Frequently Asked Questions

What do you want to see in a query?

A query should be one page in length, include a synopsis/pitch of one or two paragraphs about your completed and polished novel, genre and word count, and pertinent information about your previous publishing experience, if any. Do not include any unrequested attachments. We like to see the first five pages along with the query letter, included within the body of the e-mail.

For non-fiction queries, it is basically the same: a one-page query, information about your manuscript, previous publishing credentials, and basis of expertise or platform.

• A query is a business letter, and in most instances will be your introduction to this agency. When you proofread your query, keep this in mind.
• Don’t be creative with the fonts, or artistic with the presentation. Not only does it make it difficult to read, it’s hard to take seriously.
• Include your contact information.
• Make sure there are no impediments to our response, e.g., filter permission requests.
• Please put the title and the word “query” in the subject line. We use an enthusiastic spam filter, and if it looks like the loosest definition of spam, it’s going to be deleted by the filter as spam.
• If we ask to see your material, please include the original query (without the pages).
• Do not send unrequested materials.

May I re-query on a project that has been rejected?

Unless we’ve indicated in the original response that we are interested in taking another look, the answer, regretfully, is no. You are always welcome to try us on a future project.

When should a writer think about querying literary agents?

A previously-unpublished writer should only query literary agents after the manuscript is complete, revised, polished, and read by independent and qualified readers (e.g., not your mother, spouse, sibling, or best friend; someone who reads enough in your genre to be knowledgeable.)
A literary agent should not be a first reader.

What turns you off in a query?

Queries peppered with typos and grammatical errors. Sloppy queries are turn-offs.
Mass-queries, or queries submitted by query-spammers, are deleted unread.

Is there a way to increase my chances of having my material requested?

The best way to increase your odds of having your material requested (besides honing your craft – talent is a given) is to research the agents you are querying.

Learn what sorts of books they have sold in the past, and if possible, read some to get an idea of the agent’s tastes.

Check the agent’s website to see what they want. Follow guidelines.

Send your best work.

Publishing is very subjective, and what works for one agent may not work for another.

Can I expect feedback?

Usually not. Our job is to evaluate manuscripts for sale, not to critique or provide feedback. We recommend critique partners, critique groups, or beta readers to provide feedback.