We’re thrilled today to bring you the “How I Got My Agent” story of Nadia Salomon. Nadia’s put a lot of work into her writing and into 12 x 12 and those efforts are paying off dividends! Congratulations to Nadia on the first of many milestones!
How long had you been writing before seeking an agent, and what made you decide it was time to look for one?
I had been writing for over three years before seeking an agent. I wanted to be traditionally published, even though I also considered working directly with editors. I figured I’d follow a dual track and take the path that presented itself first. I queried and submitted manuscripts to editors I wanted to publish my work and agents I wanted to represent my work. But it wasn’t until I started participating in Twitter pitch parties and receiving faves that I decided to look for an agent. Then #Pitmad happened, an offer of publication presented itself, and everything thereafter compelled me to vie for an agent.
What kind of research did you do before submitting?
I googled “agents looking to represent picture books”. I used Query Tracker, Publisher’s Marketplace, Manuscript Wishlist (MSWL), and the Directory of Literary Agents to see who repped picture book authors. I also googled authors I loved and thought my work was similar to and looked up who repped them.
The dreaded questions: How many queries? How many rejections?
I sent out over 150 queries between six different manuscripts. I received an equal amount of rejections. And even though I’m now agented, I’m still receiving rejections. So, agent or not, rejections are just a part of the journey.
Was it difficult to find an agent who wanted to represent an author focusing on picture books?
Not really.
Who is your new agent? Tell us about getting the news.
My new agent is Ammi-Joan Paquette of Erin Murphy Literary Agency. I am OVER THE MOON to have signed with her. It started with a fave on #Pitmad. Yes. I met my agent twitter pitching. Happy to report it is a ‘real’ avenue to landing an agent. I sent over the requested manuscript within minutes. Moments later she requested more samples of my writing. This lead to a phone interview and then—an offer of representation.
How did you know your agent was “the one”?
We had great energy. The conversation was very easy. She found my writing “irresistible” and “versatile”. She read every single manuscript I had written up to the point of our call and provided comments on each. When she asked how I saw myself debuting and where I saw my ‘career’ in the future, I knew she had my best interest at heart.
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. )
While 12 x 12 didn’t play a role in helping me land my agent, but my official announcement came through 12 x 12. The group continues to be my support system. I have a community that understands my needs as a writer. It offers a forum and FB page with like-minded individuals who are always there for encouragement. 12 x 12 also helps me develop my craft through some great webinars with professionals in the industry and blogposts. And…offers hope by showcasing other 12 x 12ers who found success.
Has your writing process changed at all since signing with an agent?
Yes. I focus more on story structure, the ‘heart’ of my story, lyrical quality, pacing, and page turns. Ammi-Joan is an editorial agent and provides great insight. I’m still struggling with containing new ideas while revising. 12 x 12 and Storystorm with Tara Lazar are helping me find better ways to reign in my creativity.
What advice would you give to picture book writers looking for agents today?
Don’t fall in love with the idea of a ‘dream’ agent. Sometimes, the person you want to represent you may not be the right fit and the universe may have other plans for you. Give every agent you query or who finds you a chance. I really lucked out when Ammi-Joan reached out to me.
Do you think your platform (blog, social media) helped you find your agent?
Yes. I took a leap of faith and participated in every Twitter Pitch contest for picture books I could find—some people thought pitch contests were a farce, a waste of time, and believed nothing could come of it. Well, it worked for me. I found an amazing agent who believes in me, my body of work, and represents it. So, always follow your heart regardless of what anyone says to you. If you don’t put yourself out there, no one will find you. What’s the worst that could happen? Someone saying, “No!” All I can say is continue to be persistent. Keep writing, keep revising, and keep submitting. It only takes one “Yes!”
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. )
A duet with Bono of U2! Hoping @salomon @salomonrunning will create a light-up blue and green running shoe for me. And, visiting Australia and Japan a close third.
What’s up next/what are you working on now?
Now the real work begins. I’m building my author brand, preparing for library and school visits, and supporting my fellow debut writers. I’m also in submission rounds and writing new material.
