Finding the right agent for a young adult novel

Hi everybody,

I’ve sent queries (i.e. letter, one page summary and the first 40 pages) to about fifteen UK agents this year and none of them asked to see more of my novel.

The average reply is that they are not enthusiastic enough. Others say that their client list is full even though their entries in Writers & Agents don’t provide that kind of information.

I’ve edited the novel over and over again. Seven people have read it so far and have been very enthusiastic. I know this is all very subjective. These people could be a bunch of freaks for all you know…;-)

Can anyone here recommend me an agent in the UK (one who still takes on new clients and possibly deals with my type of book?)

The novel:
Fast-paced 250-page young adult adventure (age 11-12 and up) set against a realistic background with surreal elements. The force that drives the main character ( a boy) throughout the story is of a sad nature, but the novel contains an abundance of comic relief.

I hope that the fact that I live in Germany doesn’t turn agents off…

Thanks
I appreciate any kind of help here.
[FONT=&quot]Dounia[/FONT]

I’ll take a look at the sites.
Yes, the query letter I send out to agents is much clearer than my vague description above.
I’m just painfully secretive when it comes to sharing information on the internet ,-) No offense.
The story is about an orphaned boy who tries to prevent his grandfather’s death.
I would describe it as moving, very funny and suspenseful.
Thanks again. I appreciate your input.