Laurel Symonds

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. I am not seeking clients who exclusively write for adults.

My current manuscript wishlist includes:

Picture Books

Funny, character-driven or holiday themes from author-illustrators (no text only projects)

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)

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)

Genre-blending with elements of dystopian or paranormal 

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

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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.

Submission Guidelines

Submissions should be emailed to laurelquery@ktliterary.com

Open to queries from June 1-August 1, 2025.

Guidelines & Details