New Client Alert – Elizabeth Tracy

  • By: Tracy Marchini | Date: Apr 29 2022

Name: Elizabeth Tracy
What you Write: nonfiction and informational fiction books and articles for kids
Agent: Tracy Marchini


Why BookEnds? Because the BookEnds team is the best!

 

What book do you wish you had written, and why?

There are so many wonderful books that I’d love to take credit for! Like anything written by Kate DiCamillo. She’s KidLit royalty, as far as I’m concerned. My critique partner recently gave me a copy of THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY (which is beautifully illustrated by Sophie Blackall). I loved it so much that I’ve already bought two more copies to give to friends.

 

If you’re not reading or writing, what would we catch you doing?  

Traveling. My last big trip, pre-pandemic, was to Portugal and it was amazing! Then, in 2020, I had to cancel a “bucket list” trip to the Galapagos Islands. I’ve traveled quite a bit, but there’s still so much I haven’t seen. I can’t wait to get back out there!

 

Where can readers find you on the web and social media?

The best place to look is: www.drliztracy.com. I’m not a huge fan of social media but I do love celebrating other people’s accomplishments–and seeing what their kids and cats are up to. And I hope to improve my social media skills. Toward that end, you can find me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

What’s the last book you read?

I tend to read several books at a time. Right now, I’m working on a YA graphic novel, so I’m reading graphic novels like they’re going out of style (which they are NOT)—and lots of YA. I just finished KILLING TIME by Brenna Ehrlich, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Ehrlich is a Rolling Stone journalist, and I really appreciate a journalist’s perspective.

 

If money were no object, what would be your dream writing location?

Oh, wow! I’d love my own little she-shed…facing the water…on a beautiful island. Maybe somewhere in Hawaii, or Barbados, or hmmm….

 

What’s your favorite quote about reading or writing?

“Writing a novel is like driving a car at night. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.”– E.L. Doctorow  (There are some hilarious variations on that quote online, but we can discuss those another time!)

 

What’s your favorite piece of writing advice you’ve received?

Any advice along the lines of, “Never give up!” is useful. This business can be discouraging. But, at the same time, there are so many generous supportive people out there who are ready with an encouraging word. And there are some excellent books on craft! My favorite inspirational book is Elizabeth Gilbert’s BIG MAGIC. 

 

What excites you most about joining the BookEnds family?

I’m so excited to be working with Tracy, who’s been my “dream agent” for a while. She represents so many authors and illustrators I admire, and it’s a thrill to see my name amongst her list of clients. I still can’t quite believe it! 

–Plus, her first name is the same as my last name, so that should be interesting. Everyone already calls me Tracy by accident!

 

What advice would you give to other authors in the query trenches?

Keep at it! Take frequent breaks. And look after your health—that’s the most important thing. Everything else is a distant second.

 

What was the most important question you asked when interviewing agents?

I wanted to know that my agent truly connected with my writing and could see where it fits in the marketplace. When I spoke with Tracy it was clear right off the bat that my stories resonated with her, and she had such insightful comments. I think she really gets me—which not everyone does!

 

How did you know your book was ready to submit?

I don’t think I did know for a long time. I had a manuscript that was well-written and interesting, but something was missing, and I just wasn’t getting the offers I’d hoped for. Then my critique partners made some great suggestions that helped me fine-tune my story and amp up the STEM aspects (which is sort of my thing). And Voila!