hensley's book launch for Rites of Passage, and got to see first-hand her extensive knowledge and love for military life. And, once, she saved my phone from the depths of a movie theater, making her my own personal super hero. So, of course, I needed her to be a part of Writers Like Us.

Say hi to Joy Hensley! , she's the newest addition to Writers Like Us!

Joy on Writing

• I've written 6 books, and 1 has seen the light of day.

• My favorite type of scenes to write are bad boy redemption scenes and near-kissing scenes :-)

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with placing scenes correctly in a story for maximum potency--always need CPs/agent/editor for this part!

• A typical comment from my critique partner is O______O

• The book I wished I wrote is Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Joy on Getting Published

• If my agent really knew how crazy I was, she would find out that I read every single tweet/e-mail/text/whatever other form of communication a million different ways and then believe the most negative spin, no matter what the subject. This leads to much panicking and needs for reassurance.

• When I was querying, I felt absolutely OCD about checking my e-mail/phone a million times a day.

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was querying the same agent 3 times with the same book (hey, she signed me, though, so....)

• The craziest thought I've ever had while writing is oh my gosh, can I put all these cuss words in? My MOM is going to read this...

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was "Surely she's called the wrong Joy."

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I was sitting in class (being the teacher) and almost fell off my chair.

Joy on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a traveling masseuse or a librarian.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of people thinking I've failed at something.

• My secret girlfriend/boyfriend is Jamie Fraser from Outlander and Charlie Hunnam <3

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I sing like I'm on American Idol--my dogs are not fans of these moments.

Writers Like Us - Jennifer Niven

I got a chance to read Jennifer Niven's All The Bright Places a few months ago and it was sooo good! I absolutely loved this one and am so excited that today is the lunch day for AtBP! Make sure you check it out and fall in love with Fitch and Violet.

Say hi to Jennifer Niven, she's the newest addition to Writers Like Us!

Jennifer on Writing

• I've written eight books, and eight have seen the light of day. (Not counting the books I wrote before the age of ten, which included a partially finished novel about Vietnam, a memoir about my life in Indiana, and a series of prison mysteries.)

• My favorite type of scene/character/setting to write is something dark and real with lots of dialogue. I love dialogue. I think this comes from my days as a screenwriting student at the American Film Institute.

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with the middles of things. I love writing beginnings, I especially love writing endings, but there is always that dreaded, vast middle part in between.

• A typical comment from my critique partner is “We need to tighten up the middle!” When I was first starting out, I overwrote everything. My favorite high school English teacher once scribbled “pure economy of word” at the top of one of my essays, and I’ve never forgotten it. I’ve since learned to write succinctly, but my middles are always too long.

• The book I wished I wrote is In Cold Blood by Truman Capote. I love this book so much it makes me simultaneously want to throw it at the wall and hide it from the world and memorize it and force it on everyone to read.

Jennifer on Getting Published

• When I was querying, I felt nervous and excited, like it was Christmas Eve. I’ve queried twice in my life, once when I was just starting out with my first book, The Ice Master, and then in the summer of 2013 after my agent died very unexpectedly. The second time querying was much more anxiety-inducing than the first because I was taken completely by surprise, was in the midst of finishing a book for Penguin, and had to very quickly decide what I wanted to write next. That book became All the Bright Places. 

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was pitching a book that had yet to be written! I actually did this twice. You would have thought I would have learned my lesson the first time, when I sent out query letters for a book idea that, it turned out, many agents wanted to read—only that book didn’t yet exist! But when I was querying in the summer of 2013, I did the exact same thing again—and then had to write something very fast to send to the interested agents!

• The craziest thought I've ever had while being published is What if my mind stops working and I’m unable to write another book? It doesn’t matter how many books I’ve written and published, this is the thought that plagues me at the start of each new project.

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!! (Followed by celebratory dancing.)

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I started crying and then called my mom so that she could look and cry too.

Jennifer on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be an international rock star detective, my dream job from childhood. I don’t know that this profession actually exists, but it should. It really should.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of skunks. In fact, I have recurring nightmares that I’m being chased by skunks or that I’m locked in a house and they are trying to get in. 

• My secret boyfriend is Jared Padalecki/Sam Winchester. I’ve had many secret boyfriends over the years, but he is, by far, the longest lasting.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I sing along to One Direction at the top of my lungs. And maybe dance a little too.

Agents Like Us - Christa Heschke

I'm posting an agent interview bonus this week! Christa Heschke from McIntosh & Otis is here!

She is looking for picture books, middle grade, and young adult projects. You can read more about her here and here, see her submission guidelines there, and follow her on Twitter @ChristaHeschke. Her answers are below in bold.

Christa on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish ...They’d do their research--meaning sending projects that are in genres and age groups I’m looking for. Also, tell me why you’re querying me specifically and know your story’s hook! What do you see it sitting next to on the shelf?

• My favorite part about being an agent is ...Everything! Can I say that? :) I especially love client interaction and editorial work!

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is ...A compelling voice and a premise I haven’t seen quite done that way before. I love books that take risks, whether it be telling the story from a unique POV, utilizing a unique structure or pushing genre boundaries. I also love a good twist a la We Were Liars or Gone Girl. 

• Whenever I make a book deal, I ...Am super excited to tell the client the good news!

• I really wish I saw more middle grade of all types, especially contemporary, mysteries for YA and MG, lighter, funny YA in the slush. 

Christa On Clients

• My ideal client would be ...Someone who is dedicated to their craft and is willing to work hard. It’s often tough breaking in and getting that first book deal, so one should be willing to revise and take constructive criticism well. It’s hard to be in this industry if you take rejection too personally. Some of the greatest books were rejected dozens of times before being sold. It’s all about finding that right editor who will get your project and be passionate about getting it out to readers. 

• What I love most about my current clientele is ...Their dedication. They are true writers. They are always writing new things and coming up with new ideas. They are also team players---they know we’re a team and support each other!

• What I want most for any client is ...To sell their projects, build them a writing career and help them to become the best writers they can be. I love brainstorming and working on editorial work. There’s almost nothing better than watching a good writer grow and become a great writer!

Christa On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be ...A marine biologist, dolphin trainer or teacher. 

• My favorite (non-client) book is ...The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson. 

• Secretly, I'm terrified of ...the zombie apocalypse. I have an overactive imagination and probably watch too many horror movies!

• My secret boyfriend is ...Eric Northman from True Blood, Channing Tatum, or Captain Hook from Once Upon Time (TV show). If only….lol.

• I have a total girlcrush on ...Jennifer Lawrence. She is so funny and seems really down to Earth! 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I ...have spontaneous dance parties or burst into song. 

• My favorite drink is ...Apple cider. I love it all year round!

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Brent Taylor

Brent Taylor from Triada US Literary Agency is here to share all his agenting secrets and slushpile wishes!

He is looking for all types of middle grade, young adult, new adult, mysteries, and women's fiction. You can read more about him here, see his submission guidelines there, and follow him on Twitter @NaughtyBrent. His answers are below in bold.

Brent on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish ... I don’t know where this statement is supposed to jump off to. I’m so grateful to be considered by any writer that wants to share their work. 

• My favorite part about being an agent is ... Seeing a project evolve from initial concept, to first draft, to finished product. It’s exhilarating. 

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is ... a unique perspective. Narrators and stories that expose me to new worlds and teach me things. I’m always looking to grow, and that’s one of the reasons reading has always been a huge part of my life. 

• Whenever I make a book deal, I ... I haven’t made a book deal quite yet, but I’m working on it! A dance party in my home office is definitely going to happen. 

• I really wish I saw more adult psychological suspense and young adult contemporary in the slush.

Brent On Clients

• My ideal client would be ... a stone cold reviser, passionate and hardworking, and brilliant. 

• What I love most about my current clientele is ... all four qualities listed above.

• What I want most for any client is ... to see their work placed with—and loved by—an audience.

Brent On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be ... an agent. There has never been a plan B for me, because there’s nothing in the world I’d rather be doing. 

• My favorite (non-client) book is ... I just read HOOK’S REVENGE by Heidi Schulz and think she’s a fantastic new voice in middle grade.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of ... spiders but this isn't very secret.

• My secret boyfriend is ... James Franco.

• I have a total girlcrush on ... James Franco. He writes poetry, for crying out loud.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I ...dance around my kitchen.

• My favorite drink is ...coffee.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Lara Perkins

Lara Perkins from Andrea Brown Literary Agency is here to share all her agenting secrets and slushpile wishes!

She is looking for all types of kid lit: picture books, middle grade, and young adult. You can read more about her here, see her submission guidelines there, and see her recent deals here. And you can always follow her on Twitter @Lara_Perkins. Her answers are below in bold. 

Lara on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish ... I hope they've taken a look at my interests and tastes, which can be found on our agency website (www.andreabrownlit.com)--and in blog interviews like this one. I always feel bad for the author when I receive a query that is clearly not going to be a good fit for me, and the author would have known this with a quick look at my bio on our website. 

• My favorite part about being an agent is ... The moment when fall in love with a new manuscript, when I get that electric charge of "oh, wow, this is cool," and even though it's just me alone at my desk with the pages, I can picture an editor, a bookseller, a reader hopefully seeing what I see and falling in love, too. That charge is addictive. 

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is ... Relatable, flawed, mistake-prone characters, who are funny, smart, and goodhearted but struggling with complicated situations and emotions. A voice that manages to be both funny and insightful--and even lyrical or poetic. I'm a sucker for romantic tension, especially when it is complicated, dark, and laced with tragedy--think WUTHERING HEIGHTS or REBECCA.
  
  I also love work that strives to engage honestly (raising questions rather than answering them) with the most challenging, uncertain, thorny issues kids are facing, regardless of genre. I love a good mystery when it is solidly grounded in reality with believable, memorable characters. I always get a kick out of unreliable narrators done well, and I love projects of any genre that are page turning but have a literary edge. 

• Whenever I make a book deal, I ... Celebrate by going to my local bookstore and buying a new book. Good karma!

• I really wish I saw more mysteries and thrillers with truly unexpected twists or revelations in the slush. I'm pretty tough to surprise, so when a twist does surprise me and is well set up, it wins me over completely. Projects like this are definitely not a dime a dozen, but I would love to see more work in this vein. I'm greedy, though--I'd love to see more of all the types of work I mentioned above!

Lara On Clients

• My ideal client would be ...Professional, passionate, thoughtful, and dedicated. 

• What I love most about my current clientele is ... I'm lucky to work with authors and illustrators who fit the description above perfectly. As a group, they are talented, hardworking, and always looking for opportunities to grow or challenge themselves. They're pretty darn inspiring, actually. 

• What I want most for any client is ... To be published well, with the right editor match, house support, and a solid plan for reaching and building their readership. Once the title is released, my fingers are crossed for great word-of-mouth to bring as many readers to the book as possible!

Lara On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be ... An architect. I was working towards my masters in architecture when I took a leave of absence to dip my toe into publishing and academia. I was so happy to have literature play a central role in my life again, so I never went back, but I still enjoy architecture and design as a hobby and, on the agenting side, I love working with author/illustrators. 

• My favorite (non-client) book is ... Currently, Nancy Farmer's HOUSE OF THE SCORPION (though this changes week to week!). I finally read it for the first time recently, then immediately read it again, and then forced my husband to listen to the audiobook with me on a road trip. A great read/listen each time!

• Secretly, I'm terrified of ... Small underground spaces. Spelunking is for crazy people in my opinion, and visiting a former California gold mine as a six year old was my nightmare come true. I lasted five minutes and then fainted, mostly to make sure my parents got the message and never took me anywhere like that again. 

• My secret boyfriend is ... Declan from Emily Martin's THIS SIDE OF INFINITY, forthcoming with Simon Pulse in Spring 2016. I know. I'm the worst. It's a client book AND it hasn't been released yet, but I can't help myself. He's funny, kind, flawed, and always makes my heart skip a beat. 

• I have a total girlcrush on ... Puck Connolly from Maggie Stiefvater's THE SCORPIO RACES. Smart, brave, funny--how could you NOT love her? 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I ... Read books out loud, dramatically, to myself. My secret dream is to be an audiobook narrator, but I would never inflict my readings on anyone else. My accents are terrible. 

• My favorite drink is ... North Coast Brewing Company's Red Seal Ale. I'm not a big drinker, but I'm first generation Czech on my mom's side, so my family takes our beers and ales very seriously.

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Agents Like Us - Susan Hawk

Susan Hawk is here to share all her agenting secrets and slushpile wishes!

She exclusively handles books for children: picture books, chapter books, middle grade and YA, fiction and non-fiction. You can read more about her here, see her submission guidelines there, and see her wishlist here. And you can always follow her on Twitter @SusanHawk. Her answers are below in bold. 

Susan on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish … that their own reading in children’s books was more evident. You can really tell when someone has done their homework, and understands the category that they’ve chosen to write in. 

• My favorite part about being an agent is ... calling a client to say that we have an offer is obviously a favorite, but the other day one of my clients got her first piece of kid fan mail. She was so happy, and there’s nothing like knowing that the book, which I love dearly, made an impact on a kid reader.

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is ... characters that feel real, complicated and compelling; a voice that is the unique expression of this writer; layered story and plot that grab attention; and heart. I want to be moved by your characters and story.

• Whenever I make a book deal, I ... call the author to mutually jump around and cheer! There is a deep satisfaction in matching my client and a book I love with just the right editor and house. After the call, I’ll wear a big happy grin all day.

• I really wish I saw more story ideas and writing that surprise me! in the slush. 

Susan On Clients

• My ideal client would be ... an outstanding writer who appreciates that writing is an art, and publishing a business, and wants to balance both. Someone grateful, willing to work hard to build their career; a good communicator with a wicked sense of humor. 

• What I love most about my current clientele is ... in addition to the above, how much heart they have, how much they love writing, and how widely varied their work is. 

• What I want most for any client is ... for her work to find its readership, and for that readership to grow over time as their books and career do.

Susan On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be ... a librarian! In fact, I was a librarian previously. Bookseller also comes to mind. Is there such a thing as a professional list maker? Because I’d be very good at that.

• My favorite (non-client) book is ... TO CAPTURE THE CASTLE. Smokes, do I love that book. 

• Secretly, I'm terrified of ... driving across bridges! I didn’t really learn to drive until I was 41 years old and always wonder if it would be different if I’d learned earlier.

• My secret boyfriend is ... Paul Rudd. Oh Paul, you make me laugh, you do! 

• I have a total girlcrush on ... Emma Thompson. Because of all of these moments. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I ... sing! I love singing, and pretty much can’t hold back, when someone’s around, not around, anytime. 

• My favorite drink is ... vino verde! Slice a juicy peach to go into that glass of slightly fizzy wine, and sit in the backyard to sip it!

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.

Writers Like Us - Nova Ren Suma

This week, Nova Ren Suma is here to share all her writing and publishing secrets! Not only is Nova the author of such amazing books as Imaginary Girls and 17 & Gone, but she also teaches workshops, chats with Sara Zarr, and heads up two of my favorite blog series Turning Points and Book Of Your Heart.

Nova's answers are below in bold.

Nova on Writing

• I've written SIX books (under my own name... I also ghostwrite more than seventeen books, including series novels and movie tie-ins and very weird things you would never expect of me!), and FOUR of my own books have seen the light of day.

• My favorite type of scene to write is something dreamy. I’m also a fan of epiphanies, but I try to not let them go on too long. (Sometimes someone needs to stop me.)

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with the P-word. Plot.

• A typical comment from my critique partner is, “What should we order for dinner?” No, seriously, I don’t have a critique partner. I show all my writing at every stage to my other half, E, who is my first reader. We often don’t know what to order for dinner, that’s true, but he always knows what to say to help me reach my goals for each of my books. He’s my secret weapon.

• The book I wished I wrote is The Diviners by Libba Bray. She’s a mad genius.

Nova on Getting Published

• When I was querying, I felt like giving up. I queried an adult novel to many agents years ago... and DID give up. Then I found YA and wrote something new and... here I am!

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying my YA novel was not giving all the agents who were interested enough time to respond. I chose the right agent for me, and I don’t question that. But I didn’t act professionally—I was rushing, and way too excited!—by not notifying one of the agents in time, and he still teases me about that to this day.

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was, “Sit down.” In my excitement, I somehow found myself standing up on top of the couch.

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I didn’t believe it was real. I had to stare at it for a while to be sure.

Nova on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a photographer. When I was in college, I had two dreams and a self-designed combined major including both writing and photography. Then I got into MFA programs in fiction, and so I chose writing first, and never found my way back to making pictures. I still wonder what would have happened had I chosen photography, but I think the visual influence has made it into my fiction even still.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of BATS. Actually, my fear of bats is no longer a secret, because when I was away recently in the mountains of California teaching a writing workshop, my students got to see up close and personal just how afraid of bats I am... because on two nights, bats got into the barn, and I freaked out. I was totally cool with the spiders, though.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I dance around my tiny city apartment with abandon. It helps with the writing stress. I’ll do it for ten, fifteen minutes... then I’ll get back in my desk chair and write.

Nova Ren Suma is the author of the YA novels Imaginary Girls (Penguin/Dutton, 2011) and 17 & Gone (Penguin/Dutton, 2013). She also wrote the middle-grade novel Dani Noir (Simon & Schuster/Aladdin, 2009), reissued as Fade Out for a YA audience (Simon Pulse, 2012). Her new novel, The Walls Around Us, is forthcoming in March 2015 from Algonquin YR.

Visit Nova online at www.novaren.com or read her blog at www.distraction99.com.

Want more Writers Like Us? Check out the entire series, including interviews with Elizabeth Fama, A.S. King, Sara Zarr, Jennifer E. Smith, Kristin Halbrook, Tara Lynn Childs, Robin Benway, Katie McGarry, Trish Doller, and many, many more.

Writers Like Us - Alyssa B Sheinmel

This week I'm so very excited to have Alyssa B Sheinmel here for Writers Like Us! Her book SECOND STAR is one of my faaaavorite books this year--and a contemporary Peter Pan retelling!

In the search for her missing surfer brothers, Wendy Darling is caught up between the somewhat-childish, straight-laced Pete and drug dealer Jas and their turf war for the beach.

Alyssa B. Sheinmel did a fantastic job capturing the magic and adventure of surf culture, and drew some pretty awesome comparisons between those who don't follow a traditional academic path to college, opting for adventure. In SECOND STAR's case, boys who want to follow the waves so they can catch the biggest ones. So I loved, loved, loved it--and of course that meant Alyssa needed a space in Writers Like Us.

Alyssa's answers are below in bold.

Alyssa on Writing

• I've written more… books – well, ideas for books – than I can count, but so far I’ve been lucky enough that four have seen the light of day, with a few more coming down the pike. Every time I have an idea, I start making notes and writing chapters, but very few of them turn into actual books. 

• My favorite thing to write is... dialogue. When I was in school, dialogue really wasn’t my favorite part of writing a scene. But it’s become something I really look forward to writing. I think it’s when I get to know my characters best. 

• No matter how long I've been writing, I still have issues with…um, everything? I feel like with every book I write, I learn something more about how to tell a story, but I also come away with a list of things I want to do better next time. 

• A typical comment from my critique partner is… probably to slow down. Early in a draft, I tend to get wrapped up in either plotting or my character’s voice, and sometimes I need a reminder to slow down and try to do both. 

• The book I wished I wrote is … I’m not sure I have an answer for this one. I consider myself more of a reader than I am a writer, so I don’t think I’ve ever come away from a book I read wishing that I could have written it. It’s more that I feel like the books I read teach me about the kind of writing I want to do. 

Alyssa on Getting Published

• If my agent really knew how nervous I was, she would find out…I try to be sort of professional (well, relatively speaking!) when I meet with my agent and editors. But the truth is, most of the time I’m kind of goofy-nervous for every meeting and call. 

• When I was querying, I felt...vulnerable, but also excited. 

• The biggest mistake I ever made querying was…I actually had a really nice querying experience. I’d worked at a literary agency and then a publishing house for years before my first book was published, so I feel like I was lucky enough to know the way things worked before I dove in myself. 

• The craziest thought I've ever had while being published is ... Oh my goodness, I don’t know! Pretty sure my thoughts have run everywhere from fear to misery to excitement to…etc. 

• When I got "The Call," my first thought was ... I found out an offer had been made on my first book over email while I was on vacation, the day after my birthday. I think the first thing I did was call my best friend for advice. 

• When I saw my book sale in Publishers Marketplace, I ... Actually, the first time I saw that the deal for my first novel had been announced was when someone else forwarded it to me – I think the subject line read “Is this you?” It was actually so lovely – I saw it because someone else was congratulating me on it. 

Alyssa on Life Outside Writing

• If I weren't a writer, I'd probably be a ... Before I began writing full time, I worked in the marketing department at a children’s publisher. I loved my job, so I’d probably still be doing that. 

• Secretly, I'm terrified of ... This isn’t much of a secret– most everyone who knows me know this – but the thing that scares me most is seeing dogs unhappy, neglected, or in pain. I have to run from the room when an ASPCA commercial comes on. (Usually straight to my computer so I can make a donation.) 

• My secret girlfriend/boyfriend is ... This also isn’t really a secret, since I’ve written about it a lot: I’m a huge fan of The Vampire Diaries and The Originals. I want to be friends with the whole cast. And all the writers of the shows. 

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I … talk to my dog more than is normal for a person to do. (To be fair, I do this when people are around, too. He’s truly an excellent conversationalist.) 

Want more Writers Like Us? Check out the entire series, including interviews with Elizabeth Fama, A.S. King, Sara Zarr, Jennifer E. Smith, Kristin Halbrook, Tara Lynn Childs, Robin Benway, Katie McGarry, Trish Doller, and many, many more.

Agents Like Us - Heather Alexander

Heather Alexander recently made the jump from editor at Penguin to agent at Pippin Properties, so of course I rushed to interview her for Agents Like Us! She's sharing all her agenting secrets and slushpile wishes!

She's looking for picture books, middle grade, YA, and graphic novels. Specifically contemporary, funny, historical, gothic style horror, and magical realism, but not high fantasy, medieval, or time travel. She favors literary over commercial.

You can read more about her here and follow her on Twitter @HeatherAlexand. Her answers are below in bold. 

Heather on Agenting

• When writers query me, I really wish it were a homerun every time.

• My favorite part about being an agent is getting to develop new talent and new ideas. Nurturing a grain of an idea into a whole book is very satisfying.

• Rules and trends aside, what I really look for in a story is gorgeous writing and characters I wish I knew in real life. And a story that changes the way I think.

• I really wish I saw more truly fresh ideas in the slush.

Heather On Clients

• My ideal client would be someone who loves to brainstorm ideas, and then develop them into something unique and cool. Someone with a million ideas (but who knows how to tell which ones really have legs).

• What I love most about my current clientele is how eager they are to work.

• What I want most for any client is a balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Heather On Life

• If I weren't an agent, I'd probably be, well, I’ve been so many things so far, and there are a lot of things I’d like to try, but let’s go with cheese monger. No, textile designer. No, wait, art restorer. Racecar driver? Spy? At least one of those things.

• My favorite (non-client) book is, right now, in this moment, Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour. Ask me again tomorrow.

• Secretly, I'm terrified of contentment, which I equate with stasis.

• My secret boyfriend is Gene Wilder.

• I have a total girlcrush on Tina Fey. Of course.

• Sometimes, when no one is around, I eat chocolate for breakfast.

• My favorite drink is seltzer. I drink it a liter at a time. I’m going to get the bends!

Want to see more Agent Interviews? Check them all out here.