Submission Requirements
Please include the following materials with your submission. We accept simultaneous submissions and aim to respond within 4–6 weeks.
General Materials
- A concise query letter introducing yourself and your book
- A 1–2 page synopsis that includes the ending
- The first 10–50 pages of your manuscript (Word or PDF)
- The genre and total word count
- Your target audience and comparable titles (if relevant)
For Fiction
- Query letter
- Brief synopsis
- One sample chapter (or the first ten pages)
For Non-Fiction
- Query letter
- Author biography
- Book proposal
How to Submit
- Submissions must be sent via email only
- Subject line: [Genre] Submission – [Book Title]
- Simultaneous submissions are welcome
- Expected response time: 4–6 weeks
Ready to submit your manuscript?
Send all queries directly to Erika. We look forward to reading your work and will respond within 4–6 weeks.
A Commitment to Literary Advocacy
Erika Hanayashi Smith is an independent literary agent and publishing professional dedicated to helping authors develop, position, and present their work for publishing opportunities. With a strong commitment to literary advocacy and author representation, she works closely with writers to refine their manuscripts, strengthen query letters and book proposals, and identify potential publishing opportunities aligned with their creative vision and professional goals.
Her work encompasses a range of literary genres, including Christian nonfiction, inspirational memoirs, biographies, historical narratives, and fiction. She is particularly interested in works that offer meaningful perspectives, compelling storytelling, and messages that can resonate with readers across different backgrounds and generations.
As an independent literary agent, Erika supports authors throughout the early stages of the publishing journey, from manuscript evaluation and submission preparation to publisher correspondence and acquisition-related coordination. She recognizes that every manuscript represents not only an author’s creativity but also years of dedication, personal experience, and a vision worth presenting thoughtfully to the publishing industry.
Every author’s story deserves thoughtful consideration, every manuscript deserves careful preparation, and every publishing opportunity should be approached with integrity, purpose, and a clear understanding of the author’s goals.
Through her work with authors and publishing-service providers, Erika continues to build relationships within the publishing community while supporting writers in pursuing opportunities for print publication, audiobook development, international-language editions, and potential film or television adaptations where appropriate.
Erika’s approach emphasizes professionalism, clear communication, careful preparation, and a collaborative relationship with the writers she assists. She strives to help authors understand the publishing process, prepare compelling submission materials, and present their projects with clarity and confidence when approaching appropriate publishing professionals.
Erika Hanayashi Smith is committed to helping authors navigate the complexities of publishing while preserving the individuality, purpose, and heart of every story she represents.
Best-Known Projects
A selection of titles represented by Erika, spanning folklore, history, and narrative nonfiction.
Innocence Lost
The Book of Japanese Folklore
Americana: Dispatches from the New Frontier
Ghost Soldiers
Leading Clients
JoAnne Harris Michels
Author
Thersa Matsuura
Author
Hampton Sides
Author
Experience & Achievements
Special Experience
- Advanced Certificate in Publishing & Editorial Management
- Intellectual Property & Copyright Law for Publishing Professionals
- Financial Analysis for Publishing Acquisitions
- Training in Manuscript Evaluation and Literary Market Analysis
- Digital Publishing Strategy and Emerging Book Markets
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Publishing Seminar
- Contract Negotiation and Rights Management Workshop
- Author Relations and Talent Development Program
Honors & Achievements
- Recognized for Outstanding Contribution to Publishing Growth
- Award for Excellence in Strategic Title Acquisition
- Successfully acquired multiple titles that achieved bestseller or high-sales recognition
- Speaker / Panelist at Publishing & Literary Industry Conferences
- Recognized for fostering emerging authors and debut talent