A query letter to an agent is a concise and compelling letter that writers use to pitch their book ideas or manuscripts to literary agents. Its purpose is to grab the agent’s attention, showcase the writer’s work, and persuade the agent to request more material or representation.
In this article, we will provide you with templates and examples of query letters to agents. These samples will help you craft a professional and effective letter, whether you’re writing a query for a novel, memoir, or any other type of book. With our examples, you’ll be able to structure your query letter and highlight the key elements that agents look for.
By following our templates and examples, you’ll be able to create a query letter that stands out and increases your chances of securing representation for your book. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or new to the publishing world, our samples will guide you through the process of writing a compelling query letter to agents.
Sample of a Query Letter to Agent
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent’s Name]
[Agency Name]
[Agency Address]
[City, State, Zip]
Dear [Agent’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to you today to present my novel, “[Title],” for your consideration. After researching agents who represent [Genre], I was impressed by your track record of success with authors such as [Author Name] and [Author Name].
“[Title]” is a [Genre] novel that follows the journey of [Main Character] as they [Brief Description of the Plot]. The story is set against the backdrop of [Setting], and I believe it will appeal to readers who enjoy [Comp Titles].
I have included the first three chapters of my manuscript for your review. I am confident that my novel has the potential to captivate readers and would be a strong addition to your list of represented works. Thank you for considering my submission.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Query Letter to Agent
1. Understanding the Purpose of a Query Letter
A query letter serves as a writer’s first impression on a literary agent. It is a brief and compelling letter that introduces the writer and their work, aiming to entice the agent to request more material.
2. Researching Literary Agents
Before writing your query letter, research literary agents who represent your genre. Look for agents who have a track record of success with authors similar to you.
3. Crafting a Compelling Introduction
Start your query letter with a strong and engaging introduction. Briefly introduce yourself, mention why you chose to query this particular agent, and provide a brief overview of your manuscript.
4. Summarizing Your Manuscript
In the body of your query letter, provide a concise summary of your manuscript. Highlight the main characters, the central conflict, and the unique elements that set your story apart.
5. Showcasing Your Writing Style
Incorporate a sample of your writing in the query letter to give the agent a taste of your style. Choose a passage that best represents your voice and the tone of your manuscript.
6. Including Relevant Information
Include any relevant information about your writing background, awards, or publications. Highlighting your credentials can enhance your credibility as a writer.
7. Closing the Letter Professionally
Close your query letter with a polite and professional conclusion. Thank the agent for considering your submission and provide your contact information for further correspondence.
Writing a query letter to an agent requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can create a compelling query letter that increases your chances of attracting the attention of a literary agent.
Things to Keep In Mind
1. Know Your Audience:
Before writing your query letter, research the literary agent you are addressing. Tailor your letter to their specific interests and submission guidelines.
2. Keep it Concise:
Agents receive numerous query letters, so keep yours brief and to the point. Aim for a length of no more than one page.
3. Highlight Your Unique Selling Points:
Clearly convey what makes your manuscript stand out. Focus on the most compelling aspects of your story and writing style.
4. Personalize Your Letter:
Avoid generic queries by including specific details about why you are querying this particular agent. Mention any connections or reasons you admire their work.
5. Follow Submission Guidelines:
Agents often have specific requirements for query letters. Make sure to follow these guidelines carefully to ensure your letter is considered.
6. Proofread Carefully:
A well-written and error-free query letter demonstrates professionalism. Proofread your letter multiple times and consider having someone else review it as well.
7. Be Patient and Persistent:
Receiving rejections is a common part of the querying process. Stay positive, and if you receive feedback, consider revising your query letter before sending it to other agents.
FAQs about a Query Letter to Agent
Writing a query letter to an agent can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the publishing world. To help you navigate this process, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about query letters and provided answers based on common practices and expert advice.
1. How long should a query letter be?
A query letter should typically be no longer than one page. It should be concise and focused, highlighting the key aspects of your manuscript and writing style.
2. What should I include in a query letter?
A query letter should include a brief introduction of yourself, a summary of your manuscript, including the genre and word count, a brief paragraph about why you’re querying this particular agent, and any relevant writing credentials or achievements.
3. Should I include sample pages of my manuscript in the query letter?
It’s not necessary to include sample pages of your manuscript in the query letter. Agents typically request sample pages if they’re interested in learning more about your work.
4. How many agents should I query at once?
It’s recommended to query agents in batches of 5-10 at a time. This allows you to gauge the response to your query and make any necessary revisions before querying more agents.
5. How long should I wait for a response from an agent?
Agents receive a large volume of queries and may take several weeks to respond. It’s advisable to wait 4-6 weeks before following up with an agent if you haven’t heard back.
I hope these FAQs and answers have provided some clarity on the query letter writing process. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!
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