Jennifer Jackson

Jennifer Jackson is an Agent and Executive Vice President at Donald Maass Literary Agency. Her first steps in connecting fellow book lovers to their next enthralling read began with a stint at independent bookstores. After joining DMLA in 1993, Jennifer’s wealth of experience grew through hands-on positions in pivotal roles across the agency—from the early days of managing the agency’s subsidiary rights to expanding its genre reach. She has continually navigated the ever-evolving publishing landscape, representing authors at every stage of their careers, and balancing creativity with industry demands.

Submission Guidelines

Here’s what I’m looking for: Novel or novella length adult or YA fiction. I’m thrilled that the novella has made a comeback, but with available markets still few in number also having plans for novels would be keen.

My clients may provide a fair portrait of my taste, but at the moment I’m particularly drawn to grounded science fiction, futurism, space opera, second world fantasy, secret histories, gothics, dark academia, and horror. Evenso I’ll pretty much consider anything that falls into SF/F/H realm or adjacent speculative categories.

I’m searching for storytellers that ever reach for the horizon. There’s something special about growing with writers as they develop their craft—think Elizabeth Bear or Martha Wells. And just as when I first discovered their stories, I’m yearning for that sense of wonder with a touch of surprise; finding somewhere I hadn’t noticed before unfolding before me. You know that feeling when you’re up in the wee hours, completely hooked on a story you didn’t even know you needed? That’s the magic I’m after. For inspiration take a look at GIDEON THE NINTH (Tamsyn Muir) and ASUNDER (Kerstin Hall).

I’m also interested in the tradition of regional fiction (where the setting and/or time period play a crucial role in the narrative) but with a more contemporary sensibility. These don’t have to fall into SF/F/H categories but it’s okay with me if they do.

Here’s what I don’t want to see in my inbox: Nonfiction, memoirs, screenplays, poetry, and picture books.

Other than that, don’t self reject. I’m looking for a wide range of voices from around the world—writers at all stages of their careers, whether they’re making their debut, emerging, or well-established. I want to hear from those who have been overlooked or marginalized, as well as those who offer unexpected viewpoints.

For an initial query/submission please send:
* a query letter
* the first ten (10) pages of the manuscript
* a short 1-2 page synopsis.

Email this to (qu************@ma*********.com). Cut and paste into the email – no attachments, please.

Guidelines & Details