QUERY CRITIQUE

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Comment by Cheryl on November 25, 2009 at 5:15pm

Again, I'm putting out the suggestion that someone open a group for synopses. They are as difficult to write as queries and just as necessary!

Comment by Cheryl on November 25, 2009 at 12:13pm

Thanks, Ruth. There are links on this site for Successful Queries and Evaluated Queries, too, that are helpful.

Comment by Ruth Howell on November 25, 2009 at 11:21am

Here is another link for learning how to write query letters:
http://queryclub.weebly.com/

Comment by Cheryl on November 15, 2009 at 6:33pm

The BookEnds agency's blog gives tips on queries, too.

http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/search/label/query%20letters

Comment by Lydia Sharp on November 13, 2009 at 5:53pm

Kenneth,
Concerning short stories, the publisher/editor should have a detailed submission guide somewhere on their website. Some don't like attachments, others allow them, but only like certain types of files. Some want the story in "online" format, others want it in "standard" format. All are different, so yes, you must read the individual guidelines for each one you submit to. Best of luck!

Comment by Cheryl on November 13, 2009 at 1:19pm

I don't know anything about short stories, although I've read it's very hard to get an agent for them unless you've published longer stuff. Maybe someone subscribing here has more insight. In any event, good luck.

Comment by Kenneth E. Olson on November 13, 2009 at 1:09pm

Concerning novels, I can see that. I'm curious about short story submissions, though. When they say email submissions are acceptable, but really don't go into any detail whether or not they want it in the text of the email or as an attachment. I just assumed (and I know what that means...:) that the email would act as a cover letter and the attachment would be the story itself. Of course, I always look at the individual publisher's requirements.

And I am looking for an agent, too, so this info comes in handy! Thanks!

Comment by Cheryl on November 11, 2009 at 1:20pm

Kevin, as Chava said, the email is the query letter. And as Lydia pointed out, most agents don't trust attachments. Many want a short synopsis and up to 5 pages in the email itself. After the query, of course. Check the agent's guidelines to see what s/he prefers.

Comment by Cheryl on November 11, 2009 at 1:17pm

Thanks, Lydia, for the link to Bransford's blog.

Comment by Lydia Sharp on November 11, 2009 at 10:44am

Kenneth,
Most agents don't like attachments, even if they require a synopsis or the first few pages of the ms with the query letter. It's best to read their individual guidelines before sending anything. That's the only way to know for sure. Best of luck to you!

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