 20 years of Master Class to Masterpiece |
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2020 FACULTY: Bios Agent
Laurel has a diverse client list and omnivorous tastes. She is seeking young adult and middle-grade fiction with “earnest, engaging voices set in immersive worlds”―fantasy (with a twist), contemporary, historical settings, retellings, and manuscripts with unique elements. She also loves historical fiction, witches (then and now), friendship, humor, magical realism, mysteries, boarding schools, slow-build romance, and whimsy. She’d love to see something girly (Unicorn Quest) or with complex puzzles (Benedict Society). Literary middle-grade from contemporary (a la Corey Ann Haydu) to an animal POV (Pax). She's also interested in graphic novels, and middle-grade that might lend itself to illustration. In any case, Laurel says, “I want books that are going to pull at my heartstrings but leave me uplifted.” Although we review only kids’ fiction at this event, it’s illuminating to note that Laurel’s nonfiction interests include “biographies, histories, and explorations of STEM elements.” Laurel adds: “In every category, I am seeking voices that have previously been underrepresented and stories that have been overlooked... I’m looking forward to partnering with you on your publishing journey” at PCCWW! Agent AGENT Hannah Mann has been with the Writers House agency since 2013, having first interned with the legendary Steven Malk. One of the largest literary agencies in the world, Writers House prides itself on providing an extraordinary amount of individual client attention. Middle Grade: Hannah looks for funny and/or dramatic novels about friendship (including those with animals), outcasts, and the complexity of individual families. Brave or whimsical adventure stories starring unlikely characters and underdogs are great. She looks for honest, funny, and unique voices―and that MG trifecta of heart, smarts, and humor. Personal note from Hannah: “Thanks so much for thinking of me for this workshop! It sounds right up my alley. I really appreciate the invitation and look forward to meeting your authors.” |
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AGENT Laurel Symonds of The Bent Agency brings both marketing-sales and editorial (HarperCollins) experience to the table. As an editor, she has worked on award-winning titles and indie darlings, and launched the career of a New York Times bestselling author. Being an editorial agent, she finds joy in the revision process. She considers herself the author’s Number One cheerleader on the path to publication.
Hannah’s interest in the publishing industry started with a desire to write. When she realized how much work goes into writing a book, her interest turned to being an editor. But when she discovered agenting and “its intersection of creativity with business,” she knew that was the career she wanted: “I love being behind the scenes and advocating for creators.”