SCBWI Oregon: A Story is Born!

Laura Gruszka (she/they) is a junior agent at Writers House actively growing her list of children's books: picture books, middle grade, YA, and graphic novels. They’re proud to have worked closely with talented creators including Ruth Chan, Lian Cho, Blanca Gómez, Corey R. Tabor, and Erin Stewart. Her favorite picture books are full of heart and don’t talk down to kids. In the MG and YA spaces, Laura is drawn to line-level writing that doesn’t disappear when you read, but rather is an essential part of the pleasure of reading. Most of all, they’re eager to work with creators whose books will be life-changing to a young reader, whether it’s by finally seeing an authentic representation of their own experience, learning about a subject not discussed in their everyday life, or igniting their lifelong love for reading.

Deeba Zargarpur joined Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers and Salaam reads in March of 2020 after previous roles with Disney Publishing Worldwide and a book packager. She has the privilege of working with talented authors and illustrators such as New York Times bestselling author A.F. Steadman, Linda Sarsour, Brittney Morris, Hanna Alkaf, Dana Mele, Kat Zhang, and Charlene Chua. Her aim is to acquire commercial books that empower young people from diverse backgrounds. As a self-taught polyglot, Deeba’s love of literature across various languages stemmed from the tales spun throughout her childhood. She is always on the hunt for stories that inspire a sense of magic and wonder, plot lines that challenge traditional assumptions about morality, and strong character arcs that redefine what it means to be the hero of your own story. Follow her on Twitter at @deebazargarpur

Karina Granda is an Art Director at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. She works across a range of formats including Picture Books, Middle Grade, Young Adult, and Graphic Novels. She has designed and art directed many award-winning and bestselling books including THE PROUDEST BLUE, THE MAGIC MISFITS, THE MILLICENT QUIBB SCHOOL OF ETIQUETTE FOR YOUNG LADIES OF MAD SCIENCE, THE INHERITANCE GAMES series, THE FOLKS OF THE AIR series, INTERNMENT, and LOVE & GELATO. When not reading or making books, she loves hunting for the best cheese and donuts, taking long walks (through the city or nature), wandering through museums, and watching reality TV.