I Write for Apples

A 100th Birthday Book Giveaway!

2020-02-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

Query. Sign. Submit. with Hillary Homzie

2019-02-14T09:15:00.000-05:00

Hillary is a chapter book and middle grade author. Her latest middle grade book, Apple Pie Promises, is now available from Sky Pony, and her new Ellie May chapter book series is now available from Charlesbridge. Hillary is represented by Victoria Wells Arms in association with Hannigan Salky Getzler (HSG).

Connect with Hillary …
Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Get the books …
Apple Pie Promises Amazon * Apple Pie Promises Indie Bound

Ellie May on Presidents’ Day Amazon * Ellie May on Presidents’ Day Indie Bound * Ellie May on April Fools’ Day Amazon * Ellie May on April Fools’ Day Indie Bound

QUERY

What advice would you give to querying writers?
My advice is to not to query too many agents as once. Do it in small batches. When I was querying, sometimes I would get a “no, but I really like your writing” sort of response and the agent would include a nugget of wisdom that helped me to strengthen the manuscript. After I implemented the advice, when I re-queried, the story was in better shape.

SIGN

How did you know your agent was the right one for you?
I really loved the books that my agent, Victoria Wells Arms, had worked on as an editor at Bloomsbury, and since I was seeking an editorial agent, I felt certain that she would be a great fit for me.
When I sent Victoria a query, she jumped on it and we were speaking on the phone almost immediately. There were a couple of other agents I was considering, but nobody was as responsive as Victoria. I just love her enthusiasm. She’s responsive, kind and an editorial agent. I feel so grateful that we’re working together.

SUBMIT

What do you suggest a writer does while out on submission?
After your initial obsession—all of the excitement of creating the submission list—that you utterly forget that you even wrote the manuscript. In another words, amnesia is very helpful. How do you do that? Well, get to work on something else. Obsess over your new WIP instead of angst-ing about the baby that’s off in the world. Oh, gosh, that sounds harsh. It’s like telling a mom don’t think about your kid once they’ve left the nest and are on job interviews during their senior year of college. But seriously, once the manuscript is out there, spending energy wondering about it will only make time slow down. If you’re not ready to dive into a new project, read a friend’s WIP or go on an intense reading binge and take notes. Oh, and review whatever books you consume on GoodReads. The authors will totally appreciate it; plus, you get to keep a reading record, and it’s less time worrying about your baby.

Thank you, Hillary!

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Query. Sign. Submit. with Kristina Springer

2019-01-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

Kristina Springer is a middle grade and young adult author. Her latest release, Cotton Candy Wishes, is now available from Skyhorse Publishing. Kristina is represented by Andrea Somberg of the Harvey Klinger Literary Agency.

Connect with Kristina …

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Get the book …

AMAZON * B&N * INDIEBOUND

QUERY

What resources and websites did you use when querying?

I used agentquery.com and targeted young adult fiction agents specifically.

How did you keep track of your queries?

I kept an excel spread sheet with notes on if the agent requested a partial or full and when I sent it.

What was your method for querying?

I queried 5-10 agents at a time. With my first book, I queried a hundred agents! I didn’t end up selling that book. I landed my first agent with the second book I wrote and that was in the first 10-20 queries.

SIGN

Are there any specific questions you’d suggest writers ask an offering agent during “The Call”?

Yes! Ask them what they liked about your book (it helps to see where you two gel on things) and ask them about their contacts and where they can see placing your book. I also asked my first agent to look at another book I’d written and she ended up loving that one even more.

How did you know your agent was the right one for you?

I had offers from two agents and I went with the one I clicked with the most. I also liked her vision for the book and the publishers she saw as a perfect match for me.

At what point do you share new story ideas with your agent?

It depends. Sometimes I’ll send her just a pitch for a book and get feedback on the idea. Other times I’ll do a pitch and a chapter or two and then ask for her thoughts.

SUBMIT

What is a typical first round like once a writer goes on submission?

It can vary. I’ve had one book go to auction with four different publishers bidding on it within ten days of submission. I’ve also had a book go out on sub for six months to a year and never sell.

What do you suggest a writer does while out on submission?

Work on the next book. It will distract you!

Can you check in with your agent if there hasn’t been any news in a while?

Of course! I e-mail my agent whenever I have a question about anything in the publishing process.

Thank you, Kristina!

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CAMP SHADY CROOK Cover Reveal!!

2018-12-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

One of the most enjoyable – and nerve-wracking – experiences for an author is the first time you see your cover. With my first novel, THE LAST BOY AT ST. EDITH’S, I was blown away instantly by the cover. I loved the colors, the characters, and in particular the drawing of the school, which somehow looked exactly the way I pictured it in my head.

For my second novel, CAMP SHADY CROOK, I have to admit I was a little nervous. This book has some similar themes to the first – friendship and finding yourself – but it has two main characters who share the story, and a very different plot and tone.

The truth is, I loved my first cover so much I really wondered if lightening could strike twice. I knew the cover needed to be different. I just didn’t know what that would mean.

The process was different, too, for this book. Unlike with my first book, my debut, I was more involved in the cover conversations from an earlier stage. I saw a ton of sketches, and watched as the art director went through several concepts, all very different in style and tone.

As a writer, I’m very used to the creative process for writing a book, but getting a front row seat to the process of creating a cover was a new experience for me. Just like with preparing the text of a book for publication, the cover is a collaborative process as well, with the artist Andy Smith, the art director Laura Lyn DiSiena, my editor, Alyson Heller—and even me, the author -- sharing thoughts and ideas on each draft.

The end result is a cover that captures CAMP SHADY CROOK in a way that I couldn’t have imagined, but one I got to see take shape thanks to a great publishing team.

Preorder the book …

Amazon ~ B&N ~ IndieBound

About the book …

It’s Ocean’s Eleven set in a summer camp as two kids try to one-up each other in a con competition at a camp that isn’t quite what it seems…

For Archie, the start of summer means another stint at Camp Shady Brook, where there is a lot more to the camp than meets the eye—just like Archie and his now blended family. But thanks to a con Archie developed last year, he’s finally somebody…and he’s not going to lose that status to the new girl, Vivian.

For Vivian, thanks to an incident That Shall Not Be Named or Spoken Of, her summer of exotic travels with Mom and Dad has turned into traveling to a dump of a summer camp in the middle of nowhere.

But thanks to perfect timing, Vivian soon finds herself in a ring of kids trying to out-con each other—and discovers Camp Shady Brook is more like Camp Shady Crook. And when one final, massive con could cost Vivian the first friends she’s had in a while, can she and Archie figure out a way to make things right?

About the author:

Lee Gjertsen Malone is a journalist, editor, and author who lives in Cambridge, Mass. with her husband, daughter, and a rotating cast of pets.

Visit Lee’s website at www.leegjertsenmalone.com.

A Book Vending Machine!

2018-12-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

As a local author, I was invited to the ribbon cutting ceremony for a brand-new book vending machine at Buffalo Public School 61. Unfortunately, I couldn’t attend, but a writer friend who did go sent me this photo. (Photo credit Elizabeth Coburn.) Wow, right? Coolest idea ever.

So in an effort to get local author friends to donate a few books, I posted the picture on Twitter. That was the extent of my involvement in the project.

The real credit goes to Dr. Robinson, assistant principal at Arthur O. Eve School of Distinction, who had seen the machine at another school and wanted to get one in Buffalo. Our local news did a great job reporting it, so check out these links for more info, photos, and videos.

The Buffalo News -- WBFO -- WGRZ -- WIVB

The tweet got likes, retweets, and comments all day long. (And it’s still being shared!) People have been tagging their librarians, principals, and teacher friends. And everyone has been asking, “How can I get one of these for my school?!” So here we are, because I wanted to get an answer to that question.

Want a book vending machine in your school?

Here are the steps you can take to get your own (in whatever order works for you), along with how PS 61 made it happen.

1. Talk with your school.

School 61 Principal, Mrs. Parette U. Walker, and Assistant Principal, Dr. Unseld Robinson, led the charge to install this book vending machine in the school library, helping students gain access to free books while discovering the joy of reading in and out of school.

2. Contact Global Vending.

Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education and media company, worked with a local vending machine company to figure out which books would work in the machine. From there, a title list was created for the school to select books of the right size to fit. For larger picture books, cardboard covers are placed in the machine and students can take these replicas to the office to get the actual book. Contact Global Vending Group for more information.

3. Plan where to get the funding.

The vending machine was purchased by the school’s after-school partner, Community Action Organization of WNY, using NYS education grant funds. John Mika, founder of The Teacher's Desk donated books and will keep the machine stocked. Scholastic also donated books.

It’s pretty amazing to see it all come together!

Have questions? Contact jay@globalvendinggroup.com. You can also contact your local Scholastic Education sales representative here. Or leave a comment and we’ll try to get them answered.

If you do get your own book vending machine, tell us about it! Comment here or tag it with #bookvendingmachine on social media.

If you’re an author or publisher who would like to donate books, leave a comment with an email address to contact you. If schools are looking for donations, they can contact you.

And please share this post as we’re not able to answer all the comments on Twitter.

Happy reading!

#WeConnect: Connecting Readers With Writers

2018-12-04T11:56:00.001-05:00

The #WeConnect program began at Arrowhead Elementary School in Virginia Beach, Virginia in October of 2018. It began as an effort by Library Media Specialist Kellee Kraft to motivate students in the areas of reading and writing. A simple Twitter request turned a small idea into a huge program that continues to grow every day. The tweet asked for authors willing to commit to responding to students with a personal letter when students read their book and wrote a letter to them. In just 2 days, over 100 authors had responded that they are interested, and many even sent autographed copies of their book. Authors and books even came from as far as Canada, England, Australia, and New Zealand.

How Does It Work? The books are displayed in a special place in the library and labeled with #WeConnect stickers. Students read the book and then write the letter. They return the letter and book to the library where they receive an envelope, and it is addressed and mailed by LMS Kellee Kraft. When the students receive their letter back from the author, they find the city of the author on the U.S. map or World map and mark it with a ribbon and picture of the book cover. Of course, all of this is also shared on Twitter.

How can you participate? It’s easy! Just send us an email, tweet, or phone call to let us know you are interested and give us the address to send the letters to. (Don’t worry, this address is kept confidential…even the kids don’t see it unless you share it on your return letter.) Because of our limited budget, it is extremely helpful and appreciated if you want to donate a copy of your book(s), but this is not a requirement. After that, the only responsibility you have is to respond as promptly as possible to any letters you receive.

Need more information? Contact me at any of the following:

Mrs. Kellee Kraft (757)648-2059

Email: kdkraft@vbschools.com

Twitter: Arrowhead_Lib

Query.Sign.Submit. with Lisa Ann Scott

2018-11-20T11:16:00.001-05:00

Lisa Ann Scott writes books for children—picture books, chapter books, and middle grade. Her latest release in the Wish Fairy series is now available. Lisa is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.

Connect with Lisa …

Website * Facebook * Twitter

Get the books …

Amazon author page

QUERY

What resources and websites did you use when querying?

Just AgentQuery.com

Had you queried other books before the one that got you your agent?

Yes. I first started writing Women’s Fiction and widely queried a novel that got 7 partial requests but no full requests. (So that means I had a pretty good query, but the book fell short.) I can see now that book was flawed, because it was about things that happened to the MC to move the plot forward instead of the MC making decisions to drive the plot forward. So I moved on to middle grade! I wrote my first MG novel from three different POVs in first person present, and just sent that out to a few agents, and set it aside after realizing there were problems I didn’t know how to fix. (No way! A 3 person POV first person present book had some problems?) My agent, Jennifer Unter, signed me on with my second middle grade novel, School of Charm.

If querying was a long time ago for you, what do you remember most?

I had a few full requests on School of Charm, and one of the most promising came right after I was let go from my TV news anchor job. I was ecstatic. I was certain this was the new door opening for me. And then I got the rejection. I was devastated. And I stopped writing….for a while. And of course switched genres again! This time, self-publishing romance (as Lisa Scott. Thus, the use of my middle name for my kids stuff.) And I was all set to self-publish School of Charm when a friend urged me to query again. And I did. To one agent. Jennifer Unter. So yes, sometimes it takes just one more try. Don’t give up!

SIGN

At what point do you share new story ideas with your agent?

Whenever. She’s always willing to take a look and add something to her TBR pile. I come up with lots of ideas, so I have to pace myself. J

Do you send sample chapters to your agent or do you wait until the next manuscript is finished?

I talk about ideas with her first before completing an entire manuscript, (unless it’s a picture book.) So I’ll either pitch the idea or write up a few chapters to send along.

SUBMIT

What do you suggest a writer does while out on submission?

Read, read, read. Write, write, write. Continue going to writing groups, workshops, reading books on craft etc.

How much contact do you have with your agent when you are out on submission?

She forwards each rejection we get, so I can read the editor feedback. When I get the “FYI” email from her, my shoulders slump a bit, because I know it’s not great news.

Did you know there was interest in the book before you got an offer or was it a surprise?

The first book was a surprise. The first Scholastic series, I knew about the interest because they wanted to see if I would do a few minor revisions. I’d say it changes from book to book.

How does it work when you’re writing a series? Are the books sold together or does it depend on the success of the first?

With Scholastic, the series have been sold as four-book deals. If they do well enough, then we’ll discuss additional books. But they’re written so that the four-book arc has a satisfying conclusion, but also leaves the door open for other stories to be told.

Thanks, Lisa!

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Query. Sign. Submit. with Agent & Author Eric Smith!

2018-09-18T09:00:00.000-04:00

Eric Smith is an agent with P.S. Literary Agency. He represents a little bit of everything. “On the adult side of things, I love accessible sci-fi and fantasy, as well as accessible literary fiction. Accessible is something I stress a lot, because I like books anyone can read. If the world building is too exhausting or the novel is impossible to understand… hard pass. I also work on Young Adult books across all genres and non-fiction (cookbooks, memoir, pop-culture).”

He only responds to the projects he’s interested in. Consider it a pass after 6 weeks.

Eric is also a young adult author and The Girl & the Grove, is now available from Flux! He is represented by Dawn Frederick of Red Sofa Literary.

Connect with Eric …

Twitter (@ericsmithrocks) * website (which features his books as well as his authors’ - www.ericsmithrocks.com)

Get the book …

The Girl & the Grove (Available now!) * Reclaim the Sun (2020)

From an agent perspective …

QUERY

What advice would you give to querying writers?

To do your research, and to be patient. And when it comes to that research, make sure you’re reading where that research is coming from. Are you reading something from someone in the industry? A published author? Someone with an agent? It always shocks me to hear writers echoing back really terrible advice they’ve read on some misc. blog. Doing research is great. Making sure that research is legit? Even better.

Is there anything you see way too much of in the queries you receive?

I sometimes get the occasional query letter where the writer is trying to be funny, and it tanks. Humor is great. Being lighthearted, also great. But like, tread carefully. If I get a query that’s full of jokes and snark, I’ll assume the writing style is like that. And if you’re not making me laugh… we’re kinda done.

Is it okay for a writer to nudge concerning queries or partial/full requests?

Absolutely. You should never be afraid of doing that.

What does it take for you to offer representation?

Honestly, I just have to love the story and the writer. That’s it. There’s no magical equation to it all. Book has to be awesome, and the author has to be someone I’d want to work with for a long time. That’s all I need. Good book, good person.

SIGN

Are there any specific questions you’d recommend that a writer ask when talking with offering agents?

I think it’s always a good idea to talk about where they potentially see your book. Now, this isn’t you asking, “where are you going to sell my book.” Because that’s not an answerable question. This is just getting a feel for where they feel your book could potentially be. You want an agent who knows the marketplace and has a good sense of where they’d go with your project.

Also, maybe see if you can chat with the agent’s current clients. If they say no, my goodness, is that a red flag of the highest order. You should be able to drop a client a line and ask what their experience is like. But, just be respectful of the client’s time. If you send an email that’s a novel full of questions, you might not get an answer back, if they are on deadline or just, you know, living their life.

“But they don’t have any clients!” You scream. That’s okay. If they are a shiny new agent, ask them how their agency is going to support them. Do they have the ties needed to pitch your book around? Get a sense of their passion, if they lack the experience. Every agent was a new agent at some point.

How long do you prefer an author take to get back to you once you’ve offered?

I don’t really care. I’d love to hear back soon, but I don’t give deadlines. The publishing industry is too small to burn bridges and not take your time. Get back to me in a few months if you have to. It’s fine.

This does not mean if an agent gives you a deadline, that that’s a bad sign. Plenty of agents do give a deadline. That’s just a personal preference of mine.

What is it like waiting to hear back from a writer you’ve offered representation?

I get pretty antsy. I don’t think writers realize that agents get just as worked up as they do, waiting to hear back if we’re going to work together. And then, once you’re signed by an agent, it gets kicked up a level, and when an editor offers… then it’s THEIR turn to get worked up waiting to hear back.

Publishing is just a business full of anxiety. I don’t know why we do it.

How do you get to know editors and what they’re looking for?

It’s funny, I get asked this question a lot because I’m an agent based in the Midwest. The closest publisher to me is Sourcebooks, and they’re a solid three hours away in Chicago. I don’t get to do the fancy New York City lunches with editors, so writers tend to wonder how I’m able to get to know folks.

Hi, have you met the Internet?

I spend a lot of time emailing editors, introducing myself, talking to them on Twitter, hopping on the phone… all of that helps in a huge way, and keeps me in the loop. I do fly out to events like ALA or BEA, which is certainly a great networking opt. But with the joys of the Internet, it’s just a quick email, and sometimes, a pick-your-brain phone call.

Is it okay for a client to check in if there hasn’t been any news in a while?

Of course! An author should never be afraid of their agent. You need to have an open dialogue with them. Communication is SO important.

As an agent who is also an author …

QUERY, SIGN, SUBMIT

How is the process of querying and signing with an agent different for a writer who is also an agent?

This question is so funny, because I feel like I get asked if the process is easier because I’m an agent and like, know editors.

It’s not. It’s probably worse.

Because while my book is on submission, I’m actively pitching and talking to these editors and publishing houses, and some of them have my book. And it’s just terrifying. So that anxiety authors feel while on sub? Imagine your book is on submission to all these people… and you still have to talk to them every day.

How is the process of going on submission different for a writer who is also an agent?

It’s not. Though I do ask my agent to avoid pitching editors I’m actively working on things with. I’d like to keep things not weird. But that becomes impossible anyway, because I’m not going to micromanage my agent and have her run every editor by me. I’m not a monster.

How do you balance the work of both an agent and an author?

I don’t. I wrote my latest book, Reclaim the Sun, two years ago. Once it comes out, I anticipate I’ll just do a lot of crying in the shower when it’s time to write something new.

Thanks so much, Eric!

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* Posted September 2018 – Always check for current info and guidelines.

Query. Sign. Submit. Debut! with Annie Sullivan

2018-09-10T11:25:00.001-04:00

Annie Sullivan is a young adult author and her debut, A Touch of Gold, is now available from Blink/HarperCollins! She is represented by Christa Heschke of McIntosh & Otis.

Connect with
Annie …

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Get the book …

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Indiebound

QUERY

What advice would you give to querying writers?

Do not give up. Every writer’s career timeline is different. Some writer friends who got agents after me got published before me. Others who started at the same time as me (who are AMAZING writers) are still looking for agents. So much is out of your control—market conditions, agent moods, agent clients who may have written something similar to your work. There’s no shortage of reasons why an agent will reject you. But if you stay with it and keep writing, I really think you can make it.

What are some important things for querying writers to consider when researching agents?

Really narrow down your list based on what you want. Is having an agent in New York important to you? Do you want an agent/agency that handles movie rights? If you want to write outside your genre, will that agent represent that (or will another agent in the agency)? Is the agent editorial? Do you share the same vision for your career? Having no agent is better than wasting time with a bad agent. Look into their sales records. However, don’t dismiss newer agents outright (assuming they are with a reputable agency) because they may have more room on their client list and may be being mentored by other big name agents in their agency.

What resources and websites did you use when querying?

I loved http://www.literaryrambles.com/. It had so many great interviews with agents, and even if that particular agent didn’t represent what I wrote, I could research the agency and see if anyone there might be interested.

How did you keep track of your queries?

I had a massive color-coded spreadsheet that kept track of every agent I sent to, when I heard back from them, and what their response was. This was instrumental in making sure I didn’t query someone twice—and when my first book didn’t get me an agent, I had all the info on hand to know about when I’d hear back from agents on my second book based on their previous response time.

I treated looking for an agent like a job, and it really helped. I highly recommend this approach.

SIGN

Are there any specific questions you’d suggest writers ask an offering agent during “The Call”?

While an agent probably won’t tell you everything they’d like to see revised before you go out on submission, I think it’s good to ask for general ideas of what they think you might need to revise. This way, you can see if your visions match up. It’s not going to be a good fit if they want drastic changes that you aren’t going to want to make.

What was the week surrounding your offer(s) of representation like for you?

It was crazy. I had gotten two offers and was trying to decide between agents. I was researching like mad and reaching out to clients to see what their experience was with the agents.

How editorial is your agent? Is it what you expected?

My agent is very editorial, which I like. I’m great with plot, and she’s amazing with making sure my characters really shine—so we make a great pair. Having an editorial agent makes me feel like I’m presenting my best work to editors when I go out on submission.

It is to some extent what I expected. But overall, I just love that my agent never mandates I make a certain change. She’s always open to collaborating and discussing the direction.

Do you send sample chapters to your agent or do you wait until the manuscript is finished?

I pretty much just send her a draft when I’m done with it. Sometimes she asks me what I’m working on, but for the most part, I decide what I want to do next because I know if I’m not in the mood to write a certain story, then it won’t turn out well. I go where my imagination tells me to!

SUBMIT

What do you suggest a writer does while out on submission?

Always, always, always be working on the next book (unless it’s a sequel). There’s so much pressure to have a great follow up book that many writers freeze when it comes time to write their sophomore book. But, if you have something virtually ready to go by the time book 1 gets a deal, there’s a lot less pressure.

How much contact do you have with your agent when you are out on submission?

I like to know anytime we get news. My agent emails if I get a rejection and calls if I get an offer. Let’s just say I learned to hate the sound of emails coming through on my phone for a little bit there ;)

Is there anything you learned while being on submission that you didn’t know before?

Hearing back from editors can seem like it takes forever. I refreshed my email so often in the days after we went on submission only to learn that it could take months to hear back from editors.

Did you know there was interest in the book before you got an offer or was it a surprise?

I knew there was interest, so it wasn’t a surprise. But I felt oddly at peace as I advanced through the process because I felt like this was finally really going to happen.

DEBUT

What have you learned about being a debut author?

While it’s so exciting to have a book coming out, it doesn’t change your life as drastically as you might think it will. One day you don’t have a book on shelves and the next day you do. So the best thing to do is write book 2 and keep working hard!

Is there a lot of support among debut authors?

There is so much support from fellow debuts. We all tweet about each other’s books and give each other advice. I love the community aspect of it so much because you don’t feel like you’re competing with anyone. You just feel like you’re all on this journey together.

Have you done any conferences, book festivals, or events as an author? What was it like?

I went to BookExpo and BookCon this year, and I had the time of my life!!! Since I’m a reader at heart, I was right there in line with everyone else fangirling over Rick Riordan and Marissa Meyer and so many other famous authors. Gail Carson Levine even asked me to come sit with her. I was over the moon and didn’t want to leave. Also, did I mention free books? I felt like a kid in Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory!

What was it like to see your cover?

I nearly cried when I saw it! I love the gold coming down from the top, and the gold hand holding the rose really just highlights the story well.

Thank you, Annie!

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Query. Sign. Submit. Debut! with Dana Davis

2018-06-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

Dana L. Davis is a young adult author and her debut, Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now, is now available from Harlequin TEEN! She is represented by Uwe Stender at Triada US.

Connect with Dana . . .

Website * Twitter * Goodreads

Get the book . . .

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

QUERY

What advice would you give to querying writers?

I’d say to make sure your work is polished and as perfect as you can make it before you start submitting to agents. This means possibly hiring a copy editor. Getting sensitivity readers and beta readers. Definitely do your homework. This is your shot… your chance to shine. You don’t want to blow it because “your” should’ve been “you’re” or an agent can’t get passed all of your grammatical errors. It might seem tedious but it’s worth it in the long run!

What are some important things for querying writers to consider when researching agents?

This is such a great question! Happy to offer my thoughts on this. To me… an agent’s accessibility is key. You want an agent who has time for you. So many writers long for the big, prestigious agencies but if an agent is representing J.K. Rowling, Stephen King and John Green…do you really think they’d have time to help you hone your craft? Don’t necessarily think big. Think practically. What agent fits your style and/or personality? Follow them on Twitter or Instagram. Maybe get to know them and see if they’d be a good fit for you. I get so sad when writer friends of mine tell me their agent won’t return their calls or emails. You want an agent who respects writers and has a passion and respect for them.

What resources and websites did you use when querying?

To be honest this was quite some time ago, so I don’t remember the name of the book. But it definitely was a lit agency book that I picked up at my local Barnes and Noble. I remember my friend and I sat on the floor together and excitedly researched agents. It was the best purchase of my life.

What was your method for querying?

I don’t believe in sending out mass e-mailings. I say start with 3-10 and see what the response is. You might get feedback that your manuscript needs work. But hey, if you feel you have a perfect product and are anticipating a fight to acquire your manuscript…then by all means…send to however many you can! But if you’re still trying to figure things out and aren’t quite sure… I say stick with smaller batches for querying.

SIGN

How did you know your agent was the right one for you?

His honesty. Uwe was so complimentary and genuine. I remember I was driving and had to pull over and just got this amazing feeling that he was the real deal. He also wasn’t afraid to tell me the manuscript needed work. I trusted him completely.

Once a writer has signed with an agent, what’s the next step?

The next step should be revisions. An agent’s job is to sell your manuscript, sure. But his/her most important job is to give you the feedback you need to make your manuscript shine. It’s those edits that will make it stand out and sell. If an agent can’t guide you properly they’re not a good agent.

What is the revision process like between you and your agent?

It can be tough. Especially if you’re the type of person who is set in their ways. I once had my agent tell me the entire last 100 pages of a manuscript I was working on was tough to read. “Unreadable” I think is what he said. LOL. I can laugh now, but at the time I was pretty frustrated that all that work was going to be deleted. Like I said before, you really need to trust your agent so that when you get notes that are contrary to what you want, you’re on board to make changes. If you think your agent doesn’t have a clue what he or she is talking about…might not be the right choice and could mean it’s time to find a better fit.

At what point do you share new story ideas with your agent?

Immediately. I never start drafting if I don’t run an idea by my agent first. Because my agent reads so much, he can tell me if my idea is already out there. I once pitched to Uwe at Triada this “amazing” idea I had. I was so geeked out about it. It involved a magic mirror and another dimension. He listened and didn’t say a word. And then when I got done he listed about TEN books with the exact same plot! So he told me if I was going to write it, I should try hard to be very different than what’s already been done. It was great info to get because instead of writing that book, I wrote Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now.

SUBMIT

What is a typical first round like once a writer goes on submission?

Think Slow. Then think slower. Then even slower than that. Now that you’re asleep. Wait two months and you’ll get your first reply.

Do you see the feedback from editors?

I always asked for editor feedback! I want to grow as a writer. And many of these editors know a thing or two about writing. So their feedback is invaluable. And sometimes it’s nice to see why they’re passing. I had one editor pass on a manuscript of mine because they had one almost identical to it coming out soon. Totally helps you to not take things so personal. Plus they may pass for whatever reason but love your writing. So it’s encouraging!

What is the next step if an editor shows interest?

Believe it or not it’s a slow process too! They need to show it around to the other editors at the pub house. And if everyone is on the same page…it’s time for acquisitions. Which is basically a presentation to the sales and marketing team about why they think this book would fit their particular imprint. It can takes weeks or even months after an editor says they want to make an offer on your novel. Publishing is so slow!

Did you ever have a Revise & Resubmit? What should a writer consider when deciding whether or not to take one on?

I had a few revise and resubmits on TSLHN when we first started sending the manuscript out. First of all, a “revise and resubmit” is HUGE. No agent or editor is going to want to be bothered with having to read your manuscript a second time if they don’t really love it. They’re so busy and on average get 200 emails a day. So if they actually have taken the time to give you notes and want to read your manuscript again…take advantage. This is what ultimately led to me selling my debut novel. We sent TSLNH out to about 3 editors and all three said “please revise and resubmit.” So we took the book off submission and I rewrote the entire novel. It was the best decision!

DEBUT

What is the best thing about being a debut author?

The free books! Lol. Kidding. I’d say the interviews. I really love chatting with people about my experiences as a writer or a parent or what inspired me to write TSLHN. It’s been so lovely getting to know other debut authors as well! I’m a part of a group of debut authors and we keep in touch daily and even have get-togethers. I have made so many wonderful friends over the past two years leading up to publication.

What else are you working on along with all the promotion?

I do a lot of animation. I’m a voice over artist. That’s currently my day job. I’m also working on my third novel! It’s a fantasy and I’m outlining as we speak. I can’t wait for this story to be out in the world. I love writing so much. When I envision my retirement, I see me at my laptop still. I will always be writing.

Thank you, Dana!

See other Query. Sign. Submit. interviews
Read inspiring stories of writers getting agents
Learn about Tools for Writers- like Scrivener

Ten Tips for WriteOnCon 2018

2018-01-30T10:41:00.001-05:00

Write on Con is an online writing conference (that only costs between $5-15!) and it’s INCREDIBLE. You won’t believe the resources, insider tips, and feedback available for writers. Here are ten tips to help you get started.

*(If you're not registered yet, there's still time! http://writeoncon.org/)

To get the most out of the conference . . .

1. Follow on Facebook and Twitter and sign up for the forums. You should do this before the conference even begins. You can even start posting in the forums ahead of time. Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WriteOnCon) Twitter (https://twitter.com/WriteOnCon)

2. Set up your profile. Once you're in the forums, go to "Profile" at the top and "Edit Profile" on the right. Fill in as much as you want, and upload a photo under "Avatar" if you want more than the generic avatar. (More below on what to put in "Signature" box under "Personal")

3. There are threads in the forum to post your query, first 250 words, and first 5 pages. This is a great chance to get feedback on your work. If you choose to, you can edit based on comments and get additional feedback on the new versions. *If it’s not a complete ms, you can mark it as a WIP so agents/editors know. It does not have to be complete.

4. Read the "PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE POSTING" post at the top of the category. It will tell you how to format your subject line and post, and gives you some general rules.

5. You can add links in your signature and you should. That means people can find all of your work, whether it’s your own post or when you comment on someone else’s. Because, let’s face it, when you read a great query or sample, you want to read more! You can also add your title and pitch if you’d like, or your social media links.

Here’s how- (option 1)

Once you have your posts up, copy the urls and paste them on Notepad or in Word. Go to Profile, then Edit Profile. Under Personal, add the links in the signature box. Here’s a sample signature line (obviously there would be different urls).

MG Query: http://www.writeforapples.com
MG First 250: http://www.writeforapples.com
Website: http://www.writeforapples.com
Blog: http://www.writeforapples.com

Type whatever you want linked, and put the url next to it.

Here's how - (option 2)

If you want things listed so people can simply click on them, you can embed the link in your text. For example,

YA Query ~ YA First 250 ~ YA First 5 pages

OR

TITLE OF YOUR BOOK
Query ~ First 250 ~ First 5 pages

Once you have your posts up, copy the urls and paste them on Notepad or in Word. Go to Profile, then Edit Profile. Under Personal, use the code below and replace YOUR URL HERE with your link and YOUR TEXT HERE with the text you want to link. (Adjust for however many links you need.)

[url=http://YOUR URL HERE/]YOUR TEXT HERE[/url] ~ [url=http://YOUR URL HERE//]YOUR TEXT HERE[/url] ~ [url=https:YOUR URL HERE/]YOUR TEXT HERE[/url]

Whenever you post or make a comment, your signature will appear below your post.

6. Comment in the forums and make friends! It’s so much fun to read everyone’s work and you get to help out other writers at the same time. Again, make sure you link to to your query, first 250 words, first 5 pages, and website/blog/twitter handle so people can find you and return the favor.

If you want to follow someone, click on his/her name and click "Follow" over on the right on the profile page.

7. Find a critique partner. There's a place in the forums called "Critique Partner Connection." Post your own info or respond to other posts to connect. Or if there's a query or sample you love that you'd like to read more of, you can always message that person and ask if he/she is looking for a critique partner. (Keep in mind that some people are all set with critique partners, so don't be offended if they say no thank you.)

8. Check the schedule. There are so many great things that go on on during this conference. Seriously, there are plenty of chances to learn.

If you signed up for the extended registration, it'll all still be available later if you can’t be there for it.

9. Take a few notes. This is a great opportunity to get that personal first line when you send out your query letter. Look for those tidbits from agents during chats and forum posts and let them know you learned a lot from them at Write On Con! It’s also a good way to help you find agents that might be interested in your work.

10. Have fun!

POSTCARDS FROM VENICE–THE COVER!

2017-10-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

More of Ella and Skyler's story will be here in 2018, but for now . . .

How about a first look at the cover?!

© Anabelle Metayer

Twelve-year-old Skyler is in for a summer of adventure in Venice, Italy, as she pursues a dream opportunity in this hilarious MIX novel that’s a companion to The BFF Bucket List.

AVAILABLE FOR PREORDER!

NO PLACE LIKE HOME’s Release Day!

2017-09-19T12:07:00.001-04:00

Thanks for stopping by to celebrate! :)

Just in case you want your very own copy, or if you want one to give to a kid (or adult) in your life . . .

Amazon * B&N * Simon & Schuster
IndieBound * My local indie- Monkey See, Monkey Do

About the book . . .

Kenzie Rhines doesn’t have a home—she has too many. Her dad’s job keeps them flying around the country, which means “home” is whatever fancy hotel they’re currently staying in and “school” takes place 30,000 feet in the air. And since it’s just the two of them, she has no choice but to be his travel partner. Kenzie loves the constant adventures, but she wouldn’t mind planting her feet in one place for longer than two seconds, having her own bed, and maybe even finding a best friend she can talk to.

When Kenzie’s dad surprises her with the news that they’ll be in Las Vegas for an extended business trip, she’s thrilled he wants to enroll her in a local middle school while they’re there. And even though it's the longest she’s been in one place in years, Kenzie knows it’s only a matter of time before she’s on the move yet again. So, for the first time in her life, she decides to take some risks: why not let the cutest boy in school know she’s got a bit of a crush on him, give it a shot and audition for the school musical--The Wizard of Oz (her all-time favorite movie), and run for VP of her class?

Thanks to her plan, Kenzie discovers a courage she didn’t know she had—and finally feels like she belongs somewhere. But when things start to get complicated, Kenzie discovers that she’ll have to face the consequences of everything she’s done since her arrival--and that maybe home isn't necessarily a place on a map, but where your heart is.

More info here! Visit my website at deeromito.com.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Book Trailer!!

2017-09-18T09:29:00.001-04:00

NO PLACE LIKE HOME releases tomorrow! To kick things off, I invite you to watch and enjoy the book trailer . . .

Available for Preorder …

Amazon * B&N *
Simon & Schuster * IndieBound
My local indie- Monkey See, Monkey Do

It’s BEST. NIGHT. EVER.’s Book Birthday!!

2017-08-15T09:00:00.001-04:00

“This eventful middle school dance is told from seven points of view by seven different writers. Under Malone’s editorship, they pull it off with seamless chemistry and strong character building. A fun, fresh take on a classic theme.” – Kirkus

”Readers will laugh as they learn of the misgivings, revenge, and eye-opening revelations that ensue. VERDICT Tweens interested in funny friendship drama will eat this one up.” - School Library Journal

* Get the book

* Add it on Goodreads

Writing BEST. NIGHT. EVER. with six friends required some reminiscing about our own middle school dance memories . . .

Dee

I loved middle school dances. It was something fun to do with friends, and there was always a plan to go out to eat after or sleepover at someone’s house. There weren’t as many shenanigans as there are in BEST. NIGHT. EVER., but there certainly was always drama. I’m not sure why these two moments in particular stand out, but what I remember most is dancing with a boy I liked (you know, like-liked) and singing “I’ll Be There for You” with my friends in the middle of the dance floor. Because maybe I didn’t end up with that boy, but I certainly found one I love to dance with. And my friends . . . well they’ve always been, and still are, there for me. <3

Rachele

My first dance was in eighth grade, and I had been looking forward to it for weeks. I chose the perfect hairstyle, outfit, purse, and even got some makeup that I was going to wear for the first time. Newsflash..trying out new make-up for the first time and making a major fashion shift might not be a good idea for a middle school dance! I still bust out laughing when I think about all the make-up I caked on my face and the outfit I wore. I planned it out a week in advance and laid pieces of it on my bed as it all came together. It consisted of jean shorts worn over black tights, a flannel shirt that I borrowed from my grandpa (FYI...I was 5’4, my grandpa was 6’5), a black belt that went around the shirt, white sneakers, and a black cowboy-like hat. Uhm, yeah, I’m not sure what I was thinking! My friends all showed up in jeans and tee-shirts, but I remember walking into the dance and owning that outfit, every last crazy bit of it!

Stephanie

I remember being invited to a “sock hop” in the school gym in fifth grade and thinking that meant we’d be hopping around in our socks. Instead, it was a fun dance with 50s music. We couldn’t summon a poodle skirt on command, so we had to settle for rolling up my jeans and wearing my stepdad’s Oxford shirt with the sleeves rolled up. From fifth grade on, I loved everything 1950s and even worked at a 50s diner in college. I’m pretty sure my love for all things 50s started with that sock hop!

Read more middle school dance memories from Jen, Ronni, Alison, and Gail over at Kidliterati!

Enter to win a book from one of the seven BEST. NIGHT. EVER. authors! (Best. Night. Ever. not included)

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Cover Reveal!! THE FORGOTTEN SHRINE (Bounders 3) by Monica Tesler

2017-07-13T09:00:00.001-04:00

A First Look at The Forgotten Shrine (Bounders 3) Cover

I am so excited to share the cover of The Forgotten Shrine, the third book in the Bounders series, my middle grade science fiction adventure series from Simon & Schuster.

One of my favorite things about writing a series is watching my characters grow up in the pages of the books. Their world views evolve, their friendships deepen or take different turns, and they start to edge farther from childhood and closer to young adulthood.

It’s been especially cool to see Jasper and his friends age on the book covers. That part of the process is largely out of my hands, so I’m always excited and a bit nervous to see the finished product.

I adored the cover of my first book, Bounders. It was illustrated by Antonio Caparo, an incredibly talented artist. The first time I laid eyes on the cover illustration, I gasped. It was so moving to see an artist’s interpretation of characters that once existed only in my head. I loved that the illustration included all five kids, the core characters of the series. Antonio really captured each of them. Mira especially is so spot on. Look at the way she’s tuned in to the lights she’s manipulating!

When it came time to illustrate the second book in the series, things took an unexpected turn. The first book was retitled Earth Force Rising for its paperback release, and Bounders became the name of the whole, five-book series. Also, it was decided that the first book would get a new cover.

The supremely talented illustrator, Owen Richardson, was brought in to work on the first two books. I love the sense of action and adventure (and aliens!) captured on the Earth Force Rising Cover. Plus, it’s fun to see Jasper on the move! I really appreciate some of the artistic choices that bring continuity between the hardback and paperback covers of the first book, like the color scheme and the same Earth Force uniform design.

The cover for The Tundra Trials, the second book in the series, features Jasper, Mira, and a space elevator, something I decided to include in the series ever since reading a science article on the concept. The illustration perfectly captures how I conceptualize the space elevator in my mind. I love the color scheme of the cover and the image of Jasper and Mira gazing down on Gulaga. Doesn’t that planet look cool? Also, take another look at Jasper. He’s looking older, right? There’s my guy, growing up.

So that brings us to the cover for The Forgotten Shrine, also illustrated by Owen Richardson. I absolutely adore this cover (and it’s my kids’ favorite)! There’s lots of action and danger and intrigue! In fact, there’s so much intrigue I can’t even tell you exactly what’s happening on the cover. Are they underwater? What are those scary creatures with the sharp teeth? You’ll have to read to find out! Now glance back at The Tundra Trials. See how Jasper and Mira are looking older on The Forgotten Shrine cover? The kids are really growing up before our eyes!

With awesome illustrators and my talented in-house designer, Karin Paprocki, I’ve really lucked out in the covers department. I can’t wait to see what they’ll dream up for the fourth and fifth books in the Bounders series. I guess that means I better get back to writing so I can provide some inspiration.

The Forgotten Shrine releases on December 12, 2017. It’s now available for preorder at IndieBound, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and many other retailers. You can also preorder a signed copy of The Forgotten Shrine (or order a signed copy of any of my books) from my local independent bookstore, Buttonwood Books and Toys.

_____

Jasper can’t wait for his sister, Addy, to finally join him at the EarthBound Academy. But as soon as they arrive at the space station, Jasper and Addy are separated when Jasper’s pod is sent on a secret mission to the underwater planet of Earth Force’s shady new allies, the Alkalinians.

At first, Jasper and his friends are excited by the incredible virtual reality technology that the Alks use, but the kids soon realize that this technology might be masking a sinister agenda. Jasper and his friends are certain that the Alks are laying a trap for Earth Force. But with Admiral Eames blind to the danger, Jasper and his pod mates must take matters into their own hands.

Will Jasper’s pod disobey direct orders to uncover the Alks’s true plans? And if so, will the kids be able to stop them before their treachery ripples across the entire galaxy? They need to act fast or it could mean devastation for Earth Force and death for the Bounders—including Addy.

______

Monica Tesler lives outside of Boston with her husband and their two boys. She can be found online at monicatesler.com, and on twitter and instagram as @monicatesler.

Learn Scrivener at Midwest Writers Workshop!

2017-06-26T14:52:00.001-04:00

Hey, Scrivener fans . . . What’s that? You’re not using Scrivener yet? Not to worry, this is for you too!

Scrivener is a writing program that makes it easy to stay organized AND it saves you time! Want to learn more about it? Check out my tutorials here.

OR . . . you can come to an amazing conference and join me at Midwest Writers Workshop in July! Okay, okay, I understand you might be there to see Angie Thomas (THE HATE U GIVE) or Becky Albertalli (SIMON VS. THE HOMOSAPIENS AGENDA) or all the fabulous agents and editors who are attending.

But if you’re interested in learning Scrivener, or making sure you’re getting the most out of it, I’ll be teaching a beginner session, an intermediate+ session, and an intensive. The intensive is best for those with a basic understanding of the program, but savvy beginners are welcome to come see what it can do! Find more info at http://www.midwestwriters.org/.

I hope to see you there.

Behind the Book with Jenn Bishop and her agent, Katie Grimm

2017-06-14T09:00:00.001-04:00

For almost four years now—wow, time flies!—I’ve been represented by Katie Grimm at Don Congdon Associates. I found Katie the traditional way—good old cold querying—and now that two books are out in the world, we’re entering a new phase of the agent/author relationship.

JB: For many authors in their initial agent search, it’s all about getting that first book deal. But it’s what happens after that probably makes the difference between a career author and someone who publishes one book. How do you guide your authors to keep them in the game?

KG: There can be so much focus on and online support for getting an agent that I completely understand the inclination to post “success stories” about getting one, but it’s the very first step! And selling your book is another great accomplishment, but only the next one on a hopefully very long journey – things don’t magically fall into place for authors with agents or even with book deals (or three!).
First of all, it’s important to be proactive about finding the audience for your first book in ways you can control as well as staying receptive and thoughtful about what you can do differently next time. For example, you can’t control what PW or Kirkus reviewers say, but you can encourage your nearest and dearest to leave Amazon reviews. It’s so important (and hard!) to keep stepping back and analyzing the data your first novel presents. Regardless of where you are in your journey, you’re also part of a greater community and ecosystem, and you need to find a way to meaningfully interact with it in a way that gives you strength and hope, not just feelings of inadequacy and jealousy – which even the most seemingly successful authors experience at some point.
Beyond finding excitement in the community of peers and readers, it’s also vital that you tune out the noise of the business and keep tapping into the passion for what brought you here in the first place: writing. Whether you have several projects you’re juggling or just focusing on the next novel, you can’t grow your career without putting your butt in the chair to work on your next project. I also think it’s so helpful to keep seeking out critique groups and beta readers who will grow with you throughout your respective careers – even though you have your agent and editor, there’s so much value in fresh eyes and support from fellow authors.

JB: How do you find your relationship with a client changes as they move past their first deal or two?

KG: In a lot of ways I’m the “expert” in the relationship, and for things like handling submissions and negotiating contracts, that will remain my sole responsibility in representing a client. However, I do really enjoy ways that the agent/author relationship grows into even more of an equal partnership with both of us bringing our own expertise to the table. So as my authors gain experiences from things like book fairs to Skype visits (which I’ll never get to do myself, alas!), I look to them to communicate their new knowledge to me so we can both critically look at their careers and problem-solve together. Looping back to the original question, I think authors are most successful long term if they can gain competency if not mastery in areas that they initially needed help with (or if they can forge new ones completely!), as a sort of feigned incompetence or sense of entitlement for book two and three is a way to lose the goodwill of even their staunchest supporters.

JB: What challenges do you face advocating for your authors as they establish a track record of sales, etc.?

KG: There is a sort of (dangerous?) optimism that comes with debuts – this is how we’ve seen six and now even seven figure advances become more common, but the real answer is no one truly knows how well a book is going to do – books that changed your life don’t get the requisite attention while others somehow never budge off the bestseller lists. So the treatment of book two can feel sobering not because it’s necessarily worse, but because (with very few exceptions) there’s no way for true sales history to compete with the previously imaginative profit and loss statements editors create for calculating the advances for debuts. In other words, you will often have to push yourself even more on book two to catch up to reality. Many authors don’t break out until books three and four, and you best believe it’s because they used every book they wrote to grow as an artist and business person.

JB: What types of projects are exciting you right now?

KG: Recent favorites of mine have been THE HATE U GIVE and FEMALE OF THE SPECIES. I always talk about “necessary” fiction or “books with a heartbeat,” but I feel an even higher level of urgency to not just entertain and create worlds readers can get lost in, but to reflect reader’s own experiences as well as expand their understanding of those around them – inspiring them to be more empathetic, reflective, and arbiters of change in their own world.
This doesn’t mean I’m only looking for books that are political or socially pointed, just that I’m more cognizant of the level of responsibility and power we have to make truly lasting emotional change in young lives. I have been asking authors and myself about “takeaways” more than even before, and the books I’ve been excited about have helped me unpack emotions or see our current world in way that gives me both insight and hope.

JB: Has the role of agent changed since you first started at Don Congdon? How do you see it continuing to evolve in the coming years?

KG: Yes, just as so much of the publicity is now on the shoulders of the author, the agent must be there to at least guide authors initially if not help directly along the way. So I’m continuing to learn aspects of the business and gaining contacts in ways that weren’t necessary before.
To take this a step further, I’ve also watched agents become hype machines in their own way which I’ll admit I’ve had a harder time coming into (it’s also a much bigger phenomenon in kidlit than adult, for what it’s worth). To put it in perspective, once upon a time it was looked down upon to “advertise” as an agency as it was seen as predatory or just backwards to put the agent before the author. So we never used to announce our deals (and I do so now only sporadically), and we didn’t even have a website when I first started (the one we have now took a couple years of convincing on my part!). As much as that this has changed even in my time here, it’s also a friendly reminder that there are very good agents and agencies that are not online at all! Agents will always be advocates for their authors in whatever form that takes, and even as more of this moves towards online publicity, agents too are choosing their own style given their strengths and the type of books they represent.

JB: Realizing that there are some aspects of publishing that are not in our hands, what can authors do to put themselves in the best position possible to stay in this competitive industry?

KG: I always have the same advice: read every day and write every day – it’s the only way to become a better writer and remind yourself of the joy of the written word! Every one of us – author, agent, editor, publicist – can only enact change in very specific ways in our own sphere. The only thing we can’t do once the book is finished? To force readers to enjoy it and recommend it to friends. We can be personable online and publishers can give away crates of galleys, but the only thing that matters in all of this industry is readers’ actual level of enjoyment that happens when we’re not even in the room.
So while it is important to follow fellow authors and publishers and watch how they interact with their audience, truly the only way to stay competitive is to read and read widely. You might not like everything, but it’s your job is to understand what aspects of craft the author excels at to have made the book successful at whatever level – critically, commercially or both. Then get writing! It will always come back to the strength of your words and story, and (for better or worse!) it’s the one thing you do have control over and hopefully… it’s the thing you enjoy the most too!

JB: Thanks so much for taking the time, Katie. This has been enlightening for me. It’s so true that it all boils down to a person connecting with a book. (Or, hopefully, a lot of people forging individual connections with the same book.) Time to get back to writing!

Jenn Bishop is the author of 14 Hollow Road (Alfred A. Knopf/Random House). Her first middle grade novel, The Distance to Home, was named a Junior Library Guild selection and a Bank Street College of Education Best Children’s Book (2017). She lives in Cincinnati, OH.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Get the book . . .

IndieBound * Amazon

Query.Sign.Submit.Debut! with Rachel Bateman

2017-06-12T10:03:00.001-04:00

Rachel Bateman is a young adult author and her debut, Someone Else’s Summer is now available from Running Press! She is represented by Liza Fleissig at the Liza Royce Agency.

Connect with Rachel . . .

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads * Instagram * Pinterest

Get the book . . .

Amazon * Apple * Barnes & Noble * Books-a-Million * Google * Indiebound * Kobo * Powell’s

QUERY

What advice would you give to querying writers?

Take a breath, go for a walk, close your inbox. It's so easy to drive yourself crazy checking for responses and updates, but these things usually take a bit of time. Common advice is to get working on the next book - and I definitely don't disagree with that, but if query anxiety makes it too hard to write, it's okay to take a break for a while. Live life and try to focus on some non-writing things for a bit. Whatever helps you recharge, do it.

But seriously, don't check your email for a while!

What are some important things for querying writers to consider when researching agents?

Do they have a good sales record in your genre? Recently? Talk to a few of their current clients and see what their working style is like. They could be the best agent in the world, but if their style and personality won't work well with yours, you won't be happy partnering with them.

If you can, find out who a couple former clients are and talk to them. Current clients tend to want to sell their agent to you - as they should, because hopefully they love working with the agent and want to sing their praises. Former clients may give you more of the gritty reality, though. Find out why they are no longer working together. Learn of any issue they may have had, then take some time to decide - really decide - if those issues are something you are able to work with. What is bothersome for one person may not be an issue for you at all, but it also may be a deal breaker.

Now. All that said, sometimes you just know. Don't discount your gut feeling. Try to do due diligence and make sure you're going into a great partnership, but a lot can be said for following your instincts.

What was your method for querying? Small batches? Query widely? Wait for feedback?

My situation was a bit unique in that I never really queried. I have always been almost hesitant to share my story with other writers because it is so not the norm. I self-published my first book, having never queried it, because it felt like the right thing to do with that book. When I wrote Someone Else's Summer, I always figured I'd eventually query it, but in the end...

I'd been sitting on the book for more than a year. My fabulous critique partner kept telling me I needed to get my butt in gear and do something with it - whether that be query, or submit it to Swoon Reads, or self-publish. Just something.

I happened to be on Twitter for the first time in forever on the day Pitch Madness submissions opened, and I thought, 'Why not?' So I took five minutes to write a quick pitch, uploaded my first 250 words, and promptly forgot about it. Imagine my surprise when, not only was I selected, but I got five agent requests! My lovely agent, Liza Fleissig, has loved Someone Else’s Summer since those first 250 words.

In the end, while my story is very exciting, and I'm thrilled how well everything has turned out, it's probably not terribly helpful to other writers.

SIGN

How did you know your agent was the right one for you?

I just knew, if that makes sense. Liza was super enthusiastic about my book from day one. She won the Pitch Madness round, which meant I got to send the full book to her two days before sending to anyone else. Well, she came back before that two day window was over telling me how much she was loving it, so I went ahead and sent to the other agents early to give them time with it. Sure enough, Liza offered representation the very next day.

Now, I was a good little author and did things right. I told her I needed two weeks then told the other agents that had it (there were five others who requested the full) that I needed to hear one way or another within those two weeks. I talked to a couple of Liza's other clients. And I waited - the waiting part sucked. I talked to my husband and my critique partner for what seemed like forever, weighing all the options.

One day, they both said essentially the same thing: "I think you've already made your decision, and you're just waiting because that's what you're supposed to do." And they were totally right. I knew in my gut that I wanted to sign with Liza - I'm pretty sure she loves my book even more than I do! - so I emailed the other agents to thank them for their time, and the rest is history.

Did you sign as a client of a career agent or on a book-by-book basis?

I signed for my career. The contract, officially, is actually worded for Someone Else's Summer, but then left open-ended after that book. Much like a lease agreement where you're locked in for a year then go month-to-month, I contracted for the book but the agreement goes on after Someone Else's Summer unless one of us terminates it. It was understood from the start that the official contract being worded for the single book was just legal mumbo jumbo and that both Liza and I were in it for the long haul. I want an agent who wants to nurture my career, not just shop a single book, and Liza is thrilled to do that.

Once a writer has signed with an agent, what’s the next step?

This varies so much for each scenario, really. Some agents are highly editorial and want to go over the book a few times before taking it to editors. And some books need that extra bit of attention before going on submission.

For me, the next step was to send Liza over a list of editors I was interested in working with, and she sent a list of editors she felt were a good fit for my book. Together, we came up with a submission plan, and went at it. It was all a whirlwind!

SUBMIT

Do you see the feedback from editors?

I did get to see all my editorial feedback. Not all agents share that - and not all writers want to see it - but Liza is very straightforward about everything. It's one of the things I love about her. So she sent along any editorial feedback we got, good and bad. I'm the kind of person who wants to know the details, but if I didn't, I could just say so and she'd only tell me the basics of who passed and who wanted to see more.

Can you check in with your agent if there hasn’t been any news in a while?

Absolutely! We’ve never gone terribly long without news, and Liza tends to check in just to say hi if it’s been a while, but every author should be able to check in. I mean, try not to pester and nag, but if you've not heard anything, send a quick email. You're in a partnership here; you should 100% feel comfortable asking for an update from your agent, and if you don't, that's a big red flag about your relationship.

Sometimes agents get busy, and almost all the time publishing is slow. There will be times when you don't hear anything for a decent stretch of time. But if you're curious to know what's going on, reach out and see!

Did you know there was interest in the book before you got an offer or was it a surprise?

I knew there was interest. All the editors we submitted to were very positive about the book, even when they were passing. But Liza had a feeling about Julie from the start. When we were putting the list together, she sent me a note saying, “I’d really love to send this to Julie Matysik at Running Press. I think it’s perfect for her.” I was unfamiliar with Julie, so I did a bit of searching to see what else she’d worked on, and agreed. Shortly after, Liza let me know that she was getting good feedback from Julie and that she wouldn’t be surprised to get an offer soon. It was still crazy exciting to get the official call, but I was expecting it.

How did you celebrate when you got the news about your book deal?

Liza called me with the news while I was on my way to meet my sister and a friend for dinner. Nothing was official yet, so I couldn't make big announcements, but I was allowed to tell them. I get to the diner, and I figure I'm about bursting with excitement so of course they'll notice and ask why, but they don't. So I just sit all giddy-like trying not to say anything. Then the diner owner comes out and asks me if there's any news with the book. I try to play it all cool and say, "Well, since you asked...," but pretty much I just gushed everywhere. She tried to give me all kinds of desserts to celebrate, but I had just started a zero-sugar challenge, so I celebrated with a delightful bowl of cherries.

Later, it's silly, but I got a new audiobook (The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson, which is SO GOOD), got in my car, and drove into the night. It was my normal writing group night, which means my six-year-old and my husband had a planned boys' night anyway, so I took off for the evening. Me, my book, and a bit of sugar free ice cream. Because what's an impromptu road trip without snacks, and what's a better snack than ice cream? Except maybe when you're driving, but whatever. And I drove and drove and drove, through a bunch of little towns north of here, listening to the book and enjoying the evening.

The next day, we went out to dinner and had a real celebration, but that was my mini celebration.

Now, a year later, that little diner where I first shared my news is hosting my launch party.

DEBUT

Have you done any conferences, book festivals, or events as an author? What was it like?

I had planned to do several fun events (LDS Storymakers! YallWest! BookExpo!), but then instead I had a baby, so timing was super bad for all of them. Boo. :( Running Press had a fun time with my book without me at BookExpo, though!

Here in Montana, I had a super fun event for my book launch. A local hamburger joint, The Roadhouse Diner (you may have seen Tara, the owner, on Guy's Grocery Games on Food Network - she totally won!), hosted a party for me, which was a complete blast. We had burgers and talked books. The local news was there, and if you're wondering if signing books with a giant camera in your face is awkward, it is. It was so great seeing all the excitement and support from people in my hometown.

What was it like to see your cover?

Oh my gosh, so amazing. I was very nervous about this, I won't lie. I come from a self-publishing background (both with my own work and with helping others get their books out), and I'm used to having complete control over things like this. Giving away that control on something as huge as cover design was nervous making. But I totally shouldn't have worried at all. The designer, T.L. Bonaddio, nailed it on the first shot. (Well, the first shot I saw at least.) I had one tiny suggestion, and Running Press was super happy to accommodate it. I am still so ridiculously in love with the cover.

What advice would you give to writers who are working hard to get to their own debut year?

Enjoy it! Keep working hard to get published and reach your goals, but don't forget to slow down and really savor how amazing this all is. It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of promotion and all the work that always has to be done, but you only get your debut once*. Take time to soak it all in.

*I guess, technically, I got my debut twice. Once as a self-pubbed author and once traditionally publishing. The two can be SO different, though, that I still feel like a brand new baby debut with this book.

Thank you, Rachel!

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My Book Gear Secret ;)

2017-05-25T13:51:00.001-04:00

I recently stumbled upon super-cute t-shirts and totes with some of my favorite books and characters on them. Now I wear them to book events and bring my Goodnight Moon bag to writing conferences. I keep forgetting that’s what I’m carrying when I hear, “I love your bag.”

(This Nancy Drew themed tote might be next on my list!) ----->

I still remember rushing into the school library on library day so I could get the one Corduroy book they had—if it hadn’t been checked out already. And now as a mom, I get to read all my favorites (like Clifford & Curious George!) with my kids.

Since I’ve been asked where I got them, I figured I’d pass along the website. Use this link for Out of Print Clothing and get $5 off—although I’d recommend doing a search to see if there’s a better deal! They also have scarves, socks, and a bunch of cool literary items.
(FYI, the t-shirts run really small. I’d suggest ordering at least a size up, if not two sizes)

* Images from Out of Print Clothing.com

*Full disclosure: Yes, I get credit if you go through my link (because hey, I plan on getting more shirts, so why not!), but that’s not why I posted. I just want to share the fun.

Skype with an Author!

2017-05-12T09:05:00.001-04:00

As a teacher, what I loved most was the interaction with the students and finding ways to get them excited about learning new things. As a parent, I love watching my kids discover something for the first time or figure out a way to do something that might require out-of-the-box thinking.

And as an author, one of my favorite things is talking with kids (and teachers & librarians!) and seeing them so enthusiastic about reading and writing. I LOVE IT.

Which is why some author friends and I started AUTHOR SKYPE CLUB. Classes or clubs can Skype with an author for a FREE 20-minute Q&A session. Ask about the writing process, publishing, or even book recommendations. (We also love to hear your book recs!) Or if you’ve read the author’s book, go ahead and ask about the inside secrets or share your thoughts. Of course, there’s limited availability, but there’s a whole bunch of us who are happy to set up a time with you. Teachers, librarians, scout leaders, book clubs . . . check it out at http://www.authorskypeclub.com!

Happy Birthday to THE BFF BUCKET LIST!

2017-05-03T09:20:00.001-04:00

I can’t believe it’s been a year since my first book hit the shelves.

What an amazing day that was.

(Okay, so this was actually a few days before release, but it was the first time I saw it in the store—right next to Harry Potter! ---->)

To celebrate, I’m giving away THREE $10 gift cards so you can shop for books! (Or whatever else you’d like.) Choose Amazon, B&N, or your local indie!

Simply enter below and choose as many entry methods as you’d like.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to THE BFF BUCKET LIST!

(Visit my website to see what’s next!)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Query.Sign.Submit.Debut! with Wendy McLeod MacKnight

2017-03-22T13:31:00.001-04:00

Wendy is a middle grade author and her debut, It’s a Mystery, Pig Face!, is now available from Sky Pony Press! She is represented by LKG Agency.

Connect with Wendy . . .

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Get the book . . .

Amazon.com * Amazon.ca * Chapters.ca * Barnes and Noble * Indiebound

QUERY

What advice would you give to querying writers?

This one is painful for me because it’s something I did, but here goes: are you sure you’re ready to query? Is your book as good as it can be, your query as tight as it can be, your first ten pages or three chapters the best they can be? For so many of us, despite the research we do in advance of querying, we aren’t quite ready. I’d say that at least the first ten agents I queried have lost minutes off their lives that they can never get back! And honestly, if you’d asked me the question point blank, I would have said “Well, it could be better, anything can be better, right?” If you have that thought in your head, do not hit send! Work some more, get another pair of eyes on it until you can honestly say “This is the best I can do at this point.” Once you can do that, hit send.

How did you keep track of your queries?

With my trusty excel spreadsheet. Every now and then I go back and look at it, so I can remain grateful and humble.

What was your method for querying? Small batches? Query widely? Wait for feedback?

I think I did five to ten at a time. If I received feedback with my rejection, I was giddy. It felt like I’d met a traveller on the road who’d whispered “You might want to try this.” Then I’d revise, and try again. Finally, by the last batch of ten I knew I had hit the sweet spot, I think almost all of them wanted to see the full manuscript.

What do you wish you’d known back when you were in the query trenches?

That I was always an author, even then. Unpublished mind you, but still an author. And it only takes one yes to change everything.

SIGN

Are there any specific questions you’d suggest writers ask an offering agent during “The Call”?

Mostly I wanted to know was why they loved the book, what changes they thought were required before submission, and whether or not they were an editorial agent.

What was the week surrounding your offer(s) of representation like for you?

Kind of surreal. I was now in the forties in terms of agents I’d submitted to, and suddenly forty-six, forty-seven and forty-nine were interested. I share those numbers because I want your readers to know that some of us soar, some of us slog. I was in the latter camp, but it doesn’t matter so long as you get there in the end!

How did you know your agent was the right one for you?

This isn’t my first rodeo. I knew the work would be hard and potentially heartbreaking and potentially thrilling. I wanted someone who not only liked the book, but who was funny and interesting and wise. I got all three with my agent Lauren Galit of LKG Agency. When we drifted off-topic and began discussing the Marvel Universe I knew she was for me.

Once a writer has signed with an agent, what’s the next step?

That’s when the work really begins. She loved the book but had all kinds of suggestions about how we could make it better. So I rolled up my sleeves and got to work!

At what point do you share new story ideas with your agent?

Nowadays, as soon as I think of them! I find it a lot easier to write a synopsis and debate and then send a few sample chapters after. I didn’t on a project I worked on last year, and I think I could have saved myself a lot of time and heartache if I had!

SUBMIT

What is a typical first round like once a writer goes on submission?

My agent shares who she’s submitting to and why, and then we see who’s interested. My experience is that a bunch of people drop out quickly and the rest wait until the very last minute, usually waiting until someone else has expressed some interest!

Do you see the feedback from editors?

My agent shares all of the feedback, which is awesomely painful

What do you suggest a writer does while out on submission?

Write, although I don’t always follow that advice. I don’t write every day; often I am doing research or plotting. And sometimes you will catch me doing a major houseclean after neglecting the house for so long!

How much contact do you have with your agent when you are out on submission?

Um, I TRY not to bug her. Really, I do try. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

Can you check in with your agent if there hasn’t been any news in a while?

Absolutely! My agent is the most responsive person I know! She is remarkable that way.

Did you know there was interest in the book before you got an offer or was it a surprise?

No – my agent always keeps me in the loop!

How did you celebrate when you got the news about your book deal?

Champagne – always!

DEBUT

What is the best thing about being a debut author?

Besides getting to know other debut authors, which has been a joy, the best thing is the newness. I kind of feel like Bambi right now; I don’t know what I don’t know. I will no doubt regret that later, but sometimes I just revel in the newness of it all! I have yet to become jaded and hope I never will be!

What else are you working on along with all the promotion?

I’ve recently sold another book, so I’ll start editing that soon, and am working on some ideas so I can start writing book #3.

What special things do you get to be a part of as a 2016 debut author?

The Sweet 16 debut group (and the Swanky Seventeens as my pub date is now Feb 7^th, 2017) which is a group of authors debuting MG and YA books this year.

What other 2016 debut books have you gotten to read? Did you get to read them early?

I’ve read a bunch early, but I’ll focus on MG lit: Counting Thyme by Melanie Conklin, Fenway and Hattie by Victoria Coe, My 7^th Grade in Tights by Brooks Benjamin, a certain BFF Bucket List novel, An Adventurers Guide to Successful Escapes by Wade Albert White, Monsterville by Sarah S. Reida. Oh I’m just hitting the tip of the iceberg! I can’t name them all but truly, they were all wonderful!

Is there a lot of support among debut authors?

People are amazing, whether it’s answering questions or just being emotionally supportive!

Have you done any conferences, book festivals, or events as an author? What was it like?

I presented at the Canadian Writer’s Summit in June and it was so much fun to talk about the book!

What was it like to see your cover?

Amazing. Honestly, it was exactly like I pictured it! My editor Alison Weiss did an amazing job!

What advice would you give to writers who are working hard to get to their own debut year?

Keep at it. If you work hard, are tenacious, and read the best books written in your genre, you’ll get there, too!

Thank you, Wendy!

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A Picture Book List for International Women’s Day

2017-03-08T10:39:00.001-05:00

In honor of International Women’s Day, here are some great picture books about strong and brave girls and women. Thank you doesn’t seem like enough to say to them, but here it is anyway . . . Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your bravery, and for fighting against injustice.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist Hardcover

by Cynthia Levinson

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909

by Michelle Markel

Miss Paul and the President: The Creative Campaign for Women's Right to Vote

by Dean Robbins

Elizabeth Leads the Way: Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Right to Vote

by Tanya Lee Stone

Around America to Win the Vote: Two Suffragists, a Kitten, and 10,000 Miles

by Mara Rockliff

Two Friends: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass

by Dean Robbins

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark

by Debbie Levy

How Kate Warne Saved President Lincoln: The Story Behind the Nation's First Woman Detective

by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Cover Reveal!

2017-02-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

You guys, I absolutely ADORE this cover.

My middle grade novel, NO PLACE LIKE HOME, comes out August 29, 2017 from Aladdin/Simon & Schuster.

Meet Kenzie Rhines . . .

* It’s available for preorder . . . Amazon * B&N * My local indie- Monkey See, Monkey Do

* And you can add it on Goodreads!

About the book:

When Kenzie’s dad surprises her with the news that they’ll be in Las Vegas for an extended business trip, she’s thrilled he wants to enroll her in a local middle school while they’re there. And even though it's the longest she’s been in one place in years, Kenzie knows it’s only a matter of time before she’s on the move yet again. So, for the first time in her life, she decides to take some risks: why not let the cutest boy in school know she’s got a bit of a crush on him, give it a shot and audition for the school musical--The Wizard of Oz (her all-time favorite movie), and run for VP of her class?

Thanks to her plan, Kenzie discovers a courage she didn’t know she had—and finally feels like she belongs somewhere. But when things start to get complicated, Kenzie discovers that she’ll have to face the consequences of everything she’s done since her arrival--and that maybe home isn't necessarily a place on a map, but where your heart is.