Agents are reporting that the number of submissions they’re receiving in the YA category can average 10,000 every year. To ensure your work stands out, consider the latest trends.

The market these days is more sophisticated. Your story has to be sharper and smarter than ever before.

Paranormal elements are fading rapidly; they’ve been overdone.

Contemporary realism continues to be a mainstay.

Stories that offer a hook that allows the book to rise above the masses of other available titles are always in demand. Hone your pitch pieces (the query letter, book proposal, synopsis, etc.) so that your project has the best chance in this area.

Deep emotional topics are in demand because they help guide readers who might be dealing with the same issues.

Thrillers are a big area set for growth. Everyone’s looking for the YA version of Gone Girl.