So, you’ve finished your manuscript—congratulations! Whether it’s a heartfelt picture book or a sprawling middle-grade adventure, reaching this point is a huge milestone. If traditional publication is your goal, submitting your work is the next big step. But before you dive into QueryTracker and start sending out queries, there are a few things I wish someone had told me early on.
The QueryTracker Trap
Many writers rely on QueryTracker to organize submissions and research agents, and for good reason. It’s a handy tool—especially if you’re querying widely. I use the paid version myself. But here’s the thing: don’t rely on it alone.
QueryTracker might say an agent is open to submissions or list many genres they accept. That doesn’t always mean they’re looking for your specific type of book right now. I learned this the hard way. I once sent a query feeling confident because QueryTracker showed the agent as open and accepting my genre.
A few days later, I got a very blunt email saying:
“I don’t take these kinds of submissions. Didn’t you read what I accept?”
It caught me off guard because I thought I had done my homework. The agent’s submission guidelines were long and detailed, and buried deep inside was a note saying they were no longer accepting my type of story. QueryTracker hadn’t flagged this, and I’d trusted it too much.
So here’s my advice: always visit the agent’s official agency website. Read their bio, check the date of their manuscript wish list, and look for recent interviews or blog posts. That little extra research can save you time and help avoid burning bridges.
The Importance of Research
Another valuable resource is Publishers Weekly. Their deal announcements and acquisition news are gold for writers. You can see what kinds of books agents and editors are buying right now and sometimes even find out who the acquiring editor is. This insight helps you stay on top of market trends and tailor your pitch to what’s currently in demand.
If you’re open to bypassing agents and submitting directly to small presses, that can be a valid path. Just proceed with caution. Many small presses welcome unagented submissions, but some are vanity presses in disguise.
Be wary of:
- Publishers asking for upfront fees—traditional publishers never do this.
- Agents who aren’t listed with the AALA or haven’t made recent sales.
- Small presses without a proven distribution network or solid track record.
Mid-2025 Agents and Small Presses Currently Open
For middle-grade and picture book writers like me, here are some professionals currently accepting submissions:
Annick Press
A respected Canadian publisher founded in 1975, Annick publishes around 30 children’s and YA books each year. They are currently accepting picture books, MG fiction, YA fiction, and children’s nonfiction directly from unagented authors. Their focus includes contemporary themes and strong storytelling, making them a great fit if your work aligns.
Free Spirit Publishing
Accepting submissions through Submittable for children’s fiction, nonfiction, and YA. They have open calls in June and July 2025, including the Black Voices in Children’s Literature Contest. Their focus is on social-emotional learning, mental health, empowerment, and early learning topics.
Cardinal Rule Press
Specializes in message-driven picture books. They remain legitimate, but I recommend checking their backlist, distribution, and reviews before submitting.
Flashlight Press
Publishes select picture books using a traditional model. It’s worth a closer look to assess their quality and distribution.
Agents Currently Open to Queries
- Vicky Weber (Creative Media Agency) – Since May 2024, she’s seeking author-illustrators and character-driven middle-grade stories.
- Sera Rivers (Speilburg Literary) – Actively looking for upper middle-grade with emotional depth and diverse perspectives.
- Jennifer March Soloway (Andrea Brown Literary Agency) – Known for finding strong, heartfelt middle-grade stories.
- Mary Cummings (Great River Literary) – Focuses on lyrical, meaningful picture books and children’s fiction.
Always double-check submission preferences on agency websites before querying.
Wrapping It Up: Your Next Steps
Navigating literary submissions can feel overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. Staying informed and diligent will help you move forward with confidence.
Key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Research is essential. Verify submission guidelines directly from official sources and don’t depend solely on third-party tools.
- Stay current by regularly checking industry news like Publishers Weekly.
- Be discerning about small presses and agents, ensuring they have a reputable history.
What you can do next:
- Polish your manuscript until it shines.
- Write a compelling query letter tailored to each agent or publisher, explaining why your work is a good fit.
- Submit carefully, following guidelines precisely, and keep an organized record of your submissions.
Every writer’s journey is unique. Stay persistent, keep learning, and celebrate each milestone along the way.
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