Congratulations, Tunisia! After years of loving to write, she got serious about learning the craft and now she’s on her way to picture book success with her new agent! We’re so excited to see what you do next, Tunisia!

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

I feel like I have been writing my entire life. I have always written short stories and poems. About four years ago, I decided to get serious about becoming a published author and started taking classes to learn my craft. During the pandemic, I decided to take the leap to begin querying agents. I had procrastinated long enough and decided to pursue my dream.

What kind of research did you do before submitting?

Google and Query Tracker became my best friends. Once I reviewed the agency websites and the agents, I would input the names of the agents and their info into a spreadsheet. I would also watch interviews and read articles/blogs by or about the agents I was interested in.

The dreaded questions: How many queries?

55 queries

How many rejections?

29 rejections/27 no responses

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

It was a little difficult as most of the agents I researched were looking for author-illustrators. I am not an illustrator by any stretch of the imagination.

Who is your new agent?

I am now represented by Hilary Harwell with KT Literary. I am so excited to be a member of her team.

Tell us about getting the news.

I queried Hilary on March 6 and she requested more of my work on March 9. She reached back out to me at the end of May stating she loved my story and wanted to set up “the call.” I was in my office at work when I read the email. I immediately screamed, then I called my husband. I think “the call” happened the next day. After talking for a few minutes, Hilary offered me representation. I still can’t believe that I have an agent!

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

I read a few interviews Hilary did before I submitted to her. I really knew she was “the one” after talking with her. Once I had the additional conversation with one of her clients, who is also a 12 x 12 member, I was sold. I knew I wanted to work with Hilary.

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 🙂 ) 

The manuscript I submitted was one that I posted to 12 x 12 to be critiqued. I was able to take the feedback I received and improve my manuscript before sending it out to agents. Hilary is a 12 x 12 featured agent which also allowed me to learn more about her.

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

My writing process hasn’t really changed. I still write every morning before I start my day.

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

My advice is to 1. don’t give up; 2. hone your craft; 3. don’t compare yourself to anyone; and 4. have faith that your turn is coming.

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

I don’t think my social media presence helped me find an agent. However, I do believe that being on Twitter helped me connect with agents to see what they were looking for.

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 main bucket list item is to travel to Africa. I would love to visit Ghana, Nigeria, and Tunisia (of course). I also want to visit Japan.

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

I am currently working on revising two other manuscripts.

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