They can start by checking out well - known publishers' websites. For example, Penguin Random House often has a section dedicated to young adult novels. Another good place to start is Goodreads. It has a large community of readers who review and recommend YA novels, which can give new agents an idea of popular and high - quality works in the genre.
They should look for strong and unique voices. In YA novels, the narrator's voice is crucial as it needs to resonate with the target audience. Also, engaging plots are a must. A plot that can keep a teen reader hooked from start to finish is key.
Yes, 'The Matrix' is a prime example. Neo can be considered an agent of change in a world dominated by machines. The agents in the movie, like Agent Smith, are sentient programs that hunt down humans who are a threat to the machine - run system. Another is 'Men in Black'. The agents in this movie are tasked with monitoring and controlling extraterrestrial activity on Earth, and they have all sorts of cool gadgets and technology.
You can start with the classics like 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's a cornerstone of the fantasy genre with its richly detailed world of Middle - earth, complex characters, and epic battles between good and evil.
A great one is 'The Player of Games' by Iain M. Banks. The main character is sort of an agent in a vast galactic civilization. He uses his skills to play a complex and deadly game. It's set in Banks' Culture universe, which is full of unique and interesting ideas. 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons also has elements of agents. The pilgrims in the story can be seen as agents in a way, as they are on a quest that has far - reaching implications in a universe filled with strange and powerful forces.
A good place to start for MG or YA science fiction is with books that have won awards. 'The Graveyard Book' by Neil Gaiman is a wonderful MG book that won the Newbery Medal. It has a unique story about a boy raised in a graveyard. For YA, 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green, while more of a contemporary with some sci - fi elements, is very popular and well - written, and can ease you into the YA science - fiction world.
Some great MG (Middle Grade) or YA (Young Adult) science fiction books are 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry. It presents a unique dystopian world. Another is 'Ender's Game' which is a classic in YA sci - fi with its engaging story of a young boy in a military - like space training. And 'A Wrinkle in Time' is also a must - read, filled with time - travel and strange new worlds.
New literary agents looking for YA science fiction often seek unique concepts. They want stories that stand out, like a YA sci - fi set in a world where time travel is used for high - school exams. They also look for strong characters. YA readers need to be able to identify with the protagonists, whether it's a brave boy on a spaceship adventure or a girl decoding alien languages in her bedroom. And good writing is a must. The prose should be engaging and flow well.
One way is to check industry directories like Writer's Market which list contact information of many literary agents. Another option is to attend writing conferences or workshops where agents often participate. You can also look at the acknowledgments section in recently published mystery novels, as authors sometimes thank their agents there, which can give you a lead.
Try 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It's about a young man named Kvothe who is a wizard and a musician. The story is beautifully written, with a great blend of magic, adventure, and mystery.