Querying for illustrations in YA

[winterone]

Hey Nathan!

I've run into a bit of a dilemma with my querying. A very talented artist has taken on illustrating my YA fantasy. I would appreciate if her work was published with my novel, but we both agreed that it would not be necessary if it would impede my publication/finding an agent. How would I put this into my query? Though I am aware that each agent has their own guidelines, if there is no protocol apparent, how would I (and should I) include a sample in the submission?

Edit: One more follow-up question. Would it be expected that all of the illustrations be completed before a query, like the novel? Or does this have a bit more leigh-way, as long as there are a few solid pieces to include?

Thanks in advance!

Amanda

[Nathan Bransford]

Hey Nathan!

I've run into a bit of a dilemma with my querying. A very talented artist has taken on illustrating my YA fantasy. I would appreciate if her work was published with my novel, but we both agreed that it would not be necessary if it would impede my publication/finding an agent. How would I put this into my query? Though I am aware that each agent has their own guidelines, if there is no protocol apparent, how would I (and should I) include a sample in the submission?

Edit: One more follow-up question. Would it be expected that all of the illustrations be completed before a query, like the novel? Or does this have a bit more leigh-way, as long as there are a few solid pieces to include?

Thanks in advance!

Amanda

I wouldn't put that in the query, I think it's something to discuss with the agent if/when they're interested in your work. It's most likely the novel itself that is going to have to sink or swim.

And I don't think illustrations would need to be completed, samples would probably be satisfactory.

[winterone]

Thank you!