Literary Agent Kathleen Rushall will be speaking at the Central California Writers' Conference, the last weekend in April, 2012.

Kathleen is pioneering the children’s and young adult literature list at Waterside Productions, Inc. She looks forward to garnering fresh voices, strong narratives, and whimsical tales in all areas of young adult literature including fantasy, historical fiction, science fiction, dystopian stories, and contemporary fiction. She is open to all genres of YA, but has a soft spot for well-researched historical narratives, edgy or paranormal plots, humorous voices, and would love to find a dark mystery. Kathleen is open to unique, quirky picture books and character driven middle grade fiction as well—especially multi-cultural or boy-driven MG.

She also represents select nonfiction and is interested in parenting, cooking, crafts, business, alternative medicine, women’s interest, humor, pop-culture, and some how-to. Waterside is the world's premiere literary agency for computer and technology authors, we're passionate about representing authors' interests and we've agented many bestselling authors and bestselling books. Since our founding in 1982, Waterside agents have successfully represented more than 5,000 books to over 50 publishers, generating more than $150 Million for authors. Waterside is also a long time supporter of the author community as the host of the computer book industry's annual gathering, the Waterside Publishing Conference.

From Kathleen's perspective, all manuscripts, character development and voice are essential. Writers, she says, should make sure your work is as polished as possible and has been revised, both for plot and for superficial changes before submitting to an agent.

Kathleen graduated from Seattle University with her bachelor’s degree in English and minor in fine arts. She moved back to her hometown of San Diego to earn her master’s degree in English, specializing in children’s literature, from San Diego State University. When she is not at her desk, Kathleen enjoys exploring new restaurants, dreaming of Ireland, and walking her Australian Shepherd, Finn.