Literary Agent Interview: Estelle Laure Interview and Query Critique Giveaway

 Today I’m thrilled to have agent Estelle Laure here. She’s an agent at Folio Literary Management.

Hi Estelle! Thanks so much for joining us.

About Estelle:

1. Tell us how you became an agent, how long you’ve been one, and what you’ve been doing as an agent.

Thank you for having me! I started as an intern at Folio about thirteen years ago and over time my role has changed and changed again, from intern to associate, to Senior Content Development Editor (which entailed preparing manuscripts for submission), and finally I became an agent this last year, joining forces with Emily van Beek. We work in lock step, searching for new voices and seeking to provide exceptional representation to our existing clients. Therefore, if you are represented by me, you are also represented by her as well as the rest of our team at Folio Jr.

About the Agency:

2. Share a bit about your agency and what it offers to its authors.

Folio Jr., the children’s division of Folio Literary Management, is an established and respected team with a strong support system, a robust foreign, audio, and dramatic rights team, and long-standing relationships within the publishing industry. We are always looking to sharpen our understanding of what editors are hoping for so we can do magical matchmaking for our clients. Publishing is sometimes nearly impossible, and we are experts at strategizing and making the most out of each project, while also providing individually tailored care for all our clients. We aim to do more with less, making sure every single project is exciting and fresh. We strive not only to discover and cultivate the most compelling new voices and the most original and memorable styles of illustration, but also to support our established writers and illustrators as they thrive and develop their careers in the publishing industry.

What She’s Looking For:

3. What age groups do you represent—picture books, MG, and/or YA? What genres do you represent and what are you looking for in submissions for these genres?

I represent all three, but in terms of new clients, I’m particularly on the hunt for middle grade and YA. The first and most important thing in terms of story is that I’m able to connect with the characters on an emotional level. That, coupled with an undeniable plot, is where the magic lies. Genre is less important. I could say I’m not the best for sci-fi or high fantasy, but that’s not true when it’s stellar. I am honestly open to anything, as long as it is excellent. My caveat is that middle grade is tough tough tough right now, but I believe it’s also full of treasure and hope to contribute to it bouncing back.

4.  Is there anything you would be especially excited to seeing in the genres you are interested in?

I’d love to see anything witty but not at the expense of substance. I’d love a middle grade romcom, too. I want voices that reflect the true experience of being young. I’d also love a mystery series, something funny and unexpected…again and always driven by heart and voice. I am a huge fan of high concept, speculative, anything spooky, thrillers, big romance, coming of age, fractured fairy tales, an excellent graphic novel, and voice-driven contemporary YA (a strong frame and/or guiding concept is a must). I always look for a diverse cast with a variety of gender expressions/identities, and anything that throws an unexpected twist my way. I want deeply rendered characters and nothing that feels stock or two dimensional. I’d love to find another Kendare Blake, Jenny Han, Rachael Lippincott, Katherine Rundell…the dream. Overall, I look for a wicked concept, tight execution, and assured writing. If you have all that, please send it my way!

What She Isn’t Looking For:

5. What types of submissions are you not interested in?

I’m not interested in anything so plot driven that the emotional thread takes a back seat, and no depressive, self-harm, boy saves girl, goofy without cleverness, anything that feels recognizably derivative (unless it’s on purpose), and I’m probably not the best choice for straight-up action.

Agent Philosophy:

6. What is your philosophy as an agent both in terms of the authors you want to work with and the books you want to represent?

Because I’m an author as well as an agent, I understand the work that goes into every project. I also understand how much writers have to grapple with and overcome in order to get to a place where they feel ready to approach someone for representation. I not only represent projects, but each individual artist. Once we have made the connection and found that we’re the ideal fit, and once we have done the editorial work, it’s all about creating a gorgeous submission package, thinking of the perfect editorial matches, and then ensuring the very best deal for the client… all thrilling and joyful moments.

Editorial Agent:

7. Are you an editorial agent? If so, what is your process like when you’re working with your authors before submitting to editors?

I am definitely an editorial agent, though it all depends on whether a client has established editorial relationships or not. Supposing they don’t, or that they prefer to work through something before showing it to their editor, the whole team will do as much work for as long as it takes to get any given project into its best possible shape. This usually entails broad notes and line edits as you would expect from an editor.

Our team only goes out with the most polished, compelling stories and it can take some time to get there. When it comes to editorial we are patient, dedicated, and committed.

Query Methods and Submission Guidelines: (Always verify before submitting)

8. How should authors query you and what do you want to see with the query letter?

Please send all queries to elaure@foliolit.com along with the first ten pages of your story.

9.  Do you have any specific dislikes in query letters or the first pages submitted to you?

I don’t need a long letter. Concise is best!

Response Time:

10. What’s your response time to queries and requests for more pages of a manuscript?

I will respond within four weeks.

Self-Published and Small Press Authors:

11.  Are you open to representing authors who have self-published or been published by smaller presses? What advice do you have for them if they want to try to find an agent to represent them?

I’m absolutely open. If the story is special, I’m here for it, and most agents I’ve spoken with feel the same.

Clients:

12. Who are some of the authors you represent?

My shared list with Emily van Beek includes Maria Scrivan, S.D. Upchurch, Adam Rosenbaum, Kacy Ritter, Bonnie Pipkin, Jon-Erik Lappano, and more.

Interviews and Guest Posts:

13. Please share the links to any interviews, guest posts, and podcasts you think would be helpful to writers interested in querying you.

N/a

Links and Contact Info:

14. Please share how writers should contact you to submit a query and your links on the Web.

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/elaure/
elaure@foliolit.com

Additional Advice:

15. Is there any other advice you’d like to share with aspiring authors that we haven’t covered?

My advice is to write like a demon and stay true to the artist creature inside of you so you’re ready when opportunity arises. I think the muse looks well upon on the rigorous dreamers.

Thanks for sharing all your advice, Estelle.

Giveaway Details

Estelle is generously offering a query critique to one lucky winner. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (via the follower gadget, email, or bloglovin’ on the right sidebar) and leave a comment through January 25th. If your email is not on your Google Profile, you must leave it in the comments to enter the contest. If you do not want to enter the contest, that’s okay. Just let me know in the comments.

If you follow me on Twitter or mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. This is an international giveaway.

Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updating? Please leave a comment or email me at natalieiaguirre7@gmail.com

Note: These agent profiles and interviews presently focus on agents who accept children's fiction. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying an agent. The information found here is subject to change.

Upcoming Interviews, Guest Posts, and Blog Hops

Wednesday, January 15th I have an agent spotlight interview with Jon Cobb and a query critique giveaway

Thursday, January 16th I'm participating in the Winter Wishes Giveaway Hop

Monday, January 27th I have an interview with debut author Nicole Hewitt and a giveaway of her MG The Song of Orphan’s Garden

Saturday, February 1st I’m participating in the Heart to Heart Giveaway Hop

Monday, February 3rd I have an interview with Rosanne Parry and a giveaway of her MG A Wolf Called Wander

Wednesday, February 5th I have an interview with Shelly Page and a giveaway of her YA Brewed With Love and my IWSG post

Monday, February 12th I have an interview with Elly Swartz and a giveaway of her MG Same Page

Sunday, February 16th I’m participating in the Wish Big Giveaway Hop

I hope to see you on Wednesday!

AGENT ALERT: SEE WHAT EMILY VAN BEEK IS ACTIVELY SEEKING NOW!

Happy Wednesday Everyone! I want to let you know about a great opportunity to submit to Emily van Beek at Folio Jr. Here is what she has to say about what she is actively looking for right now:

"*I need your help. If you know me, you know I'm not great at taking breaks. I'm ACTIVELY building my list right now. If you have stellar, fun, expansive, bright, fantastical, joyful, adventurous middle grade hiding somewhere, PLEASE query me. Tell your friends! Crow it from the rooftops! I'm standing by with my reading glasses on! The time is now! emily@foliolitmanagement.com* (via email)

You can find out what else Emily is looking for by reading her updated agent spotlight. And help her out by sharing this post on your social media sites. Thanks so much! Emily and I appreciate it.

 Here's what's coming up:

Monday, June 15th I have a guest post by MG and picture book author Elaine Kaye and a giveaway of three of her picture books

Wednesday, June 17th I have an agent spotlight interview with Kristina Perez and a query critique giveaway

Monday, June 22nd I have an interview with author Niki Lenz and a giveaway of her MG humorous contemporary THE STEPMOM SHAKEUP

Wednesday, July 1st I have Chrys Fey here with a guest post and an e-book giveaway of one of her books

Hope to see you on Monday!

AGENT SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW WITH QURESSA ROBINSON AND QUERY CRITIQUE GIVEAWAY

Today I’m thrilled to have agent Quressa Robinson here. She is a literary agent at Nelson Literary Agency.

FYI, I’m taking over the agent spotlights from Casey. I will be providing all the same information we’ve shared in the past in an interview format. In addition, one lucky commenter will win a query critique from the agent being interviewed.

Status: Open to submissions.

Update on 1/14/2022: Quressa is now at Folio Literary Management. Check their website for her submisson guidelines.

Hi­ Quressa! Thanks so much for joining us.

About Quressa:

1. Tell us how you became an agent, how long you’ve been one, and what you’ve been doing as an agent.

I became an agent in 2017. I started off on the editing side of publishing where I spent my first five years in the industry. I made several acquisitions and honed my editorial skills, but the agent bug came a’calling. Since the switch I’ve been building my list, working with my clients on their manuscripts to prepare them for submission, and getting out to several conferences.

About the Agency:

2. Share a bit about your agency and what it offers to its authors.

Nelson Literary Agency was founded in 2002 and is based in the chic/hip urban setting of lower Downtown Denver—otherwise known as Lodo. Embodying a modern philosophy that technology is meant to be used, the Nelson Agency is a living example that a powerhouse agency does not have to be located in New York. But two of our agents--one of which is myself--are based in New York City. We also have and agent based in Chicago.

We are a hands-on agency that strongly believes in taking on clients for their whole career. We provide editorial and marketing guidance as well as aggressive expertise in contract negotiation.

What She’s Looking For:

3. What age groups do you represent—picture books, MG, and/or YA? What genres do you represent and what are you looking for in submissions for these genres?

I represent YA and MG only on the children’s side of things. I also represent adult books. In YA and MG I cover SFF, Contemporary, and Historical. I tend to lean toward character-driven stories with a strong voice. I love WHEN DIMPLE MET RISHI, MERCIFUL CROW, HER ROYAL HIGHNESS,
THE GRACE YEAR, HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROW, THE CRUEL PRINCE series, and TO ALL THE BOYS I’VE LOVED BEFORE. I really am most interested in stories that play with tropes and unique, interesting perspectives that aren’t often seen. I’m particularly interested in #OwnVoices and marginalized authors.

4.  Is there anything you would be especially excited to seeing in the genres you are interested in?

People can check out my #MSWL. But I loooooove witches. Someone give me a witch book a la The Craft/Charmed/Practical Magic. Huge plus if you through in voodoo or other non-western cultural touch points. I want to see more ladies in space and more morally ambiguous female protagonists. I love revenge and murder and fantasy that plays with tropes. You can send a retelling my way, but I’ll want to see it lean dark. Reimaging of folk stories from non-western cultures would be especially amazing.

What She Isn’t Looking For:

5. What types of submissions are you not interested in?

This can be a tough one. I don’t want books about US slavery or the Civil Rights Movement. I’m just ready to see books about the black experience that goes beyond those well-known and well-written about historical moments.

I’m not looking for mysteries/suspense/thrillers. Just not my jam. I’m looking for select non-fiction, but only if you have a robust platform. If you don’t know what platform is, then you aren’t ready to query me. And, to be honest, I tend to seek out the non-fiction projects I’m interested in pursuing.

Agent Philosophy:

6. What is your philosophy as an agent both in terms of the authors you want to work with and the books you want to represent?

I am super ambitious and very, very persistent. I look for those same qualities in my clients. You don’t have to be as ambitious as I am, but I definitely want to work with authors who are in it for the long hall. I also think it’s important to believe in each other. It’s a partnership. I’m putting my faith in them and their putting their faith in me. I’m also a hard worker and am looking for clients who aren’t afraid to push up their sleeves and dig deep to get their work to the next level.

Publishing is also an industry that can be full of rejection. Despite being told “no” over and over again I keep at it. So I’m really looking for clients who don’t know how to give up and have a strong work ethic.

I’m also deeply passionate so that is what I look for in a MS—a book that makes me feel something strongly and deeply. If you get me invested then I am that much more motivated to invest in your work.

I also look for authors who are prolific. Having a well of ideas is essential to have a long career in publishing. When I am considering rep I always ask about projects the author has in the back burner. It’s very common that the book you query to get your agent is typically not the book your agent sells to a publisher. Being prepared to roll with the punches and move onto the next idea is essential.

Editorial Agent:

7. Are you an editorial agent? If so, what is your process like when you’re working with your authors before submitting to editors?

I am absolutely an editorial agent. In the truest sense of the word. This is, afterall, where I started my career in publishing. I love to take a hands on approach with a client’s MS. I tend to do a very thorough first pass developmental edit. This means comments in the margin to address macro and micro issues. I always include a more detailed editorial letter and the option to chat more about next steps via the phone or video chat. If there needs to be another pass we’ll do it.

Query Methods and Submission Guidelines: (Always verify before submitting)

8. How should authors query you and what do you want to see with the query letter?

What I’m looking for and submission guidelines are thoroughly spelled out on the NLA website so I’d suggest authors check that out. In terms of query letter, I love brief and to the point. Get some good comps in there—comps don’t need to be literal. I just need to know who think you’re book will appeal to. Great for fans of X and Y. Or who you think your author peers are—my story is similar to the dark characters in X and the political intrigue of Y.

9.  Do you have any specific dislikes in query letters or the first pages submitted to you?

Spelling my name wrong. Not including comparable titles. I know it’s hard, but this helps so much, and you definitely should be reading in your genre, so while it might feel like a chore it shouldn’t be impossible. I think many authors think too literally about comps.

Response Time:

10. What’s your response time to queries and requests for more pages of a manuscript?

NLA’s policy is to get through queries in three weeks and full manuscripts within two months. Obviously, turnaround can be a smidge longer depending on what might be on our individual plates, but we try to be timely.

Self-Published and Small Press Authors:

11.  Are you open to representing authors who have self-published or been published by smaller presses? What advice do you have for them if they want to try to find an agent to represent them?

Yes, but with caveats for both. Definitely only query with new material. I can’t consider something that has already been published. For authors who have published with a smaller press things can be a bit trickier. Because I have worked for a publisher I know the Big Five pay attention to an author’s track record on Book Scan, so that’s something I have to take into consideration.

12. With all the changes in publishing—self-publishing, hybrid authors, more small publishers—do you see the role of agents changing at all? Why?

Anybody who works in publishing should be adaptable. We shouldn’t be afraid of innovation, but in the grant scheme of things agents will always be an author’s best advocate and will have the ability to advise them on long term career goals and expectations.

Clients:

13. Who are some of the authors you represent?

I represent YA, MG in multiple genres and adult SFF authors. My best known projects are Instant New York Times Bestseller A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown, the critically acclaimed SLAY by Brittney Morris, and Chilling Effect by Valerie Valdes. (Book two in the series, Prime Deceptions, is out this fall.) I have many other clients with projects in the pipeline that I can't announce yet and others working on revisions for projects that will go out on submission soon. You can follow them all on Twitter.

Interviews and Guest Posts:

14. Please share the links to any interviews and guest posts you think would be helpful to writers interested in querying you.

http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/16-agents-share-34-tips-success-studying-market-proper-querying

Links and Contact Info:

15. Please share how writers should contact you to submit a query and your links on the Web.

Here is my agent page: http://nelsonagency.com/quressa-robinson/

Here is our submission guidelines page: http://nelsonagency.com/submission-guidelines/

Here is my #MSWL page: http://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/mswl-post/quressa-robinson/

Make sure to read the guidelines before you query. You can query me at queryquressa@nelsonagency.com.

Thanks for sharing all your advice, Quressa.

­Quressa is generously offering a query critique to one lucky winner. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follower button if you're not a follower) and leave a comment through November 11th.  If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, you must leave it in the comments to enter either contest. If you do not want to enter the contest, that's okay. Just let me know in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. This is an international giveaway.

Profile Details:
Last updated: 5/25/2020.
Agent Contacted for Review? Yes
Last Reviewed By Agent? 6/11/2020.

Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updating? Please leave a comment or e-mail me at natalieiaguirre7@gmail.com

Note: These agent profiles and interviews presently focus on agents who accept children's fiction. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying an agent. The information found here is subject to change. 

AGENT SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW WITH LAUREN SPIELLER and QUERY CRITIQUE GIVEAWAY

Today I’m thrilled to have agent Lauren Spieller here. She is an assistant literary agent at TriadaUS Literary Agency.

Update on 2/12/2023: Lauren is now an agent at Folio Literary Management. 

 

Status: Open to submissions.

Hi¬ Lauren! Thanks so much for joining us.

About Lauren:

1. Tell us how you became an agent, how long you’ve been one, and what you’ve been doing as an agent.

I joined TriadaUS in July 2016, having worked in children’s scouting and as a freelance editor, and it’s been a wonderful first few months! My focus has been on building my client list, so I spend most of my time reading submissions, meeting with editors, and pitching projects! In fact, my first sale was finally announced earlier this month—a YA Fantasy entitled The Weight of Worlds by Laura E. Weymouth, which sold at auction to Harper Teen and has already been picked up by publishers in France and the UK. I’ve wanted to tell the world about Laura’s gorgeous novel since December, so it’s fabulous for both of us to finally get to talk about it!

About the Agency:

2. Share a bit about your agency and what it offers to its authors.

TriadaUS is a close-knit agency lead by Uwe Stender. We support one another’s clients every step of the way, from the moment we first consider a project, through contract negotiations, all the way to publication and beyond. This means clients not only get my full attention, they’re getting the attention of all TriadaUS’ agents. We’re also eager to pursue film and foreign rights, and so we work closely with subagents abroad and in Hollywood. Our clients work hard on their books, so we work hard for our clients!

What She’s Looking For:

3. What age groups do you represent—picture books, MG, and/or YA? What genres do you represent and what are you looking for in submissions for these genres?

I represent all genres of Middle Grade and Young Adult fiction, and select Adult projects (thrillers, non fic w/ a platform, diverse romcom, and SFF). At the end of the day, I’m looking for a strong hook, a killer voice, and a story that can stand the test of time. If your book fits that description, I’d love to see It! For my full wishlist, you can check out the TriadaUS website (www.triadaus.com), ManuscriptWishlist.com, or my tweets tagged with #MSWL!
4. Is there anything you would be especially excited to seeing in the genres you are interested in?

I’d love to find a fun, heartfelt Middle Grade with a touch (or more!) of magic, a YA romcom with a fabulous voice, and upper YA/crossover Fantasy. I’m also always on the hunt for underrepresented voices, so I welcome those projects in absolutely any age category or genre.
What She Isn’t Looking For:

5. What types of submissions are you not interested in?

I’m not a good fit for dystopian fiction right now, not because I don’t enjoy it (I do!), but because it’s very difficult to sell. I’m also not looking for paranormal romance or women's fiction.
Agent Philosophy:

6. What is your philosophy as an agent both in terms of the authors you want to work with and the books you want to represent?

I need to love a book with all my heart, and I want to work with authors who are hardworking, compassionate, and committed to writing the best stories possible.

Editorial Agent:

7. Are you an editorial agent? If so, what is your process like when you’re working with your authors before submitting to editors?

I am, though what that means differs depending on the manuscript. Sometimes that means brainstorming the way to address a specific problem in the manuscript—slow pacing, clunky dialogue, an unbelievable plot point—while other times it means line editing. Ultimately the book belongs to my client, however, so they have the final word on revision.

Query Methods and Submission Guidelines: (Always verify before submitting)

8. How should authors query you and what do you want to see with the query letter?

Please send a query letter and the first ten pages of the manuscript with the word QUERY in the email’s subject line, along with the age category and genre (ex: QUERY YA Fantasy) to lauren@triadaus.com.

9. Do you have any specific dislikes in query letters or the first pages submitted to you?

It’s frustrating when authors don’t include pages, or when they lead with a long explanation for why they wrote the book, or with a lengthy biography. It’s always best to let the book speak for itself. That means telling me why you’re querying me (short and sweet is best), what your book is and how long it is (YA Fantasy? 80k words? Check!), giving me a 1-2 paragraph summary of the premise (not a full synopsis!), and then a quick bio and signature. That’s it!

Response Time:

10. What’s your response time to queries and requests for more pages of a manuscript?

It’s our policy at TriadaUS to respond to queries within two weeks, so I do my best to do just that! Manuscripts take longer, though I try to respond within 2 months.

Self-Published and Small Press Authors:

11. Are you open to representing authors who have self-published or been published by smaller presses? What advice do you have for them if they want to try to find an agent to represent them?

Absolutely, as long as their new work has not yet been published. My advice is to make sure your new manuscript is very strong, and that they have their existing contracts at hand in case the agent has questions about their existing commitments.

12. With all the changes in publishing—self-publishing, hybrid authors, more small publishers—do you see the role of agents changing at all? Why?

I think agents need to wear a lot of hats: editorial, sales, branding—you name it. For me, it all comes together in one package: advocate. I’m going to do my best to provide whatever each individual client needs, be in a bulldog when it comes to contracts, a editor when it comes to revisions, or a cheerleader when it comes to their very first sale. That’s my job, and I love it!

Interviews and Guest Posts:

13. Please share the links to any interviews and guest posts you think would be helpful to writers interested in querying you.

Here’s a sampling:
-Literary Rambles: http://www.literaryrambles.com/2018/09/agent-lauren-spieller-and-laura.html
-Writer’s Digest: http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/lauren-spieller
-Manuscript Wishlist: http://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/mswl-post/lauren-spieller/
-First Five Frenzy: https://chasingthecrazies.wordpress.com/2016/10/28/first-five-frenzy-with-lauren-spieller-of-triada-us-literary-agency/
-Michelle4Laughs’ blog: http://www.michelle4laughs.com/2016/07/query-questions-with-lauren-spieller.html
-Valerie Cole’s blog: http://valeriefm80.blogspot.com/2017/01/agents-like-us-lauren-spieller.html

Update as of 3/4/2022

Writing and Ilustrating: Intro, Part 1, Part 2

Additional Advice:

14. Is there any other advice you’d like to share with aspiring authors that we haven’t covered?

The best advice I can give is to build your writing community. Publishing is a hard business, and we all need someone to rely on, someone to hold our hand when things are tough, and to celebrate when things are going our way. Find your community, and cherish it.

Thanks for sharing all your advice, Lauren.

Lauren is generously offering a query critique to one lucky winner. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follower button if you're not a follower) and leave a comment through May 13th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, you must leave it in the comments to enter either contest. If you do not want to enter the contest, that's okay. Just let me know in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. This is an international giveaway.

Profile Details:
Last updated: 6/2/2020.
Agent Contacted for Review? Yes.
Last Reviewed By Agent? 6/2/2020

Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updating? Please leave a comment or e-mail me at natalieiaguirre7@gmail.com

Note: These agent profiles and interviews presently focus on agents who accept children's fiction. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying an agent. The information found here is subject to change.

Agent Spotlight: Melissa Sarver White

This week's Agent Spotlight features Melissa Sarver White of Folio Literary Management.
Status: Accepting submissions.
About: “What I love most about being an agent is finding new voices that can express something in a fresh way or new subject matter that makes me view the world differently, whether it’s through fiction or non-fiction. One of the most thrilling aspects of my job is the constant exposure to a wide variety of topics; it’s truly thrilling to play a part ushering innovative projects into the world.
"In addition to representing authors, I am the Director of International Rights at Folio and attend all the major international book fairs, keeping my finger on the pulse of what's working in book markets worldwide.” (Link)
About the Agency:
"Folio Literary Management places both fiction and non-fiction with major publishers throughout the U.S. and around the world. We represent many first-time authors, some of whom have gone on to become bestsellers and major award-winners. We also represent many well-established authors, and work closely with them to take their careers to new heights." (Link)
“A division of Folio Literary Management, Folio Jr. is wholly committed to offering our clients impeccable, individually tailored care. We strive not only to discover and cultivate the most compelling new voices and the most original and memorable styles of illustration, but also to indefatigably and strategically support our established writers and illustrators as they thrive and develop their careers in the publishing industry.” (Link)Web Presence:
Folio Literary website.
Folio Jr. website.Folio Literary PM page.
Ms. Sarver White's PM page.
Folio Literary Twitter.
Ms. Sarver’s Twitter.
Pinterest.
AgentQuery
QueryTracker.
What She’s Looking For:
From Her Publisher's Marketplace page:
"YA: contemporary, fantasy, sci-fi, historical, magical realism, thrillers, issue books
I love quirky, humorous writing in contemporary YA, and always looking for something with a strong hook (whether it’s a sweeping sci-fi trilogy, or a contemporary story of friendship and first love). I will always get excited about strong sense of voice and writing that packs an emotional punch, like Sara Zarr’s STORY OF A GIRL. I also enjoy lighter fare like ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS. My YA taste runs much lighter, fun and romancy than adult fiction.

MG and Chapter Books: mainly contemporary stories that have a classic, evergreen feel to them. I’m not the right agent for your animal-narrated or adventure MG.

ADULT: I represent very select adult fiction titles and live for dark, raw voices that make me see the world in a new way. I love to get lost in anything that teaches me about another place and time through the lens of the character. Some of my favorite non-client authors are Michael Chabon, Nicole Krauss, Graham Swift, Margaret Atwood, Barbara Kingsolver, Abraham Verghese, and Tana French.

NON-FICTION: I represent a wide variety of NF and looking for authors with a very strong platform along with a fresh idea and expertise in the area they propose to write a book. I’m actively looking for projects in the following areas:

*Cookbooks and food writing (including food history)
*Memoir (especially those that have a sociological, historical, anthropological or research-based component)
*Business
*Health/Diet/Wellness
*Parenting
*Narrative

The narrative NF and memoir I work on features strong voice and prose that reads like a novel, that aren’t just about the author’s personal story but one that uses that story as a springboard for a larger story about a place or an event that has deeper resonance."From a Blog Post (06/2012):
“She looks for contemporary/realistic fiction, both literary and commercial; mysteries; urban fantasy; magical realism, and issue-based stories. She’s drawn to dark tales with brilliant prose and strong voice as well as quirky stories with a fresh sense of humor, and heartbreaking romances. She especially enjoys multicultural stories and similarly emotional stories with dystopian themes. She also considers Middle Grade fiction and Picture Books.” (Link)
What She Isn’t Looking For:
Poetry, screenplays, stage plays, romance, fantasy, science, biography (Link) (Link)
Editorial Agent?
Yes
Clients:
There are lists of Folio clients on the website.
Ms. Sarver’s clients include: Todd Henry, Jessica Taylor, Kim Culbertson, Tessa Huff, Jessie Sholl, Jennifer Longo, Emily Bliss, among others
Query Methods:
E-mail: Yes.
Snail-Mail: No.  
Online-Form: No.
Submission Guidelines (always verify):
Email a query with the first 10 pages pasted in the email. No attachments. (Link) For up-to-date  information on queries and tips on how to write one, see the “Submissions” tab on the website.
Response Times:
Ms. Sarver White only responds if she's interested. If you have not heard from her in six weeks, consider it a rejection.
What's the Buzz?
Melissa Sarver joined Folio in late 2012 after more than six years with the Elizabeth Kaplan Literary Agency. She is a vice president and has a stable and growing list of authors who seem to love her and sales to such houses/imprints as Random House Children’s, Balzer & Bray, Razorbill, and Sourcebooks.
I recommend following her on Twitter @mjsarver for the latest and greatest.
Worth Your Time:
Interviews and Posts:
Agents Like Us: Melissa Sarver White at Valerie Cole Reads (01/2016)
Interview with Agent Melissa Sarver White at Amy Newman (12/2012)
Interview with Agent Melissa at Echoes of Wayward Mind (07/2012)
Contact:
Please see Folio Literary Management website for contact and query information.
Profile Details:
Last updated: 5/27/2020.
Agent Contacted for Update?
Last Reviewed By Agent? 10/3/12.
***
Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updating? Please leave a comment or e-mail me at natalieiaguirre7(at)gmail(dot)com

Note: These agent profiles presently focus on agents who accept children's and/or teen fiction. They are not interviews. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying an agent. The information found herein is subject to change.

Agent Spotlight: John Cusick

This week's Agent Spotlight features John Cusick of Folio Jr.
Status: Open to submissions.
About:  John Cusick is the Vice President and agent at Folio Jr., a division of Folio Literary.
“I represent a diverse list award winners and New York Times bestsellers. My focus is middle grade and young adult novels, as well as genre fiction (sci-fi, fantasy, thriller, horror) in the YA-adult crossover space and adult sci-fi, fantasy, and horror.
"I graduated Wesleyan University in 2007 with a double major in English and Russian Literature—a degree one professor called “fun but useless.” After working as a freelance writer, bookseller, dog walker, cashier, and radio host, I became a literary agent’s assistant and quickly began building my own list. Around the same time I also became an author; my young adult novels, Girl Parts and Cherry Money Baby, were published by Candlewick Press. My middle-grade, Dimension Why, is coming from Harper Collins in 2020.
"As a writer myself, I bring both a creative and commercial sensibility to my agenting style. I’m an editorial agent who works closely with my clients, whether it’s developing a debut project or helping a seasoned author take that next step. My goal is to match writers with their dream editor, secure the best deals possible, facilitate the exploitation of dramatic (film and TV) rights in my clients’ work, and grow authors’ readership over long careers.
"I am passionate about helping clients achieve their full potential, and I’m looking for dedicated, original, fervent, visionary creators.” (From the agency website)

Update on 2/6/2023

John has had two MG novels come out: DIMENSION WHY (HarperCollins 2020) and DIMENSION WHY 2: REVENGE OF THE SEQUEL (HarperCollins 2021).
About the Agency:
“A division of Folio Literary Management, Folio Jr. is wholly committed to offering our clients impeccable, individually tailored care. We strive not only to discover and cultivate the most compelling new voices and the most original and memorable styles of illustration, but also to indefatigably and strategically support our established writers and illustrators as they thrive and develop their careers in the publishing industry.” (From the agency website)
Web Presence:
Folio Jr. website.
John Cusick’s blog.  
Publisher’s Marketplace page.
Twitter @johnmcusick.
Facebook.
QueryTracker.

Update on 1/23/2023

Manuscript Wishlist

MSWishList
What He’s Looking For:
Genres / Specialties:
"I’m seeking unique voices in middle-grade, young adult, and young adult/adult-crossover fiction. I want stories that move readers, moments that make me look up and say “Wow, yes. I’ve felt that.”
"I want compelling page-turners that create life-long readers, stories that will inspire fandoms, characters readers will cosplay as, obsess over, and never forget. I want #ownvoices stories of all styles and genres, and am particularly interested in sci-fi, fantasy, and genre fiction from under-represented voices. I love the strange, iconoclastic, and unusual. Send me the books kids will sneak / steal / borrow in secret. Those intimate, dangerous, life-saving stories.
"I love proactive protagonists, kids and teens chasing a dream or a hero who swings in with a song in her heart and a knife in her teeth. I am not seeking picture book authors or illustrators, or non-fiction, at this time." (From the agency website)

From an Interview (02/2014):
“I want contemporary realistic y.a. with a twist, something like SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY or OCD LOVE STORY. I’m dying for great middle-grade, either a coming of age like WHEN YOU REACH ME (which is also realistic with a twist), or a truly fresh fantasy like THE PECULIAR. I’m also keen for new author/illustrators.” (Link)
From an Interview (01/2013):
“I’d love to see a middle-grade series for boys set in a truly original fantasy or sci-fi world. I love page-turners, whether they’re adventure or contemporary romance; anything fast-paced is up my street. I like high sci-fi, but I’m especially interested in stories set in our contemporary world with a sci-fi or fantastical twist. Think Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. I love horror and suspense. I’d be interested to read a sprawling, romantic historical. Tolstoy for teens.” (Link)
What He Isn’t Looking For:
Picture books, illustrators, and nonfiction (From Publishers Marketplace)
Editorial Agent?
“I’m a very editorial agent. I like working creatively with my clients, from the idea stage to line-level tweaks. I’m also very communicative. I like chatting with my folks by phone, email, text, whatever. I also hope to pair authors with the perfect editor. When an editor and a client totally hit it off, creatively and personally, I know I’ve done my job. Finally, when I say I want career-clients, that’s another way of saying I like to manage and develop the trajectory of an author’s career, to help build their audience and hone their craft from book to book.” (Link)
Clients:
See the Folio Jr. website to see some of his clients.
Query Methods:
E-mail: Yes (only).
Snail-Mail: No.  
Online-Form: No.
Submission Guidelines (always verify):
“Please send your query along with the first 2500 words of your manuscript to [see website]. Please include the word QUERY in the subject line.”
See the Folio Jr. website for complete, up-to-date submission guidelines.
Query Tips:
See this interview at I Write for Apples for a lot of great info and tips.
Response Times:
“I try to respond to all queries, however if you do not hear from me within thirty days, please consider it a pass.” (Link) 
What's the Buzz?
John Cusick is an established and well-respected literary agent with a strong list of clients and sales. He recently joined Folio Jr. where he will continue to represent authors of children’s and young adult literature.
I recommend following John on Twitter @johnmcusick and subscribing to his blog.
Worth Your Time:
Agent Interviews and Podcasts:

Podcast Interiew at Owltail (08/2022)

Podcast Interview at LitTea (08/2022)

Podcast Interview at A Bookshelf Binge (05/2022)

Podcast Interview at Good Story (10/2020)

Interview at The Darling Axe (06/2020)

How to Write a Query Letter Podcast at Middle Grade Ninja (07/2019)

How Fast Do You Read Podcast at Middle Grade Ninja (07/2019)

What I'm Looking for Podcast at Middle Grade Ninja (07/2019)

Middle Grade Ninja Episode 09: John Cusick (02/2019)

Podcast Interview at The Manscript Academeny (Approximately 2018)
Interview with Literary Agent John Cusick at Justin Colón Books (04/2018)
Interview at Writers Digest (08/2015)

Agent John Cusick of Greenhouse Literary Talks Picture Books at Frolicking Through Cyberspace (07/2014).
Query.Sign.Submit. with John Cusick at I Write for Apples (02/2014).
Interview with John Cusick at Guide to Literary Agents (10/2013).
John Cusick Agent/Author Interview at Kathy Temean’s site (09/2013).
7 Questions For: Literary Agent John Cusick at Middle Grade Ninja (01/2013).
*For a complete list of Mr. Cusick’s agent & author interviews, see this page on his blog.
Selected Blog Posts & Guest Posts:
A Pretty Much Foolproof, Never-Fail, Silver-Bullet Query Opening (07/2015).
Announcement: I’m Joining Folio Literary! (06/2015).
Contact:
Please see the Folio Jr. website for contact and query information.
Profile Details:
Last updated: 1/22/2023

Agent contacted for review? Yes
Last Reviewed By Agent? 2/6/2023
***
Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updated? Please leave a comment or e-mail me at natalieiaguirre7(at)gmail(dot)com
Note: These agent profiles presently focus on agents who accept children's/YA fiction. They are not interviews. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying. The information found herein is subject to change.

Agent Spotlight: Emily van Beek

This week's Agent Spotlight features Emily van Beek of Folio Literary Management.
Status: Open to submissions and actively seeking queries.

About the Agency:
"Folio Jr., the division of Folio Literary Management devoted exclusively to the representation of today’s most stellar children’s book authors and artists, is wholly committed to offering our clients impeccable, individually-tailored care. We strive not only to discover and cultivate the most compelling new voices and the most original and memorable styles of illustration, but also to indefatigably and strategically support our established writers and illustrators as they thrive and develop their careers in the publishing industry. Folio Jr. is proud to offer a full complement of literary services in a changing publishing landscape, and to provide our clients with access to marketing services, website development, and media training that it takes to make each book a success." (Via email)
Web Presence:
Folio Jr. website.
Folio Literary website.
Folio Jr. Twitter.
Publisher’s Marketplace page.
Personal Facebook page.
AgentQuery, QueryTracker.
What She's Looking For:
"*I need your help. If you know me, you know I'm not great at taking breaks. I'm ACTIVELY building my list right now. If you have stellar, fun, expansive, bright, fantastical, joyful, adventurous middle grade hiding somewhere, PLEASE query me. Tell your friends! Crow it from the rooftops! I'm standing by with my reading glasses on! The time is now! emily@foliolitmanagement.com*"

"MIDDLE-GRADE: I’m currently on the look-out for unique and distinctive voices. I’m open to almost anything within this genre and I’m eagerly looking for something new. Please send me your diverse, epic, cinematic, action-packed, adventuresome, mysterious, and fast-paced novels! I always bear in mind that readers in this age group are looking for fun and mischief, to learn something about life, and to escape and romp.

"YOUNG ADULT: I'm eager to find novels that are high concept, diverse, fantasy or magical realism, and am open to anything conceptually unique. In the realm of paranormal, adventure, and dystopian, I'm looking for something entirely unexpected. Give me something bold and fresh with a voice that’s impossible to put aside. I’m probably not the best choice for "message” or hard science-fiction books. What I’m really looking for is the intersection between stellar writing and plot, something that leaves me puffy eyed or laughing out loud. I, like most teenagers, am looking for emotional connection, for drama, for hope. Oh! Something else--I would love, love, LOVE to discover a FUNNY manuscript, a novel to make me LOL as Louise Rennison's ANGUS, THONGS, AND FULL-FRONTAL SNOGGING did.

"PICTURE BOOKS: At this time, I am exclusively interested in AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATORS. I’m especially looking for award-worthy artwork, character-driven series, and work by diverse creators featuring diverse stories.

"Representing an author or artist, whether aspiring or established, is an honor and a commitment I take very seriously. I am passionate about children’s and young adult books. I am passionate about negotiating the best deal possible. I am passionate about working together with our experienced and esteemed subsidiary rights and contracts teams to squeeze as much juice out of a single property as it will yield. I find it incredibly rewarding to work with new voices. I’m also committed to helping established authors and artists continue to grow their careers. I am an “editorial” agent, in that I’ll work through as many drafts over the course of as many years as it takes to polish a manuscript I believe in to a high shine prior to submission. My goal is to build long-term relationships with authors and artists and to help them publish books that will stand the test of time.

"Unfortunately, due to the volume of submissions I receive, I will only reply (within four weeks) if I am interested. I look forward to reading your work and thank you in advance for thinking of me." (Via email)
You can find more about what she's looking for on her Manuscript Wish List.
What She Isn't Looking For:
Picture book texts (although she is interested in author/illustrators). (Via email)
Quotables:
"I am very actively looking to work with debut authors, so aspiring writers should certainly feel free to query me. I love launching careers and having the chance to work with someone from the very beginning." (via e-mail)
Her Advice to Writers:
"It's really important for aspiring writers to do their research when it comes to selecting an agent. It's useful to know about an agent's current roster of clients and the types of projects they feel passionately about (in terms of genre, format, and audience). Are your tastes compatible?" (Link with more!)
Editorial Agent?
"I am an 'editorial' agent, in that I'll work through as many drafts over the course of as many years as it takes to polish a manuscript I believe in to a high shine prior to submission. My goal is to build long-term relationships with authors and to help them publish books that will stand the test of time." (Link)
Clients:
There is a listing  of Ms. van Beek’s clients on the Folio website and her Publishers Marketplace page and in her bio listed above.
Clients include: Kallie George, Adele Griffith, Julie Kao, Lois Lowry, Morgan Matson, Tamara Pierce, among others.
Query Methods:
E-mail: Yes.
Snail-Mail: No.
Online-Form: No..
Submission Guidelines (always verify):
"Please send along your query letter and first ten pages of your manuscript in the body of the email to emily@foliolitmanagement.com. If you'd like to submit a picture book, please attach a PDF of your dummy. Links to online portfolios are always welcome. I would very much like to be able to respond to every query, but unfortunately time doesn’t allow for it. Please be sure to write QUERY in the subject line as this will ensure I do not miss your letter." (Link)Query Tips:
You can read a "submission cheat-sheet" (that addresses common slip-ups) in this interview with Emily van Beek at Cynsations.
Response Times:
Ms. van Beek is unable to respond to all queries due to the volume she receives. If you have not heard from her in four weeks, she is not interested. (Via email)
What's the Buzz?
Emily is a well-respected and talented literary agent with a successful list of clients and sales. She is a partner and heads up the agency’s children’s division, Folio Jr., representing properties for the youngest of children to the oldest of teens. Her clients seem very happy with her representation.
Worth Your Time:
Interviews:
7 Questions with Literary Agent Emily van Beek at Middle Grade Ninja (12/2017)
Interview with Emily van Beek at Cynsations (02/2008).
Contact:
Please see Folio Literary Management website for contact and query information.
Profile Details:
Last updated: 6/5/2020.
Agent Contacted for Review? Yes.
Last Reviewed By Agent? 6/8/2020.
***
Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updating? Please leave a comment or e-mail me at natalieiaguirre7(at)gmail(dot)com

Note: These profiles focus on agents who accept children's and/or teen fiction. They are not interviews. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying an agent. The information found herein is subject to change.