In paragraph two of a query letter,
I explain why I selected this publisher or editor. Maybe they have published
similar type books or the editor mentioned in an interview that she was looking
for a particular type of book. (I read several interviews before I send to an
editor, so I can mention something that lets her/him know that I didn’t just submit
without researching.) I also mention how the book might work in the marketplace
or that readers who enjoy a particular book or series of books, comparable
titles, would also enjoy this manuscript.
In the third paragraph, I add my
bio, that which is relevant to writing. Since I am a retired teacher/librarian,
I always state this. If you have publication credits, list those. If you have
no books published, but you’ve won an award or certificate for writing, mention
it. When writing nonfiction, explain why you are qualified on that subject. At
this point, state that you have other manuscripts available, if you have them.
The query letter is your
introduction to the editor. Keep it short, one page. Thank the editor and sign
your name. I also include my website, blog, and phone number below my name.
Check, double check, triple check
the letter to eliminate grammatical errors.
Call
for Submissions for Young Writers:
BRASS: Young adults. Focus is on making money matters interesting and relevant
to young adults. Prefers contributors from 16-29 years old. You must register
with Brass to get information on submitting. http://www.brassmagazine.com/contribute
Call
for Submissions for Adult Writers:
Chicken Soup. Being
happy is a state of mind. We can all find happiness in our lives and, even
though we may have to look for it, we know that each day brings something to be
grateful for. We want to hear your stories about finding your path to
contentment. These success stories can be serious or funny and should inspire
our readers to focus on hope, strength and optimism. How did you think positive
and find happiness? Was it something as simple as an attitude adjustment? Did
you make a major change in the handling of your daily life? How did you find
purpose, passion and joy in your life and how do you stay positive? How do you
use gratitude to be happier? The deadline date for story and poem submissions
is May 31, 2017.
Submission guidelines at http://www.chickensoup.com/story-submissions/possible-book-topics
Nancy Kelly Allen has written 40+ children’s books and a cookbook,
SPIRIT OF KENTUCKY: BOURBON COOKBOOK. Check out her blog at www.nancykellyallen.com
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