After making revision number six thousand, eight hundred fifty two on my book, I came to the conclusion that if I continue polishing the words, they’ll rub right off the page. Leaving well enough alone, I was ready to tackle the dreaded query. The Internet is packed with articles on the do’s and don’ts of query letter writing. There seems to be uniform agreement that queries should not exceed one page, should be single spaced, no less that one inch margins all around. The header should contain all your contact information, followed by the name and address of the agent and then the salutation. After that, the tips on writing a query letter diverge like a spaghetti model of an approaching hurricane.
- The opening line of your query can be the hook, the reason for contact or the name of the person who referred you to this agent.
- The description of your book can be one, two or three paragraphs, depending on which article you read and take instruction from.
- The letter should give the agent a reason why your book should be published - something about the market which would make your book a desirable commodity, or not, again depending on which set of tips you believe.
- It should contain a bio, your accomplishments to date and/or education in the craft of writing - or not, if you have no credentials to speak of.