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Laurel Symonds
KT Literary
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About
T. Bidania, Fleur Bradley, Nick Brooks, Christine Calella, Melissa Capriglione, Doug Cenko, Laura Dalesandro, Vera Greentea, Shelli R. Johannes, Sydney Langford, Carolyn Lê
Currently Looking For
I began my publishing career in the editorial department of HarperCollins Children’s Books where I worked with a number of award-winning and bestselling authors. I’ve also worked in the marketing department at a small publishing house, in a library, and as a bookseller at one of the nation’s best independent bookstores. What I love most about being an agent is being the author’s advocate through all the parts of the publication process. I represent picture books through young adult, with a strong emphasis on illustrated works, as well as a handful of projects for the adult market from pre-existing clients. My current manuscript wishlist includes: MG Historical (pre-1970s, especially from underrepresented perspectives in classroom-friendly time periods, such as PRAIRIE LOTUS) Contemporary in the vein of Kelly Yang and Corey Ann Haydu Puzzles/mysteries a la contemporary versions of THE WESTING GAME Retellings of fairytales, folktale, and classic literature Upper MG/Lower YA Highly commercial, low page count series (think early 2000s Princess Diaries, The Babysitter’s Club TV reboot, Never Have I Ever) YA/Crossover Romanantasy or accessible fantasy with royal court or academic settings Historical romcoms (pre-1950s, ideally Regency or Victorian periods) Historical (especially from underrepresented perspectives such as THE DAVENPORTS, A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO VICE AND VIRTUE, and books by Stacey Lee) Upbeat, twisty mysteries (like THE INHERITANCE GAMES) Upbeat paranormal or other genre-blending Contemporary college settings with YA appeal (such as a visiting weekend or summer program or special event) Retellings of fairytales, folktale, and classic literature Graphic Novels Contemporary settings exploring a wide range of themes and perspectives from author-illustrators (no text only projects) Nonfiction for Children and Teens Surprise me with a unique take on a familiar topic! Always: Witches! Boarding Schools! Ballgowns! Princes(ses) in Disguise! Sisters! Pacific Northwest settings and themes! Rarely: Slapstick humor, heavy sci-fi, portal fantasy, time travel, military themes, rhyming texts, or “issue” books * On a personal note, when I’m not reading, I enjoy baking, hiking, and spending time with my dog, Sherlock. Raised in rural New England and having spent a decade in New York City, London, and Chicago, I’m thrilled to have settled in the Pacific Northwest. Fun facts about me:
Submission Guidelines
Currently closed to queries. Guidelines & Details Vital Info @laurelsymonds @laurelsymonds.bsky.social Linkedin Website
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