Demystifying Agenting and Publishing with Literary Agent Matthew Valdez

In this episode, we step behind the scenes of the publishing industry with literary agent and Loft teaching artist Matthew Valdez. Highlighting the vital role of agent representation and the realities of the querying process, Matthew pulls back the curtain to share how authors and agents build successful long-term partnerships. We discuss the current state of Young Adult literature, the necessity of accessible writing, and why representation—particularly queer stories—is more crucial than ever. Matthew also breaks down what draws him to the fantasy genre, common pitfalls like query sample mistakes and trope oversaturation, and what catches an agent's eye in the slush pile. Plus, a Mission Moment from Loft staffer Olive Nofzinger and a clip from Helena Ku Rhee's children literature talk a few weeks ago on holding onto your "why" as a creator. Show Notes & Links HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS What Agents Look For In Your Fantasy Novels with Matthew Valdez and Sara Megibow (Nov 7): https://loft.org/classes/what-agents-look-your-fantasy-novels-0 BOOKS TO PURCHASE The Paper Kingdom by Helena Ku Rhee: https://helenakrhee.com/books/the-paper-kingdom/ Send us a voice note about the podcast Support the Loft Support Our Community: Become a Friend of the Loft: https://loft.org/join-support Join the Loft's free Digital Community, the Loft Writing Network: https://loft-lit.circle.so/Loft-Writing-Network