BONUS RETREAT!
BONUS RETREAT!
BONUS RETREAT!
2025 Mentors
3 of 5 - next reveal at 2:00pm
Matt Phipps, Associate Editor, G.P. Putnam’s Sons|Penguin Young Readers
Matt acquires picture books, middle grade, and YA, including graphic novels for all ages. Prior to joining Putnam in 2020, he spent several years in Penguin’s School and Library Marketing department. He was an Editor Mentor with The Word: A Storytelling Sanctuary and volunteered with the Representation Matters Mentorship Program, in addition to serving on the board of the Penguin Random House LGBTQ+ Network. He has also worked as a bookseller, a Spanish-English translator, and a teacher.
Pronouns - he/him
Marissa Brown, Associate Agent, Pippin Properties
Marissa Brown has always been a reader. She is never without a book (or three, just in case). But it wasn't until high school that she realized she could have a career in books. She studied English Literature at DePauw University in Indiana prior to attending the NYU Summer Publishing Institute. There she was introduced to the world of literary agencies and immediately knew she wanted to become an agent, which led her to Pippin.
Pronouns - she/her
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Olivia Luchini, Assistant Editor, Penguin Workshop|PRH
Olivia has been with their team since 2020. She edits on the Who HQ nonfiction chapter book series for middle grade readers, but she also edits picture books and licensed titles. Olivia is enthusiastic to read young adult, middle grade, and picture book submissions. She enjoys nonfiction (especially about animals, cultural holidays, puberty, and history) and fiction (especially contemporary narratives with characters rooted in realities relatable to young readers). A former stand-up comedian, Olivia loves books that have a humorous voice.
Pronouns - she/her