Vicky Weber

I’m a former elementary school teacher turned children’s book author and literary agent. I represent commercial fiction – board books through adult – but specialize in children’s literature.

In all manuscripts, I want intensity in the writing. (Give me all the feels!) I want to be dropped into the moment and experience the story alongside the characters. Character development and emotional arcs go hand-in-hand with the plot. If a book is high-concept, commercial fiction with beautiful, literary-leaning prose, it’s probably up my alley.

I’ve recently had lots of authors confused about this so here’s an analogy I came up with:

• • Commercial is like popular music you’d hear on the radio: designed to entertain. It is catchy, has mass appeal, and follows familiar structures and themes that resonate with a wide audience.
  • Upmarket is like indie pop music. It blends the accessibility of mainstream concepts with a touch of artistic flair and originality. These appeal to both general listeners and those who appreciate a bit more depth by balancing engaging stories with a higher level of writing quality and thematic complexity or statements.
  • Literary is like classical or avant-garde music. It prioritizes artistic expression and innovation over broad appeal, often challenging the audience with its complexity and depth. These may not be for everyone, but they are deeply appreciated by those who seek a rich, contemplative experience, profound themes, and connections beyond the book.

I heavily prefer to work with BIPOC, queer, disabled, and neurodivergent authors across all genres.

Adult/YA Wishlist:

• New twist on non-Western mythology and legends
• Fantasy & magical realism
• Impeccable world-building that compliments character development
• Dark, twisty suspense and/or thrillers
• Thrillers, especially with a horror, paranormal, or spooky angle
• Historical fiction, but not World War stories
• Ghosts, paranormal, HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE vibes
• Gothic fiction

Not for me:

• Sci-fi or space operas
• Time travel & multi-verse
• Zombie apocalypse
• Sexual assault scenes
• Erotica
• Literary concepts or anything that makes me think too hard

Picture Book Wishlist:

• Highly giftable, commercial fiction by underrepresented authors
• Lyrical prose that tugs at my heartstrings (make me cry without grief-related subject matter!)
• Playful “picture book magic” moments, full of heart
• Familiar storylines with a fresh twist or perspective

Not for me:

• Picture book potty humor
• Graphic novels
• I am not currently looking for non-fiction picture books or stories that teach a lesson.

Vicky only accepts via QueryManager.

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