If you’re heading down the traditional publishing path, you have undoubtedly already heard about the querying process to secure a literary agent. Having been down this path myself (twice), I picked up a few odds and ends that might be of use to a fellow aspiring traditionally published author.
BEFORE you begin querying your list of literary agents, I strongly recommend that you take the time to build a strong query package. Having these items completed and compiled in a single document will make the process much easier as you work through your list of agents. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 – Query letter – Every agent will want a query letter. This letter is designed to pitch not just your book, but you as an author. While there are differing approaches to crafting a query letter, the same 5 elements are consistent: agent open, book hook/pitch, synopsis, author bio, and close. A few years back, I wrote a blog about how to write this letter well. Check it out!
2 – Synopsis – Literary agents will also want to see a synopsis of your work. While most agents will give you 3-5 pages to tell them about your book, some will want a condensed 1–2-page version to review. In this blog, I offer some advice on nailing the synopsis. Keep in mind that a synopsis does not leave the agent hanging. The synopsis gives away everything about your book from beginning to end.
3 – One-sentence pitch – It sounds outrageous, but keep in mind that a book isn’t just a story. It’s a marketable, sellable product. As the author, you’re expected to not just write the story, but sell it too! In this blog, I offer some tips and tricks for crafting a compelling book hook (or pitch).
4 – Author bio – The agent you’re writing to will want to know who you are and why you’re the right person to tell this story. Don’t shy away from your accomplishments, but at the same time, stay humble. In this blog, you can find a list of things you can include in your author bio.
5 – First 3 chapters (or 50 pages) – Most literary agents will want to see a sample of your work (which is why your first page, and first chapter need to SHINE!). Be sure to follow the exact request of the agent. Some agents will want to see the first 5 pages, others the first 50. Always double check the way they want to receive it, too. Some don’t mind Word doc attachments while others will request that you copy/paste your work into the body of an email.
6 – Comp titles / similar books – Know where your book would sit on a bookshelf in a brick-and-mortar shop. Does your book sit next to Stephen King or Colleen Hoover? The better you know your story, the easier it will be to come up with comp titles. Help the literary agent understand by giving them comparable titles (you can even compare your work to a TV show or movie if that’s easier!) You can also take it one step further and help the agent understand what about the comp title resonates with your story. For example, (insert book title here) combines the uniquely told redeeming qualities and characterizations of a killer in Jeff Lindsay’s Darkly Dreaming Dexter with the storylines of hope and prevailing love amidst abuse and distress found in Nicholas Sparks’ Safe Haven.
7 – Genre – It’s not just about knowing your book’s genre. It’s about knowing the sub-genre or even sub-sub genre, too. Better yet, if your book follows any industry tropes, it’s best to include this information. When building a query package, it’s your job to help the agent understand as much about your book as possible (without actually reading it). Narrow it down the best you can—however you can.
8 – Word count – Count your words. Is your book 75,000 words or 100,000 words? You’ll want to include this information in your query. One important piece of advice: know your genre and what word count is appropriate. For example, if you’re writing romance, do not pitch a story that exceeds 100,000 words. It’s not common for the genre. Most romance stories find a home around 75,000 words. Conform to your genre specifications. If you’re pitching sci-fi, 120,000+ is common. Just know your genre.
9 – Potential audience – Tell the agent who will read your story. Is your book written for a young adult audience or middle grade? Are you targeting females, males, or both? It’s not just about the demographics though—think about psychographics, too. What does your ideal reader enjoy? Think about your main character(s). Who would want to read their story? Who does it appeal to?
10 – Web links – Lastly, you’ll also want to compile your web links. Many agents will want to get a sense for who you are by scoping out your social media presence. Have a list that includes your website, blog (if you have one), and links to social media.
We’re all in this together. If you read something on this list and have questions or would like to see an example, I’m always happy to share. Contact me and we’ll talk about the query process together! Good luck!
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