Win a one-page written critique of your complete YA or Middle Grade manuscript from award-winning author Francisco X. Stork! Let an award-winning author provide written insight into your work!

Francisco X. Stork is the author of nine novels including: Marcelo in the Real World, recipient of the Schneider Family Book Award, The Last Summer of the Death Warriors, which received the Elizabeth Walden Award, The Memory of Light, recipient of the Tomás Rivera Award, Disappeared, which received the Young Adult Award from the Texas Institute of Letters and was a Walter Dean Myers Award Honor Book and Illegal, recipient of the In the Margins Award and the Young Adult Award from the Texas Institute of Letters. On the Hook published in May of 2021 and received starred reviews from Booklist, Kirkus and Publisher's Weekly.

Image: A headshot of Francisco X. Stork.

Win a critique and review of your query and the first five pages of your manuscript from New Leaf Literary & Media's Vice President and Agent, Suzie Townsend.

Suzie Townsend represents all brands of children's and adult fiction. She loves women's fiction, narrative non-fiction, memoir, and debut fiction. On the children's side, she is interested in select YA and MG. Suzie loves strong characters and voice-driven stories that break out of the typical tropes of their genres, and she's always looking for unique new voices in stories.

Image: A headshot of Suzie Townsend.

Win a full manuscript critique (Middle Grade or Young Adult, up to 85,000 words) from Maria Vicente, Senior Literary Agent at P.S. Literary Agency.

The winning bidder can expect their critique within one month of sending the manuscript.

Maria Vicente (she/they) is a Senior Literary Agent at P.S. Literary representing bold and innovative books for kids, teens, and curious adults. Her favorite books to work on allow readers to experience something new about the real world or invite them into fictional worlds they'll never want to leave.

Image: A headshot of Maria Vicente.

Have your manuscript critiqued by author Saadia Faruqi! The manuscript can be up to 50,000 words (chapter book or middle grade).

Submissions must be polished and revised. No first drafts please!

Saadia Faruqi is a Pakistani American author, essayist and interfaith activist. She writes the children's early reader series "Yasmin" and other books for children, including middle grade novels "A Place At The Table" co-written with Laura Shovan (a Sydney Taylor Notable 2021), and "A Thousand Questions" (a South Asia Book Award Honor 2021). Her new book "Yusuf Azeem Is Not A Hero" details the experiences of the Muslim American community twenty years after 9/11. Saadia is editor-in-chief of Blue Minaret, a magazine for Muslim art, poetry and prose, and was featured in Oprah Magazine in 2017 as a woman making a difference in her community. She lives in Houston, TX with her husband and children.

Image: A headshot of Saadia Faruqi.

Win a 30-minute call with Joanna Volpe, New Leaf Literary & Media's President and Literary Agent to discuss the industry. Joanna will also provide a critique of your query and first 20 pages during your call!

Joanna Volpe is the founder of New Leaf Literary & Media, an all service literary management firm. While her list of books is eclectic, her focus is consistent on client brand and career building.

Image: A headshot of Joanna Volpe.

Win a written critique of a query letter and the first 25 pages of your Middle Grade or Young Adult fiction or nonfiction manuscript from Jim McCarthy, Literary Agent and Vice President at Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret LLC.

Will receive response 4-6 weeks after receipt.

Jim McCarthy has been with DGB for over two decades, the entirety of his publishing career. His client list includes bestselling and award-winning authors including Richelle Mead, Eric Gansworth, Morgan Rhodes, Livia Blackburne, Joy McCullough, Fonda Lee, Tehlor Kay Mejia, Kosoko Jackson, and many more.

Image: A headshot of Jim McCarthy.

Win a written critique of your query letter and the first 25 pages of your Middle Grade or Young Adult fiction or nonfiction manuscript from Jim McCarthy, Literary Agent and Vice President at Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret LLC.

Will receive response 4-6 weeks after receipt.

Jim McCarthy has been with DGB for over two decades, the entirety of his publishing career. His client list includes bestselling and award-winning authors including Richelle Mead, Eric Gansworth, Morgan Rhodes, Livia Blackburne, Joy McCullough, Fonda Lee, Tehlor Kay Mejia, Kosoko Jackson, and many more.

Image: A headshot of Jim McCarthy.

Win a picture book critique from author Silvia López.

Cuban-born Silvia López lives in Miami. Her books include Just Right Family: An Adoption Story, Handimals: Animals in Art and Nature, Pacho Nacho, and the English/Spanish versions of Queen of Tejano Music: Selena, My Little Golden Book about Frida Kahlo and My Little Golden Book about Sonia Sotomayor (scheduled for 2022.)

Image: A headshot of Silvia López.

Win a 30-minute portfolio review over Zoom with author and illustrator Mike Curato.

Mike Curato loves drawing and writing almost as much as he loves cupcakes and ice cream (and that's a LOT!). He is the author and illustrator of everyone's favorite polka-dotted elephant, Little Elliot. His debut title, Little Elliot, Big City, released in 2014 to critical acclaim, has won several awards, and has been translated into over ten languages. There are now five books in the Little Elliot series, including Little Elliot, Big Family; Little Elliot, Big Fun; Little Elliot, Fall Friends; and Merry Christmas, Little Elliot. Meanwhile, Mike had the pleasure of illustrating What If... by Samantha Berger, All the Way to Havana by Margarita Engle, Worm Loves Worm by J.J. Austrian, The Power of One written by Trudy Ludwig, and contributed to What's Your Favorite Color? by Eric Carle and Friends, Sunny Day: A Celebration of the Sesame Street Theme Song, and Dear Heartbreak: YA Authors and Teens on the Dark Side of Love. Publishers Weekly named Mike a "Fall 2014 Flying Start." In the same year he won the Society of Illustrators Original Art Show Founder's Award. In 2021, Mike's debut young adult graphic novel, Flamer, was awarded a 2021 Golden Kite Award Honor for Illustrated Book for Older Readers by The Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators.

Image: A headshot of Mike Curato.

Win a detailed written critique of one (1) picture book manuscript (or picture book dummy) by Lee & Low Books associate editor Kandace Coston. The critique will include feedback on the story's plot/structure, character development, voice, marketability, and next steps for strengthening the project.

Winner of this auction item must submit a PDF of their picture book manuscript (including a cover letter) to Kandace via email no later than February 1, 2022. They will receive their critique from Kandace via email no later than February 28, 2022. The picture book submission should be written in English and not exceed 2,500 words (including the cover letter).

Kandace Coston is the associate editor at Lee & Low Books and the Alumnx Manager on WNDB's Internship Grant Committee. She grew up in the Bronx, New York, where she spent her weekends at the public library reading stories and writing her own. After graduating from Barnard College, Columbia University, she won an internship grant from WNDB and joined the Lee & Low team. Kandace enjoys working with new writers and illustrators and helping their projects grow into published picture books. Professionally and personally, Kandace loves strong female protagonists as well as any story that can make her laugh!

Image: A headshot of Kandace Coston.

Win a 45-minute combination AMA call and consultation/critique with JoAnn Yao, Social Media Manager at We Need Diverse Books.

Need help demystifying social media as a professional who needs to build a platform? Unsure how to dig into analytics, plan posts, and/or build an effective online presence? Hop on a 45-minute call with JoAnn! She'll not only go over your current web presence to assess what you're doing well and what you can do to further develop your personal brand, but she'll also answer any questions you have regarding professional websites, establishing yourself via social media, and (perhaps most importantly) how to be online without burning out. She's managed and grown We Need Diverse Books' online presence since 2017, but she's also been using the biggest social media platforms since they first came on the scene. She can offer accessibility tips, graphic design hacks, habits to avoid, insights into algorithmic flows and SEO, and more!

JoAnn Yao is the Social Media Manager for We Need Diverse Books. She holds a B.S. in Computational Media from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a M.A. in TV, Radio, & Film from Syracuse University. She has worn many hats throughout the course of her career, including researcher for the American Film Institute, script reader and TV Lit assistant in Hollywood, webmaster, online narrative game designer, video editor, and New Frontiers comic anthology writer. She lives in New York City with her dragon's hoard of books.

Image: A headshot of JoAnn Yao.

Win an author website or blog review that includes a personalized author color palette suggestion by motion design producer Sam Elyse.

Must send website or blog to be reviewed by end of April 2022.

Sam Elyse is a motion design producer and a middle grade paranormal author and graphic novelist. She is represented by Bre Stephens with Jennifer De Chiara Literary agency.

Image: A headshot of Sam Elyse.

Have your query letter, synopsis, and picture book (fiction or nonfiction) critiqued by DK Senior Editor Tori Kosara!

Tori Kosara is a senior editor at DK where she edits and writes award-winning and best-selling nonfiction books for children and young adults. Tori also has experience working on award-winning picture books, and she holds a master's degree in Children's Literature from Roehampton University. Originally from New York, Tori now lives in East London, England with her family and a story-time-loving Labrador.

Image: Headshot of Tori Kosara.

Win a full three-pass query critique with detailed in-line notes and unlimited brainstorming sessions from Donald Maass Literary Agency Assistant Rae Loverde!

Rae Loverde has been an agency assistant at Donald Maass Literary Agency for 5 years - a position she owes largely to the generous WNDB grant that helped her get started in publishing. She is also a freelance editor and agented author who loves writing diverse adult SFF and chasing Inej and Kell, her too-appropriately named editor cats, off her keyboard.

Image: A headshot of Rae Loverde.

Win a Query Coaching Package with author and librarian Sarah Loch and start or continue your querying journey!

The querying quest is dangerous if you go it alone! Before you start, Sarah can help make your query the best it can be!

Query Coaching starts with you. No query letter yet? Sarah will help you gather information and start a draft. Already got one? Let's look and see what you have.

This package includes a detailed review and edit of your query letter, and a 30-minute one-on-one to discuss the edits and answer your questions.

Sarah Loch (she/her) has been making up stories since childhood, first for her own amusement and then to entertain her younger siblings and cousins. She is a young adult librarian and an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. Sarah has authored and self-published several queer romances under a pseudonym while working to write and revise her first YA novel. She lives in Northwest Arkansas with her family and a corgi mix named Daisy.

Image: A headshot of Sarah Loch.

Win a picture book critique by author Silvia López.

Cuban-born Silvia López lives in Miami. Her books include Just Right Family: An Adoption Story, Handimals: Animals in Art and Nature, Pacho Nacho, and the English/Spanish versions of Queen of Tejano Music: Selena, My Little Golden Book about Frida Kahlo and My Little Golden Book about Sonia Sotomayor (scheduled for 2022.)

Image: A headshot of Silvia López.

Win a picture book critique of a manuscript from children's book writer Paola Santos. It could be a work of fiction or a concept book. The style could range from prose, lyrical prose, to poetry (free verse).

Manuscript must be less than 1000 words.

Paola Santos is an aspiring author born and raised in Venezuela. She always wanted to write, and when she moved to Canada, she found the courage to tell stories of hope and happiness. Paola defines herself as a seeker who wonders at the world like a child and as a person that loves to give voice to deep emotions. Her work brings forward the celebration of her own culture and the blending that inevitably occurs when immigrants first step into a different land. Her writing also calls to cherish people's differences and similarities. Paola holds a bachelor's degree in Literature and a master's degree in Children's Literature and Reading Promotion from the Castilla-La Mancha University in Spain. She is a member of the SCBWI, a graduate of the Children's Book Academy, a Las Musas-Hermana mentee (fall 2020), and a We Need Diverse Books mentee (2021).

Image: A headshot of Paola Santos.

Win a 25-page critique from award-winning author Swati Avasthi!

Swati Avasthi is the award-winning author of two novels for young adults: Split, which received the Cybils, ILA, and New Mexico State Book award and was a finalist for 15 other state books awards; and Chasing Shadows, which made "Best of" the year lists from YALSA, Kirkus, and Bank Street. She loves her day job, teaching at Hamline's MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults where she gets to critique manuscripts and chat with other writers. She has an MFA from University of Minnesota and BA from University of Chicago.

Image: A headshot of Swati Avasthi.

Win your choice of a critique or consult with middle grade author Malia Maunakea:

• Malia will critique your query and first ten pages; or
• Malia will consult with you via phone or video call, you can ask her anything about her publishing journey

Malia Maunakea is a part-Hawaiian author who's debut MG book LEI AND THE FIRE GODDESS will publish May 2023 with Penguin Workshop. Malia is represented by Patrice Caldwell at New Leaf Literary.

Image: A headshot of Malia Maunakea.

Win a 30-minute call to discuss either your picture book manuscript or the first 50 pages of your Middle Grade or Young Adult project with an Assistant Editor from Dial Books!

Michelle Lee (she/her) received her M.F.A. in Writing for Children and Young Adults from the New School before joining Dial in 2019 and is a junior mentor with the Representation Matters Mentorship Program. She acquires picture books, novels, and graphic novels, and is looking for stories that present the world through a clever lens, have fresh takes on tropes, and celebrate community-especially from marginalized creators.

Image: headshot of Michelle Lee

Win a written critique from literary agent Jas Perry! Choose from:

1) query letter and sample of first 3 pages for a MG or YA fiction manuscript, or

2) pitch package for a MG or YA graphic novel.

Jas Perry is a literary agent with KT Literary representing MG, YA, and Graphic Novels. A WNDB Intern Grant alum, Jas was an editorial intern with Scholastic/Arthur A. Levine Books and Levine Querido as well as a freelance editor/authenticity reader prior to agenting.

Image: A headshot of Jas Perry.

Win a picture book manuscript critique over a 30-minute Zoom call. Award-winning author and illustrator Jim Averbeck will read the manuscript with the writer and provide coaching on how to improve it and get it closer to submission-ready. The Zoom call will be recorded and the recipient can download the recording.

Expires June 5, 2022.

Jim Averbeck works, plays, and evades the law in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. His first book, In a Blue Room, was a Charlotte Zolotow Honor book. His popular books Except If and Oh No, Little Dragon! feature charming protagonists with pointy teeth. His book, The Market Bowl and his middle grade novel A Hitch at the Fairmont were Junior Library Guild Selections. Chosen by indie booksellers for their very first Diversity Initiative his book, One Word From Sophia, was a Top 100 African-American Kids' Book included in Marley Dias' viral 1000blackgirlbooks video, as well as a Kirkus and Bank Street Best Book of 2015 and a "must read" IndyNext Top 10. Other books include Trevor for Roaring Brook Press/Neal Porter; and the "fun, clever, and empowering" Two Problems for Sophia and Love by Sophia, companion volumes to One Word From Sophia.

Spy agencies can find Jim online at jimaverbeck.com

Image: A headshot of Jim Averbeck.

Win a one-hour consultation call with Sara Maher, Project Editor, Licensed Product, at Printers Row Publishing Group. Sara has hired and supervised both permanent and temporary/freelance positions and will review one resume or one portfolio as part of our consultation (if desired). Sara is happy to answer general interest questions about the industry. For those with more specific questions, Sara can offer early- to mid-level career guidance in the areas of print book production, editorial, project management, and department management.

There is a one-hour limit for the consultation call. The consultation will occur at a date and time agreed upon by both parties, but not before January 2, 2022.

Sara Maher is a Project Editor for licensed books and kits at Printers Row Publishing Group, the publishing division of Readerlink. Before this she was the Publishing Manager at Western National Parks Association; worked in production at Hachette, DK, and Rizzoli; and did freelance writing and editing for small publishers and newspapers. She holds dual BAs in English and history from Salem College and a Certification in Publishing from New York University. Her publishing career has taken her from Colorado to North Carolina, New York City, Arizona, and San Diego, where she currently lives and works.

Image: A headshot of Sara Maher.

Win a full picture book critique from Karen Grencik, Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary, LLC.

Karen Grencik became a literary agent because of a man she admired. She wanted the world to know his story, so she set out to make that happen. In 2001 she accomplished her goal when Double Luck, Memoirs of a Chinese Orphan, written by Lu Chi Fa with Becky White, was published by Holiday House. Double Luck received many awards, including The Parents' Choice Gold Award for Best Nonfiction. Karen's next sale, George Hogglesberry, Grade School Alien, written by Sarah Wilson, was acquired by a brand-new editor, Abigail Samoun, at Tricycle Press. George Hogglesberry went on to win the coveted Golden Kite Award for Best Picture Book Text. Many other award-winning titles followed. In June 2011 Karen joined forces with Abigail Samoun to open Red Fox Literary, LLC, a boutique agency that specializes in children's book for all ages and genres. She focuses primarily on narrative nonfiction and BIPOC picture books, and she loves matchmaking authors and their manuscripts with just the right editors in order to create the magic that is at the heart of children's books.

Image: A headshot of Karen Grencik.

Win a full picture book critique from Karen Grencik, Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary, LLC.

Karen Grencik became a literary agent because of a man she admired. She wanted the world to know his story, so she set out to make that happen. In 2001 she accomplished her goal when Double Luck, Memoirs of a Chinese Orphan, written by Lu Chi Fa with Becky White, was published by Holiday House. Double Luck received many awards, including The Parents' Choice Gold Award for Best Nonfiction. Karen's next sale, George Hogglesberry, Grade School Alien, written by Sarah Wilson, was acquired by a brand-new editor, Abigail Samoun, at Tricycle Press. George Hogglesberry went on to win the coveted Golden Kite Award for Best Picture Book Text. Many other award-winning titles followed. In June 2011 Karen joined forces with Abigail Samoun to open Red Fox Literary, LLC, a boutique agency that specializes in children's book for all ages and genres. She focuses primarily on narrative nonfiction and BIPOC picture books, and she loves matchmaking authors and their manuscripts with just the right editors in order to create the magic that is at the heart of children's books.

Image: A headshot of Karen Grencik.

Win a full picture book critique from Karen Grencik, Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary, LLC.

Karen Grencik became a literary agent because of a man she admired. She wanted the world to know his story, so she set out to make that happen. In 2001 she accomplished her goal when Double Luck, Memoirs of a Chinese Orphan, written by Lu Chi Fa with Becky White, was published by Holiday House. Double Luck received many awards, including The Parents' Choice Gold Award for Best Nonfiction. Karen's next sale, George Hogglesberry, Grade School Alien, written by Sarah Wilson, was acquired by a brand-new editor, Abigail Samoun, at Tricycle Press. George Hogglesberry went on to win the coveted Golden Kite Award for Best Picture Book Text. Many other award-winning titles followed. In June 2011 Karen joined forces with Abigail Samoun to open Red Fox Literary, LLC, a boutique agency that specializes in children's book for all ages and genres. She focuses primarily on narrative nonfiction and BIPOC picture books, and she loves matchmaking authors and their manuscripts with just the right editors in order to create the magic that is at the heart of children's books.

Image: A headshot of Karen Grencik.

Win a full picture book critique from Karen Grencik, Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary, LLC.

Karen Grencik became a literary agent because of a man she admired. She wanted the world to know his story, so she set out to make that happen. In 2001 she accomplished her goal when Double Luck, Memoirs of a Chinese Orphan, written by Lu Chi Fa with Becky White, was published by Holiday House. Double Luck received many awards, including The Parents' Choice Gold Award for Best Nonfiction. Karen's next sale, George Hogglesberry, Grade School Alien, written by Sarah Wilson, was acquired by a brand-new editor, Abigail Samoun, at Tricycle Press. George Hogglesberry went on to win the coveted Golden Kite Award for Best Picture Book Text. Many other award-winning titles followed. In June 2011 Karen joined forces with Abigail Samoun to open Red Fox Literary, LLC, a boutique agency that specializes in children's book for all ages and genres. She focuses primarily on narrative nonfiction and BIPOC picture books, and she loves matchmaking authors and their manuscripts with just the right editors in order to create the magic that is at the heart of children's books.

Image: A headshot of Karen Grencik.

Win a full picture book critique from Karen Grencik, Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary, LLC.

Karen Grencik became a literary agent because of a man she admired. She wanted the world to know his story, so she set out to make that happen. In 2001 she accomplished her goal when Double Luck, Memoirs of a Chinese Orphan, written by Lu Chi Fa with Becky White, was published by Holiday House. Double Luck received many awards, including The Parents' Choice Gold Award for Best Nonfiction. Karen's next sale, George Hogglesberry, Grade School Alien, written by Sarah Wilson, was acquired by a brand-new editor, Abigail Samoun, at Tricycle Press. George Hogglesberry went on to win the coveted Golden Kite Award for Best Picture Book Text. Many other award-winning titles followed. In June 2011 Karen joined forces with Abigail Samoun to open Red Fox Literary, LLC, a boutique agency that specializes in children's book for all ages and genres. She focuses primarily on narrative nonfiction and BIPOC picture books, and she loves matchmaking authors and their manuscripts with just the right editors in order to create the magic that is at the heart of children's books.

Image: A headshot of Karen Grencik.

Win a critique of your query letter and the first 10 pages of your manuscript (or your entire picture book!), along with a 15-minute consultation call, from Paige Terlip, Associate Agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency.

Paige Terlip represents all categories of children's books from picture books to young adult, as well as select adult fiction. Regardless of genre, she is seeking inclusive, intersectional voices and gorgeous line-level writing with emotionally compelling narratives.

Paige has been with the Andrea Brown Literary Agency since 2017. She comes to agenting with a background in marketing, design, and freelance editorial. She's worked at Charlesbridge Publishing, The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and a ranch in the Rockies. She has an MA in Children's Literature and an MFA in Writing for Children from Simmons University.

Image: A graphic that reads: 'A query and first 10 pages critique and 15 minute call with Paige Terlip, Associate Agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency,' and includes the Andrea Brown Literary Agency logo. A headshot of Paige Terlip.

Win a critique from Fuse Literary's Literary Agent! Carlisle Webber, Literary Agent at Fuse Literary, will critique either:

• a query letter
• or a critique of the first 5-10 pages of a middle grade, young adult, or adult novel

Carlisle Webber is an agent with Fuse Literary specializing in commercial fiction for children, teens, and adults. Her favorite genres include contemporary fiction, mystery, thriller, and horror. She holds a Professional Certificate in Editing from UC Berkeley, and when she's not reading or editing, she enjoys Muay Thai and watching true crime shows.

Image: A headshot of Carlisle Webber.

Win a 30-minute video chat and consultation about a career in writing, which includes a query letter critique and a critique of the first 5 pages of your manuscript, from Mary C. Moore, Literary Agent at Kimberley Cameron & Associates.

Mary will be in Pacific Standard Time for the consultation.

Mary C. Moore is a literary agent with Kimberley Cameron & Associates. She represents fiction for adult, young adult, and middle grade audiences. Find out more about her at marycmoore.com.

Image: A headshot of Mary C. Moore.

Win a 30-minute AMA consultation call with John Cusick, Agent at Folio Literary. John will also offer a critique of the first page of your manuscript or your query letter prior to the call, to discuss during the consultation.

This item expires one year from the fundraiser date, December 2021.

John Cusick is a Senior VP and literary agent with Folio Literary Management, representing a diverse list of award winners and New York Times bestsellers. His focus is middle grade, young adult, and crossover fiction. He is also the author of the YA novels Girl Parts and Cherry Money Baby (Candlewick Press), and the DIMENSION WHY middle-grade duology. (HarperCollins).

Image: A headshot of John Cusick.

Win a query critique for a young adult novel from YA author Dana Mele. Dana Mele will also answer questions via email about the querying process from the author's perspective.

This item expires one year from the fundraiser date, December 2021.

Dana Mele is the author of the YA thriller People Like Us and the forthcoming YA paranormal thriller Summer's Edge and graphic novel Tragic.

Image: A headshot of Dana Mele.

Win a critique of one picture book from Clarissa Wong, Executive Editor at Scholastic. If art is available, Clarissa is happy to critique art along with the text.

Fine print: please send the picture book as a Word doc.

Clarissa Wong is an executive editor at Scholastic and works mostly on picture books and the occasional graphic novel. Prior to Scholastic, she was an editor at HarperCollins, Abrams, and Disney Publishing. She was lucky enough to collaborate with amazing talents like Joanna Ho (EYES THAT KISS IN THE CORNERS), Thi Bui (THE BEST WE COULD DO), Yamile Saied Méndez (WHERE ARE YOU FROM?), and many more.

Image: A headshot of Clarissa Wong.

Win a query letter critique from young adult author Heather Kamins.

Heather Kamins is the author of the novel The Moth Girl, out 3/8/22 from Putnam/Penguin Teen. She is the recipient of an Artist Fellowship from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and her short fiction has appeared in Guernica and elsewhere. She lives in Western Massachusetts with her husband, two cats, and the variety of woodland creatures who stroll through her yard.

Image: A headshot of Heather Kamins.

Win a query letter critique from author, editor, and former literary agent Nathan Bransford.

Nathan Bransford is the author of the writing guides How to Write a Novel and How to Publish a Book and the middle grade novels Jacob Wonderbar and the Cosmic Space Kapow, Jacob Wonderbar for President of the Universe, and Jacob Wonderbar and the Interstellar Time Warp.

Nathan was formerly a literary agent with Curtis Brown Ltd. He started blogging in 2007 and his blog has consistently been named one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers by Writers Digest. He's dedicated to helping authors write what they love, navigate the publishing process, and successfully market their books.

Image: A headshot of Nathan Bransford with text that reads: 'Helping authors achieve their dreams.'

Win a query letter critique from Sera Rivers, Senior Literary Manager at Martin Literary Management.

The critique will take place within 15 days of the emailed query.

Sera Rivers is a Senior Literary Manager for Martin Literary & Media Management. Sera is actively building her lists, accepting queries for middle grade and young adult fiction, graphic novels, and the occasional picture book. To get a better sense of what Sera is looking for, you can read her Manuscript Wish List and submission guidelines at SeraRivers.com. Prior to agenting, Sera worked in educational publishing for seven years and launched Avenue A Books, a children's graphic novel imprint at Center for Responsive Schools. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University.

Image: A headshot of Sera Rivers.

Win a query letter critique from Sera Rivers, Senior Literary Manager at Martin Literary Management.

The critique will take place within 15 days of the emailed query.

Sera Rivers is a Senior Literary Manager for Martin Literary & Media Management. Sera is actively building her lists, accepting queries for middle grade and young adult fiction, graphic novels, and the occasional picture book. To get a better sense of what Sera is looking for, you can read her Manuscript Wish List and submission guidelines at SeraRivers.com. Prior to agenting, Sera worked in educational publishing for seven years and launched Avenue A Books, a children's graphic novel imprint at Center for Responsive Schools. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University.

Image: A headshot of Sera Rivers.

Win a query letter critique from Sera Rivers, Senior Literary Manager at Martin Literary Management.

The critique will take place within 15 days of the emailed query.

Sera Rivers is a Senior Literary Manager for Martin Literary & Media Management. Sera is actively building her lists, accepting queries for middle grade and young adult fiction, graphic novels, and the occasional picture book. To get a better sense of what Sera is looking for, you can read her Manuscript Wish List and submission guidelines at SeraRivers.com. Prior to agenting, Sera worked in educational publishing for seven years and launched Avenue A Books, a children's graphic novel imprint at Center for Responsive Schools. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University.

Image: A headshot of Sera Rivers.

Win a critique of:

• the first five pages of your Middle Grade or YA manuscript; or
• a critique of a pitch package for a MG or a YA graphic novel (for author/illustrator graphic novel projects only)

from Sera Rivers, Senior Literary Manager at Martin Literary Management.

Sera will provide the written critique within 21 days of emailed pages.

Sera Rivers is a Senior Literary Manager for Martin Literary & Media Management. Sera is actively building her lists, accepting queries for middle grade and young adult fiction, graphic novels, and the occasional picture book. To get a better sense of what Sera is looking for, you can read her Manuscript Wish List and submission guidelines at SeraRivers.com. Prior to agenting, Sera worked in educational publishing for seven years and launched Avenue A Books, a children's graphic novel imprint at Center for Responsive Schools. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University.

Image: A headshot of Sera Rivers.

Win a 30-minute consultation to either brainstorm your novel idea or receive feedback on your draft-in-progress, from Michelle Schusterman, author, ghostwriter, and YouTuber.

Michelle will review up to 10 pages of your draft, brainstorming documents, or any other material prior to the call.

Michelle Schusterman is the author of over a dozen critically acclaimed novels for middle grade and young adult readers. Her books have received starred reviews from Kirkus, Booklist, and Publisher's Weekly and have received honors including multiple Junior Library Guild selections, the CBCC Best of 2019 List, ALA's Rainbow List and Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers List, and the NC State College of Education Comic Relief Reading List. She shares videos on the writing craft and traditional publishing, as well as writing vlogs documenting her own journey, on her quickly growing YouTube channel.

Image: A headshot of Michelle Schusterman.

Win detailed editorial feedback on:

• a query letter, or
• a picture book manuscript, or
• up to the first 2,500 words of a middle grade or YA novel manuscript

from YA and MG author and children's book editor Leila Sales.

Leila Sales is the author of seven middle grade and young adult novels published by Abrams, Chronicle, Macmillan, and Simon & Schuster. She spent more than a decade as an editor at Viking Children's Books and now runs the Book Engineer, a book development company. Learn more at leilasales.com.

Image: A headshot of Leila Sales.

Win a full picture book manuscript critique from Katie Heit, Senior Editor at Scholastic! This critique will include an edit letter and an edited manuscript.

Katie Heit is an editor at Scholastic, where she edits nonfiction picture books and chapter books, as well as select fiction picture book titles. She is drawn to books that approach nonfiction in a unique, kid-friendly way and is especially on the lookout for nature and STEAM topics.

Image: A headshot of Katie Heit.

Win an in-depth critique of:

• a fiction proposal, or
• the first 20 pages of a fiction novel

from Laura Wheeler, Acquisitions Editor at Harper Muse.

Laura Wheeler has over ten years of editorial experience in the book industry. She worked on titles for Hachette Book Group and Abingdon Press before becoming an acquisitions editor for Harper Muse (an imprint of Harper Focus). Originally from Louisville, Laura currently lives in Nashville with her husband, Micah, and their very good canine boy, (Mr.) Knightley. She is most content when her days include baking French pastries, playing nerdy board games, laughing over a meal with good friends, and (of course) getting lost in an excellent novel.

Image: A headshot of Laura Wheeler.

Win one picture book manuscript critique (rhyming or prose) via a Zoom call with picture book author Anne Marie Pace.

In spite of the adage to write what you know, Anne Marie Pace has never been a vampire, a ballerina, a groundhog, or a tow truck driver. Her picture books include SUNNY'S TOW TRUCK SAVES THE DAY (Abrams Appleseed, illustrated by Christopher Lee); GROUNDHUG DAY (Disney-Hyperion, illustrated by Christopher Denise); PIGLOO (Henry Holt, illustrated by Lorna Hussey); BUSY-EYED DAY (Beach Lane Books, illustrated by Frann Preston-Gannon); and the four books of the VAMPIRINA BALLERINA series (Disney-Hyperion, illustrated by LeUyen Pham), which has been adapted into Disney Junior's Emmy-nominated hit animated series VAMPIRINA. Forthcoming is MOUSE CALLS, illustrated by Erin Kraan, from Beach Lane Books. She lives with her family in Virginia.

Image: A headshot of Anne Marie Pace

Second Image: The book cover of Vampirina Ballerina

Win a critique of the first 50 pages of a Middle Grade manuscript by author of The Dream Weaver, Reina Luz Alegre.

Reina Luz Alegre is the author of THE DREAM WEAVER, a contemporary middle grade novel out now from Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. THE DREAM WEAVER is a Junior Library Guild Selection and was named a Parents Latina Best Latino Children's Book of 2020.

Image: A headshot of Reina Luz Alegre.

Win a query critique for your Young Adult or Middle Grade novel from Jennie Kendrick, a Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary!

Fine Print: Winner has 6 months from the date of auction to redeem. Query critiques may take 2-3 weeks. Queries should be sent in .doc/.docx form. If you have any questions or specific concerns about your query, please note them and I will do my best to address them. You can attach a synopsis to better help me understand the query. Unfortunately, I can't offer representation, but I hope to help you polish your query for an agent who can!

Jennie Kendrick represents YA, MG and select picture books with Red Fox Literary. A former criminal defense attorney and history major, she has worked in the publishing industry since 2013, including reviewing for publications such as Kirkus, and part-time bookselling at a local independent bookstore. Jennie's passions include history (especially medieval European history), the criminal justice system, art, tarot, rock music, and cooking. She loves well-researched character-driven fiction, narrative non-fiction, and is particularly looking for Own Voices works and books from marginalized creators. Jennie is always looking for a phenomenal ghost or vampire story, regardless of children's age group. You can find more about her taste at jenniekendrick.com.

Image: A headshot of Jennie Kendrick.

Win a query critique for your Young Adult or Middle Grade novel from Jennie Kendrick, a Literary Agent at Red Fox Literary!

Fine Print: Winner has 6 months from the date of auction to redeem. Query critiques may take 2-3 weeks. Queries should be sent in .doc/.docx form. If you have any questions or specific concerns about your query, please note them and I will do my best to address them. You can attach a synopsis to better help me understand the query. Unfortunately, I can't offer representation, but I hope to help you polish your query for an agent who can!

Jennie Kendrick represents YA, MG and select picture books with Red Fox Literary. A former criminal defense attorney and history major, she has worked in the publishing industry since 2013, including reviewing for publications such as Kirkus, and part-time bookselling at a local independent bookstore. Jennie's passions include history (especially medieval European history), the criminal justice system, art, tarot, rock music, and cooking. She loves well-researched character-driven fiction, narrative non-fiction, and is particularly looking for Own Voices works and books from marginalized creators. Jennie is always looking for a phenomenal ghost or vampire story, regardless of children's age group. You can find more about her taste at jenniekendrick.com.

Image: A headshot of Jennie Kendrick.

Win a critique from Sheldon Fogelman Agency's Literary AgentJanine Le! Choose from a critique of:

• one picture book manuscript or dummy,
• GN pitch packet, or
• the first three chapters of a novel for young readers (chapter book, Middle Grade, Young Adult)

Janine Le is an agent at Sheldon Fogelman Agency representing authors and illustrators of picture books through young adult novels.

Image: A headshot of Janine Le.

Win a written critique of your query letter and the first 10 pages of your middle grade or young adult novel, followed up with a 30-minute phone call consultation with Park & Fine Literary and Media's Literary Agent Peter Knapp.

Materials must be submitted by the end of February 2022. Peter will revert his critique within 3 weeks of receipt, and the follow up call should happen within 1 month of receiving the critique.

Peter Knapp is a literary agent at Park & Fine Literary and Media, where he represents middle grade and young adult fiction.

Image: A headshot of Peter Knapp.

Win a query and first chapter critique and chat with Prospect Agency's Literary Agent Ann Rose. She will review your query letter and first chapter, providing inline comments and notes, and then together you will arrange a time to chat about the piece or anything publishing. The choice is yours. Your project should be Middle Grade or Young Adult of any genre or if it's an adult project, thriller, contemporary, romance, and LIGHT science fiction or fantasy will get you best results.

Ann Rose is an agent at Prospect Literary Agency. Over the last few years she has been exploring this field by working and mentoring with literary agents in various capacities. Everything she has experienced from editorial work to the magic of finding the perfect match between author and editor has hardened her resolve to join this wonderful profession. Now she's thrilled to be building her own list and is actively seeking clients ready to grow amazing careers with her. Ann's perfect manuscript is a character driven story that isn't afraid to push boundaries. She loves an unlikeable character - even though she is incredibly likeable herself!

Image: A headshot of Ann Rose.

Win a critique of your query letter and the first 50 pages of a Middle Grade or Young Adult project - plus a 30-minute follow-up call with Kari Sutherland, Literary Agent at Bradford Literary Agency.

Please allow 3-4 weeks from time of submission of the critique materials.

Kari Sutherland joined the Bradford Literary Agency in 2017 after a decade of experience in publishing from the editorial side. Previously a Senior Editor at HarperCollins Children's Books, she has worked with bestselling and critically acclaimed authors on projects such as the #1 New York Times bestselling Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard and the #1 New York Times bestselling Pretty Little Liars series by Sara Shepard. With her editorial insight and experience with the entire publishing process, Kari works with her clients to polish projects before submission. She is honored to represent and uplift traditionally underrepresented voices including those from the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, as well as people with disabilities. Recent sales include works by Isabel Canas, Saadia Faruqi, Amitha Jagannath Knight, PJ Gardner, and Rimma Onoseta.

Image: A headshot of Kari Sutherland.

Win a critique of your query letter and the first ten pages of an Middle Grade or Young Adult manuscript (fiction or nonfiction) by Raven Quill Literary Agency's Founder and Literary Agent Jacqui Lipton.

Jacqui Lipton is the founder of Raven Quill Literary Agency. She represents all genres of kidlit from picture book through young adult (and occasionally beyond).

Image: A headshot of Jacqui Lipton.

Win a critique of two to three picture book manuscripts (maximum 12 double-spaced pages total) from Raven Quill Literary Agency's Founder and Literary Agent Jacqui Lipton.

Jacqui Lipton is the founder of Raven Quill Literary Agency representing all genres of kidlit from picture book through young adult.

Image: A headshot of Jacqui Lipton.

Win a review with feedback on an illustration portfolio by author and artist Nidhi Chanani. The review can take place via email or over a 30-minute Zoom call.

Portfolio review must be completed within 3 months of winning bid.

Nidhi Chanani was born in Kolkata, India, and raised in California. She holds a degree in literature from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She creates illustrations that capture love in everyday moments. In 2012, she was honored by the Obama Administration as a Champion of Change. Her illustrations are often featured at Disney Parks. She's the author of Pashmina and Jukebox, graphic novels, Shubh Raatri Dost/Good Night Friend, a bilingual board book and illustrator of picture books. Nidhi draws and dreams in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and kid. Everydayloveart.com

Image: A headshot of Nidhi Chanani.

Win a virtual portfolio review of your illustration work, cover designs, and/or website from Macmillan Children's Book Group's Associate Art Director Aurora Parlagreco.

Aurora Parlagreco is an Associate Art Director at Macmillan Children's Book Group who has designed many YA and Middle Grade titles, including New York Times Bestsellers by Julie Murphy, Joan He, and Marie Lu. Her work has been featured in the New York Book Show as well as Spine Magazine, Paste Magazine, and The Casual Optimist.

Image: A headshot of Aurora Parlagreco.

Win a critique of a non-rhyming fiction picture book from award-winning picture book author Aya Khalil!

Aya Khalil is an award-winning author of The Arabic Quilt (2020, Tilbury House), and The Night Before Eid (2023, Little, Brown).

Image: A headshot of Aya Khalil.

Win a written critique of a picture book manuscript by Tugeau 2's Associate Agent Lillian Mazeika!

Lillian Mazeika is an associate agent at Tugeau 2. Coming from an art background herself, Lillian loves engaging with creators and seeing them bring stories to life. Lillian enjoys graphic novels and is always on the hunt for spooky stories and diverse voices. However, she really just adores all things kidlit. When she isn't working, you can find her at a concert or flea market.

Image: A headshot of Lillian Mazeika.

Win a 30-min AMA call with picture book author Anitra Rowe Schulte or receive a picture book critique by Anitra! Your choice.

Anitra Rowe Schulte is the picture book author of DANCING WITH DADDY, illustrated by Ziyue Chen, and WILLOW AND BUNNY, illustrated by Christopher Denise, which is set for Fall 2022. Anitra is a proud member of the 2021 debut group PB Debut Troupe 21 and 2022 group PB Tales of 2022.

Image: A headshot of Anitra Rowe Schulte.

Win a query letter critique from published author Misa Sugiura!

Misa Sugiura is the author of the award-winning It's Not Like It's A Secret as well as This Time Will Be Different and Love & Other Natural Disasters.

Image: headshot of Misa Sugiura

Win a critique from writer and poet Gloria Munoz! Gloria will give you feedback on three to five poems or up to ten pages of a novel-in-verse.

Gloria Munoz is a Colombian American writer, literary translator, and advocate for multilingual literacy. Her poetry book Dawn's Early / Danzirly was awarded the Academy of American Poets 2019 Ambroggio Prize. Other honors include Lumina's Multilingual Nonfiction Writing Award, a Las Musas Mentorship for Latinx Kid Lit authors, and a New York State Summer Writers Institute Fellowship. Munoz was in the inaugural Tin House YA workshop. She is also the author of Your Biome Has Found You. A proponent of cross-disciplinary collaboration, Munoz has worked alongside botanists, musicians, dancers, historians, visual artists, conservationists, and neuroscientists. She is a co-founder of the film organization Pitch Her Productions and she is one half of the songwriting team Moonlit Música. She teaches creative writing at Eckerd College.

Image: Gloria Munoz Headshot

Win a full illustration portfolio critique from children's book illustrator/author Joe Cepeda!

Joe Cepeda is an award-winning illustrator/author of more than forty books, including those by notable authors like Pam Munoz Ryan and Toni Morrison, as well as illustrating jackets for titles, Esperanza Rising and Newberry winner Merci Suarez Changes Gears. He received an ALA 2002 Pura Belpre' Honor Award.

Image: A headshot of Joe Cepeda.

Win a critique for your writing from editor Elizabeth Lee! For the critique, Elizabeth will evaluate one (1) picture book manuscript, or the first ten (10) pages of a middle grade or young adult manuscript.

Elizabeth Lee is an editor at Penguin Workshop, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers, who acquires middle grade, young adult, and the select picture book. She has had the pleasure of editing books by New York Times-bestselling and award-winning authors such as Libba Bray, Reyna Grande, and Josh Davis. Elizabeth is currently looking for bold, character-driven stories featuring diverse ensemble casts, surefire commercial hooks, and strong points of view. When she is not editing, she writes children's and teen novels under the penname, E.L. Shen. Her debut novel, The Comeback (Macmillan, 2021), received two starred reviews and was praised for its "fast-paced prose, big emotions, and authentic dialogue" in The New York Times.

Image: A headshot of Elizabeth Lee.

Win a critique package from author Carrie Allen! She will assess your query letter and 10 pages of your manuscript.

Carrie is willing to wait to critique if you're working on your NaNoWriMo book and need more time!

Carrie Allen is a Colorado girl who wears flip-flops year-round and never skips dessert. She is retired from sports medicine, and extra-tired from chasing around two kids and two dogs. She writes contemporary YA about girls who kick butt in sports. She is the author of Michigan vs. The Boys and a forthcoming short story in the anthology Out of Our League.

Image: A headshot of Carrie Allen.

Win a query, synopsis, and first chapter critique along with a 30-minute editorial call with author, freelance editor, and book coach Julie Artz!

Julie Artz spent her young life sneaking into wardrobes searching for Narnia. When people thought that was creepy, she went in search of other ways to go on mystical adventures. Now she finds those long-sought doors to magical story worlds in her work as an author, editor, and book coach. An active member of the writing community, she volunteers for SCBWI and Pitch Wars and is a member of EFA and AWP. Julie lives in an enchanted forest outside of Redmond, Washington, with her husband, two strong-willed teenagers, and a trio of naughty furry familiars.

Image: A headshot of Julie Artz.

Win a premium, two-round query letter critique by freelance fiction editor Michelle Rascon.

First round: Receive a copy of your query letter with in-line comments providing feedback and asking questions to gain more insight. Then send a revised version back to Michelle with adjustments and answers to the questions.

Second round: Includes a re-read of your revisions, more in-line comments providing feedback, and annotations as needed.

A premium query letter critique is for authors who want to level up their query letter before submitting it to agents or publishers.

Michelle Rascon (she/her) is a freelance fiction editor with over six years of experience working with successful self-publishing and querying authors. Her goal is to strengthen your writing while respecting your unique voice. Her specialties are adult books in dark fantasy, LGBTQIA+, paranormal, romance, urban fantasy, and women's fiction.

Image: A headshot of Michelle Rascon.

Win a non-rhyming picture book critique by Yeehoo Press's Associate Publisher Helen H. Wu.

Helen H. Wu is the associate publisher at Yeehoo Press, and a children's book author and illustrator of over 20 picture books.

Image: A headshot of Helen H. Wu.

Win a query and first 10 pages critique by The Bent Agency's Literary Agent Laurel Symonds!

Laurel Symonds joined The Bent Agency in Fall 2018 after nearly a decade of experience in the publishing industry. She began her publishing career in the editorial department of HarperCollins Children's Books where she worked with a number of award-winning and bestselling authors. She's 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 she loves most about being an agent is being the author's advocate through all parts of the publication process.

She represents young adult and middle grade fiction, graphic novels, picture books, and select nonfiction for children and teens. In every category, she is seeking voices that have previously been underrepresented and stories that have been overlooked. Laurel's profile and submission guidelines are at www.thebentagency.com and she can also be found online on Twitter and Instagram (@LaurelSymonds).

Image: A headshot of Laurel Symonds.

Win a 100-page written critique of your middle grade or young adult manuscript from award-winning author Ellen Oh - and a 30-minute phone call to discuss anything about the publishing industry!

Ellen Oh is co-founder, President, and CEO of We Need Diverse Books (WNDB). She is also a former adjunct college instructor and corporate/entertainment attorney. Ellen is the award-winning author of the middle grade novels Finding Junie Kim, Dragon Egg Princess, Spirit Hunters and its sequel, The Island of Monsters, as well as the highly acclaimed, young adult Prophecy trilogy (Prophecy, Warrior, and King). She is the editor of the middle grade anthology Flying Lessons and Other Stories and the YA anthology Thousand Beginnings and Endings.

Get 50 pages of your manuscript critiqued by acclaimed author Zoraida Córdova via a 30-minute phone call! Manuscript can be Middle Grade, Young Adult, or Adult and must be in the romance or fantasy genre.

Zoraida Córdova is the acclaimed author of more than a dozen novels and short stories, including the Brooklyn Brujas series, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: A Crash of Fate, and The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina. In addition to writing novels, she serves on the Board of We Need Diverse Books, and is the co-editor of the bestselling anthology Vampires Never Get Old, as well as the cohost of the writing podcast, Deadline City. She writes romance novels as Zoey Castile. Zoraida was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and calls New York City home. When she's not working, she's roaming the world in search of magical stories. For more information, visit her at zoraidacordova.com.

Win a critique by Cynthia Levinson, either:

• a full nonfiction picture book manuscript up to 1200 words, or
• the first ten pages of a nonfiction middle grade manuscript

Submission due by May, 2022

Cynthia Levinson writes nonfiction for young readers, mostly about social justice. Cynthia's most recent books received five starred reviews. Others have been designated Best of the Year by Kirkus, School Library Journal, the NY Public Library and have been recognized by NCTE, Junior Library Guild, ALSC, and other groups.

Win a critique from Associate Editor Erin Siu! Winners can choose from one of the below:

- One picture book manuscript or dummy
- First ten pages of a middle grade or young adult novel
- GN pitch packet

Erin Siu is an Associate Editor at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, where she manages MCPG's paperback imprint Square Fish and acquires and edits picture books, middle grade, young adult, and select graphic novels for Feiwel & Friends. She has a soft spot for stories about multicultural experiences, intergenerational relationships, food, and travel, and she's edited several children's books including, Have You Eaten? by Su Youn Lee and Old Friends by Margaret Aitken; illustrated by Lenny Wen. When she's not reading or editing, she can be found playing piano, watching scary movies, or cooking a bowl of ramen.

Get your young adult query critiqued by author Lillie Lainoff!

A former Div I fencer and NCAA Championship competitor for Yale, Lillie Lainoff is the founder of Disabled Kidlit Writers and the winner of the 2019 LA Review Literary Award for Short Fiction. Her writing has been featured in The Washington Post Outlook, Washington City Paper, and via the Disability Visibility Project, amongst other places. One for All, her debut novel, will be published by FSG in 2022. More of her work is online at http://www.lillielainoff.com/, and @lillielainoff on Twitter and Instagram. She received her MA in Creative Writing Prose Fiction from the University of East Anglia.

Image: headshot of Lillie Lainoff