It’s not every day a former 12 x 12 member signs a current 12 x 12 member as a client, but we’re so happy that’s what happened for Sherry Fellores! Sherry signed with Miranda Paul (a charter member of 12 x 12) and we know her career is in the best hands. We wish you both the best in this new partnership. Congrats, Sherry and Miranda!

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

I fell in love with picture books after taking a college-level children’s lit class. I joined SCBWI in 2012 and dabbled in writing a bit. By 2017, I became more serious and took steps to learn the craft. I joined 12 x 12, joined a critique group, attended conferences, and made more kid-lit connections.

Once I had several stories that made many rounds in my critique groups and were polished, I decided to start querying. Before then, I made the mistake of querying too early before my work was truly ready.

What kind of research did you do before submitting?

I did lots of research! I wanted to be represented by someone at a reputable agency who could get my work into all the right places. I spoke with other writers, searched agency websites, checked MSWL, read interviews, and paid attention to what they were selling. I knew I wanted a career agent, so I compiled a list of agents who I thought would be a good fit.

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

I never kept track. It would have stressed me out! LOTS of queries and LOTS of rejections. So many, that I questioned If I would ever find an agent at all. But then I started to get more requests and personalized rejections and I knew I was getting closer.

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

Sometimes it felt like it. The list of agents that were open to submissions or taking author only clients seemed to be dwindling. But I kept doing my research and looking for submission opportunities and I found it wasn’t too difficult.

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

I’m thrilled to say it’s Miranda Paul at Erin Murphy Literary Agency. She gave me the opportunity to work on a revise and resubmit. I took my time because I wanted to get it right. I sent her my revision after MANY months. Later that day, my phone rang in the Target parking lot. It was Miranda telling me she wanted to offer representation. I couldn’t believe it!

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

I’ve always respected and admired Miranda as a writer. She was professional and kind. She had the same passion for my project as I did. I knew beyond a doubt that she was the one I wanted to champion my work.

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 🙂 )

Joining 12 x 12 was a huge pivotal point in my writing career. The connections and friendships that I have made through 12 x 12 are such an important part of my life. I have learned and grown so much in my writing career because of 12 x 12!

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

Yes. I feel that I am a bit more confident on which story ideas are worth pursuing. I’ve also designated specific days to writing so other distractions aren’t getting in the way. I’m more protective of my writing time now.

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

Believe in the stories that you write. Keep a positive mindset, do the work and the right agent will eventually follow.

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

Not really. I credit social media for sharing opportunities though. Miranda was closed to submissions, but I attended a webinar of hers through SCBWI that I found out about on Twitter and it came with a submission opportunity.

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’d love to travel to all 50 US states!

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

I have a book deal that hasn’t been announced yet and another book on submission. I’m working on new stories and revising old ones. I’m also in a newly formed MG group!

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