Video of my agent, Ms. Deborah Warren of the East-West Agency.

I'm embarrassed to say I've had relationships with half a dozen agents over the course of my nearly two decades-long writing "career." It feels almost as unethical as sleeping around and around.

One superstar agent I worked with for 11 years but left in a fit of pique when I was ill. I thought she was the root cause of my undiagnosed bodily pains. I went on to work with 3 agents in big agencies. The 3 were young and inexperienced: one embarrassed himself in the business so terribly on this continent, he had to leave for Brazil; the others were too green, so I returned to the first agent, who graciously welcomed me back. When all seemed cozy and safe again after selling two children's books, I had to part ways with the superstar agent once again, because she lost interest the manuscript of "Forget Sorrow: A China Elegy."  I will always be grateful to this first agent, because she gave me my start. I did indeed grow attached to her as my "literary mom," but sometimes an author has to take a step away from the familiar in order for her writing life to survive.

Deborah Warren sold my picture book "Foo the Flying Frog" and "Forget Sorrow: A China Elegy" within a year's time. She urged me to try "Forget Sorrow," as a graphic novel, and I am glad she took the energy to nurture that idea and format.

Transitions in publishing can be traumatic. We want to maintain good relationships with our agents and editors, but differences can errupt like a hive of enraged bees, and editors frequently leave houses for better positions.

I've introduced a few of you in Redroom to the East-West Agency. I am proud to show you a video of the Divine Ms. Deborah interveiwed at the last American Librarians Association convention in L.A.

One thing for sure, editors like to see her coming. As an author, I am able to discuss ideas and issues with her at length. She listens. We've even shopped in together!

After nearly twenty years in "the business," I've learned to be more flexible and to work toward a common goal.

Deborah Warren is my final agent--unless she decides to retire. I don't think that will happen soon as she is vibrant and youthful. See for yourself.

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Belle Yang's Youtube vidoe of her graphic novel in the making

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Foo the Flying Frog of Washtub Pond, Candlewick Press, Spring 2009