Kelly Dyksterhouse at The Tobias Literary Agency
To submit a query to Kelly Dyksterhouse, please fill out the form below.
A quick note about what I am acquiring:
For picture books, I am only accepting work by author-illustrators.
I am interested in GN, and will consider both text and proposals from author-illustrators.
For both MG and YA, I like to say that my tastes are high-concept plot with high-level writing. I love pace-y, escapist reads, but I also want well defined characters and themes.
I am looking for MG featuring ensemble casts, unlikely heroes, surprise friendships and complicated, yet hopeful family dynamics. High-concept, fast-paced adventure books with a commercial hook, as well as literary works with lush, lyrical writing. And I love all things spooky. I am particularly interested in books written by and featuring underrepresented voices in ways that showcase kids being kids in all the ways mentioned above.
For YA, I'd love a fun, escapist fantasy or a unique retellings. I enjoy romance, but prefer the romance to be the B plot rather than what carries the story. I'd also enjoy speculative fiction that is layered, has a distinct voice, and is grounded in a universal emotional desire and theme, literary works with a commercial hook, and genre mash-ups. I'm especially drawn to vivid and immersive settings and would love a smart, funny heist and a moving novel in verse. As with all age groups, representation matters, and I am particularly keen to showcase underrepresented voices.
More about my interests can be found on my MSWL page: https://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/mswl-post/kelly-dyksterhouse/
Again, thanks for thinking of me for your work. I am looking forward to reading it!
Step 1. Tell us about the author
Fill in these author-related fields.
Tell us a little about yourself and any writing credentials you may have.
Step 2. Tell us about the book
Fill in these book-related fields.
Enter a one sentence pitch for your book.
Who will want to read your book. For example, girls under 12, fans of John Grisham, etc. (500 characters or less)
List some books that are similar to yours. (500 characters or less)
Step 3. For Artists and Illustrators
Provide illustrations or art samples, if applicable.