The Query, The Agent, and . . . Hats!

Hello writing friends!

Are you ready to tackle a serious subject? Many writers feel as if writing a book is easier than writing a query letter. I completely agree. And trying to find the perfect literary agent is not easy either. But as writers we need to forge ahead to accomplish our goals—see our books published!

The Quick-Witted Query

When you sit down to write your query letter to send to your literary agents, you need to be mentally sharp. Put on your professional writer's hat. This one-page letter must hook your reader and leave them thinking, "Yes! Please send me your manuscript!"

Your Four Act Play

A query has four parts:

1. A hook
2. Book summary
3. Biographical information
4. A closing

Your opening line needs to be strong—something pertaining to your manuscript that will hook your reader into wanting to read more. Your summary should be three or four sentences summarizing your manuscript. The biographical information needs to show the agent that you are the perfect person to write this book. If your work experience is tied into your book, this is the place to mention that. If you have publishing credits, you will include them here. If not, it's okay. Be sure to mention any writing organizations that you belong to. In your closing, do this quickly with something as simple as, "I look forward to hearing from you."

Calling All Agents!

After you've done your I've-finished-my-query! dance, you need to find an agent. Now it's time to put on your research hat. (Hope you like hats!) Finding the perfect agents to submit to takes time. First off, you need to look for agents who represent your genre. Then you need to read up on them to see if they would be a good fit for you.

An Agent's Role

Agents work for you. They open the doors to publishing houses and help you sell your book. In your relationship with your agent, communication is key. They should provide you with a submission list and you should also have copies of all "we will pass" letters as well as offers. Literary agents take a standard 15% commission. They should not charge you a reading fee or an editorial fee. Charging you for mailing and photocopying may be standard. You will sign a contract once you are accepted. Having that contract reviewed by a literary attorney is a good idea before you sign it.

Where Are YOU?

So how do you find agents? Below are some options for you:

Querytracker.net - This is a free, online service that helps you find agents and also organizes and tracks your queries.

SCBWI - If you are a member, you have access to an Agents Directory in The Essential Guide to Publishing for Children.

SFWA's Writer Beware - Provides information to protect you from "fake" agents.

This is a lot of information but it's important. Now you can take off your hats and relax. See you next week. The topic of Self-Publishing awaits!