Chicago Writing Workshop:
December 5-6, 2025
Online Writers Conference

PITCH YOUR BOOK TO A LITERARY AGENT:

Ashlee MacCallum is a literary agent with Howland Literary. Ashlee joined Howland Literary after interning at Triada US. Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, Ashlee is passionate about championing marginalized creators and uplifting historically underrepresented voices. She gravitates toward high-concept, commercial fiction with bold storytelling, standout pacing, and a distinct voice that grabs you from the first page. Ashlee has a soft spot for speculative stories, mysteries, and anything delightfully weird. She represents all levels of kidlit — picture books (prefers non-rhyming), chapter books, middle grade, and young adult (no memoir). Learn more about Ashlee here.

Sally M. Kim is an agent with Andrea Brown Literary Agency. Sally is looking to represent a wide range of children’s book authors, illustrators, and author-illustrators. She is drawn to stories with a distinct voice, unexpected wit, aggressive pacing, punchy and/or emotionally resonant endings. When it comes to illustration, she gravitates to versatile artists using traditional mediums and those with a unique take on color, texture, perspective, and unexpected details. Please send Sally fiction and nonfiction submissions in the following categories: picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and graphic novels. Across all categories, Sally is especially eager to see authentic explorations of underrepresented cultures, relationships, and identities. Learn more about Sally here.

Nour Sallam is a literary agent P.S. Literary Agency. “In terms of fiction, I am seeking voice-driven commercial and upmarket titles, contemporary fiction with fabulist elements, speculative fiction, edgy psychological thrillers, as well as mysteries, light horror and rom-coms featuring underrepresented characters of any background. I am always drawn to characters who are haunted by something, whether figuratively (a secret, a past, an obsession) or literally (a ghost, a demon, etc.). I am also actively seeking character-driven stories featuring women in power, unhinged women, and female rage. I am actively seeking projects that feature complex and nuanced histories and power dynamics, address social and political issues, or center BIPOC characters.” In nonfiction, she seeks: “I welcome fresh and accessible perspectives on big ideas or industry deep dives as well as narrative nonfiction on pop culture, art, and nature. I also appreciate books that offer incisive commentary on culture, socio-economic structures, corporate underbellies, health and wellness, and lifestyle. Learn more about Nour here.

Elisa Saphier is a literary agent at MacGregor & Luedeke. She is open to most fiction and memoir except for high fantasy & science fiction, series writing (she likes standalones), picture books, and probably chapter books “I am always most excited to find great writing and full characters, regardless of genre.” In adult fiction, she seeks: literary psychological thrillers/mystery; queer romance (especially but not exclusively friends to lovers and forced proximity); literary fiction; literary memoir; stories of marginalized people where the marginalization isn’t the story; dark academia; suburban malaise. In young adult fiction, she loves: found family; queer coming of age; emerging awareness of identity; amateur theater In middle grade, she enjoys: true to life fiction; questioning of self and belonging; amateur theater. Learn more about Elisa here.

Amy Giuffrida is a literary agent with The Belcastro Literary Agency. “I am especially seeking stories written by diverse creators—BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, and disabled creators are encouraged to query me. Send me your stories of joy, where your characters and their worlds can be celebrated by the reader.” In nonfiction, she seeks: business, social media, tech, cookbooks, and also anything by an author with a strong platform and a love for their subject. She seeks upper middle grade fiction. In young fiction, she seeks fantasy, horror, sci-fi, contemporary, contemporary romance, mystery, thriller, historical, and novels-in-verse. In adult fiction, she seeks women’s fiction, book club / commercial fiction, non-political thriller, horror, contemporary romance, and rom-com. Learn more about Amy here. Learn more about Amy here.

Tommy Dean is an agent with Rosecliff Literary. In fiction, he seeks psychological thrillers, full-throttled suspense, mysteries with active and motivated main characters, and novels of crime with anti-hero main characters. He is interested in books with clear stakes and inevitable but surprising endings. He’s interested in stories that make him forget the outside world, that are super-charged with sensory experiences, with characters fighting to understand their pasts. Give him your characters with secrets, past loves, past crimes, and past mistakes that lead to unique stories. Learn more about Tommy here.

Roma Panganiban is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. She joined the Azantian Literary Agency in 2025 to continue championing fresh, unexpected perspectives, particularly those of writers from underrepresented communities. Her taste leans literary, but she is open to fiction that incorporates genre elements, as well as work that defies categorization altogether. She is interested in narrative nonfiction that reorients our understanding of history, culture, science, society, and ourselves, and creative nonfiction that appeals equally to the heart, mind, and sense of humor. She is not seeking Western, epic fantasy, violent true crime, traditional romance, business books, self-help, or Civil War-era historical fiction. Learn more about Roma here.

Eric Smith is a literary agent at Neighborhood Literary, with a love for young adult books, literary fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and nonfiction. Eric is eagerly acquiring fiction and nonfiction projects. He’s actively seeking out new, diverse voices in young adult (particularly sci-fi and fantasy), middle grade, and literary and commercial fiction (again, loves sci-fi and fantasy, but also thrillers and mysteries). In terms of nonfiction, he’s interested in cookbooks, pop culture, humor, middle grade, essay collections, and blog-to-book ideas. Learn more about Eric here.

Kacie Newport is a literary agent with BAM Management. “If your work is bold, dark, and unapologetically real, I want to see it. I’m here for activism-driven books, particularly fat liberation, LGBTQ+ rights, and body diversity. I love female empowerment, body liberation, and queer stories—especially those centering queer women and bisexual individuals. Give me accessible activism, nothing overly academic or dense; I want work that speaks to people, not at them. I thrive on experimental and strange projects, so if it’s pushing boundaries in a smart way, I’m in. That said, I’m not into anything graphic or faith-based. I also love historical fiction, so send me new and exciting ways to look at the past. Give me women on the margins, queer threads through history and other outside of the box ideas. When it comes to romance, dark and steamy is the only way I roll—nothing lighthearted or fluffy. I want queer, female-led romance or dark, brooding men. No tropes, no clichés—just raw, emotional, and intense storytelling. Please although I like it darker, I do not want anything pornographic. I don’t want to feel dirty I’m also interested in graphic novels—but they need to be unique. If it’s quirky, darkly comedic, or unexpected, I’m here for it. Pop culture is on my radar too, but it has to be different and exciting. I’m open to many voices but best suited for women, non-binary, trans, and other marginalized creators. When it comes to discussions of racial injustice, I’m especially looking for intersectionality with fat liberation or queer voices.” Learn more about Kacie here.

Kristine Epps is a literary agent with Birch Literary. She is seeking: mythology, fairy tale, or folk tale retellings or adaptations that give depth to the original while having a unique feature; dynamic literary fiction; adult Science Fiction and Fantasy with innovative magic systems; adult romance that strays from the beaten path; stories that blend genres such as women’s fiction and fantasy or literary fiction and sci-fi; Kristine is particularly interested in romantasy works that have unique magic systems. Learn more about Kristine here. 

Elizabeth Kracht is a literary agent with Kimberley Cameron & Associates. Elizabeth’s eclectic life experience drives her interests. She appreciates writing that has depth, an introspective voice, and is thematically layered. Having lived in cities such as New York, San Francisco, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, she is compelled by multicultural themes and characters and is drawn toward strong settings. In fiction, she represents literary, commercial, women’s, thrillers, mysteries, historical, and crossover young adult. In nonfiction, she is interested in high concept, health, science, environment, prescriptive, investigative, true crime, voice- or adventure-driven memoir, sexuality, spirituality, and animal/pet stories. Learn more about Elizabeth here.

Heather Osborn is a literary agent with Spencerhill Associates. Heather is interested in representing works of popular fiction, mainly concentrated on romance of all genres and sub-genres other than inspirational—with a particular interest in romantasy (and if there are dragons, all the better!), humorous contemporary romance, and paranormal romance. Beyond that, she also seeks ​new adult, cozy fantasy, romantic fantasy, urban fantasy, space opera, cozy mystery, and women’s fiction with strong romantic elements. Learn more about Heather there.

Lindsay Flanagan is the co-publisher of Mad Cat Books and Radiance Books, the young adult and romance imprints of Roan and Weatherford Publishing. Wishlist for Mad Cat (young adult only): Speculative fiction: fantasy (all kinds), sci-fi, paranormal; Historical (real and alternate); Horror (especially the Gothic); Romance and romantasy, love triangles of any type—especially told from a unique pov (the one that doesn’t get the girl/guy); Unconventional Westerns that blend in horror, fantasy, or other speculative elements; The villain’s story (think Heartless by Marissa Meyer). Wishlist for Radiance (romance): Stories that captivate the heart and mind; Tales that offer both escapism and depth; Well-developed characters embarking on heroic quests; Literary writing that resonates with readers; Unconventional Westerns that blend in horror, fantasy, or other speculative elements; Upmarket stories that feature characters grappling with identity, a sense of belonging, and past mistakes; family sagas, generational conflicts, and stories that deal with grief and loss; Romance — any and all tropes that ultimately end with the theme that love conquers all; Romantasy — soft sci-fi and fantasy set in other worlds or magical realms with a romance throughline or strong subplot where love defies all odds; Stories featuring strong female characters who grapple with complex issues that are unique to women’s identities and places in culture and society. Learn more about Lindsay here.

Brandy Vallance is a literary agent with Barbara Bova Literary Agency. “I represent these genres but I am also not limited to these genres: historical fiction, historical romance, historical mystery, romance, literary, women’s fiction, Southern fiction, science fiction, fantasy, young adult, adventure, speculative, inspirational, thriller. I’m a fan of: atmospheric writing; stories set in the British Isles, Europe, or exotic locations; Regency, Victorian, and Edwardian romance; Victorian time period in general (other centuries are welcome too); archaeology / artifacts / history’s mysteries; stories that explore Biblical themes without being preachy (ex. Charles Martin books); Appalachian stories / mountain culture; fantasy & sci-fi in almost every sub-category; characters who are writers, artists, or have a unique profession; and more.” Learn more about Brandy here.

Mason Rowlee is a literary agent with DeFiore & Company. Mason loves innovative, boundary-pushing literary fiction, engrossing upmarket fiction, and nonfiction that amplifies traditionally underrepresented voices in publishing, particularly those by queer authors. He previously worked as an assistant literary scout at Jenny La Plante, Inc., where he developed an eye for the types of literary and upmarket fiction and narrative nonfiction that also appeal to international publishers as well as film production companies. Learn more about Mason here.

A.J. Van Belle is a literary agent with the Booker Albert Literary Agency. In fiction, they’re currently seeking adult thrillers, horror, upmarket, and women’s fiction, as well as YA in all genres. As a scientific researcher and a novelist themself, A.J. is particularly drawn to strong atmosphere, complex character relationships, science-informed plotlines, the weird or quirky, and darkness threaded with humor or a sense of the absurd. They’re also open to select nonfiction, especially in science, nature, technology, and self-development, from authors with an established platform. Learn more about AJ here.

Paloma Hernando is a literary agent with Ayesha Pande Literary. Paloma got her start at Einstein Literary Management in 2020, where she built a list focusing on graphic novels and illustrated books, and joined APL in the fall of 2024. Coming from a background of independent comics and the DIY scene, Paloma has always been attracted to well-told stories with a passionate drive behind them. Paloma is also accepting prose works and is seeking any book that tells genre stories in new ways. The only thing she likes more than trope-y fun is the chance to break it down into something new. Paloma also represents illustrators for literary projects and is always on the lookout for strong visual styles. As a daughter of Argentinian immigrants, Paloma views publishing globally and would love to work with any bilingual or international projects. Learn more about Paloma here.

Marisa Zeppieri-Caruana is a literary agent with Strachan Literary Agency. In fiction, she seeks: debut fiction, romance, upmarket & commercial women’s fiction, upmarket mainstream fiction, apocalyptic, thrillers, fantasy, and upper young adult. In nonfiction, she seeks: memoir, narrative nonfiction, investigative journalism, platform-driven nonfiction, diet and health, Christian spirituality, inspirational, food and cookbooks, self-help and humor. She is particularly interested in finding nonfiction authors to build her client list and is only taking on a limited amount of fiction. Marisa is currently seeking to champion new talent who create memorable characters with unforgettable words, and she has a soft spot for writers in marginalized communities and persons with disabilities. Learn more about Marisa here.

Paul S. Levine is a literary agent and the founder of Paul S. Levine Literary. He is also an attorney. His fiction interests include adventure novels, mainstream fiction, mysteries, romance, thrillers, and women’s fiction. His nonfiction interests include business/commerce, pop culture, how-to, self-help, politics/law, relationships, and sports. With almost 40 years of experience in the entertainment and book industries, Levine is one of the few lawyers on the West coast who also understands the world of book publishing; as such, he is able to act as both literary agent and publishing attorney for his clients. Learn more about Paul here.

Sandra Proudman is a literary agent with Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency. She is seeking: I am continuing to look to diversify my list this year as its important to me to continue to strive for all kids to see themselves on the page as the heroes of their own stories. I am especially looking for marginalized and underrepresented voices and am especially looking for clients from Middle Eastern, South Asian, South American, and Indigenous backgrounds. Picture Books and Early Readers: I would love to sign an author-illustrator that is doing work like Flavia Z. Drogo or Ben Clanton. I love character-driven stories full of light and humor. I also really enjoy STEAM topics, so if there is a chance for a kiddo to learn in your work, that’s always a plus! Middle Grade: I would love to find a graphic novelist that is working on a speculative project in the vein of Wendell and Wild or Sweet Tooth. Young Adult: I am particularly looking for romcoms and horror/thrillers in this age group. In terms of horror, I like the entire genre and am OK with body horror. Adult fiction: I would love to find a horror like The Hacienda or Mexican Gothic. Or a beautifully written speculative story that’ll make me feel ALL of the feels. Learn more about Sandra here.

Lissa Woodson is a literary agent with The Seymour Agency. She is looking for unique and engaging stories in thrillers, romantic suspense, romantic comedies, cozy mysteries, inspirational, and body, mind & spirit. She is an advocate for diverse voices in fiction and is actively seeking stories from unique and dynamic perspectives. Lissa has been an industry professional as a publishing and marketing consultant, developmental editor, and literary event planner for nearly 25 years. Learn more about Lissa here.

Matthew Valdez is a literary agent with Megibow Literary. In adult fiction, he seeks: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Psychological Thriller, Horror, RomCom (Particularly LGBTQ+, but all welcome!), Upmarket Literary Fiction, Graphic Novels (any genre), and Historical Fiction. In young adult fiction, he seeks: Fantasy, Contemporary, Science Fiction, Paranormal, Thriller, Dystopian, RomCom (Particularly LGBTQ+, but all welcome!), Graphic Novels. Learn more about Matthew here.

Jessica Larios-Zarate is a literary agent with Wave Literary. In regards to fiction, Jessica gravitates towards: commercial fiction, contemporary upmarket fiction, literary fiction, mystery/thrillers, and speculative fiction. She is particularly invested in stories that feature LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or disabled protagonists, especially when the books are not issue-driven. As for nonfiction, Jessica is interested in: narrative nonfiction and historical nonfiction. In terms of historical nonfiction, she seeks: Ancient History, Historical Expeditions, Civil Rights Movements, and Indigenous History Books; no War History, please. Learn more about Jessica here.

Alexandria Brown is an editor with Rising Action Publishing Co. Her publishing seeks Psychological and Domestic Thrillers; Domestic Suspense; Romantic Comedies; Book Club Fiction; Romantasy; Fantasy; Horror; True Crime; Fiction with LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent (ND), BIPOC, plus-sized, or mental health representation; Multicultural characters and stories While our interests vary widely across genres, we are united by a love for compelling, diverse stories. The house enjoys Fantasy novels with women-led stories, morally complex protagonists, political intrigue, LGBTQIA+ representation, and witty dialogue. We are particularly drawn to fantasy that features characters and world-building from BIPOC voices. Learn more about Alexandria here.

Najla Mamou is a literary agent with Savvy Literary Services. She is also a developmental editor and sensitivity reader. In nonfiction, Najla gravitates towards narrative nonfiction, true crime, memoir, biography, and stories inspired by lesser known people, professions and crafts (builders, designers, architects), musicians/artists/creators, daredevils, athletes, etc. In fiction, Najla is drawn to voice-driven, emotionally immersive historical fiction, suspense (with series potential), horror with surprise endings (especially psychological), speculative (such as alternative history), and magical realism (light fantasy or romantasy). In young adult, she seeks all genres except epic fantasy. She does not represent children’s books. In all genres, she hopes to see more immigrant, expat, and/or BIPOC/ underrepresented stories. Learn more about Najla here.

Charlotte Wenger is a literary agent with Prospect Agency. “I represent authors, illustrators, and author-illustrators of children’s books—board books through graphic novels and middle-grade, but especially picture books—as well as select YA fiction and adult nonfiction, particularly biographies and memoirs. I’m always seeking stories from diverse voices – those that have been historically marginalized and/or underrepresented in publishing, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, people living in and/or from marginalized/underrepresented cultures and countries, neurodiverse persons, disabled persons, and more. I’m on the lookout for what hasn’t been done yet – stories that haven’t been told and voices that haven’t been heard.” Learn more about Charlotte here.

Lauren Khan is a literary agent with FinePrint Literary. Prior to transitioning to agenting, she worked for over seven years as a corporate lawyer in New York City. Lauren brings both editorial and transactional expertise to her clients. An avid reader across genres, Lauren is particularly interested in adult and YA commercial fiction, especially women’s fiction, romance, mysteries, and thrillers, as well as select nonfiction titles. She is an editorial agent with a strong interest in developing fulfilling and long-lasting careers for her authors. Learn more about Lauren here.

Tamara Kawar is a literary agent with DeFiore & Company. Tamara is actively seeking graphic novels for all ages and across genres; science fiction, fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction for middle grade, YA, and adult readers; upmarket and book club fiction, especially genre-bending stories, and those with an international bent; and adult & YA rom-coms and romance featuring LGBTQ+ characters. She also represents select nonfiction, including illustrated projects. Across all categories, she is passionate about championing marginalized voices and perspectives. Learn more about Tamara here.

Renee Runge is a literary agent at Spencerhill Associates. She is actively building her list in all genres of middle grade and young adult fiction. Her taste can be summed up as “eclectic,” and she is drawn to high-concept commercial projects with a literary aura, unexpected hooks, strong A/B plots, and distinct voices. She’s especially passionate about supporting diverse and underrepresented creators from all backgrounds, with the hope that every child can one day see themselves in the pages of a book. A lover of anthropomorphic characters, she dreams of repping the next blockbuster animal novel or series. Her favorite feeling is being moved to tears by a book’s last chapter. Learn more about Renee here.

Ismita Hussain is a literary agent & social media manager with Great Dog Literary. In adult fiction, she seeks literary fiction, upmarket, new adult, and short story collections. She enjoys fiction in all genres that is informed by, or inspired by, the myths and superstitions of a culture. Ismita is open to novels that fit these categories but have some genre-fiction elements (i.e., literary fiction with a speculative twist). In adult nonfiction, she seeks narrative, pop culture, humor, memoir, travel, cookbooks, history, and sports. In young adult, she seeks contemporary, rom com, novel in verse, and commercial. In all pitches, she seeks Southern settings, Italian settings, gritty and realist writing, and books that explore health/disability. Learn more about Ismita here.

Geffen Semach is a Literary Agent with Westwood Creative Artists. In fiction, she seeks general upmarket fiction; horror, thriller and suspense; sci fi, speculative, fantasy and romantasy; as well as select concept-driven romance and literary novels. In nonfiction, she seeks journalism in the vein of social commentary, pop culture, politics, art and media; expert-driven writing relating to medicine and mental health, sex and relationships, and money; as well as exceptional memoir. She encourages submissions from underrepresented writers including 2SLGBTQI+, BIPOC, and/or disabled. Learn more about Geffen here.

Zach Honey is a literary agent at FinePrint Literary Management. Zach is primarily seeking thrillers and adult fiction, especially those set in rural places, mountainous regions, or other hard-to-reach corners of the world. His other interests include hiking, skiing, music, board games, golf, and other outdoor activities, and he is open to non-fiction pitches in these categories. He is not looking to represent fantasy or sci-fi at this time. He would like to support underrepresented authors, especially those in the American indigenous community. Above all, he enjoys strong writing with fascinating settings, memorable characters, and stories that are impossible to put down. Learn more about Zach here.

Emma Fulenwider is a literary agent with Wordserve Literary. She’s looking for adult nonfiction books that are nerdy, helpful, and true. Emma likes working with thought leaders called to contribute their respectful insights into the problems we’re facing, and the ones we’re avoiding. Emma is a book junkie. She believes that writing is a form of self-care, publishing is about serving others, and yes you have to have a platform. Learn more about Emma here.

Optional Manuscript Critique Options

Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Chuck Sambuchino, one of the workshop’s former instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Writing Workshop of Chicago attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?

Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 15-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:

• Women’s, mainstream, science fiction, fantasy, romance, crime, thriller, mystery (virtual critiques): Faculty member Michelle McGill-Vargas, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• Commercial women’s fiction, thriller/suspense, thriller with romantic elements, cozy mystery, YA thriller, young adult in general, middle grade, literary fiction, and fantasy (virtual critiques): Faculty member Amberly Finarelli, a former literary agent and current writing coach, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• All types & genres of fiction for adults, young adults, and middle grade readers (virtual critiques): Faculty member Lorin Oberweger, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• Children’s picture books (virtual critiques): Faculty member Rosie Pova, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime around the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting. If you submit a picture book, it must be 1,000 words or fewer (can have illustrations or not).
• Cozy mysteries (virtual critiques): Faculty member Jen Collins Moore, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• All adult fiction genres and categories (except for sci-fi) (virtual critiques): Faculty member Tayler Hill, an author and publishing house assistant, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• More critique options possibly forthcoming.