hemingwaywantabes

Okay, Hemingwaywantabes, here’s some good tips for you regarding the query letter. I know there are a thousand and one ideas out there but please consider mine as they have worked now for nearly twenty books and counting. And remember, literary agents and publishers expect the right form to come their way. Otherwise you are dead before you even get a shot, and nobody wants to be dead!

Most important – the QL may only be one page in length, no more. No more, I said.

Now, the first paragraph feature two lines or so with a snappy description of what the book is all about. Give it some zip to gain immediate attention. If you don’t, no one will bother reading on.

The second paragraph. Consider these buzz words, “This unusual (or unique) scenario sets the stage for ________ (name of your book), a (insert about three or four more lines describing your book in detail. For fiction, that means a “mini-synopsis,” for non-fiction, a “mini-overview.” Most times this description will be lifted from your book proposal draft, one reason I suggest creating a book proposal first.

The third paragraph. Consider these buzz words: “(name of your book) is written in the spirit of such bestselling books as _____, _____, and _____, but it is unique because ____________. The target audience is anyone who enjoys (provide sense of who the audience is for your book.)”

The fourth paragraph. Consider these buzz words: “The author’s expertise to write this book stems from (provide your credential – why you are the one person in the world to write this book). It will be promoted (give some ideas you may have for good promotion – rely heavily on new media promotion – internet, etc.)

The fifth paragraph. Consider these buzz words: “Based on the genre of books mentioned on your website, I believe (name of your book) will interest you. If so, a manuscript is available for consideration.” (Or, a book proposal if you decide to got this route.

Thank you so much,

Z. Hemingway, Jr.

That’s it. Zing, zing, zing. Certainly, variations may occur, but if you stick with this form, you can’t go wrong.

Now get busy and create your query letter. And keep saying to yourself, “I will be published.”

If you have questions, send me a comment. Or email me at mshawin@yahoo.com