Tell the Story-a Query That Worked

Anola Pickett writes historical fiction for middle grade. Her first novel, based on a true account, is Wasatch Summer. It is the story of a Mormon girl who must take care of the family's sheep by herself in the mountains, and the troubles that ensue. Here is the original query letter, minus personalization. Dear Xxx,... Continue Reading →

Should You Query Small Presses?

We all start out wanting the million-dollar advance with a Big Six Publisher. But. Is that really the best way to go? Consider the small press when you're researching your query-targets: SMALLER SLUSH PILES-Everyone and his half-sister is sending the story that his nieces and nephews just LOVE to hear acted out with shadow puppets... Continue Reading →

Subbing Comfort

There are lots of submission strategies and theories. Sending out one’s work for consideration definitely doesn't come with a one-style fits all plan. You may choose to send out one manuscript to one publisher at a time while someone else sends theirs out to a dozen at once. Maybe you’ve decided that having an agent... Continue Reading →

Closure Smosure

Think you need to hear back when you send out a submission? That you need closure? Frankly, you’re not always going to get what you want when you send out submissions. You’re not even usually going to get what you want (which of course is an offer of publication). And you need to learn to... Continue Reading →

sneak your social media info into your query: the email signature

How do you sneak your social media info into your query? Hey. You peeked. Look in your email settings and find the signature option. Once you've filled out this area, your signature will appear at the bottom of every email you send. Some things you might put in your signature: a tagline your website your... Continue Reading →

The Biography Paragraph

Who doesn't like talking about themselves? Well, actually, most writers. Because we're shy, retiring introverts. In the main. But if you don't toot your own horn, who's going to? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g592I-p-dc The trick is to toot cleverly, and at just the right tone and volume to get an agent or editor's attention. The first fact in... Continue Reading →

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