Spread Joy with Agent Jonathan Rosen!

Hello, parents, librarians, book fanatics, writers, and readers of all sorts - especially all you movie buffs out there. We have quite the treat for you today. Jonathan Rosen, Literary Agent at Seymour Agency, is with us. Jonathan is also an MG author, a co-host of Pop Culture Retro, and worked the last few years as a freelance writer and editor. Want to know more about Jonathan, his background in writing, what types of books he's interested in, PLUS want a chance to win a Zoom Pitch session with him where you can meet him face-to-face and discuss your work? Read on...

Q: Welcome to #SeasonsOfKidLit! We’re excited to have you and learn more about you and the books you represent! Can you share a little about yourself with us?

A: I’m the author of several Middle Grade books, and I’ve spent the last few years working as a freelance writer and editor. I went into agenting with a knowledge of what it’s like to be on the author side of the trenches, to help guide writers along on their path to publication. I have a passion for books and want to help as many people as possible get published. Being of Jewish-Mexican descent, I’ll always have an eye out for diverse voices, and in particular ones that reflect my background.

I’m also the co-host of the popular YouTube show, Pop Culture Retro, where we interview many celebrities from TV shows, movies, and music.

Q: That's all fascinating, Jonathan! Do you have a particular item on your MS Wishlist? Also, how do you feel about holiday books? Do you represent them?

A: In fiction, I’m open to Young Adult, Mysteries, Thrillers, Horror, Historical Fiction, Sports, Romantic Comedy, and anything with humor for that matter.

In Non-Fiction, I’m looking for Biographies, Memoirs, Pop Culture, entertainment, Humor, Sports, and Journalism, among many others.

As far as Holiday books, I LOVE them. Always have a soft spot for holiday-themed books.

Hint, hint, querying authors. ;)

Q: Since we're onto holiday topics, can you share a holiday childhood memory?

A: This one year, when I wanted a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle, and my parents refused to buy me one, and . . . wait, that wasn’t me. Sorry, I’ve seen so many holiday movies, they start to blend in with reality.

Q: What is a holiday movie that you watch each year?

A: Seriously, I have way too many. There are certain films that I save especially for holiday season. Watch them every single year around that time.

• Love, Actually

• When Harry Met Sally

• You’ve Got Mail

• Gremlins

And many, many more. As you can see, I’m a sucker for RomComs, and anyone who knows my writing knows that I also love Horror/Comedy.

Q: What brings you joy?

A: It sounds cliché, but I promise it’s the truth. If I’m able to do something nice for someone and make them happy, it really does bring joy.

Not cliché at all, Jonathan! Thanks again for joining us today. It was a pleasure getting to know you more this holiday season!

Q: How would you like to Spread Joy this holiday season?

A: I will give a Zoom pitch session to someone, where we can discuss their work.

Wow, thanks so much, Jonathan! What an amazing gift!

Giveaway Details: To enter to win a Zoom pitch session with the amazing Jonathan Rosen, comment below and let Jonathan know what your favorite holiday movie is (especially since he is a HUGE movie buff)! Note: Movie GIFs are not only acceptable but appreciated. :) The winner will be chosen on or about December 16th!

Reminder, those who comment on every post will be eligible to win (1) of (5) RYS Speedpasses or a special book package!

About Jonathan Rosen

Jonathan Rosen is the author of several Middle Grade books and has spent the last few years working as a freelance writer and editor. He goes into agenting with a knowledge of what it’s like to be on the author side of the trenches, to help guide writers along on their path to publication. He has a passion for books and wants to help as many people as possible get published. Being of Jewish-Mexican descent, he will always have an eye out for diverse voices, and in particular ones that reflect his background. In fiction, he is seeking Young Adult, Mysteries, Thrillers, Historical Fiction, Sports, Romantic Comedy, and anything with humor for that matter. In Non-Fiction, he is looking for Biographies, Memoirs, Pop Culture, entertainment, Humor, Sports, and Journalism, among many others.

For more about Jonathan, you can follow him here: Twitter: @JRosenLitAgent

To purchase Jonathan's books, or to leave a review for them, click here.