We represent authors of nonfiction and literary and upmarket fiction. And we’re on a mission to secure platforms and power for authors who weren’t born feeling entitled to either.

At Neon, we believe stories are the light by which people expand their understanding of the world and each other. If you’re on a mission to shine your own light outward, writing books that expand the known universe and help others feel less lonely: welcome.

Morris Travers, the chemist who co-discovered our namesake element in 1898, wrote of that moment: “the blaze of crimson light from the tube told its own story and was a sight to dwell upon and never forget.” That’s what we strive to do for our authors: find them the strongest possible place in the market, then step back and watch them shine.

Like any top-tier literary agency, we have deep relationships with editors at all major publishing houses, enjoy fast responses on our submissions, and negotiate phenomenal deals for our clients.

Our roster includes #1 New York Times bestsellers; Pulitzer Prize winners and finalists; National Book Award, PEN/Faulkner, and Los Angeles Times Book Prize finalists; winners of PEN America and National Book Critics Circle awards; cult celebrities, activists, and academics. 

What sets Neon apart, however, is our dedication to securing real power (a different thing from “empowerment”) for often-overlooked authors and audiences. One way we do that is by demystifying the book publishing industry in all its idiosyncratic glory, not just for our clients but the general public. We are also big on editorial development, marketing, and strategy, committed to pushing all of our clients’ careers to their maximum potential.

Read more about us in The New York Times.