Publishing Pros Panel & Pitch

Marietta Zacker, Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency, has worked with books, authors and illustrators throughout her career -- studying, creating, editing, marketing, teaching and selling. She supports independent bookselling, believes in libraries and takes pride in her work as a Latina in the world of publishing. She is always on the lookout for visual and narrative stories that reflect the world we live in, not the bubbles in which we put ourselves. She loves books that make readers feel and shies away from those that set out to teach the reader a lesson. Whether she is reading a young adult novel, a middle grade novel or a picture book, Marietta looks for a book in which young readers can identify with the actions and reactions of the characters, not the perspectives of the author or illustrator. Diversity in the story must be inherent and authentic, not trendy. She is thrilled to shine the spotlight on soulful, insightful, well-crafted, literary or commercial projects aimed at any age group from young adult to the youngest of readers. This winter you can find her championing books such as: THEO CHANG IS NOT A CAT by Mike Jung, LIFTOFF! ALMA THOMAS AND THE APOLLO MOON MISSIONS by Nina Crews, COME CATCH A DREAM by Brittany Thurman, and A WAFFLE LOT OF LOVE (A Narwhal and Jelly Book) by Ben Clanton.

Callie Deitrick has had the pleasure of working at Wendy Sherman Associates since the fall of 2018. As an agent, she represents USA Today Bestsellers, NYT Bestsellers, and GMA Buzz Picks. Before joining WSA, Callie graduated from Hamilton College in 2016 with a major in creative writing and a minor in art and completed the Columbia Publishing Course in 2017. Professionally, she has worked as a publicity and editorial intern at Europa Editions, as an editorial intern at Henry Holt, where she illustrated the cover of Number One Chinese Restaurant, and as a bookseller. For fiction, Callie is looking for contemporary literary/upmarket adult novels with a fresh hook and strong character-driven plot. She enjoys books that are both smart and entertaining with writing that has moments of humor and elements of suspense. She is drawn to books with flawed Millennial characters, diverse voices, and sympathetic protagonists. She has a soft spot for light speculative fiction with a simple premise that otherwise feels like it could be set in reality. Narratives that subvert genre norms and the expectations of readers excite her, and she loves stories about complicated female friendships. Her personal interests—outside of reading—include art, traveling, cooking, soccer, and dogs.

Diana Ventimiglia, Hachette Book Group: Ever since reading Norma Jean Jumping Bean, I’ve been obsessed with the power of books and their ability to help people feel seen. I remember following that kangaroo from home to school and finally not feeling alone in my own journey of fitting in. So, it’s no surprise that I knew I needed to establish a career in Publishing. For the last 17 years my passion has been working with authors who speak to the diversity of our lived experiences. I’m drawn to strong voices in spirituality, identity & sexuality, relationships, psychology, mental health, female empowerment, and LGBTQ+ rights. I believe that everyone has a story to tell and lessons to share, and the best part of my job is partnering with incredible individuals who are dedicated to starting bigger conversations and inspiring individual and collective healing. I truly couldn’t imagine doing anything else! When I’m not working with authors, you’ll find me working through the 5 plus books on my nightstand and yelling at my cat, Phillip, to stop knocking things off the shelf. But he’s so cute!