The Workshop

WHY WAS MY MANUSCRIPT REJECTED? 3 Literary Agents, 3 Opinions is a seminar-style, one-day workshop designed by literary agents Andrea Cascardi, Anna Olswanger, and Ann Tobias to bring to children's book and YA writers much-needed, seldom-offered feedback on a manuscript rejected by agents and/or publishers.

The next workshop on April 25 will offer attendees a unique opportunity to see first hand the three agents' perspectives on manuscripts in general and the kinds of thinking they bring in considering the needs of publishers of children's and YA books. At the same time, the 3 Agents will demystify the publishing process during their discussions and help writers mark out a path to lead to their next steps in their goal to publication.

Having read each manuscript in advance, the agents will take into consideration the literary strengths and weaknesses of each manuscript and will discuss them in a constructive manner. When possible, the 3 agents will offer solutions for revising and resubmitting work. Brief portions of a manuscript may be read aloud by the agents to support a point. The agents may differ in their assessments. Discussions will be lively!

Proposed Schedule


(The schedule is subject to change. The final schedule will be provided to registrants in advance.)

9:30-10am
Attendees and agents mingle; beverages available.

10-noon
Introductory remarks and manuscript analysis
In the course of manuscript analysis, the agents will discuss such wide-ranging subjects as literary standards and values, the importance of (and differences between) theme and plot, the characteristics of characterization, query letters and cover letters (should they sparkle or just do their jobs?), how to promote oneself and one's career, the importance of reading already published books, how to decipher a publisher's catalog, and more.

noon-1pm
Lunch (attendees' responsibility).

1-3:15pm
Further manuscript analysis and discussion.

3:15-3:45pm
Marketing tips, the effect of the economic downturn on publishing, and Q & A.

3:45-4pm
Closing remarks and return of annotated manuscripts

Short breaks will be scheduled during the morning and afternoon sessions.