New Story

I'm not sure about particular agents, but I did read in the Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market that there has been an increasing interest in children's non-fiction, especially about unique topics. For instance one book, This Sucks, talked about different animals suckling, air presure etc. Machinery is a common topic in children's books so it would have to be done well to be origional. I'm not sure if there is a book out there that is about the dump specifically so that might work in your favour. Also, unless you have professional photography skills, editors probably won't want you to include your photos but instead have their own photographer take pictures.

There are mixed opinions on whether or not to try and seek an agent for a first book. Some sources say it is easier to catch a publisher's attention initially (i.e. one accepting unsolicited submissions) than it is to catch the eye of an agent.

Let's see what some of the more experienced people on this forum say. I am not very knowledgeable about books for younger children.

-Laura

I don't know much about non-fiction books for kids. I think you should check out publishers who specialize in non-fiction and submit a proposal, see what kind of response you get.

What I do know is that there is definitely a market for that book. Every year I have at least one first grader who is OBSESSED with trucks and machinery, and would love a book like that. Plus the Green movement means there is a lot of focus right now on educating the young ones to understand why we need to divert recyclables out of the landfills, so it's a book grown-ups would want on their bookshelves.

My son has never outgrown his love for big trucks - and combines and tractors and hay balers - you get the picture.

And a dump? What could be more awesome for a young boy?

Sounds like a winning combination to me.

A dump? Yep, a little boy's playground. And my boys, as well as many of their friends--girls and boys--loved trucks of all kinds. As zeppelin said, check the Children's Writer's And Illustrator's Market book.

I was showing a guy an apartment in NYC one day this past summer. I asked him what he did for a living and he replied, "You know those big yellow dump trucks that kids play with?" I answered, "Yes." And he said, "I play with them for a living and I don't ever think I'll grow up!" If I remember correctly he was almost 40 years old. Great topic!!

Yep, and I see a lot of grownups picking through other people's trash that's put on the curb on bulky item day, or picking through the household items bin at the recycling center. They come with gloves on.

I also have a friend, in his 40s, who works for the Public Works dept. He'll occasionally pick through the garbage at the dump. So, if adults like doing it, kids really think its a great playground

Yes, Kids like to imitate adults. But, I think it's dirty.

No, my brother-in-law's job is dirty. And stinky. He works at a water treatment plant - and loves it. He doesn't get to drive a big truck, but he gets to play in the dirt.