Alice Sutherland-Hawes

How do you mean? By UK writers or the US influx? I personally have US taste so lean towards it anyway, but I do think UK authors need to be given more space. Though it is tricky when the current big thing is US.

I’m sure there are! You just have to do the research.

MG is the sweet spot at the moment for sure, though it’s becoming quite saturated, but I think there’s a market for the upper end!

Well your vision may not end up being the final package but in terms of approaching agents, it shouldn’t hinder. We’re more concerned with the writing, story, characters and voice, generally.

My communication style depends on my clients. What works for them works for me, and F2F isn’t always possible particularly as I rep a lot of people overseas. Tech has made it all much easier, almost too easy though.

Hmm. I think for me personally, I’d just rather be told another agent has asked for a bit of work on it and you’ll keep me updated. To be honest I’ve not been in that situation so I’m not entirely sure!

I worked as a bookseller, then assistant to an agent, then I got my current job! My route has been surprisingly smooth so I’m not the best example. I don’t think we do run anything at the moment but I’ll check.

I know people who have two agents but I can’t say for sure how common it is. Have you talked to your agent? She might decide to handle your children’s writing. If not, definitely make it clear in your query letter (and I’d love to have a look!).

This varies agent to agent. There’s only been one time I’ve been devastated I read the synopsis first (@kereengetten 👀) so usually I like to know what’s happening.

Erm, bluntly at this point I wouldn’t. I have a couple on my list already and most publishers already have them.

I would love to see more contemporary MG and high concept YA.

Not really. At that point it comes down to the writing. Though I do find “I read this to my class/mum/kid and they loved it” a bit off putting because of course they did.

Whimsical magical MG featuring witches. I feel like I’ve read so many of them.

Not necessarily detailed but it would be good to have an idea of what the plan is.

It’s tricky when you don’t have something to promote, like an upcoming publication. But I think social media is really useful for getting a support group, so it’d be more for you at this stage than anything else.

It’s a taste thing! If I like the artwork or the idea and writing, I’ll contact the creator.

That’s up to you! Personally if an agent requires that then I’d question it. Nobody usually states their characters are straight so why do you need to state if they’re not, is my view.

We only rep dramatisation for our existing books so best to send your books through.

It’s good fun! Client edits that are soon to go on sub are my first priority, then queries with offers and full requests. New projects usually have a long lead time so I aim to get back within four weeks. Queries fit around all that. It’s a balancing act and can go up in flames!

They’re not! They’re for all authors at any stage. I represent two established authors who came through submissions and queried in the same way debuts do.

Depends agent to agent! Personally I like to see someone’s passion, but it’s also important they listen to constructive criticism and thoughts. Don’t get defensive, we are trying to help!