Today, we’re thrilled to bring you Brandi-Ann Uyemura’s agent story. Brandi-Ann’s story is one of perseverance, patience, and research. Whether you’re in the query trenches or not, we hope you’ll connect to Brandi-Ann’s tenacity and be inspired to keep going on your own writing journey. Please welcome Brandi-Ann!

How long had you been writing before seeking an agent, and what made you decide it was time to look for one?

I’ve been a freelance writer for 14 years and working on picture books since my son was born 8 years ago. I don’t remember when I started looking for agents. But I had been for years without really understanding the difference between agents and editors. And when I figured it out, I wasn’t sure I needed one. I signed up for Julie’s “How to Find the Right Agent” webinar and that’s when I got serious about searching. And thank goodness I did. The questions on deciding which agent is right for you helped me tremendously and I signed with my agent weeks later!

What kind of research did you do before submitting?

I listened to webinars and podcasts, as well as read #MSWL, SCBWI and Writer’s Market, social media updates, articles and blogs interviews.

The dreaded questions: How many queries?  How many rejections?

Oh my gosh I know I hit 100 direct rejections/no responses, but I haven’t counted. With queries, there’s got to be double that. Maybe it’s good that I never kept track.

Was it difficult to find an agent who wanted to represent an author focusing on picture books?

I don’t think it was difficult. I think there was too many agents to research. No matter how many agents I researched and queried, there were so many more.

Who is your new agent? Tell us about getting the news.

I’m so excited to share that Tricia Lawrence from Erin Murphy Literary Agency is my new agent. I thought it would never happen. I have to say that the way I found my agent was a little untraditional. I won the 2020 PBChat mentorship and because of it, my manuscript was seen by publishers and agents. When my manuscript got taken to acquisitions, other agents and editors became interested as well. My PBChat mentor Andrea Wang also helped me with this whole process and referred me to her agency. After my initial call with Tricia, she excitedly contacted me to let me know she wanted to represent me.

How did you know your agent was “the one”?

Tricia was super enthusiastic, had a ton of experience and yet she was so humble. She’s both kind and compassionate, and yet always has my back.

If 12 x 12 helped you in any way during your agent search/development of craft, can you tell us how? (P.S. It is TOTALLY okay if the answer is no. I am not trying to “lead” you 🙂 )

I definitely think that everything shifted when I joined 12 x 12. I’m more invested in my writing not just as something I do for fun, but as a career. I gained an awesome critique group. I’m learning so much of the writing craft. It’s opened my whole world to writing for children. I feel much more confident and less alone in this process which can be intimidating.

Has your writing process changed at all since signing with an agent?

So far, it hasn’t changed much. It’s nice to have people to hold me accountable. But I’m pretty good with deadlines. I think the biggest change is my perspective that what I’m writing will be read by others and that’s been the greatest motivator.

What advice would you give to picture book writers looking for agents today?

I know it can be overwhelming and disheartening. There’s so many agents and some weeks it can feel like all your time and effort isn’t making a dent. But don’t give up. You don’t know how close you are to finding your agent. I was ready to retire my manuscript and my mentor said the very manuscript that I was ready to throw out the window was the reason why she chose me. If I had given up, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Do you think your platform (blog, social media) helped you find your agent?

Definitely! Twitter played a huge role in helping me find an agent because it led me to PBChat. I still think Twitter is a great platform for connecting with other writers and you can get great advice on finding an agent.

Tell us something that is on your “bucket list.” Something you’ve dreamed of doing all your life but have yet to accomplish (besides publishing a book, which is inevitable at this point 🙂 )

I don’t know if this counts, but I’d love to publish a middle grade novel, a self-help book, and a women’s fiction novel one day.

What’s up next/what are you working on now?

I’m working on more picture book manuscripts. I have a historical fiction that needs more research. I’m also going to apply for a middle grade mentorship.

Ready to get connected with other picture book writers? 12 x 12 is ready for you! If you’re not a member yet, registration for our 2022 challenge opens January 14, 2022. Add yourself to the notification list and don’t miss another year of 12 x 12! Click here!

Returning members, look for registration information in your inbox staring January 11th.