Samantha Wekstein

There's something about query writing that makes people want to use super tiny font! So fun for my eyes! My tip, keep it 12pt or larger. #querytip

Hi All, please don't assume if you haven't heard from me that I've silently rejected you. I often skip over responding to queries that have promise and come back to them when I have more time to review. And I respond to all letters. #querytip

Ya'll, when someone is on vacation, it's the polite thing to not email them with check-ins. #querytip

Hot tip, just don't reply at all! When people reply it feels like my inbox is spawning! #querytip

Just a reminder that I'm open for queries for another 15 days before closing for 2 months. If you send me a query while I am closed, it will not be reviewed. Thanks! #querytip #amquerying

Hi folks, please make sure you include your name somewhere in your query letter. Thanks! #querytip

I love classic tropes-they work for a reason. But if you're going to do something classic, make sure to put your own unique twist on it. I'm seeing a lot of stuff in my inbox that's been done the same way a million times. Find a way to break out old themes in new ways! #querytip

Fast way to get rejected? Tell me you need a response asap because you want to submit to someone else. #querytip.

Please don't submit to more than one Writers House agent at the same time. And if you're submitting to Al Zuckerman, please know that I'm the person reading your letter! So I will know if you also submit to me :) #querytip

Forgive me for ignoring your submission guidelines, but I'm special!--Guys, don't do this! Follow our guidelines, we make them for a reason. #querytip

Hi All, Some happy and bad news! I'm getting married at the end of August, huzzah! But because of that happy event, I will be closed to queries the months of August and September of this year. Please plan accordingly! #querytip

Getting tired of seeing stories about your grandparents, parents, uncles, cousins, etc. While these stories are hugely important to YOU, unless they are truly incredible and will draw a wide audience, they aren't right for my list. #antimswl #mswl #querytip

If you query, don't hear back and then send your query again...don't be offended if you get rejected twice! Instead, check-in to make sure your first query was received. #querytip

Things you should not put in a query letter because I don't need to know. 1) Where you found my information. 2) What genres I like (I already know this). 3) Any info directly pulled from my profile. You have limited space, don't waste it with repetitive info. #querytip

Just a quick reminder to put the word “Query” in your subject if you are submitting to me. Thanks! #amagenting #querytip

2/2 "I understand that not every individual is born to write or be published but I feel as though you are nothing but an eyesore on the world and would be much better off being gone." Guys, don't do this if you are looking for representation!! #querytip

I thought this went without saying, but obviously I was wrong--in your query, you should include a plot summary. #querytip

Don't start your query letter with "Your profile indicates that you are interested in..." I know what my profile says. Instead, let me know what elements you think I (specifically) will love! #querytip

Before you query someone, please Google them. I promise it will be helpful and save everyone a lot of time! #querytip

As much as I love dystopian YA, it's not currently selling. So if you can, pitch as sci-fi instead. #querytip