Elana Roth Parker

Sigh. It’s so sad to read a query for a book that’s been subbed to 11 publishers before. It’s hard to let go, but probably better to start fresh. #querytip

You know something you never need to send me in a query? Your headshot. Not that kind of agent. #querytip

This is also a good #querytip thread of truth today. I see many of these writers over and over.

I’m seeing more and more illustrator queries with Instagram links instead of portfolio websites. Not sure it’s cutting it. #querytip

When you reduce your book to 200-300 words, you MUST make sure it’s coherent and logical. Get outside readers before you query. #querytip

Having answered about 60 queries today, the biggest reason for passing is I don’t understand what is happening in your book. #querytip

September queries have all been answered. Making a good dent in October now. Ah, catching up feels good. #amagenting #querytip

I *love* seeing “Dear Sirs” queries to an all-women agency. #querytip

Why on earth would you send more than one before getting a yes/no on one? You’ve just exhausted that agent option in one go. #querytip

You know and I know that PB mss are hard to sell. And the money is small. Few agents take text-only. Found an agent who does? … #querytip

Sub issue: I can only assume these are picture book manuscripts, which opens a whole new can of worms. Yeah, they’re short. But… #querytip

Issue 4: On the VERY BIG IF all 11 projects are good, what am I supposed to do with with them? I can’t sell them all at once. #querytip

If you can’t tell the difference and are just trying everything, then…I’m not sure what kind of client you’d make. So, pass. #querytip

Issue 3: Even if something in there is good, what if 10 others aren’t? I’ll assume you can’t tell the difference. #querytip

Issue 2: You look unfocused. Throwing spaghetti at the wall. I can only assume none of these projects are refined or ready. #querytip

I’ve decided to elaborate on this #querytip issue for new queries out there. Dig in. Issue 1: our submissions guidelines say not to.

Don’t ask me why I looked on a Sunday morning, but someone just sent 11 queries for 11 individual projects. DON’T DO THAT. #querytip

I get so many replies just thanking me for responding to queries. That makes me so sad for writers these days. Sorry, guys. #querytip

Today’s slush pile bombs: a 260k manuscript and a YA with a 32-year-old main character. Guys? #querytip

Success! I have answered all July queries. One goal complete. #amagenting #querytip