Ooh, tantalizing title for a blog post!
Picture book writers eager to be represented scour the web for info about the tastes and preferences of kidlit agents. Well, stop searching and look no further.
I asked the picture book agents participating in PiBoIdMo as grand prizes to talk about a client’s new or upcoming release that they’re excited about.
And if you’re wondering about PiBoIdMo GRAND PRIZES, they will be announced on Monday, December 14th!
Lori Kilkelly, Rodeen Literary Management
I began representing my own clients 2.5 years ago and, as publishing has a long cycle from sale to publication, have only had two (EARLY BIRD and NIGHT OWL by Toni Yuly!) publish to date. Next calendar year will see 14 of “my” books publish. It’s hard to pick just one but HANNAH AND SUGAR (Abrams, 3/16) is author/illustrator Kate Berube’s debut, sold in a 2-book deal, at auction. I first read about Kate on the blog “7 Impossible Things Before Breakfast.” She and husband Mark live in Portland with their beloved one-eyed wonder-dog, Sugar, the book character’s namesake.
Every day after school, Hannah’s school bus is greeted by her classmate’s dog, Sugar. All the other kids love Sugar but Hannah just can’t conquer her fear of dogs. Then, one day, Sugar goes missing, so Hannah joins the search with her classmates. Will Hannah find a way to be brave, and make a new friend in the process?
Kate worked at Portland’s famous Indie bookstore Powell’s—please consider pre-ordering from your favorite Indie!
Deborah Warren, East/West Literary Agency
Some of East/West Literary’s clients have excelled in all three PB creator roles, as an illustrator, as an author, and as an author/illustrator. To that end—and in honor of PiBoIdMo—we are proud to highlight award-winning Jim Averbeck and his latest book ONE WORD FROM SOPHIA (Atheneum/S & S), a Kirkus Best Book of 2015, illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail.
Averbeck’s 2015 “must read” IndyNext Top 10 ONE WORD FROM SOPHIA, is about a girl who uses very creative means to ask for a pet giraffe–from her mother (a judge), father (a businessman), Uncle Conrad (a politician) and Grand-mama (who is very strict!). Yasmine’s illustrations brilliantly add another layer to the story. And Jim created a text that engages the audience with well-placed page turns, pacing and performance possibilities, creating a book that has been embraced for its celebration of words.
And it’s been embraced in more than one way! We’re more than thrilled that SOPHIA has just been extended to a 3-book series by his publisher (Margaret K. McElderry/S & S). Look for TWO PROBLEMS FOR SOPHIA and the third SOPHIA sequel, soon! Oh; and how incredibly cool is it that the Northern California Children’s Booksellers Alliance selected ONE WORD FROM SOPHIA as one of two titles to be included in their national, inaugural #Diversity, hand-selling initiative, #MirrorsAndWindows. [Thank you, indies—diverse books DO sell!]
Ammi-Joan Paquette, Erin Murphy Literary Agency
How do you pick just one of your authors’ projects to spotlight? I’m going to circumvent that decision by going with the book that’s been most recently released, Nancy Tupper Ling’s THE STORY I’LL TELL, which is exquisitely illustrated by Jessica Lanan. This book is really a love letter from parent to child, a poetic telling of how that child came to be part of their family.
Words and art alike are unforgettable, and mark my words—this is a book that’s going to be around a long, long time. Don’t miss it!
Kathleen Rushall, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency
I’m really looking forward to seeing Jess Keating’s PINK IS FOR BLOBLISH hit shelves this February 2nd, 2016 from Knopf Book for Young Readers. Jess’s voice and vision for this project had me excited about it from day one.
In this debut nonfiction picture book, Jess highlights all manner of unusual pink creatures that readers never knew existed. It’s fascinating and funny, but what also makes it so special is that it goes deep. Yes, PINK IS FOR BLOBFISH is full of incredible animal facts, but it also carries a subtle sociological message that pink is not just for girls—it’s for everyone and anyone.
Pink is often associated with princesses, and Jess’s book lets readers know that pink is also the color of monster slugs and poisonous insects. I don’t know about you, but I love that expanded world view!
I admire how Jess manages to engage readers with her humor and fresh voice, provide little-known animal facts, AND deconstruct outdated gender stereotypes—with a clear passion for the material and a wit all her own. And with the talented David DeGrand adding his dynamic, hilarious illustrations, what’s not to love?
Susan Hawk, The Bent Agency
I’m very excited about an upcoming project BABY LOVES SCIENCE by Ruth Spiro, with illustrations by Irene Chan. In the first two books of this picture book series, Ruth explains some complex ideas—Quarks and Aerospace Engineering—in terms so clear that even the very youngest listener can understand.
This is the first project that I sold for Ruth, and the one that she sent me with her initial query. I was very taken with the books, of course, but also with the savvy way Ruth approaches the picture book business; she’s continued to wow me ever since! These books are sweet, gentle and smart, and I can’t wait for them to be out in bookstores and libraries.
The first two are coming in fall 2016—keep your eyes out for them.
Tricia Lawrence, Erin Murphy Literary Agency
Well, I have to go with Penny Parker Klostermann’s THERE WAS AN OLD DRAGON WHO SWALLOWED A KNIGHT which just won The 2015 Best in Rhyme Award in NYC at the RPB Revolution Conference.
Why I think DRAGON is so special? It’s been a long road to publication for Penny. She’s been working tirelessly the past few years to really learn the picture book craft and to hone her skill. Adding to that, DRAGON is in rhyme, so Penny’s not only had to figure out picture book plot, she’s had to learn poetry and rhyme (not easy) and I think there’s been more days of no big success than there have been days with success.
DRAGON exists because Penny didn’t give up. And now DRAGON has a life of his own. I’m still a bit terrified of him, so here’s hoping he steers clear of me. 😉
Holly McGhee, Pippin Properties
One of our new-ish releases is Jennifer K. Mann’s TWO SPECKLED EGGS, winner of the Washington State Book Award this year; it’s the story of an unlikely friendship that’s sparked when two girls find they have more in common than they thought at first.
Jennifer K. Mann came to Pippin through the slush pile (it really happens!) and this is her second picture book. When her query came in, her artwork immediately caught our attention, and then her letter was so exquisitely written and charming and she had clearly done her research . . . it was a no brainer. Here’s to more well crafted slush-pile treasures!
Lisa Fleissig & Ginger Harris, Liza Royce Agency
We are both mothers of 1st graders; so, as much as they are moving onto chapter books, picture books are still alive and kicking in our homes. One particular recent publication that stands out is ADA BYRON LOVELACE AND THE THINKING MACHINE (Creston Books, 2015). It’s a biography of the world’s first computer programmer—and she’s a GIRL!
Ada was born two hundred years ago, long before the invention of the modern electronic computer. At a time when girls and women had few options outside the home, Ada followed her dreams and studied mathematics. Especially now with schools incorporating “STEM” in the classroom and empowering girls to develop into strong women, this book hits all the right notes. It is written by Laurie Wallmark and stunningly illustrated by April Chu. Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine is not only a remarkable story of triumph, but marks a turning point in our agency—it is our first book to receive THREE STARRED REVIEWS (Kirkus, PW & Booklist) along with NYT praise.
Jodell Sadler, Sadler Children’s Literary
A recent picture book publication would have to be a newer contract, a two-book deal, for Phil Gosier as an author-illustrator package: SNOW BEAST (Roaring Brook Press, 2017).
Phil marked the quickest pull from my submission bin so far. He’s a huge talent and his cover letter sported part unreliable narrator (sending only to you and will not send out until polished more) and part personality punch (I cry at most Tom Hank movies). But what really called me to his project and what is true of every submission: it’s all about the work, and in this case, his work stood on its own merits: breathtaking, amazing, and professional. SNOW BEAST will be published by Roaring Brook Press in 2017.
Remember, come back on Monday for the GRAND PRIZE announcements. There will be 13 PiBoIdMo Winners to be paired with one PB literary agent each for an email consult about their five best story ideas.
Good luck, everyone!
64 comments
Comments feed for this article
December 10, 2015 at 12:43 pm
Veronika Magali-Marosy
What a great list! But I only know part of the books… Gotta get Reading!
December 10, 2015 at 12:48 pm
mona861
Tara, You never cease to amaze me! You can always come up with something to tickle our writing habit!
December 10, 2015 at 12:48 pm
Rebecca G. Aguilar
What a fantastic resource this blog post is! Bookmarked!
December 10, 2015 at 12:49 pm
Brook Gideon (@brookgideon)
Awesome books!!! Thank you all for sharing!
December 10, 2015 at 12:50 pm
writerjodimoore
Thanks so much for sharing this. A fantabulous list of books and agents indeed. 🙂
December 10, 2015 at 12:50 pm
vickireinhardt2014
Crossing my fingers!!! =)
December 10, 2015 at 1:00 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Totally tantalizing terrific titles! **swoons**
December 10, 2015 at 1:07 pm
Amy Houts
Giving examples really helps! Thanks so much for sharing!
December 10, 2015 at 1:08 pm
ManjuBeth
Great post! Gosh, I should have written the Aerospace Engineering PB. My H.S. senior was just accepted into an Aerospace Engineering University program. He’s been heading in this direction since he was 3!
December 10, 2015 at 1:09 pm
Gabi Snyder
Ooh, now I have several more titles for my “must read” list. Thank you!
December 10, 2015 at 1:13 pm
writeknit
Forget wrapping presents this weekend – I am heading for the bookstore!
December 10, 2015 at 1:16 pm
Jeanine Potter Lovell
Great Post! Thank You! Yes, examples are great.
December 10, 2015 at 1:16 pm
Carrie Finison
I love seeing the incredible diversity of stories on this list.
December 10, 2015 at 1:22 pm
Shirley
Wonderful! Can’t wait to enjoy all of these books. Really great to read of their path to publishing!
December 10, 2015 at 1:24 pm
harmonee2014
Can’t wait to read these titles! Thank you!
December 10, 2015 at 1:28 pm
karadhya
Tantalizing title definitely pulled me in. Loved reading about the great books in the post!
December 10, 2015 at 1:39 pm
Alice Fulgione
Thanks for sharing books that represent such diversity!
December 10, 2015 at 1:46 pm
Charlotte Dixon
Thank you, Tara, for this list of terrific books to check out and enjoy 🙂
December 10, 2015 at 1:55 pm
Shari Schwarz
Such great insight into each of the agents and their books!
December 10, 2015 at 2:08 pm
olsenkristen38
Seeing books come to fruition after so much hard work is so endearing! Tara, do you think you could ever blog about how the auction process works? Are there ever ways to observe how it works? Also, it’s great to see a PB work in Rhyme done! At conferences, It seems that writers are pushed away from working in rhyme. What do you think about this topic? Best, Kristen
December 10, 2015 at 2:23 pm
Tara Lazar
Kristen, I will ask around to see if an agent wants to talk auction. Also, do a search on this blog for “rhyme” and you will find a few posts. Happy Writing!
January 19, 2016 at 1:07 am
olsenkristen38
Hi Tara, just following up to see if you found an agent that wanted to discuss the auction process. Best, Kristen
December 10, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Mark A. Bentz
Thank you Tara for this information. Good to see rhyme books being published.
December 10, 2015 at 3:03 pm
Li'vee Rehfield
Thank you Tara for everything you do…you care about all of us so much…you are one of the BEST!
December 10, 2015 at 3:20 pm
Jennifer K. Mann
Oh my goodness, I’m blushing–thanks Holly McGhee! Great post Tara–it’s wonderful to see what excites these incredible agents!
December 10, 2015 at 4:43 pm
Katelyn Aronson
Loved this post Tara. I’m always scouring the internet for these kinds of details so thank you for putting this together!
December 10, 2015 at 5:07 pm
Gregory E Bray
Great post and very helpful. =)
December 10, 2015 at 5:12 pm
Darlene
Very inspiring list Tara. Thanks so much for posting.
December 10, 2015 at 5:16 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Great post. I am excited
December 10, 2015 at 5:17 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
Great post, Tara! Thank you!
December 10, 2015 at 5:25 pm
Robyn Campbell
Fabulous post. Thank you, thank you for the inspiration.
December 10, 2015 at 5:36 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Thank you again Tara. Some real gems there especially the last one with Jodell Sadler as she actually gives examples, so helpful! Looking forward to Monday, good luck fellow PiBoIdMoers.
December 10, 2015 at 6:22 pm
Lori Dubbin
Such amazing books, authors, illustrators, and agents. Thanks for this post, Tara. I’m adding these to a bunch of books I’m giving as a baby gift. And I look forward to reading all of them.
December 10, 2015 at 6:35 pm
Kara
Thank you so much for this opportunity! This was my first PiBoIdMo. My first idea ever is already a book which I plan to send out in January. The books here look great!
December 10, 2015 at 6:39 pm
Chana Stiefel
This is such a great list! So diverse. I can’t wait to read them all! Thanks!
December 10, 2015 at 6:45 pm
Carol Jones
Thank you, to Tara and all of the agents!
December 10, 2015 at 6:47 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
Thank you for this great list. I’ve read (and loved) ADA BYRON LOVELACE AND THE THINKING MACHINE, and I’m looking forward to reading the others too!
December 10, 2015 at 6:47 pm
Donna Rossman
What a great list. What awesome books! Shooting for the day an agent says those wonderful things about a book of mine. Wishing everyone good luck on Monday! 🙂
December 10, 2015 at 6:56 pm
Lynette Oxley
Thanks for letting us know what’s on the horizon, Tara!
December 10, 2015 at 7:00 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Tara!!!
December 10, 2015 at 7:46 pm
Juliana Lee
Wow! So many great books to look forward to reading in the next two years!
December 10, 2015 at 7:59 pm
Lotus Ivak
Very insightful. Thanks Tara!
December 10, 2015 at 8:03 pm
skiffer
Hi Tara – thanks for all of the different insights and viewpoints a picture book can take on. Pink is for Blobfish! where did the inspiration come from for this one? And the other thing I found interesting – Baby love Aerospace Engineering! I always worry I am using words outside the scope of a picture book.
Love your blog so darn much!
~sheila
December 10, 2015 at 9:05 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
So fun! Thanks, Tara. I will add these to my list! Happy to see DRAGON here. Such a nice surprise 😀
December 10, 2015 at 9:36 pm
Red said what?
Thank you for the great post and s chance at the grand prize! Happy Holidays-All the best-Jennifer Reinharz
December 10, 2015 at 10:24 pm
aliciaminor
Wow! What a wonderful and exciting list of books to look forward reading to. Thank you agents and Merry Christmas and more exciting books in the year-S to come!
December 10, 2015 at 10:31 pm
melissamiles1
It looks like there are some exciting projects in the works! Thanks for sharing. 😊
December 10, 2015 at 11:11 pm
Lynn A. Davidson
Thanks, Tara, for being one who likes detail and not leaving anything out of this process for us. 🙂 This is important information to have.
December 10, 2015 at 11:46 pm
Sharon Langley
I love the story if Ada Lovelace and as a picture book, it gets such important information in front of girls at an early age. Wow!
December 11, 2015 at 2:32 pm
LaurenKerstein
Fantastic post! Thank you!
December 11, 2015 at 2:59 pm
ELJohnsen
Reblogged this on E.L. Johnsen.
December 11, 2015 at 5:25 pm
Daryl Gottier
So interesting to see what catches an agent’s eye. Thanks!
December 11, 2015 at 6:16 pm
Katie Engen
So nice to get sich specific insight from humans who care about books who also happen to be agents. While not quite as mind-blowing as meeting your kindergarten teacher outside of the classroom (when you’re 5), this post is a step in that direction as well as a really fun way to ‘meet’ everyone.
December 12, 2015 at 1:10 am
LJ Laniewski
Fabulous post!
December 12, 2015 at 9:23 am
Shiela fuller
I love reading about new books coming out and you presented this list is an informative way. Thank you.
December 12, 2015 at 11:35 am
Janet Smart
Thanks for sharing!
December 12, 2015 at 6:33 pm
shirley johnson
Enjoyed this post!
December 13, 2015 at 11:04 am
Barbara Cairns
Thanks, Tara, for sharing this important post. Very helpful.
December 13, 2015 at 2:56 pm
Ingrid Boydston
Got some gift questions answered here, thanks!
December 14, 2015 at 7:34 am
ThisKidReviewsBooks
Great post! 😀
December 14, 2015 at 11:27 am
Kerrie
Ack! These all sound great!
December 14, 2015 at 12:39 pm
Joanne R. Fritz
Such a helpful post. I know some of these books! Now to read the others.
December 15, 2015 at 11:00 pm
Jabeen Chawdhry
Thanks for sharing this post!
December 20, 2015 at 9:35 pm
Mira Reisberg
As always, a fabulous post. Thank you Tara!!