You’ve heard agents and editors use the terms “commercial,” “literary,” and “upmarket”–but what do they really mean?
And which one describes your book?
In this session, Kaitlyn Sanchez, an agent with Bradford Literary who represents picture books and middle grade, breaks down all three categories and shows you how to spot them.
Then she plays a game of “Commercial, Literary, or Both?” with real books across picture book, middle grade, YA, and adult, including A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, What Happened to Rachel Riley, Giraffe Is Too Tall for This Book, The Tiger Rising, and Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers.
You’ll learn:
***Commercial: fast-paced, accessible writing and an exciting plot you can’t put down.
***Literary: gorgeous writing, lush settings, deep themes, and unforgettable characters.
***Upmarket: the “chef’s kiss” blend of both that can appeal to readers everywhere.
***How titles, cover art, bestseller lists, and awards can hint at a book’s category
***Practical ways to make your manuscript shine in whichever category you’re writing
Plus, Kaitlyn shares what she’s looking for right now: mystery of any kind (especially middle grade!) with plenty of heart.
Learn more about querying, pitching, and publishing at manuscriptacademy.com.
About Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez
Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez is a mom, wife, literary agent, middle school math teacher, and picture book author. She’s also the proud co-creator and co-host of the Spring Fling Kidlit Contest and Kidlit Zombie Week as well as creator and co-host of the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy Contest. In her free time, she loves to play soccer, binge-watch TV shows, and, of course, read, especially when she’s all cozied up with her husband and daughter reading together.
Website: https://kaitlynleannsanchez.com/
Twitter: @KaitlynLeann17
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaitlynLeann17
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