For those you wondering if you can find an agent AFTER you retire from your day job, Dee Knabb is here to say, “Yes, you can!” Of course, Dee is also here to tell you to focus on your craft, keep honing your skills, and don’t let 100 rejections keep you from following your writing dreams. Congratulations, Dee! We can’t wait to see your books on our bookshelves!
How long had you been writing before seeking an agent, and what made you decide it was time to look for one?
I’ve always been a reader but first imagined writing a picture book when I read them to my own children. As an elementary school teacher, I loved teaching kids to read and seeing them hooked on books. Still, I didn’t write regularly because family and job came first. After retiring, I got serious and joined SCBWI. I found critique groups, online learning, social media networks, mentor texts and more. I realized I had to learn craft and joined the online family of 12 x 12. Toward the end of 2015, I queried a few times. Too early! The responses were form passes or crickets, zip, nada. I stopped querying and plunged back into craft. Before querying again, I developed my targeted agent list, tried to improve my writing and waited for the right manuscript. During the pandemic, I started to get positive rejections with feedback and even requests for more work. It was time to look for an agent…again.
What kind of research did you do before submitting?
I compiled a database of 20-30 agents who represented work like mine, improved my log of submissions/responses, read interviews, followed agents on Twitter, took their workshops with submission opportunities, researched sales records and the agency’s. I purchased professional critiques to help me decide which manuscript was strong enough to submit. I learned agents’ preferences, communication styles, and submission guidelines. One manuscript always seemed to get a good response so I wrote new nonfiction/informational fiction to send if an agent requested more.
The dreaded questions: How many queries?
My early records weren’t so great. At least 100, maybe more. I queried some agents several times. How many rejections? About 50 no response, 30 form letters, 20 personalized with reasons, 6 requested more work but ultimately passed.
Was it difficult to find an agent who wanted to represent an author focusing on picture books?
They’re out there, but yes, read their guidelines carefully.
Who is your new agent?
Joyce Sweeney
Tell us about getting the news.
I’d heard Joyce say that she sets up zoom meetings for “the call”. She loved the NF manuscript I’d queried her with and requested more work. I’d been down that road before without success so I hoped my new manuscripts would appeal to her. After a bit, we connected. That’s when I heard the magic words, “Let’s chat on Zoom.” Would the call be a request for an R&R or a conversation about the work not being ready yet? I wasn’t sure but my fingers were crossed for an offer of representation.
How did you know your agent was “the one”?
I’ve known Joyce as a writing coach, published author, and poet. I took her classes, purchased critiques, and knew she had phenomenal knowledge. Plus, her editorial skills and communication style were a great fit. She loved my STEM manuscripts and that was the clincher.
If 12 x 12 helped you in any way during your agent search/development of craft, can you tell us how? (P.S. It is TOTALLY okay if the answer is no. I am not trying to “lead” you 🙂 )
Of course. I’m so grateful for 12 x 12. This community welcomes new and experienced writers, answers questions, offers manuscript feedback, and delves into craft. I have a fantastic critique group I found through 12×12. I learned and practiced submission strategies as a Gold Member. Although I didn’t get my agent that way, I created submission packages. I made connections. The monthly webinars added to my writer’s toolbox. The Forum and FB connected me to other writers and shared publishing insights.
Has your writing process changed at all since signing with an agent?
Yes, I’m learning to slow down, take time to evaluate each new concept more thoroughly. For years, I was pumping out manuscripts right and left, looking for my “voice”. Now, I nurture an idea, search for mentor texts and comps, read all the titles I can on the subject, and check out what’s already in the market. I spend time with prewriting activities, brainstorming, word banks, and research before writing a first draft and pitch. I share more polished work with CPs. Not early drafts but something further along.
What advice would you give to picture book writers looking for agents today?
Make sure your work is fresh and know where it fits in the market. Mine your rejections for what did and didn’t work in the manuscripts. If agents reply at all, celebrate. That’s a win. Give yourself a pat on the back. Find webinars/classes/conferences with submission opportunities, especially live chats. Conversations with agents are invaluable. Ask those burning questions. Best of all, these opportunities give you confidence when speaking with publishing professionals. Don’t give up.
Do you think your platform (blog, social media) helped you find your agent?
I’m not sure, since I already knew Joyce but social media is important in this business.
Tell us something that is on your “bucket list.” Something you’ve dreamed of doing all your life but have yet to accomplish (besides publishing a book, which is inevitable at this point 🙂 )
Writing for children was the first thing on my bucket list. Everyday I appreciate that I have time, support, and writer friends to do what I love. I’ve always doodled and sketched. I’d love to illustrate and write.
What’s up next/what are you working on now?
One manuscript is on submission and I’m working on more STEM picture books, chapter books, poetry, and finishing a middle grade novel. It’s all good.
Ready to be part of a writing community and see your writing improve? We’d love for YOU to join us in 12 x 12! Registration is going on now! Click here!
28 Responses
Dee, so awesome! Thanks for the truly excellent advice!
Thanks, Claire. We’re all in this together. Wishing you success, too.
I knew it was just a matter of time before someone swooped up Dee. Her writing is exceptional and I can’t wait to hold one of her new books in my hands! Yay!
Thanks, dear friend. I’m feeling the same about your work. There’s so much gold to choose from in your PB portfolio .
Dee,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experiences and insights. I so relate to the joy of teaching children to read and getting them hooked on books and authors. You have affirmed so much of my process already in motion. Need to tackle the target agent list next. Best wishes in your submissions. Question: How did you determine when and who regarding the purchase of professional critiques? Again, continued thanks. Karen Olmstead
Thanks, Karen. Your question seeking a professional critique is a great one. I queried way too early but after putting more time into improving my skills and with encouragement from Cps, I decided to get a professional critique from someone in the industry I admired. It was well worth it. Published authors know the industry and how to elevate a manuscript from good to great. My Cps and professionals really helped get my best ms in better shape. Then, I felt ready to query again. Wishing you much success.
HUGE congrats, Dee!! May you and Joyce have a long and fruitful partnership!
Aww, thanks, Teresa. I read and reread your books to learn from a master. Wishing you continued success.
Dee,
Thank you for sharing your journey to get an agent. It truly inspired me to continue to pursue my dream to write for children. I too am a retired teacher who loved and still loges teaching children to read. I see the value of reading aloud picture books to children as well as adults. I look forward to reading aloud your books one day.
Hi, Brenda. I know exactly how you feel. There’s a shiver of excitement every time a child got thrilled with a book. I hope get inspiration from your days as a teacher. Wishing you success.
Thank you, Dee, for sharing your success story, highlighting many of your steps and preparation along this journey. For each of us reinventing ourself after retiring, it is good to be reminded that this industry is age blind. Doing your research, studying craft, and writing a unique memorable picture book have to be at the top of the agent search to do list. I look forward to reading one of your books.
Hi, Deloris,
It was humbling after a long career to realize how little I knew about writing for children. Boy, did I have a lot to learn but it’s been fun and I realize you never do stop learning. Wishing you much success on your journey.
Congrats Dee! Thank you for your wise counsel!
Hi, Lynn.
Thanks for your comment. I realize every day how much there is to learn. But that’s a fun part of the journey. Wishing you much success.
Thanks, Dee! You give hope to those of us who have retired and ventured into PB writing.
Hi, Diane,
It’s never too late. I am younger than Grandma Moses was when she took up painting. So, there’s hope for all of on the journey to publication. Wishing you much success.
Thank you Dee. I’m also a retired teacher. The process of improving craft, including illustration for me, is somewhat daunting, but also very rewarding. Congratulations on signing with your agent and good luck with submissions.
Hi, Marcia,
Never give up. I didn’t realize it would take so long and be so challenging but I’ve found I love the process. I need challenges. Writing keeps me thinking, dreaming, and planning. Wishing you much success!
This gives me hope! Congratulations!
Hi, Ashley,
Yes, there’s always hope. You never know when your turn will come. If you love it, pursue it. The journey is worthwhile. Wishing you much success.
Hi, Ashley,
Yes, there’s always hope. You never know when your turn will come. If you love it, pursue it. The journey is worthwhile. Wishing you success on the way.
Congratulations on obtaining an agent! I took one PB class with Joyce Sweeney; it was very useful. Thanks for this informative and encouraging post.
Hi, Hanna.
Classes are wonderful and there are so many out there. If you love writing for kids, keep at it. Your hard work will be worth it. Wishing you a successful journey.
Congratulations Dee! Thank you for sharing in detail the steps you took. This encouragement is so valuable to new writers!
Hi, Tracy,
Oh yes, we all need it. I hope you have wonderful critique partners. They are lifesavers. The whole kidlit community, 12×12, and other groups are so supportive too. Keep writing. Don’t give up. Wishing you success in your writing life.
So wonderful to read, Dee! Congratulations and thanks for sharing 😀
Dee,
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. Joyce is on my agent wish list! As a fellow elementary school teacher/mom, your struggle to find time to write really resonated with me. The pandemic was the final push to re-evaluate my priorities and take the time off to see if I’m any good at this! I find it so encouraging that you found critique partners here. I can’t wait to do the same!
Wonderful news! Thanks for sharing with us! Best wishes. 🙂