What kind of research did you do before submitting?

I felt a difference and I began submitting with more confidence. The summer of 2016, I felt like I’d really grown as an author, had multiple submission-ready manuscripts, and was submitting higher quality work. I wrote and wrote and wrote! Throughout, I submitted to agents. In 2014, after submitting more manuscripts and receiving more rejections, I decided I wanted this “hobby” to become a career and I got really serious! I carved out specific writing blocks, joined 12 x 12, attended conferences, joined critique groups, and studied all things KidLit. Over the next couple of years, I attended workshops, met with a critique partner here and there and slowly carved out more writing time. I DO NOT RECOMMEND SUBMITTING SO QUICKLY!Īfter a few more rejections, I went back to the “drawing board” and reassessed. Meanwhile, in 2011, I submitted my first picture book. In 20, my professional books hit the shelves. While my writing has come a long way since that cute Mother’s Day present, my illustrating… well, let’s just say… I think I’ll stick to writing. In fact, my mom recently came across a book I wrote and illustrated for her for Mother’s Day in the 80’s. I have been writing since elementary school. How long had you been writing before seeking an agent, and what made you decide it was time to look for one? Lauren is a long-time member of 12 x 12 with her debut picture book coming out this year! Lauren, we know how hard you’ve worked and we ecstatic for your success! Congratulations. Our featured member for 2019 is Lauren Kerstein. We love celebrating with 12 x 12 members and since each story is unique, we always learn something new. Today we relaunch our How I Got My Agent series for 2019.

Home for A While by Lauren Kerstein