Researching agents and finding opportunities to get her work in front of them — through webinars, workshops, conferences, and PBParty — was Diane’s successful strategy to connect with an agent. Read on to see if this will work for you as well.

Way to go, Diane! Congrats!

How long had you been writing before seeking an agent, and what made you decide it was time to look for one?  

During the pandemic, I retired from teaching and educational administration after 28 years. I started writing kidlit, something I’d always enjoyed but never had time to fully pursue. After about a year and a half, I started querying when the opportunity arose after a webinar, workshop, or conference. But it wasn’t until I’d participated in a couple of mentorships and won SCBWI-NM’s 2023 Enchantment Show competition that I was confident to really begin the process of researching agents and sending my queries.

I set a goal for 2024 to attend as many webinars as I could find that provided a submission opportunity. I started in early January with a general PB webinar offered by SCBWI-Houston, featuring senior literary agent Heather Cashman of Storm Literary Agency. I was proud to be implementing my plan and submitted a manuscript to her. She rejected my story but sent a brief, personal note with specific, actionable feedback.

What kind of research did you do before submitting?

Before I signed up for Heather’s webinar, I reviewed her MSWL. From that time on, even though she passed on my work, I kept her on my radar. I was lucky to find interviews with her online and to find the weekly podcast created by Way-Word Writers, a support group for writers that she’s a part of.  All of these resources gave me great insight into what she was seeking. I also looked into recent books published by her clients, and several aligned with my interests and philosophies.

The dreaded questions: How many queries?  How many rejections?

I had sent out 58 queries and received 3 requests to see additional work. Interestingly, when I counted up my submissions, I was 58 years old. I’m not superstitious but felt good about that alignment in my universe.

Was it difficult to find an agent who wanted to represent an author focusing on picture books? 

No, I had narrowed my search to those agents who rep both PB and MG because I am currently writing in both genres.

Who is your new agent? Tell us about getting the news.

My agent is Heather Cashman of Storm Literary. After the rejection in early 2024, I revised my manuscript, and it became a 2024 PBParty finalist. When Heather “liked” my story at that point, I queried her again. She requested more of my work. When I received an offer of a book deal, I knew (from the Way-Word Writers podcast “Episode 12: Book Deal + No Agent = NOW WHAT?!”) how to address that with notification on QM. Things fell nicely into place from there.

How did you know your agent was “the one”?

I learned from her MSWL page that she lives full time in an RV and enjoys hiking and biking. That provided me with good insight. Then when I heard her mention and discuss her philosophies–about writing, of course, but also about life– in interviews, the podcast, and the webinar I attended, I felt we had much in common. For example, at Storm Literary, she is the senior lit agent, a mentor for her colleagues. After years in education, working with students and mentoring and supervising other teachers, I understand what that means; I know what kind of person takes on that role and that is the kind of person I want to work with. 

I also quickly learned that she is very receptive to questions. I really appreciate that attribute as I enter a field in which I still have so much to learn. It brings me peace of mind to be able to clarify questions and ensure I am on track with my understanding. 

Finally, when she used the words empowering and uplifting to talk about my work, I knew she understood what I was trying to achieve through my writing.

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 🙂 )

12 x 12 has helped and continues to help me build my understanding of my own personal writing process and all that entails, as well as providing me with opportunities and resources to expand my understanding of the bigger writing and publishing worlds. I have found a great critique group through the forum and have received incredible Ninja critiques from two of my writing heroes. Now, I see that 12 x 12 has much more to offer me as I move forward in my writing and publishing journey.

Has your writing process changed at all since signing with an agent?

My revision process has become much more focused and strategic. In writing new pieces, I have become more of a plotter and planner as I anticipate the questions and comments my critique partners and my agent will have.

What advice would you give to picture book writers looking for agents today?

Take time to explore many possibilities. I kept a spreadsheet (which really turned into a big list, but since it was contained in one document I could search when I wanted to refer back to a name or a topic). Don’t wait for one dream agent but consider each one as to what they have to offer you. Then go for it. Try not to get discouraged when that opportunity doesn’t pan out. Be ready to go for the next opportunity. When you have little successes, lean into them and keep your passion for writing and storytelling at the forefront.

Do you think your platform (blog, social media) helped you find your agent?

Social media increased the size of my writing community many, many times over. I began to recognize and connect with other writers, agents, publishers, and more! Social media heightened my awareness of support networks and ultimately enabled me to discover great organizations like 12 x 12, Picture Book Summit, PBParty, Way-Word Writers, and so many other amazing resources.

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 🙂 )

My current bucket list is strongly tied to my (fingers-crossed) publishing journey ahead. I’m excited to experience each step in the publishing process — from meeting my editor to discussing illustrator possibilities to unboxing and holding my book in my hands to sharing my book and the story behind it with others.

What’s up next/what are you working on now?

I have several PB manuscripts in progress and lists of ideas for the future. I’d also like to explore writing chapter books and middle grade. While brainstorming and drafting, I’ll be thrilled to keep working with the greatest critique groups I can imagine!