Mark is seeking lyrical, humorous, and whimsical works across various genres including graphic novels, young adult contemporary realistic fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and queer romance. He also has an interest in accessible, queer, and neurodivergent nonfiction.
See agent's ALA page for what he is and is not looking for: https://www.azantianlitagency.com/about-us/mark-obrien
Mark O'Brien joined Azantian Literary Agency in 2024 with nine years of experience in the book publishing industry. Prior to ALA, he interned at Entangled Publishing, Stonesong, Triada US Literary Agency, and Writers House, and worked as Sales Coordinator at NetGalley for three years. He has also worked as a freelance editor and sensitivity reader, and volunteered with organizations like #DVpit, Tessera Editorial, and Quillers SWANA.
All ALA agents use Query Manager. Please note that any submissions sent via email, unless requested or sent on referral, will not be considered. We encourage all authors and artists to prepare and polish their work prior to submission. We only accept human-created work and do not consider AI-generated work. Helpful tips to consider when submitting: - Select one agent to submit your work to. Please review our agents' bios and manuscript wishlists to find the best fit. We ask that you submit to one agent at a time. However, if one agent passes, you are welcome to submit up to three agents at ALA. - Prepare a polished query letter with a detailed description of the work you are submitting. - Create a bio with or without credentials. We love to work with debut creators and encourage you to list out any and all accomplishments, interests, goals, and quirks within your bio. - Make sure the work you are submitting is complete. If we request a full manuscript, we would love to see it right away! Please note that this does not apply to graphic novels or nonfiction projects. These require completed proposals, but not full manuscripts or illustrations. Manuscript submission guidelines: - Novels: Submit 10-20 polished pages. - Picture Book Text: Submit the entire manuscript. - Picture Book Text + Art: Submit the entire manuscript with 1-2 art samples (online portfolio or link) - Graphic Novels: Submit a proposal with 10-20 sample pages, 2-4 full colored pages, a summary or synopsis, and a sample script of 10-20 pages. - Illustrator ONLY: Please note in your submission that it is for Art Representation Only and include a link to your online portfolio. - Nonfiction: Submit a proposal with 2-3 sample chapters, a complete outline, bio, and a brief market analysis. If you met one of our agents at an in-person or online event and were invited to submit to them, please mention the event in the query.
Last verified: March 31, 2026
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