How To Write A Query Letter

You have just written a book, and feel like you're on top of the world. Here's your thoughts: Not to brag, but all you really need to do is send the first page of your manuscript to an agent and they'll be begging to represent you. You're pretty much the best writer ever...it's whateves.

WRONG. And if you do send your first page to an agent, they will sigh and delete it immediately. It would be like going into a store you wanted to work at and just start working there and then telling the manager, "See, I'm awesome. Hire me." You'll just be kicked out. If you want to work at a store, what do you do? You turn in a resume. Same thing with an agent. You send them a resume, except it's called a query and it's a little different.

First, you want to add something personalized to the specific agent. Tell them why you are querying them. Did you read something on their blog stating they were looking for a superhero baby that has lazer-eyes, which is exactly what your book is about. Or maybe you read an interview where they said they love YA horror, which is your genre.

Next, a query starts with a hook. A hook is a sentence that...well, hooks the reader. It needs to be short, sweet, and clever. For help, look at the back of books and check out the first sentence for an example.

You want approx. two paragraphs telling a bit about your book. TWO PARAGRAPHS. Be specific without revealing the ending. Stick to key points. Don't ramble. Tell about the protagonist, what his/her goal is and what's at stake.

The last paragraph should consist of your achievements with writing or what you are doing in your writing career. People's own opinions vary on what to include, but mine is: if it doesn't have anything to do with your writing, don't add it. Now, if you don't have any degrees, achievements or awards, that is okay! Just tell the agent what you are doing with your writing. If you are working on an English degree, or part of a writing group. An agent is looking for good writing, not someone with a Doctorate.

Last, but not least don't forget to add the title in CAPS, the word count, the genre, and a thank you.

Also, and this is really important. Have fellow writers critique your query. If you have not, join the free site: Agentqueryconnect.com and put your critique up.

I'm no pro at queries. Really, I'm not sure there is such a thing. But, I do have experience--not to brag or anything...I mean, it's whateves.