Holiday Wishes and Wish Lists from the TBA Agents!

We’ve had a fantastic 2016 here at TBA, and are all very much looking forward to 2017. January is always an exciting time to dive into our submissions inbox and look for that gem that we'll be talking about all year. So, with this in mind, we’ve compiled a wishlist for all the TBA agents, so if you have anything that matches this check out our submission guidelines and send over. We can't wait to read!


Jenny Bent:

• Twisty, creepy, bone-chilling suspense with a female protagonist for an adult or YA audience 
• Quirky, unusual, interesting YA—crazy twists like those in SUICIDE NOTES FROM BEAUTIFUL GIRLS and KILLER INSTINCT, wildly visual worlds like the ones in CARAVAL and SPLINTERED, or outrageously funny like KILL THE BOY BAND
• Emotional book club fiction with a strong hook and/or evocative setting like THE LIFE LIST or GHOST BRIDE or the forthcoming LIGHTKEEPER’S DAUGHTERS by Jean Pendziwol
• Magical MG with a instant classic feel

Gemma Cooper: (Gemma will be opening to submissions on 3rd January)

• Looking for diverse voices, illustrators and stories across my list, but particularly for chapter books and MG. #ownvoices 
• YA or MG with a unique way of telling your story - nonlinear narrative, novels in verse, multi POV’s, letters, illustrated novels, or something else really creative! Be different. Surprise me
• I'm really looking for YA right now and am open to anything but dystopian and angels. Send me your swoony romance, your teen X-Files, your epic fantasy, your re-invented Buffy, your ghosts and anything you can comp to a movie starring Christian Slater. I would go nuts over a voice driven YA with an end of the world feeling romance
• I’d love a new MG epic fantasy, or a MG with a splash of magical realism. If your MG has a strong voice in any genre, I want to read it
• And to be a little specific, can someone send me a MG or YA set during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair? Ideally a mystery

Beth Phelan: (Beth will be opening to submissions on 3rd January)

• Queer POC in MG and YA contemporary, something bright and funny and happy and hopeful. Especially if told in a groundbreaking new way, experimental — I want different storytelling structures and #ownvoices
• Lyrical fantasy in MG and YA that feels cinematic, visual, lush
• Stirring suspense, hair-raising thrillers, with plenty of family secrets and dark histories, #ownvoices

Susan Hawk:

• I’m looking for diverse voices and authors, in just about any category or genre: picture book, chapter book, middle-grade, young adult; contemporary, mystery, sci-fi, fantasy, etc.  I’m drawn to heartfelt books rich with emotion and humor, and unique points of view
• I love MG and YA fantasy!  I want to fall in love with your main character, be completely immersed in a world that's surprising and original, and on the edge of my seat, wondering what-will-happen next -- give me high stakes and sneaky twists
• Epistolary novels; a novel-within-a-novel; a journal format; secret letters; found documents – I’d love to see a story for MG or YA readers that centers around these kind of elements
• Calling author-illustrators!  I'm a big fan of Molly Idle, Carson Ellis, Barbara McClintock, Marla Frazee, Christian Robinson, and Sergio Ruzzier.  If your work is as fresh, original and thoughtful as these, please be in touch

Molly Ker Hawn:

• Elegant, emotional literary fiction for young adults like THE SMELL OF OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES
• #ownvoices projects for middle-grade and YA readers that invite the reader to get to know a culture or community with which they might not be familiar
• Fast-paced, highly imaginative YA fantasy like REBEL OF THE SANDS 
• YA or MG contemporary fiction that explores sexism in a realistic and relatable way
• Super-smart, super-romantic, feel-good YA fiction like SEVEN DAYS OF YOU 

Louise Fury:

• Heavily illustrated MG or YA graphic novels
• A YA that involves a labyrinth, especially one that includes a mystery or pushes the boundaries of realistic contemporary
• Anything funny, short and uplifting
• A cookbook with a big hook/idea
• Interesting, fun and of-the-moment pop culture and non-fiction projects! 

Heather Flaherty:

• Always always want epic-yet-relatable YA fantasy, with beautiful and sometimes dark worlds, unlikely heroines, and civil unrest. 
• Would love a sibling/family story in contemporary YA, a la I’ll GIVE YOU THE SUN by Jandy Nelson, or a mother-daughter Gilmore Girls-esque story, maybe with a STEM angle!
• Commercial women’s fiction, with strong females in interesting and thought-provoking situations. Females in male roles, females choosing themselves, females making change. Both period and contemporary
• I’d love to find the next GIRL ON THE TRAIN, that isn’t GIRL ON THE TRAIN or anything close to it plot-wise. I want the feeling that book evokes: something creepy, and page-turning, and twisty, and sexy, and disturbing, and… 
• Quirky, funny, heartbreaking, wonderful non-fiction for people who don’t read lots of non-fiction. Pop-culture, humor, Lifestyle, industry-books-for-people-who-don’t-read-industry-books (like Alison Green’s ASK A MANAGER website), heartbreaking books that make you feel less alone (like Emily Trunko’s DEAR MY BLANK and LAST MESSAGE RECEIVED)

Victoria Cappello:

• I’m really looking for of-the-moment literary fiction that engages with important contemporary geopolitical events like the Syrian civil war, for instance, or Cuba in the aftermath of the embargo lift
• I love suspense and mystery novels of all stripes—psychological, super creepy, procedural, etc.
• I’m also always in the market for lyrical and atmospheric historical fiction that’s set in the 20th century

Happy Holidays! 

CLOSED -- Adult Fiction Interns needed!

We have intern positions open for an adult fiction reader.  To become an intern reader for the Bent Agency, you do not need to have any kind of publishing experience, but you should love to read and be familiar with all sorts of fiction in these categories.  In particular, it’s helpful to be familiar with the books on the New York Times bestseller list. 

We’re looking for someone who enjoys books by authors such as:

- Erin Morgenstern

- Tana French

- Eleanor Brown

- Jacqueline Sheehan

- Jodi Picoult

- Gillian Flynn

- Lori Roy

- Laurie Notaro

- Celia Rivenbark

- Elin Hilderbrand

- Kristin Hannah

- Jeannette Walls

- Kate Atkinson

This is an eclectic list, so obviously you don't need to like everyone on it. But basically, you should like at least two of the following genres: humor, memoir, upmarket women's fiction and literary suspense. 

You do not need to live in New York since this is a remote internship. We do ask for a ten-hours-a-week commitment. Please note that it is unpaid. 

The internship is a great way to learn more about an agent’s work and decision-making process. Past interns have been writers for children, children’s librarians, elementary school teachers, MFA students, and passionate readers.

The agency runs a monthly educational chat for all of our interns, led by a different agent/on a different topic each time. (Past and upcoming topics include: How publishers create marketing plans, Do we need literary agents anymore?, Digital and social publishing, Literary scouts: What do they do? What are the entry-level jobs in publishing? -- we try to make them as useful as we can.) These are optional, and the days/times vary because all the interns have different 'day job' schedules.

Interested?

1. Send an email to intern@thebentagency.com and put “Adult Fiction intern” in the subject line. 

2. Tell us why you want the internship and something about yourself, or include a resume if you have one (although it's not necessary). 

3. Include two lists: the last ten adult fiction books you've read and your top ten favorite adult fiction books of all time.

If you've applied in the past, you're welcome to apply again. We usually get a great many applicants and the application period will close fairly quickly; watch this space for details! 

UPDATE on January 26th: Applications for this internship are now closed. Thank you so much to all who applied, I'll answer you shortly! -- John

Subsidiary Rights Deal Announcements

Congratulations to the following TBA clients on their subsidiary rights deals! 

Meira Drazin’s HONEY AND ME sold in Israel to Miskal. 

Jessica Townsend’s NEVERMOOR trilogy sold in Finland to Otava in a pre-empt, in the Netherlands to Luitingh-Sijthoff in a pre-empt, in Hungary to Kolibri Kiadó in a pre-empt, in Israel to Kinneret in a pre-empt, in France to Pocket Jeunesse in a pre-empt, in Spain to Planeta in a pre-empt, in Turkey to Domingo in a pre-empt, in Denmark to Gyldendal in a pre-empt, in Brazil to Rocco at auction, in Poland to Media Rodzina in a pre-empt, in Norway to Vigmostad & Björke at auction, in Italy to Il Castoro at auction, in China to Citic in a pre-empt, in Greece to Psichogios, in Sweden to Semic at auction, in Bosnia to BTC Sahinpasic, in Romania to Nemira at auction, in Germany to Dressler at auction, in Taiwan to Sharp Point, in Serbia to Urban Reads at auction, in Bulgaria to Bard at auction, in Indonesia to Noura, and in Russia to Robins at auction.

Emily Trunko’s DEAR MY BLANK sold in Finland to Otava and in Brazil to Companhia das Letras.

Emily Trunko’s LAST MESSAGE RECEIVED sold in Brazil to Companhia das Letras.

Sherri Smith’s FOLLOW ME DOWN sold in Poland to HarperCollins Polska and in Estonia to Paikese Kirjastus.

A.G. Howard’s UNTAMED sold in Brazil to Novo Conceito and in Italy to Newton Compton.

A.G. Howard’s SPLINTERED sold in Serbia to Publik Praktikum.

Lori Nelson Spielman’s THE LIFE LIST sold in Finland to Otava.

Lynsay Sands’ FALLING FOR THE HIGHLANDER sold in Japan to Futami Shobo.

Stephanie Garber’s CARAVAL sold in Slovakia to Egmont and in Ukraine to Krajina Mriy.

The first two books in Geneva Lee’s Royals Saga sold in Turkey to Pay Kitap and books one, two and three sold in Bulgaria to Egmont.

Angie Thomas’ THE HATE U GIVE sold in Serbia to Urban reads and in Bosnia to BTC Sahinpasic.

Jonathan Janz’ CHILDREN OF THE DARK sold in Germany to Voodoo Press.

Robin Stevens’ MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE & ARSENIC FOR TEA sold in Japan.

R.M. Romero’s THE DOLLMAKER OF KRAKOW sold in Hungary to Maxim.

Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock’s THE SMELL OF OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES sold in Poland to Jaguar.

Francesca Zappia’s ELIZA AND HER MONSTERS sold in the Netherlands to Leopold in a pre-empt.

Liz Maverick’s WHAT A GIRL WANTS & ADVENTURES OF AN ICE PRINCESS sold in Germany to Rowohlt.

Becky Albertall’s SIMON VS. THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA sold in Serbia to Urban Reads.

Tilli Schulze and Lorna Collier’s MY THOUGHTS ARE FREE sold in Germany to Aufbau.

Jacqueline Sheehan’s THE TIGER IN THE HOUSE sold in Germany to Aufbau.

L.H. Cosway’s Hearts Series (Books 1 - 3) sold in Germany to Lyx.

Aditi Khorana’s THE LIBRARY OF FATES sold in Germany to Dressler and in Turkey to Pegasus.

Lori Wilde’s THE CHRISTMAS COOKIE COLLECTION sold in Germany to Weltbild.

TBA Monthly Wishlist - Dec 2016

It's time again for the Monthly Wishlist! Here's the project that each TBA agent would love to see in their submission inbox. If you have something that fits with the below, please check out our submission guidelines and send it over. We can't wait to read!

Right now I’m feeling dark dark dark, twisted, magical, mystical, eerie, scary, wonderful, heart fluttery - pull me somewhere that both freaks me out and makes me want to stay - Heather Flaherty 

Send me your literary fantasy-horror in the vein of Peadar O’Guilin’s THE CALL — exquisitely written, exquisitely tense - Molly Ker Hawn

My decorations are up, and my desk is overloaded with tinsel - yes, Christmas is my favourite time of the year and I embrace it in a big way! So send me your feel good festive YA or wintery MG adventure - Gemma Cooper**

High concept, emotional MG or YA set in this world, with a fantastic/magical realism element. Think David Levithan’s EVERYDAY or BEFORE I FALL by Lauren Oliver. Definitely want romance (for YA), but other elements too: this could be a friendship or sibling story, or mother-daughter relationships, etc. - Susan Hawk

Send me your ghosts & goblins, your witches & werewolves, your bogeymen, and—yes—even your vampires. Scare me. - Brooks Sherman**

I am hungry for edgy coming-of-age novels, women’s fiction with a great hook, and female-driven, smart suspense that is creepy and atmospheric—especially written by and featuring a marginalized person. - Beth Phelan**


**Gemma, Brooks and Beth are currently closed to queries, but if you have something that matches their wishlists, please send and add #TBAwishlist to your subject header.

TBA Monthly Wishlist - Nov 2016

It's time again for the Monthly Wishlist! Here's the project that each TBA agent would love to see in their submission inbox. If you have something that fits with the below, please check out our submission guidelines and send it over. We can't wait to read!


A fun YA romance that still has a hooky concept. I want to read about first love and romance; lots of kisses an added bonus. Think LOVE & GELATO, or LOVE, LIES & LEMON PIES - Gemma Cooper**

High concept, emotional MG or YA set in this world, with a fantastic/magical realism element.  Think David Levithan’s EVERYDAY or BEFORE I FALL by Lauren Oliver. Definitely want romance (for YA), but other elements too: this could be a friendship or sibling story, or mother-daughter relationships, etc. - Susan Hawk

I’m particularly looking for Middle Eastern narratives right now. I’d love a literary novel that focused on either the Kurdish people or perhaps the current migrant crisis. - Victoria Cappello

Realistic contemporary YA that tackles issues of gender bias with humor and insight, in the vein of THE DISREPUTABLE HISTORY OF FRANKIE-LANDAU BANKS. - Molly Ker Hawn

Fresh epic YA Fantasy set in a world I can feel on my skin, a nation whose plight I would fight for, and an underdog protagonist that I would give my life to help. - Heather Flaherty 

Halloween Edition: Send me your ghosts & goblins, your witches & werewolves, your bogeymen, and—yes—even your vampires. Scare me. - Brooks Sherman**

I am hungry for edgy coming-of-age novels, women’s fiction with a great hook, and female-driven, smart suspense that is creepy and atmospheric—especially written by and featuring a marginalized person. - Beth Phelan**


**Gemma, Brooks and Beth are currently closed to queries, but if you have something that matches their wishlists, please send and add #TBAwishlist to your subject header.

CLOSED -- Generalist Interns needed!

We are looking for intern readers for generalist fiction. You do not need to have any kind of publishing experience, but we’re looking for someone who enjoys books by authors such as:

- Erin Morgenstern

- Tana French

- Eleanor Brown

- Jacqueline Sheehan

- Jodi Picoult

- Gillian Flynn

- Lori Roy

- Laurie Notaro

- Celia Rivenbark

- Elin Hilderbrand

- Kristin Hannah

- Jeannette Walls

- Kate Atkinson

This is an eclectic list, so obviously you don't need to like everyone on it. But basically, you should like at least two of the following genres: humor, memoir, upmarket women's fiction and literary suspense. 

You do not need to live in New York—this is a remote internship. We ask for a ten-hours-a-week commitment. Please note that it is unpaid. 

The internship is a great way to learn more about an agent’s work and decision-making process. Past interns have been writers for children, children’s librarians, elementary school teachers, MFA students, and passionate readers.

The agency runs a monthly educational chat for all of our interns, led by a different agent/on a different topic each time. (Past and upcoming topics include: How publishers create marketing plans, Do we need literary agents anymore?, Digital and social publishing, Literary scouts: What do they do? What are the entry-level jobs in publishing? -- we try to make them as useful as we can.) These are optional, and the days/times vary because all the interns have different 'day job' schedules.

Interested?

1. Send an email to intern@thebentagency.com and put “Generalist intern” in the subject line.

2. Tell us why you want the internship and something about yourself, or include a resume if you have one (although it's not necessary). 

3. Include two lists: the last ten books you've read and your top ten favorite books of all time.

If you've applied in the past, you're welcome to apply again. We usually get a great many applicants and the application period will close fairly quickly; watch this space for details! 

UPDATE on July 19th: Applications for this internship are now closed. Thank you so much to all who applied, I'll answer you shortly! -- John

Subsidiary Rights Deal Announcements

Congratulations to the following TBA clients on their subsidiary rights deals!

R.M. Romero’s THE DOLLMAKER OF KRAKOW sold in the UK to Walker Books, in the Netherlands to Abimo, in a pre-empt, in Turkey to Pegasus, in Italy to DeAgostini, in a pre-empt, in Spain to Roca, in a pre-empt, in France to Gallimard, at auction, in Russia to Family Leisure Club, in Portugal to Presenca, in Romania to Editura ROA, and in Bulgaria to Ciela.

Kristen Ciccarelli’s ASKARI sold in France to Gallimard, in Spain to Nocturna, at auction, in Germany to Heyne, in Turkey to Dogan Egmont, in Poland to IUVI, at auction, in Brazil to Companhia Das Letras, at auction, in the Netherlands to Blossom Books, in the UK to Gollancz, at auction, and in China to Winshare, in a pre-empt.

Julie Israel’s JUNIPER LEMON’S HAPPINESS INDEX sold in France to Casterman, at auction, in Canada (French) to Editions AdA, at auction, and in Poland to IUVI.

Lori Nelson Spielman’s SWEET FORGIVENESS sold in Lithuania to Alma Littera, in China to Tianjin Chinese-World Books, at auction, and in Sweden to Bonniers, and audio rights sold in Sweden to Bonniers.

Angie Thomas’ THE HATE U GIVE sold in the Netherlands to Moon, and in Poland to Papierowy.

Jan Moran’s THE WINEMAKERS sold in Russia to Family Leisure Club.  Moran's SCENT OF TRIUMPH sold in Poland to Illuminatio and in Italy to Newton Compton.

Robin Stevens’ FIRST CLASS MURDER & JOLLY FOUL PLAY sold in Italy to Mondadori Ragazzi and in Germany to Knesebeck Verlag.  Stevens' ARSENIC FOR TEA sold in France to Flammarion.

Becky Albertalli’s THE UPSIDE OF UNREQUITED sold in Brazil to Intrinseca.

Lynsay Sands’ TO MARRY A SCOTTISH LAIRD and HIGHLANDER TAKES A BRIDE sold in Italy to Mondadori Ragazzi.

Layla Hagen’s YOUR IRRESISTIBLE LOVE and YOUR CAPTIVATING LOVE sold in Germany to Piper.

Adam Silvera’s HISTORY IS ALL YOU LEFT ME and THEY BOTH DIE AT THE END sold in Denmark to Gyldendal.  Silvera's MORE HAPPY THAN NOT sold in Hungary to Mano.

Lori Roy’s LET ME DIE IN HIS FOOTSTEPS sold in Japan to Hayakawa and in Taiwan to Delight Press. 

Sylvia Halliday’s SUMMER DARKNESS, WINTER LIGHT and THE RING sold in Germany to Weltbild.  

Kendra Fortmeyer’s HOLE IN THE MIDDLE sold in Germany to Oetinger. 

Francesca Zappia’s MADE YOU UP sold in Russia to EXMO, in Hungary to Kossuth, and in Vietnam to Mintbooks.

A.G. Howard’s UNHINGED sold in Croatia to Lumen.  

Jessica Cluess’ A SHADOW BRIGHT AND BURNING sold in Australia, New Zealand and Oceana to Penguin Random House Australia.

Lynn Weingarten’s SUICIDE NOTES FROM BEAUTIFUL GIRLS sold in Brazil to V&R Editoras, at auction.

Geneva Lee’s Royals Saga (Books 1 & 2) sold in Italy to Mondadori.  Lee’s Royals Saga (Books 4 - 6) sold in France to Hugo & Cie.

Seressia Glass’ Sugar and Spice series sold in Germany to Droemer, in a pre-empt.

Janelle Denison’s THE WILDE ONE sold in Germany to Droemer.

Penny Reid’s Knitting in the City series sold in France to MxM.

Emily Trunko’s DEAR MY BLANK sold in Italy to DeAgostini and in Finland to Otava.

Scarlett Cole’s Second Circle Tattoo series sold in Poland to Muza.

Susan Crawford’s THE OTHER WIDOW sold in Italy to Piemme.

L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid’s Rugby series sold in France to MxM.

Molly is looking for a YA/MG intern - CLOSED

I’m looking for another intern to read young adult and middle-grade fiction for me. It’s a remote, unpaid position, and the expectation is that my interns read and report on a manuscript every two weeks. You don’t necessarily have to have any publishing experience; I’m looking for a smart person who loves to read, and whose taste is similar to mine (i.e., literary-commercial, with an emphasis on the literary). 

You should be familiar with all sorts of YA/MG fiction, particularly recent award-winners and New York Times bestsellers; even better if you’re a fan of writers like Katherine Rundell, John Corey Whaley, Stephanie Kuehn, Margo Lanagan, Jack Gantos, Marie Rutkoski, Naomi Novik, Jacqueline Woodson, E Lockhart, Gene Luen Yang, Libba Bray…and, of course, my own clients.

It’s important to me to have a wide range of perspectives on my intern team, so I especially welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

While this internship is unpaid, TBA values our interns' contributions, and holds regular intern Q&A sessions with our agents on a variety of industry topics. And in between those events, I answer as many questions about the publishing process that I can. I ask for a six-month commitment, but most of my interns have ended up sticking around for a year or more—I'm not all that demanding, and I try to make it enjoyable. Several of my interns have gone on to full-time entry-level roles at major publishers.

To apply, please email me at mollysinterns at gmail.com and tell me the last ten books you read, as well your ten favorite books (children's, YA, or adult). Tell me a little about yourself, too, and why you’re interested in the internship. Send a resume/CV if you think it would be helpful, but it's not strictly necessary. Bear in mind that with the Frankfurt Book Fair looming next week, I likely won't start responding to applications till the week of 24th October.

Thanks!

Molly

Update 28 Oct 2016: I am no longer accepting applications for this role. I received over 60 applications (thank you!) and am contacting applicants individually now. 

TBA Monthly Wishlist - October 2016

It's time again for the Monthly Wishlist! Here's the project that each TBA agent would love to see in their submission inbox. If you have something that fits with the below, please check out our submission guidelines and send it over. We can't wait to read!

I want high concept, emotional women’s fiction and exciting, edgy YA in any genre! - Jenny Bent

A fun YA romance that still has a hooky concept. I want to read about first love and romance; lots of kisses an added bonus. Think LOVE & GELATO, or LOVE, LIES & LEMON PIES - Gemma Cooper**

Dreaming about some cool non-fiction! All types. Extra points if it has a pop-culture focus or a unique format – Louise Fury**

Fresh Epic YA Fantasy set in a world I can feel on my skin, a nation who’s plight I would fight for, and an underdog protagonist that I would give my life to help - Heather Flaherty 

I’m still very interested in fantasy novels (for any age) with epic and/or intricate world-building. Think THE BOOK OF THREE by Lloyd Alexander, THE WRATH AND THE DAWN by Renee Adieh, the LOCKWOOD & Co. series by Jonathan Stroud, JONATHAN STRANGE & MR. NORRELL by Susanna Clarke, SIX OF CROWS by Leigh Bardugo, or THE MAGICIANS by Lev Grossman - Brooks Sherman**

I’m dying for a literary novel set during the thirteen-day span of the Cuban Missile Crisis in small town USA - Victoria Capello 

So many of the mother-daughter relationships that I see in YA are troubled, even toxic.  I’d love to see a YA novel that includes a complex, but ultimately positive, mother-daughter dynamic – Susan Hawk**

**Louise, Gemma, Susan and Brooks are currently closed to queries, but if you have something that matches this wishlist, please send and add #TBAwishlist to your subject header

Susan Hawk will be reopening to queries on 5th October 2016

TBA Monthly Wishlist - September 2016

It's time again for the Monthly Wishlist! Here's the ONE project that each TBA agent would love to see in their submission inbox. If you have something that fits with the below, please check out our submission guidelines and send it over. We can't wait to read!

Dreaming about some cool non-fiction! All types. Extra points if it has a pop-culture focus or a unique format – Louise Fury**

A light and fun YA romance that still has a good one line hook. I want to read about first love and romance; lots of kisses an added bonus. Think LOVE & GELATO, or LOVE, LIES & LEMON PIES - Gemma Cooper**

YA Contemporary complicated family drama, with totally captivating voices. Think Jandy Nelson’s I’LL GIVE YOU THE SUN - Heather Flaherty 

I’m particularly interested in MG and YA projects that reflect the experience of the South Asian diaspora (#ownvoices alert!) - Molly Ker Hawn

I’m dying for a literary novel set during the thirteen-day span of the Cuban Missile Crisis in small town USA - Victoria Capello 

I’m still very interested in fantasy novels (for any age) with epic and/or intricate world-building. Think THE BOOK OF THREE by Lloyd Alexander, THE WRATH AND THE DAWN by Renee Adieh, the LOCKWOOD & Co. series by Jonathan Stroud, JONATHAN STRANGE & MR. NORRELL by Susanna Clarke, SIX OF CROWS by Leigh Bardugo, or THE MAGICIANS by Lev Grossman - Brooks Sherman**

**Louise, Gemma and Brooks are currently closed to queries, but if you have something that matches this wishlist, please send and add #TBAwishlist to your subject header

CLOSED -- Generalist Interns needed!

We are looking for an intern reader for generalist fiction. You do not need to have any kind of publishing experience, but we’re looking for someone who enjoys books by authors such as:

- Erin Morgenstern

- Tana French

- Eleanor Brown

- Jacqueline Sheehan

- Jodi Picoult

- Gillian Flynn

- Lori Roy

- Laurie Notaro

- Celia Rivenbark

- Elin Hilderbrand

- Kristin Hannah

- Jeannette Walls

- Kate Atkinson

This is an eclectic list, so obviously you don't need to like everyone on it. But basically, you should like at least two of the following genres: humor, memoir, upmarket women's fiction and literary suspense. 

You do not need to live in New York—this is a remote internship. We ask for a ten-hours-a-week commitment. Please note that it is unpaid. 

The internship is a great way to learn more about an agent’s work and decision-making process. Past interns have been writers for children, children’s librarians, elementary school teachers, MFA students, and passionate readers.

The agency runs a monthly educational chat for all of our interns, led by a different agent/on a different topic each time. (Past and upcoming topics include: How publishers create marketing plans, Do we need literary agents anymore?, Digital and social publishing, Literary scouts: What do they do? What are the entry-level jobs in publishing? -- we try to make them as useful as we can.) These are optional, and the days/times vary because all the interns have different 'day job' schedules.

Interested?

1. Send an email to intern@thebentagency.com and put “Generalist intern” in the subject line.

2. Tell us why you want the internship and something about yourself, or include a resume if you have one (although it's not necessary). 

3. Include two lists: the last ten books you've read and your top ten favorite books of all time.

If you've applied in the past, you're welcome to apply again. We usually get a great many applicants and the application period will close fairly quickly; watch this space for details! 

UPDATE on September 15th: Applications for this internship are now closed. Thank you so much to all who applied, I'll answer you shortly! -- John

STARRED REVIEW for THE INFINITY YEAR OF AVALON JAMES by Dana Middleton!

So happy to report that THE INFINITY YEAR OF AVALON JAMES has *starred review* attention from Kirkus Reviews!  They say:

"It’s Avalon’s 11th year—her Infinity Year—the brief period when she and her very best friend, Atticus, will discover and be able to use their shared magic power.

Or that’s what Atticus’ grandfather has told them, and the two credulous children believe him. It will be a year of excruciating challenges for Avalon (who, like Atticus, is depicted as a dark-haired white figure on the cover). Her father is in prison, and everyone in her small school is aware of her shame. She’s relentlessly bullied by classmate Elena and her pair of minions. Her beloved cat goes missing. A week later, Atticus dreams of where the cat may be trapped. When the dream turns out to be unfathomably correct, they’re both sure Atticus has acquired his magic. One of the few highlights of Avalon’s year is when she shares spelling-bee honors with a seventh grader and is bound for the regionals. Then she unwittingly reveals Atticus’ painful secret—that he wets the bed—and the story is shared schoolwide. Atticus abandons her; without his gentle, insightful support, Avalon retaliates against Elena with devastating consequences. All these painfully acquired life lessons are related in Avalon’s genial, evocative voice, convincingly illuminating many of the issues of a year that can offer infinite possibilities, even if the magic is imagined.

A fine, tenderly nuanced tale of the remarkable power of friendship."

I couldn't agree more!  Congratulations to debut author, Dana Middleton for this lovely review, and even lovelier book.  To see the full review, click here.

You can pre-order here:

Powells

IndieBound

Barnes + Noble

Amazon

To say congrats to Dana, visit her on twitter.

TBA Monthly Wishlist - August 2016

It's time again for the Monthly Wishlist! Here's the ONE project that each TBA agent would love to see in their submission inbox. If you have something that fits with the below, please check out our submission guidelines and send it over. We can't wait to read!

I am currently closed to queries, but have a hankering to read something MG or YA set on a desert island. Please query me with TBAwishlist in the subject header.  – Gemma Cooper

So many of the mother-daughter relationships that I see in YA are troubled, even toxic.  I’d love to see a YA novel that includes a complex, but ultimately positive, mother-daughter dynamic. 

I’m currently closed to queries, but if you’ve got something like this, please do be in touch and include “TBA WISHLIST” in the subject. – Susan Hawk

YA and MG fiction featuring South Asian culture and characters (#ownvoices a plus) — realistic, historical, or fantasy. – Molly Hawn

I just read the juicy fake memoir MOVIE STAR BY LIZZIE PEPPER written by Hilary Liftin. It is a roman a clef of the TomKat marriage and the price of fame. I would love a beach read or a similarly addictive novel of celebrity/royal romance gone wrong. 

I’m closed to queries but will read submissions in this vein if you have #TBAwishlist in the subject header. – Louise Fury

I’m dying for some YA Gilmore Girls. – HeatherFlaherty

CLOSED - Heather is looking for Adult Fiction Interns

I have openings for interns! I’m looking to fill positions for Adult Fiction interns focusing in Female-Centric Thrillers, Women’s Fiction, and general Upmarket and Literary Fiction.

You do not need to have any kind of publishing experience, but you should love to read and be familiar with all sorts of fiction in these categories, particularly with books on the New York Times bestseller lists. The internship is a great way to learn more about an agent’s work and decision-making process. Past interns have been writers, librarians, teachers and educators, MFA students, and passionate readers. You do not need to live in New York—this is a remote internship. We ask for a ten-hours-a-week commitment.

While this internship is unpaid, TBA values our interns' contributions, and holds monthly educational chats for all of our interns, led by a different agent/on a different topic each time. And in between those events, I answer as many questions about the publishing process that I can. I ask for a six-month commitment, but most of my interns have ended up sticking around for a year or more!

Interested?

To apply for the Adult Intern position, send the information below to: HeathersAdultInterns@gmail.com, with subject line "Adult Intern."

• Tell me why you want the internship, and a little about yourself, including relevant experience. Feel free to attach a resume if you feel it would help – though it’s not necessary.
• List your top 10 favorite books of all time
• List the last 10 books of fiction you read
• Please note, in adult fiction I’m mainly looking for Female-Centric Thrillers, Women’s Fiction, and general Upmarket and Literary Fiction. Make sure you like these genres before you apply!   

If you've applied in the past, you're welcome to apply again. Watch this space and @HeddaFlaherty on Twitter for details!

UPDATE on August 26th: Applications for this internship are now closed. Thank you so much to all who applied, I'll answer you shortly! -- Heather

Announcing a Deal - Ruth Spiro's BABY LOVES THERMODYNAMICS! and BABY LOVES QUANTUM PHYSICS!

Hooray for BABY LOVES SCIENCE!  These genius books explain complicated science in the simplest of terms, perfect for baby and young readers (Moms and Dads may learn a thing or two as well).  The first two books in the series, pictured below, tackle Aerospace Engineering and Quarks.  I'm happy to announce the sale of the next two titles, BABY LOVES THERMODYNAMICS! and BABY LOVES QUANTUM PHYSICS!, also illustrated by Irene Chan, coming next Fall.

Please join me in congratulating author Ruth Spiro and Alyssa Pusey at Charlesbridge!

You'll find Ruth here, and Charlesbridge here.

HOORAY!

Announcing a Deal - JUNIPER LEMON'S HAPPINESS INDEX by Julie Israel

I'm happy to announce the sale of Julie Israel's YA novel, JUNIPER LEMON'S HAPPINESS INDEX, in a two book deal to Kathy Dawson at Penguin Books for Young Readers!  This is a novel that made me cry as often as it made me laugh, and I can't wait for it to be out in the world for everyone to read -- that should be next summer.

Please join me in congratulating Julie and Kathy!

You can find Julie here, and Kathy here.

TBA Monthly Wishlist - July 2016

It's time again for the Monthly Wishlist! Here's the ONE project that each TBA agent would love to see in their submission inbox. If you have something that fits with the below, please check out our submission guidelines and send it over. We can't wait to read!

Craving some twisted epic YA Fantasy - Heather Flaherty

I want high concept suspense novels like THINK OF A NUMBER or BEFORE I GO TO SLEEP - Jenny Bent

I’m craving female-led domestic suspense. Something creepy and twisted and atmospheric, inspired by true crime and/or with a family full of secrets at its center - Beth Phelan 

A literary collection of love stories like the ones found in the Modern Love podcast. Aziz's MODERN ROMANCE meets Emma Straub's OTHER PEOPLE WE MARRIED - Victoria Cappello

I’m still very interested in fantasy novels (for any age) with epic and/or intricate world-building. Think THE BOOK OF THREE by Lloyd Alexander, THE WRATH AND THE DAWN by Renee Adieh, the LOCKWOOD & Co. series by Jonathan Stroud, JONATHAN STRANGE & MR. NORRELL by Susanna Clarke, SIX OF CROWS by Leigh Bardugo, or THE MAGICIANS by Lev Grossman - Brooks Sherman**

I'd like a MG or YA novel that deals with scoliosis, main character can be a boy or a girl.  Think Judy Blume's DEENIE, for the 21st Century!  - Susan Hawk**

 

**Brooks and Susan are currently closed to queries, but if you have something that matches this wishlist, please send and add #TBAwishlist to your subject header

Subsidiary Rights Deal Announcements

Congratulations to the following TBA clients on their subsidiary rights deals! 

Jean Pendziwol’s THE LIGHT KEEPER’S DAUGHTERS sold in Italy to Garzanti in a pre-empt, in the Czech and Slovak Republics to Fortuna Libri, in China to Citic in a pre-empt, in Norway to Cappelen Damm, in the Netherlands to HarperCollins Holland at auction, in Spain to HarperCollins Iberica, in the UK to Weidenfeld & Nicolson, in Germany to Penguin Germany at auction, and in Brazil to HarperCollins Brasil.

A.C. Thomas’s THE HATE U GIVE sold in Sweden to Natur & Kultur in a pre-empt, in Finland to Otava in a pre-empt, in Norway to Gyldendal Norsk in a pre-empt, in Denmark to Gyldendal in a pre-empt, in Brazil to Galera/Record in a pre-empt, in Italy to Giunti Editore at auction, in Spain for Catalan rights to Grup Editorial 62, in Hungary to GABO, and in Israel to Kinneret.

Goldy Moldavsky’s KILL THE BOY BAND sold in the Netherlands to Leopold in a pre-empt, and in Italy to DeAgostini.

Becky Albertalli’s THE UPSIDE OF UNREQUITED sold in France to Hachette Romans, and in the Netherlands to Blossom Books. Albertalli’s SIMON VS. THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA sold in Estonia to Pikoprint.

Alwyn Hamilton’s REBEL OF THE SANDS sold in the Czech Republic to CooBoo, in Poland to Wydawnictwo Poznańskie/Czwarta Strona at auction in a two-book deal, and in Hungary to Maxim.

Francesca Zappia’s MADE YOU UP sold in Estonia to Pikes Kirjastus, and in Poland to JK Jacek Kaszyk at auction.

Lisa Renee Jones’s DEEP UNDER sold in Germany to Lubbe. Audio rights to Jones's TALL, DARK AND DEADLY SERIES as well as her new WALKER SECURITY SERIES, plus the short story ONE DANGEROUS NIGHT to Audible.

A.G. Howard’s ROSEBLOOD sold in the Czech Republic to CooBoo/Albatros.  Audio rights to A.G. Howard’s ROSEBLOOD and ARCHITECT OF SONG sold to Audible at auction.

Kathryn Ormsbee’s TASH HEARTS TOLSTOY sold in Poland to Wydawnictwo Otwarte, and in Brazil to Companhia das Letras.

Jessica Cluess’s A SHADOW BRIGHT & BURNING sold in Turkey to Pegasus.

Emily Trunko’s DEAR MY BLANK and LAST MESSAGE RECEIVED sold in Turkey to Pegasus.

Tilli Schulze’s MY THOUGHTS ARE FREE sold in the Netherlands to BBNC at auction.

Robin Steven’s MUDER MOST UNLADYLIKE and ARSENIC FOR TEA sold in Poland to Grupa MAC S.A.

Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock’s THE SMELL OF OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES sold in Spain to Maeva Young.

H.M. Ward’s DAMAGED sold in Poland to Helion at auction.

Geneva Lee’s COMPLETE ME, THE SINS THAT BIND US and The Gilt Trilogy sold in Germany to Blanvalet in a six-figure deal. Lee’s COMMAND ME, CONQUER ME and CROWN ME sold in Slovenia to Ucila International.

Audio Rights to Lee's CRAVE ME, COVET ME, CAPTURE ME and COMPLETE ME as well as 3 books in THE GILT series sold to Audible.

Audio rights to Layla Hagen's YOUR IRRESISTIBLE LOVE, YOUR CAPTIVATING LOVE, and YOUR FOREVER LOVE sold to Tantor.

CLOSED -- Generalist & YA/MG Interns needed!

We are looking for a Generalist and a Young Adult/Middle Grade fiction intern. You do not need to have any kind of publishing experience, but you should love to read and be familiar with all sorts of fiction in these categories, particularly with Generalist or Young Adult and MG books on the New York Times bestseller list. 

Additionally, for Generalist readers, we’re looking for someone who enjoys books by authors such as:

- Erin Morgenstern

- Tana French

- Eleanor Brown

- Jacqueline Sheehan

- Jodi Picoult

- Gillian Flynn

- Lori Roy

- Laurie Notaro

- Celia Rivenbark

- Elin Hilderbrand

- Kristin Hannah

- Jeannette Walls

- Kate Atkinson

This is an eclectic list, so obviously you don't need to like everyone on it. But basically, you should like at least two of the following genres: humor, memoir, upmarket women's fiction and literary suspense. 

You do not need to live in New York—this is a remote internship. We ask for a ten-hours-a-week commitment. Please note that it is unpaid. 

The internship is a great way to learn more about an agent’s work and decision-making process. Past interns have been writers for children, children’s librarians, elementary school teachers, MFA students, and passionate readers.

The agency runs a monthly educational chat for all of our interns, led by a different agent/on a different topic each time. (Past and upcoming topics include: How publishers create marketing plans, Do we need literary agents anymore?, Digital and social publishing, Literary scouts: What do they do? What are the entry-level jobs in publishing? -- we try to make them as useful as we can.) These are optional, and the days/times vary because all the interns have different 'day job' schedules.

Interested?

1. Send an email to intern@thebentagency.com and put “Generalist intern” or "YA/MG intern" in the subject line. If you’d like to read for both, put “Generalist/YA/MG intern” in the subject line.

2. Tell us why you want the internship and something about yourself, or include a resume if you have one (although it's not necessary). 

3. Include two lists: the last ten Generalist or YA/MG books you've read and your top ten favorite Generalist or YA/MG books of all time.

If you've applied in the past, you're welcome to apply again. We usually get a great many applicants and the application period will close fairly quickly; watch this space for details! 

UPDATE on July 19th: Applications for this internship are now closed. Thank you so much to all who applied, I'll answer you shortly! -- John

CLOSED - Heather is looking for YA/MG interns

I have openings for YA/MG interns! 

I represent YA/MG fiction across the board, but make sure you have a look at my bio to see if our tastes align!

You do not need to have any kind of publishing experience, but you should love to read and be familiar with all sorts of fiction in these categories, particularly with books on the New York Times bestseller lists. The internship is a great way to learn more about an agent’s work and decision-making process. Past interns have been writers, librarians, teachers and educators, MFA students, and passionate readers. You do not need to live in New York—this is a remote internship. We ask for a ten-hours-a-week commitment.

While this internship is unpaid, TBA values our interns' contributions, and holds monthly educational chats for all of our interns, led by a different agent/on a different topic each time. And in between those events, I answer as many questions about the publishing process that I can. I ask for a six-month commitment, but most of my interns stick around for a lot longer!

Interested?

To apply for the YA/MG Intern position, send the information below to: HeathersInterns@gmail.com, with subject line YA/MG Intern.

-       Tell me why you want the internship, and a little about yourself, including relevant experience. Feel free to attach a resume if you feel it would help – though it’s not necessary.

-       List your top 10 favorite books of all time

-       List the last 10 YA/MG books you've read

If you've applied in the past, you're absolutely welcome to apply again. I usually receive quite a few applicants, so the application period could close fairly quickly; watch this space and @HeddaFlaherty on Twitter for details!

UPDATE on June 14th: Applications for this internship are now closed. Thank you so much to all who applied, I'll answer you shortly!  -- Heather