Crafting A Query

I wrote my query letter to a publishing house and within two weeks the Executive Editor requested a complete copy of the manuscript. Success is achievable for first-time authors, and a query letter is simple to write. The proper format is that of a business letter, so prove that your writing is bold, brilliant . . . but brief.

First Paragraph
Why did you write the story you want readers to crave? Cover only pertinent information to show at once that your manuscript works for the addressed publisher. Kudos to you for reading their submissions guidelines and several recent publications.

Second or Body Paragraph
Reveal your storyline a bit more and include the genre and word count of your manuscript. If this is a children's book, editors need to know what age group or grade for which the story was written. Offer to send the partial or complete manuscript if they are interested.

Third Paragraph
The last paragraph is a mini "resume" of your writing credits and a thank-you for their time and consideration. Note that you have enclosed a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) for their response.

Professionalism by definition is the standard, practice, or method of a professional. Distinguish yourself from amateurs by executing correct grammar and spelling in a short query letter. Not only did The Place in The Woods ask to read my manuscript, they decided to publish it. Debut novel coming soon! Yours could be, too.