Good morning, and I have a kid not in school today, too!
About agents, you asked how we know if they are real or not, right? Those books I mentioned are definitely for real: try the 2008 (or 2009 by now) Guide to Literary Agents. You can get a copy at the library or buy one. As for online sit... more

Good morning, and I have a kid not in school today, too!
About agents, you asked how we know if they are real or not, right? Those books I mentioned are definitely for real: try the 2008 (or 2009 by now) Guide to Literary Agents. You can get a copy at the library or buy one. As for online sites, I like QueryTracker. It lists all the agents and agencies, you can search by fields, add your own info and keep track of everything you send out. Also, it has links to neat sites that give the real deal on agents, like who is good and who isn't, what they like and don't like.Does this help?

Hey, Loren. No, of course you are not bugging me. I am "shopping" by the seat of my britches, so to speak. I have researched a zillion websites and resources like LMP (Literary MarketPlace), the Children's Writer's & Illustrator's Market (a book, 2009 version out now or soon), to try and figure out... more

Hey, Loren. No, of course you are not bugging me. I am "shopping" by the seat of my britches, so to speak. I have researched a zillion websites and resources like LMP (Literary MarketPlace), the Children's Writer's & Illustrator's Market (a book, 2009 version out now or soon), to try and figure out if I should try pubs or agents first. I gave up trying to decide, and am trying both. So far, no bites, but I am new.
Also, I just joined http://www.scbwi.org/ the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Was told membership was REQUIRED for any writer considering kids' books. Luckily, my regional branch is having a conference right here in Nashville this fall, so I will actually get to go. Are you a member, yet? This society and the above book are two best resources I've found, so far. Well, and JacketFlap.
Thanks for you kind comments about my site.
Best,
Joanna