Christian Literary Agents for Children’s Books – The popularity and demand for faith-based children’s literature are steadily growing, offering unique opportunities for authors who write inspirational stories for younger readers. This resource connects children’s book authors with Christian literary agents who specialize in representing picture books, middle grade, and YA literature for the Christian and inspirational market.
What Sets Children’s Book Agents Apart in the Christian Market?
Literary agents who specialize in children’s literature uniquely understand the nuances involved in creating faith-based stories for younger readers. They appreciate the delicate balance of delivering age-appropriate spiritual messages alongside engaging storytelling that resonates with children. These specialized agents also maintain strong relationships with top Christian publishers like Zonderkidz and Tommy Nelson, strategically positioning your children’s book for success.
Types of Children’s Literature Represented by Christian Literary Agents
- Christian Picture Books
- Early Readers & Chapter Books (Faith-based)
- Middle Grade Christian Fiction & Inspirational Stories
- Young Adult (YA) Christian Fiction
- Children’s Devotionals & Prayer Books
- Illustrated Bible Stories for Children
- Christian Educational/Activity Books and Curriculum
Current List of Christian Literary Agents Actively Seeking Children’s Book Authors
Adria Goetz
P.S. Literary Agency
Genres Represented: Picture Books, Middle Grade, YA
Submission Status: Accepting queries
Preferences: Actively looking for whimsical and humorous Christian picture books, as well as middle grade novels featuring diverse characters.
Michelle Lazurek
WordWise Media Services
Genres Represented: Children’s Devotionals, Early Readers, Christian Curriculum
Submission Status: Accepting queries
Preferences: Particularly interested in devotionals and educational materials that creatively inspire faith in young readers.
Cyle Young
C.Y.L.E. Literary Elite
Genres Represented: Middle Grade, Young Adult Christian Fiction, Picture Books
Submission Status: Accepting queries
Preferences: Seeking engaging YA fiction and picture books with strong moral lessons delivered in a fresh voice.
Spotlight: Featured Christian Children’s Book Literary Agents
Sally Apokedak (Apokedak Literary)
- Notable Recent Books: “Loving Luther” by Allison Pittman, “The Prince Warriors” series by Priscilla Shirer.
- Currently Seeking: Eager to discover unique voices in YA fiction and imaginative middle-grade stories with subtle but impactful spiritual themes.
Linda Glaz (Hartline Literary Agency)
- Notable Recent Books: Published titles include uplifting picture books and inspirational middle-grade series.
- Currently Seeking: Actively looking for children’s authors presenting memorable characters and meaningful faith-based lessons.
Dan Balow (The Steve Laube Agency)
- Notable Recent Books: Successfully represented authors in children’s devotional literature and Bible story adaptations.
- Currently Seeking: Interested in children’s devotionals and engaging biblical retellings for young audiences.
Key Elements Agents Look for in Christian Children’s Literature
- Age-appropriate storytelling infused organically with Christian values, avoiding overt preachiness.
- Clear moral or spiritual lessons that naturally integrate into the story.
- Demonstrated understanding of the Christian educational and family market.
- High-quality illustrations (or clear vision and plan for illustrations) for picture book submissions.
For more detailed guidelines, visit our dedicated page on Preparing Children’s Book Submissions.
Tips for Querying Christian Children’s Book Literary Agents
- Clearly state your target age group/audience upfront.
- Clarify spiritual or moral themes succinctly, focusing on story-driven integration.
- Demonstrate market awareness by citing comparable successful Christian children’s titles or recent trends.
- Maintain professional brevity—agents highly value concise, compelling queries, especially for children’s literature.
For comprehensive guidance, explore our detailed resource on Crafting Queries for Children’s Books.
Common Mistakes When Approaching Children’s Book Agents
- Failing to clearly identify the intended age group or target audience.
- Using overly didactic or preachy language without engaging storytelling.
- Submitting manuscripts or illustration concepts that are incomplete or insufficiently developed.
- Showing unfamiliarity with recent successful Christian children’s books or current publishing trends.
Resources for Christian Children’s Book Authors
- Write2Ignite Conference (opens in new tab)
- Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference – Children’s Literature Track (opens in new tab)
- Recommended Reading: “Writing Picture Books: A Hands-On Guide from Story Creation to Publication” by Ann Whitford Paul, available on Amazon (opens in new tab)
- Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) (opens in new tab)
Encouragement and Call to Action
Children’s stories have a unique power to inspire faith, instill values, and impact young hearts. Finding the right literary agent who shares your vision can help you achieve that dream. Take your next step today—connect with an agent eager to champion your story.
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Conclusion
We are committed to regularly updating this page with agents actively looking for exceptional Christian children’s literature. Bookmark this page, check back often, and subscribe for updates to ensure you’re always ready to seize opportunities for publishing success.
