Today we’re excited to bring you Jeanette Jones’ How I Got My Agent story! The key to Jeanette’s success? She knows herself. She knew what would motivate her to get her queries out in a limited amount of time and she knew exactly what she needed in communication with an agent.  She didn’t compromise on those two things and now here she sits with her first book deal! (Spoiler alrert!) Congrats, Jeanette! 

How long had you been writing before seeking an agent, and what made you decide it was time to look for one?
I was probably writing to get published for only about a month or two before I started seeking an agent—I DEFINITELY jumped the gun with work that was not ready! After doing some learning about the industry, getting involved in a great critique group, and building up my file of manuscripts, I decided to take a break from querying. So, basically I went backwards!

About a year and half later though, my critique partners encouraged me to send out one of my best pieces. It was getting closer to the start of the school year (I’m a Kindergarten teacher) and I knew that if I didn’t try, it wouldn’t get done. So I committed to a query-a-day for the last month of summer!

What kind of research did you do before submitting?
I made a spreadsheet of every agent I found that represented picture books. I included their agency, likes/dislikes, method of query. I attended virtual seminars through SCBWI, 12 x 12, and Manuscript Academy. I read a lot of picture books (but that goes along with my day job, haha!).

The dreaded questions: How many queries? How many rejections?
My number wasn’t so bad, probably in 50ish range if I include all the different manuscripts I queried to the same agents.

Was it difficult to find an agent who wanted to represent an author focusing on picture books?
I actually chose my agent because she represents multiple genres. Dawn was just breaking into the picture book industry at the time, and so she was eager to find clients whose work resonated with her, and who had a number of PB manuscripts. I was happy to find someone who was open to an author who hoped to write in different genres as time went on!

Who is your new agent? Tell us about getting the news.
Dawn Dowdle of Blue Ridge Agency. I was sending my “query a day” and Dawn’s query went out on a Sunday, I believe. That evening I got a reply back. My heart did that little flip it does when a notification for an agent came up on my phone; I assumed it would be another rejection. Then I read it, and she was expressing interest! I was SHOCKED. I told my husband and CPs immediately, all of whom were just as thrilled as me.

How did you know your agent was “the one”?
She described herself as “tenacious,” and I saw proof of that in how she built up her own literary agency. She seemed like the kind of agent who would knock on every door and push me to be my best—but also had a kind, cozy vibe to her agency. I loved the balance! Also, she is VERY open and communicates regularly. One of the big things I needed was an agent who was fast with communication, even if it was just to say they received my email and would get back to me in X number of days. That is Dawn. I can always count on her!

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 🙂 )
I love knowing I can get a critique anytime I need one! I have the most fabulous CPs in the world, but we all have day jobs. So, If I’m in between groups, I know 12 x 12 is there with a whole bunch of readers and writers! I also love critiquing other’s work—it just makes me stronger as a writer. Finally, I love the articles and webinars. So much great info right at your fingertips.

Has your writing process changed at all since signing with an agent?
My process is still basically the same. Dawn knows I need to spread the timing on edits out because I like to “forget” what I’ve written and come at it with fresh eyes. The only thing that is changed is which projects are prioritized. When writing, I work first on any pieces that we are getting ready for sub.

What advice would you give to picture book writers looking for agents today?
Have a portfolio of work you believe is marketable, and know why it’s marketable. Research what agents are looking for—they are people with preferences and tastes too. 😉 If you can connect the two in your query letter, you’re more likely to get a second glance (I think! … I’m no agent!)

Do you think your platform (blog, social media) helped you find your agent?
Not really, I am on social media some, but I have too many balls in the air most days to spend a lot of time on it. (ballet and baseball mom, Kindergarten teacher, plus my husband and I like to see each other too, haha!)

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 🙂 )
I want to own a blueberry farm and little country shop! I have no idea how to farm blueberries, but the idea of a little fruit orchard and cute store with “regular” customers is very appealing to me.

What’s up next/what are you working on now?
Dawn just sold my first book (YAY!) so we’ll be working with that editor to get it ready for publication. We just finished another that’s going out on sub this month! I, of course, have all my manuscripts from last year to revise, so I’m cycling through those. 🙂

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