Success Story Interview - Emily Jira

An Interview with Emily Jira (EmilyJ on QT) upon receiving an offer of representation from agent Hollie Michaels of Martin-Newens Literary Management.

08/05/2026

QT: Can you tell us a little bit about the book for which you've found representation? What inspired you to write it?

Emily Jira:
LITTLE BIRD is a YA fantasy rooted in my own family's mythology and inspired by stories of my great-grandaunt's gold shop, which still stands today on a crowded corner in Bangkok. It’s lush, magical, and a little bit spooky!

QT: How long have you been writing?

Emily Jira:
I’ve been writing seriously for ten years.

QT: How long have you been working on this book?

Emily Jira:
Five years! I wanted to make sure that my manuscript was as polished as possible before I queried.

QT: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up, and what helped you to stay on course?

Emily Jira:
Never. I unsuccessfully queried my first novel back in 2020, and putting that one to rest broke my heart. But I’ve never wanted to quit. I love writing too much.

QT: Is this your first book?

Emily Jira:
This is my second novel.

QT: Do you have any formal writing training?

Emily Jira:
Not during college, but I did take a few courses through the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program. That’s actually how I connected with my mentor, Melanie Thorne, and got into my amazing writing group. I’d definitely recommend it for anyone looking to strengthen their craft and find community!

QT: Do you follow a writing routine or schedule?

Emily Jira:
No, and this goes against so much of the advice I’ve heard, but I only write when I’m feeling inspired! There are some days or even weeks when the words just aren’t flowing, and that’s okay. I’d rather put down my manuscript and go read a book instead. Whenever I force out a page, I always hate it later and end up deleting it. For me, it’s worth it to wait until I’m in the mood to write.

That being said, writing is a huge priority for me, so I will always make time for it.

QT: How many times did you re-write/edit your book?

Emily Jira:
I queried my eighth draft.

QT: Did you have beta readers for your book?

Emily Jira:
Yes! I’m in a writing group led by Melanie Thorne and filled with astonishingly brilliant women, so I’ve gotten regular feedback on LITTLE BIRD since day one. When I was almost ready to query, Melanie, several women from the group, and a few literary friends gave me notes on the full draft. I am incredibly lucky to have this community.

QT: Did you outline your book, or do you write from the hip?

Emily Jira:
Unfortunately, I am a pantser! I envy anyone who can outline.

QT: About how many query letters did you send out for this book?

Emily Jira:
I sent 40 query letters, including two to agents I’d pitched at a conference.

QT: On what criteria did you select the agents you queried?

Emily Jira:
I looked for agents with similar taste to mine. Anyone with lush, magical books on their MSWL got my attention, especially if they expressed interest in non-Western fantasy!

QT: Did you tailor each query to the specific agent, and if so, how?

Emily Jira:
Yes! My opening sentence was always specific to that agent explaining why they caught my eye. I might mention a client they represent, their manuscript wish list, or even, for the agents who post it, their Goodreads! One agent had announced some news on their blog, so I congratulated them on that.

QT: What advice would you give other writers seeking agents?

Emily Jira:
Don’t query too soon! I know we are all impatient to get our books published, but make sure your draft is as tight as possible before you send it out. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the industry too. Pubtips on Reddit is a great resource for that.