Taking Yoda’s Advice


“Do. Or do not. There is no try.” –Yoda (Download this wallpaper here)

My current writing notebook has this Yoda quote on the cover. I’m working on a new book, and I’m not “trying” to write it, I’m doing it.

The difference may be subtle, but it’s important. According to Merriam-Webster, a try is an “attempt” to see if something works, but when you do something, you “bring (it) into existence” — and that is my goal for the rest of the year — to bring a new children’s novel into existence.

Is that your goal too?

See more here.

Copyright © 2026 Anastasia Suen All Rights Reserved.

New associate agent at Bookends Literary

Last week Bookends Literary wrote on Instagram: 👏🏼Beyond excited to announce that @sophiesheumaker has earned the title of Associate Literary Agent!

At the top of Sophie Sheumaker‘s MSWL page it says: Middle Grade | YA | Adult | Illustrators 

The detailed MSWL lists that follow explain what she is and is NOT looking for in Middle Grade and YA/Adult fiction.

Although all of the client books on her agency page are picture books, that age category is not a genre choice on her QueryTracker page where it also says: “I reply to all queries and aim to do so in a timely manner.”

See the “Looking for a Literary Agent” roundup here.
Copyright © 2026 Anastasia Suen All Rights Reserved.