Editor / Agent Spotlight

Interview with Kristin Daly Rens, Executive Editor at Balzer + Bray/Harper Collins

By on November 30, 2018   /   Articles, Editor / Agent Spotlight, Publishing & Promotion, Writing  

Hello Mixed-Up Filers!

We are in for a treat today! We have with us, Executive Editor from Balzer + Bray / HarperCollins, Kristin Daly Rens!

I met Kristin years ago, and I can honestly say that she’s one of the nicest people.  So, if you don’t know her, sit back, relax, and get to know her now!

JR: Hi Kristin, thanks for joining us today!

KDR: I’m so happy to be here—thanks so much for asking!

JR: To start, could you tell us a little bit about your path to becoming an editor in children’s books?

KDR: Sure! My path was a bit roundabout, while also somehow feeling predestined, in a way. I’ve always been a reader, but my interest in publishing as a career really began my freshman year of high school, when I got a job shelving books in my local public library. Nobody else ever wanted to shelve in the children’s room, for one simple reason—skinnier books meant more books per cart, and thus more work—but I found myself drawn there. I loved to flip through the picture books as I shelved…I definitely spent a lot of time hidden in the stacks reading when I should have been shelving! Once I got to college, though, I found myself sidetracked by a love of German literature, so after graduation I actually moved to Germany for several months to learn the language, and then came back to get my Master’s in Comparative Literature. But children’s publishing kept calling to me, and every time I was in a bookstore I always seemed to wind up browsing the children’s section—looking back, I think part of me knew even then that I would “grow up” to work in children’s publishing.

 

JR: Getting to live overseas for any amount of time is an amazing experience. We share that in common. What was the first book you worked on?

KDR: Oh gosh, let’s see, the first books I ever had a hand in editing were two Golden Books Road to Reading titles—the first was Shred It Up! by Craig Carey, a nonfiction book about snowboarding, tied to the Winter Olympics, and the second was Beans Baker, Number Five, by Richard Torrey, which I co-edited with my boss at the time—I actually went on to work with Rich on three picture books after I moved to Harper. The first books I ever acquired on my own were at Harper—an I Can Read Book called The Just-So Woman by Gary Blackwood, and a picture book called My Mom is a Firefighter by Lois Grambling. Both were illustrated—in very different styles!—by Jane Manning, a wonderful, versatile artist who I’ve worked with a number of times over the last fifteen years or so.

JR: That book looks really cute! How did you land at Harper Collins?

KDR: Through luck and the kindness of others, really! Shortly after Golden Books was acquired by Random House, one of my bosses—the editorial director for the Road to Reading line—decided to leave the business side of publishing to write full time. As she was making her phone calls to authors and agents to let them know, she happened to talk to an agent who mentioned that Harper was looking for an associate editor to work on I Can Read Books and picture books—my boss recommended me to the agent, the agent passed it along, and here I am, almost seventeen years later, still at Harper! Though my job has changed a good deal over the years—I now acquire and edit for the Balzer + Bray imprint, and work primarily on YA and middle-grade novels, with a smattering of picture books.

JR: What’s changed in publishing between the time you started and now?

KDR: Everything and nothing! The most obvious change has been the advent of ebooks, which didn’t even exist in 1999 when I got my first job in publishing. And on a related note, there’s no more lugging around of big stacks of novel submissions, as agents now submit projects via email, and most editors read them electronically. There’s also the importance of social media for networking and promotion—both for authors and publishers.

 

JR: What do you enjoy the most about your job?

KDR: There are so many things that I adore about this job—from brainstorming with authors, to collaborating with designers on cover visions, to offering ideas and suggestions to an author that may open up the possibilities of their story or the world they’ve created and help them to see their manuscript in a new and exciting way. Hands down, though, my favorite part of the job is the fact that on any day I could fall in love with a new manuscript and get the chance to work with the author and help them build a career doing what THEY love.

 

JR: What sort of books do you look for?

KDR: B+B is all about publishing bold, creative, groundbreaking books with fresh voices—so that’s always the first thing I’m looking for in a project. Even if a story addresses a universal theme that’s been written about before, we always want to make sure that the project is adding to the conversation in a new way. Genre-wise, I read a little bit of everything so my editorial tastes are also pretty broad—but what really draws me into a story, no matter the genre, are character and heart. In terms of middle grade in particular, there’s so much I love—great magical realism, classic-feeling fantasy or adventure, humorous middle grade stories along the lines of Andrew Clements (I adore Frindle!).  More than anything else, though, I’m an absolute sucker for a heartfelt middle-grade friendship or family story that tugs at my heartstrings.

JR: Are you very hands-on with your authors?

KDR: Yes! I’m sure some of them would say too much so, haha! I work very closely with my authors on revisions for their books—I usually take each manuscript through several rounds of edits with the author, with the edits going in order from large (character, plot, pacing, voice, world-building) to small (word choice, fixing grammar, etc) before we’re ready to send the ms to copy editing. Once the manuscript is off to copy editing, I remain very involved—as do most editors—working with our cover designers, marketing directors, and publicists on every stage of the publishing process.

 

JR: What’s going on in Middle Grade?

KDR: It feels like an exciting time for middle grade! It’s one of the categories that has been experiencing the most growth over the last couple of years, and as a result more agents and editors seem to be looking for great middle-grade manuscripts. Personally, I especially love the fact that these past few years seem to have seen a surge in interest in the kinds of standalone, heartfelt friendship and family stories that are my favorite types of books for this age group.

 

JR: What advice can you give to authors?

KDR: Don’t worry about what is trendy—write what interests YOU. So often at conferences, etc, editors and agents get asked what the current trends are in children’s and teen books, but the truth of the matter is that the best way to make someone—whether that someone is an agent, editor, or reader—care about your book is if the author is writing something they believe in and care about themselves. When an author is passionate about what he or she is writing about, readers can see that passion on the page—and it makes them fall in love with that story as well.

JR: That’s great advice, because I do still see people chasing trends. What books do you have coming up that you’re excited about?

KDR: Well, that’s not really a fair question at all! Editors are excited about all their books—after all, this is a business driven by passion for reading. But here are a couple by new (or new to me) authors I’m excited to be working with:

  • NOCTURNA is the first book in an own voices YA fantasy series by debut author Maya Motayne. Set in a Latinx-inspired kingdom, it’s the story of two very different characters—Finn, who possesses magic that allows her to change her face at will, which comes in handy, since she’s also a talented thief. And Alfie, the kingdom’s crown prince, who’s obsessed with finding a way to bring back his murdered brother, even if it means dabbling in forbidden magic. When Alfie unwittingly unleashes a terrible, ancient power, the two must race to fix his mistake before it leads to the destruction of everything & everyone they love. The world here is so richly, vividly drawn—it positively crackles with life, as do Finn and Alfie themselves! And there’s a magical card game that is one of the most fun scenes I’ve ever read in YA fantasy.
  • SUMMER OF A THOUSAND PIES by Margaret Dilloway is a middle-grade story about a girl who is sent to live with an aunt she’s never met in a quaint mountain town—and, when she learns her aunt’s pie shop is failing, she decides to do everything she can to save the first real home she’s ever known. This book is heartfelt, and moving, and unexpectedly funny in spots—and also includes lots and lots of PIE (with recipes at the back of the book!). Every time I read it, I just want to hug it to my chest, I adore it so much.

 

JR: Those both sound great! Can’t wait to read! What was your favorite book as a child?

KDR: I had so many! Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, the Trixie Belden mysteries, the Chronicles of Prydain—but my FAVORITE favorite books were the Chronicles of Narnia. I was one of those kids who spent half their childhoods knocking on the back wall of every closet in the house, looking for a door to another world.

JR: The Narnia books were among my favorites, as well. I was living overseas when I first read them, and also tried to find a way to another place. And speaking of childhood, before we go, I have one last question. What’s one thing from your childhood that you wish could make a comeback?

KDR: Well, I wouldn’t say no to an amazing YA paranormal romance—while there was definitely a glut in the couple of years after Twilight hit, it’s been a few years now and every once in a while I find myself longing for a great paranormal read. On the flip side, with the current craze for remakes of classic TV shows and movies, there are also a lot of things that I don’t want to come back, or at least don’t want them to be remade. In particular, if anyone ever considers a remake of The Goonies, they’re dead to me—why try to remake perfection?!

JR: Amen to that!

 

Kristin, thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us today and I hope you have a very Happy Holiday and New Year!

 

You can find Kristin at: 

Twitter and Instagram: 

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Editor Spotlight: Interview with Krista Vitola

By on October 31, 2018   /   Articles, Editor / Agent Spotlight  

Krista Vitola is a Senior Editor at Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers. Follow her @kav_tepedino.

What books were you reading at 11 or 12? Do you think those books influenced your taste in children’s literature?

As a child, I read anything I could get my hands on. I would go through the stacks of books and pick out title after title. I read so many wonderful stories that would transport me out of my small suburban town on Long Island. I didn’t care where the author took me, so long as I could escape from the world where I currently lived. The Secret Garden, The Little Prince, From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, Charlotte’s Web, The Chronicles of Narnia, Number the Stars, novels by Louis Sachar, Judy Blume, Shel Silverstein and Roald Dahl.  These books took me under their wing.

My characters didn’t care that I had glasses and braces and frizzy hair. They didn’t care if I had the newest Adidas sneakers or Gap jacket in jolly rancher grape. All that was required of me was that I listen and learn. They taught me many precious nuggets of information on life and love and relationships. It was definitely the age in which I relied on books the most. They were my friends as much as any human sitting next to me in the classroom or playing with me on the field.

Working in publishing now, I hope that every title I acquire will do the same.

When you speak about middle grade books, it sounds like you have a real soft spot for that age level. What is it that appeals to you specifically about middle grade?

There are so many shifts that occur when you’re in the middle-grade age range. You’re not yet an adult but you’re definitely not a child and you relish in these moments of autonomy. Your parents listen more to what you have to say, and yet there’s only so far you can push. The world you live in takes on a different hue and you want to read about characters that feel the same way. Things aren’t as black and white as they were before you turned this age, everything is complicated and feelings are messy; you begin to explore the world of your own accord.

And with all of these balls juggling in the air that is your life, there are, of course, so many questions that arise. This is the meat of a middle-grade novel. Answering these questions that seem essential for you as you age another year older and start to understand how all these factors—friends, family, school and feelings—of loss, shame, need, anxiety, happiness— fit into the life puzzle. You still need help but the answers you find are your own and arise when you’re ready. You’re not too self-aware yet or jaded and it’s chaotic and hard and beautiful.

How have middle grade books changed since you have been editing and publishing?

Middle grade novels have always been a pillar in children’s literature. But I think they’ve recently been receiving more recognition in the marketplace. And rightfully so! Middle grade will always have its audience, but I would say it’s widened in the past five years. More readers are coming to these books and weekly numbers have seen an increase. This may be a slow effect of the Harry Potter novels or the beauty of Wonder. Novels that transcend age.

I also think that the world we live in isn’t always kind or safe. Middle grade books have a way of holding your hand through these dark periods.

What themes or subjects remain constant?

One of the many reasons why I love editing middle grade is that, for the most part, they don’t follow “trends”. At the core of every middle-grade novel are these questions about who we are and how we fit in the fabric of our everyday lives. They touch on the importance of family—and friendship and siblings and teachers and coaches. It’s exploring new places and making your own choices. And above all learning more about yourself and those values, beliefs, and joys that make you tick. Adventure stories, sibling stories, and realistic fiction are additional subjects that will always appeal in this age range.

Is there a disconnect between the MG books that win awards and books most kids are actually buying, requesting, or reading?

I wouldn’t say there’s a disconnect per se, but there are certain titles that appeal to a wider audience of readers. Books that win the Newbery may not be every reader’s cup of tea–the language may be challenging or the subject matter esoteric, so a more straightforward, comedic novel may be more appealing. A novel that wins an award does so for a reason–it stands out in the genre. And to do this, there needs to be a quality present that may not be as highly valued by the target audience.

How much have the recent movements helped bring more diverse writers into children’s publishing?

Each and every day we try to do better, to find those talented voices whose stories must be shared with the world. Organization like We Need Diverse Books and twitter trends like DVpit have provided a forum for diverse authors and content to find a pathway into the publishing sphere, and the more outlets are available to writers, the better able we are as agents and editors to acquire this content and share it widely.

What kinds of books are you looking for now to round out your list?

I would love to acquire more middle grade graphic novels, novels that focus on girls turning their hobbies into grassroots businesses, and novels in verse. But I will always buy more novels that make me cry and question and wonder.

Are there any controversial or dark topics that you try to steer clear of?

There are a few topics that I’m unable to take on as an editor: novels about abuse (whether that’s verbal, physical or substance) and eating disorders.

Is there any one piece of advice you give again and again to the authors you work with?

Stop comparing yourself to other authors!

Write. Enjoy the writing process. Thrive in tapping into your amazing and vast imaginations. The writing process is a long and arduous one, yet it is also one of the most gratifying. No one goes into publishing for the fame and the fortune. You do it because you love it and there’s no other profession that will offer as much joy on a daily basis.  Your book will find its way into the hands of a young reader needing it. You’ll receive your first fan letter or be asked to sign your novel. And you’ll remember why you started typing away at your computer. To share your story. Not anyone else’s.

Can you talk about a couple of books you have forthcoming this year and next? What you love about them?

Sure! I’ve been working on a fabulous book about cadaver dogs called What the Dog Knows. It’s brilliant and reads like a dog and his owner adventure. I have a sweet young middle-grade novel called Meena Meets Her Match about a girl who’s dealing with the everyday ups and downs of third grade, all while dealing with epilepsy. I’m working on additional books in a chapter book series, Franny K. Stein Mad Scientist that follows an eccentric and hilarious young lady who loves science and likes to perform experiments in her bedroom (these experiments also have a habit of running rampant in her hometown). I have two middle grade novels coming out in Spring 2020—one that discusses important topics on immigration, the other about the power of kindness and community—both have a dash of magical realism. And finally, I recently bought a beautiful historical fiction novel about The Merci Train (if you don’t know what this is, I highly recommend you look it up!).

Thank you, Gail!

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Interview with Nicole Resciniti, President of The Seymour Agency!

By on September 29, 2018   /   Editor / Agent Spotlight  

Hello Mixed-Up Filers! Are we in for a treat today! We have with us, Agent extraordinaire and all-around nice person, and I’m not just saying that just because she happens to be my agent, Nicole Resciniti!

 

Hi Nicole, thanks for joining us today!

JR: To start, could you tell us a little bit about your path to becoming an agent and also about Seymour Agency?

 

NR: My path to agenting was definitely unconventional. I grew up in a motorcycle dealership—yes, I sold bikes and boats and even did my fair share of service work. I was a consummate tomboy. School was a full science track—pre-med, resulting in degrees in Behavioral Neuroscience and Bio. Much to my parents’ dismay I didn’t stay on that path (not sure Dad has forgiven me yet, LOL). Resulting in several years as high school science teacher which aligned with when I began interning with my mentor, Mary Sue Seymour. Once Mary Sue offered me the chance to come aboard full time, I never looked back. Sooo, yes, roundabout to say the least, but I can say with certainty that there is nothing I’d rather do. I LOVE my job.

 

JR: Okay, I have to look at you in a new light, I had no clue that you used to work on motorcycles!

JR: What was the first book you sold?

NR: Julie Ann Walker’s Black Knights Inc. series to Leah Hultenschmidt at Sourcebooks. Julie has gone on to hit the NYT Bestseller’s list her and Black Knights series just released its twelfth book this past summer.

JR: That’s amazing. What’s changed in publishing between the time you started and now?

NR: So much! There are more opportunities than ever—and competition hasn’t been fiercer. It’s a really wonderful time because there are so many options, so many paths to publication and so many subrights to explore. I’m thrilled by all the new formats and technologies and even as the industry continues to evolve, there will always be room for new, great reads.

JR: I’m certainly glad to hear that. What do you enjoy the most about your job?

NR: My authors. Hands down. They are the most talented, intelligent, driven people. They possess a love for what they do and an enthusiasm for each word they put down on the page. It’s humbling to work amid so many incredibly talented people. Like my interviewer/client, for example. Your sense of humor is brilliant!!!

JR: Awww, thank you. It’s true, but thank you for saying. But, getting back to what others who aren’t me want to hear, what sort of books do you look for?

NR: I handle a wide range. YA, MG, mysteries, thrillers, cozies, romance of every variety, inspirational, cookbooks, historicals. I’m fortunate in that I can focus on just about any title that really grabs my attention. So long as I’m passionate about the project, I’m in!

Not that I’m partial or anything *wink, wink* but books in the vein of your Night of the Living Cuddle Bunnies are right up my alley. I adore your humor, wit and the way you craft unforgettable characters. Devin Dexter is a protagonist I can’t get enough of.

JR: And believe me, I’m grateful for that aspect! ? But, as I can attest, I also know that you’re very dedicated to all of your authors. What do you look for in an author/agent relationship?

NR: Communication. It’s vital. Most of the hiccups that occur in the industry can be overcome if we have a plan in place. And knowing what my author needs, wants and aspires toward allows me to formulate that plan.

JR: In your opinion, what’s the state of publishing right now?

NR: In one word: flux.

JR: What’s going on in Middle Grade?

NR: The MG market is still strong. I think we largely have librarians, booksellers, and teachers to thank for that. There is such a concerted effort to bring great books to the market and to talk about them and/or put them into children’s hands. It’s a really fantastic genre in how the authors network to support each other, and in how the publishers push for marketing, publicity, and placement.

JR: What advice can you give to authors?

NR: Enjoy every moment. Writing is a gift, a talent, a craft that can be honed over time. And no matter the road to success—be it a trebuchet bolt to the top or a slow and steady climb, take the time to savor each milestone. The books you create have the power to inspire (and entertain, educate, influence, provide an escape, etc…) and to literally impact someone’s life. That’s a pretty wondrous thing.

JR: I hate that slow and steady climb speech! ? But, yes, you’re right.

JR: Before we go, what was your favorite book as a child?

NR: Oh, I had SO many. Tolkien, for sure. I loved the classics too—Bronte, Joseph Conrad, Hemingway.

I was about to have you do the essay portion of answering in 10,000 words or more about why I’m so great to work with, but Dorian Cirrone has sent me yet another memo about being self-indulgent in my posts.

To Follow Nicole on Twitter

 

Thanks again to Nicole Resciniti for joining us today and to all of you for reading!

Until next time . . .

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