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How To Query an Agent
Your query letter should be as short as one page, but no longer
than 4 pages. If it is more than one page it should be double-spaced. The first sentence should tell whether your book is a novel, a biography, a
mystery, etc. The first paragraph
should give the agent/editor an idea of what your book is
about. This description should be clear and
straightforward. If your books is a
novel, give an engaging summary of the plot and background,
and a quick sketch of the major characters. If it is a
non-fiction work, give a crisp, clear description of the
book, the purpose of the book, the need in the marketplace
and how your book fills that need, and a differentiation
from other books in the current market. If you have already
been published, give details at the end of your letter.
You should also tell of any credentials or experience that
particularly qualify you to write your book. Always
include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Finally, letters of
inquiry should be original copies and correctly addressed to
an individual agent or editor. If you are asked to
send your manuscript, it should be submitted typed, double
spaced, on white paper, and you should retain a copy since
we cannot assume responsibility for loss or damage to
manuscripts. A self-addressed, stamped envelope
should accompany every submission. If a manuscript is
sent in, it should be accompanied by sufficient postage, in
the form of loose stamps, to insure its return in the event
it is not accepted for representation.
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