Erin Siu

I work on children’s books across all age ranges. Currently, I am looking to acquire picture books, middle grade, and young adult.

What I’d like to publish: Diverse, inclusive stories from creators who have been traditionally underrepresented in publishing. I am eager for projects that feature Asian/Asian American and LGBTQIA+ characters and voices that are not issue-driven. I acquire across all genres, but I am most interested in contemporary, magical realism, high fantasy, and fantasy with a literary feel.

In picture books: I’m drawn to classic-feeling picture books with a slice of humor (Knuffle Bunny, You Be Mommy, Diary of a Worm). I love heartfelt, warm stories that deal with self-discovery, identity, friendship, and family (Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, My Papi Has a Motorcycle). I’m looking for stories that will make me cry, but also laugh! Some of my favorites are A Sick Day for Amos McGee, Chrysanthemum, and Fry Bread.

In middle grade: I crave voice-y, conversational contemporary stories about mental health and anxiety, identity, and coming of age (think Elly Swartz or Jerry Craft). I also love fresh contemporary fantasies like Aru Shah and the End of Time and The Train to Impossible Places. It’s important for the voice to be relatable and organic. Some of my favorites are Esperanza Rising, Wishtree, and Front Desk.

In young adult: I’m looking for high-concept stories with that irresistible commercial hook, especially in fantasy. I’m also hungry for contemporary rom-coms about first love, study abroad, food, and music. I love atmospheric novels based on mythology, and I’m also a HUGE horror fan. The creepier the better, and bonus points if it’s based on Asian culture and mythology (those are really freaky). Some of my favorite authors are Tahereh Mafi, Aiden Thomas, Leigh Bardugo, Nicola Yoon, Maurene Goo, and Leah Johnson.

Specific interests: travel and study abroad romance; historical fiction set in a non-western country; immigration; mental health; anxiety and depression; family trauma; divorce; music; food as memories; cooking; girls in martial arts.

Other things I’m into:

• Martial arts
• Taiwanese desserts
• World of Warcraft
• Animal Crossing
• Sad indie folk
• Horror films
• Italian opera
• K-dramas
• The Bachelorette

Submission Guidelines