Kari Sutherland is a KT Literary agent whose deal record centers on young adult fiction and children's books, with a particular affinity for diverse voices, fantasy-tinged YA, and early-reader series.
In brief
Kari Sutherland's submission form was observed closed as of October 2024 — verify the live form before querying; status may have changed.
The client list skews heavily toward YA fiction (including fantasy duologies) and diverse middle-grade/early-reader series, suggesting that is where Kari's deepest editorial relationships lie.
Repeat representation of both Saadia Faruqi and Kelly Coon across multiple books signals that Kari invests in long-term author careers, not just single deals.
Saadia Faruqi's titles point toward a strong appetite for diverse, culturally specific stories for younger readers — a signal that goes beyond what Kari publicly states about their wishlist.
Kari operates out of KT Literary's Colorado base but works with major New York publishers; the client list includes Scholastic and other major imprints.
Lately
Kari's submission form was directly observed as closed, meaning new queries were not being accepted at that point. Writers should check the live form before attempting to submit.
What Kari is looking for
YA is clearly the engine of Kari's deal record — fantasy duologies, LGBTQ-inclusive sci-fi, and emotionally driven stories with high stakes all appear in the client roster. Kari is drawn to YA that combines a gripping premise with genuine heart and strong character work.
Middle grade fiction — particularly stories centered on underrepresented cultures and identities — is a clear priority. Diverse, character-driven MG that gives young readers mirrors and windows both fits the pattern of Kari's client work.
Kari represents at least one successful early-reader chapter-book series with a diverse protagonist, suggesting an openness to series-driven children's fiction with a distinct, imaginative voice. Standalone picture books from author-only (non-illustrating) writers are not sought.
Humor is listed among Kari's categories, though it does not dominate the confirmed sales record. Projects where wit and comedy are woven through the narrative — rather than existing as the sole selling point — likely align best with Kari's taste.
Not the right fit
On Kari's list
Taste fingerprint
How to query Kari
Confirm the submission form is open before querying — it was closed as of October 2024 and you must check the current live status.
Lead with your genre, age category, and word count in the first line; Kari works primarily in YA and MG, so clarity about where your book sits on the shelf matters immediately.
Diverse voices and culturally specific stories have a clear track record with Kari's clients — if that describes your book, make it prominent in your query letter.
Kari favors authors who think in terms of series and sustained careers: if your YA or MG has series potential, mention it (without overpromising).
For YA fantasy, the client record shows a preference for emotionally grounded, high-stakes stories over pure concept-driven fantasy — foreground character and stakes, not just worldbuilding.
Do not query Kari with picture books unless you are both the author and the illustrator.
Follow KT Literary's general submission guidelines precisely — the agency is known for clear, consistent expectations across its roster.