Valerie Noble
Agency: Donaghy Literary Agency
Carrie represents: all Young Adult
Adult (Science Fiction, Fantasy, Historical Fantasy, Historical Fiction);
This is an initiative started by Hanna Alkaf, Gail Villanueva, and I (all currently living in Southeast Asia) to help Asian authors (both diaspora and living outside of the US) learn more about querying and finding agents in the US! Aside from showcasing agents actively seeking Asian rep, we also post tips, advice, and occasionally offer query / 1st page critiques!
Before proceeding: please familiarize yourself with what a query is and how it works, general etiquette that authors need to know before finding an agent, and other helpful guidelines. Check out the #SeaCritterspub category on this blog (also located on the right side of this interview!) for more details!
Now, onwards to the interview!
I am a literary agent with the Donaghy Literary Group. I represent YA and Adult SFF, and some historical!
2. Are there any specific Asian MS preferences you’re looking for (e.g., contemporary K-drama, Chinese martial arts fantasy, etc.) ?
I’d love any stories in my preferred genre that feature Asian characters, Asian culture, or histories, re-tellings. I am especially drawn to Korean culture and their history with Japan but again, I’d like anything relating to Asian culture. I love science fiction that looks at what the world might be like tomorrow. Sometimes that is very advanced, and sometimes very primitive, depending. Surprise me with innovative takes on fantasy and science fiction. I generally enjoy fantasy that mixes with the real world.
3. What other things do you look for in a manuscript?
I love science fiction and fantasy (think Kristin Cashore and Suzanne Collins) but read everything under the sun. For me, it’s more about the writing and less about the genre. In saying that, I am generally not interested in romance or paranormal.
4. What are your submission guidelines?
All query submissions must go through this query manager.
5. What are things people should remember when sending you queries? Any advice regarding what catches your attention / what turns you off?
I read all my queries personally and I try to be timely with my responses. When requesting, I acknowledge receipt of manuscript and provide a timeline for when you should expect a response.
Are you an agent or an editor who’d like to participate in these interviews? Drop me an email at rin.chupeco[at]gmail[dot]com!