From Ghosts to Gatekeepers: Publishing Insights with Agent and Author Carey Blankenship-Kramer

In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with author and literary agent Carey Blankenship-Kramer about her debut novel Ghost Scout’s Honor and the evolving challenges in the publishing industry. From query tips to industry shifts, Carey shares valuable advice for aspiring authors navigating today’s literary landscape.

Guest Bio

Carey Blankenship-Kramer is both an author and literary agent. Her debut novel, Ghost Scout’s Honor, a queer, neurodiverse middle-grade horror, was published by Scholastic in April 2025. As an agent, she represents a wide range of children’s and adult fiction, with a strong focus on uplifting marginalized voices. A self-proclaimed horror enthusiast and a lover of candy, tennis, and video games, Carey brings humor, heart, and industry know-how to every conversation.

Key Discussion Points

1. Pitch First, Pages Second
When it comes to submissions, Carey emphasizes the importance of a strong query pitch. It’s her first checkpoint—and often, she knows within a few paragraphs whether she'll request more. Personalizing your pitch and making your story’s “why now?” clear can make all the difference.

2. Vibes Matter
Carey explains that sometimes a pitch’s “vibe” or emotional resonance can hook her just as powerfully as a polished summary. Comps that truly match the manuscript’s tone (like The Girl Who Drank the Moon) can leave a lasting impression.

3. State of Middle Grade & Horror
Middle grade is facing a tough market due to shorter attention spans and ineffective publisher marketing. However, genres like horror and fantasy—especially those with marginalized perspectives—are trending. Carey notes that shorter, faster-paced middle grade books with immediate inciting incidents are performing well.

4. Tariffs, Trends, and Troubles
The conversation turns serious as Carey discusses how publishing is being impacted by global economic shifts, including tariffs. Rising costs may reduce advances and limit publishing opportunities. The recent Chapter 11 filing by Albert Whitman is a wake-up call to agents and authors alike about vetting publishers and understanding red flags.

5. Emotional Support and Agent Roles
Carey touches on the emotional labor agents provide when things go sideways—like a publisher folding. In such moments, she becomes not just a business partner but a friend and advocate. Therapy, she says, is often part of the healing process.

6. The Future of Publishing
With attention spans shrinking, both middle grade and adult authors need to grab readers fast—think TikTok-paced storytelling. Carey predicts more demand for dystopian and emotionally resonant horror as readers seek catharsis in uncertain times.

Conclusion and Takeaways

Carey Blankenship-Kramer offers a unique dual perspective as both an author and literary agent navigating the realities of modern publishing. Her advice for aspiring writers? Think like a business, write with heart, and don’t be afraid to lean into the trends—especially if they align with your passion. Horror, dystopian, and heartfelt stories are resonating now, particularly when written through underrepresented lenses. And in a time of industry uncertainty, choosing the right partners—both agents and publishers—matters more than ever.

Mentioned Links:

• Learn more about Carey: https://writerswithwrinkles.net

• Ghost Scout’s Honor (Scholastic, April 2025)

• How to Break Up With Your Phone by Catherine Price