Kaitlyn Johnson

Depends what works best for you. Traditional queries work, but so do conferences and pitch contests. Why not utilize all? If you're querying, there's no harm in also entering contests or attending conference one-on-ones. #askagent

Beginning, middle, end, and short bits on how they all link together. It can be dry. It doesn't have to be exciting as long as I am told the main plot points in the book. No subplots/motivations/emotions #askagent

It's kind of a blend of both. I love in the midst of a scene, but that can be action-packed or subtle. It doesn't always have to be explosive. But it should introduce us to the character and the conflict/challenge that propels us into the true plot #askagent

Dependent on agent. If an agent offers you rep, tell them you plan to write other genres/ages and ask if that works with them. If not, they may not be the agent for you #askagent I personally don't mind =]

Definitely dependent on the agent. I always say to check in every 3 months, regardless if they respond or not. I've known some agents to take quite a long time (and we're so sorry!) #askagent

Yay! If I love the story and truly fall into the characters or concept, and I see a lot of potential in the writer's style or vision, I offer an R&R. It's not often. Usually, it's because I loved it but there's too much editing to be done before it's truly ready #askagent

I often tell writers it should be a couple months at least before sending back (dependent on speed/time for writer). If we get it too soon, we worry it was rushed and not truly revised #askagent (2/2)

This means there needs to be a deep edit. Either the storyline is completely revamped, the characters plot/motivations are far more fleshed out, or the setting is much more vivid/reworked. It should definitely be recognizable in your hook, but (1/2) #askagent

There's not a tried and true date, but usually agents close their boxes toward the end of the year so they can catch up. Then, in Jan/Feb, they reopen and a waterfall of queries come in. I'd suggest either then or mid-year, but it really just depends on the agent #askagent

Yes! I would love to see Historical Fantasy in all ages. Something immersive and unique that I can't put down. Preferably not in settings/perspectives already saturating the market ❤️ #askagent

If you have no connection to the agent, it's fine to simply say "I believe my Genre/Age title would be a great fit for your list." However, it's great to mention if you saw them tweet a certain MSWL or if you've followed them on social media, etc. #askagent

I definitely want stories with MCs living with a disability, so send away! lol people can always look at my MSWL or agency profile to see more of what I like #askagent

I say write the book you want to write. Yes, YA Fantasy has a ton in it and is hard to sell, but we still LOVE it and it still does sell. Write the story that is truly what you want it to be #askagent

I would focus on the pitch itself. If the agent loves it and wants to set up a call, then you can fully discuss your intentions with the work #askagent

I think they love them? lol I don't see why that would be a problem or negative at all =] #askagent

Hybrid is wonderful! Most agents I know welcome hybrid authors and are there to help them in their career efforts on both sides #askagent

Always email it to yourself first to double check the formatting. Send when you're happy with it 😄 #askagent

If you have someone attached to the illustration/artwork already, I'd state that. That shouldn't be skipped unless you aren't committed to working with them for the piece #askagent

No, the pitch should be from the author, so third person and in present tense. The query shouldn't reflect a character's voice #askagent

honestly, if the agent doesn't provide feedback, I wouldn't respond asking for more. It's unfortunate, but some don't have time to give more than a form rejection or some simple yet helpful feedback #askagent