Kate McKean

Girl: "I just don't think this is working out."
Guy: "OK. Do you know any other girls I could go out with?"
DON'T DO THIS TO AGENTS. #pubtip

Please do not ask agents for a referral to another agent after receiving a rejection. We are not here to do your homework for you. #pubtip

My only auto-rejection policy is queriers who subscribe me to their newsletters w/o permission. Permanent rejection. #pubtip

If you've seen that I'm open for queries on twitter-that's great! But also make sure to check our website for submission guidelines. #pubtip

The number one thing every querier tells me in their pitch is their character's nickname. This is the most useless piece of info. #pubtip

Just threw a book in the recycling bin because I only accept email queries. You are not the exception to this rule. #pubtip

Do not send queries via Google Drive. #pubtip

Basically the best distillation of how to tell if an agent is (probably) a good agent. #pubtip twitter.com/literaticat/st…

It is not appropriate to comment on an an agent's appearance in a query, period. Regardless of your (well meaning) intentions. #pubtip

Every word you write in a query that is not about the book or your bio/platform is utterly useless. #pubtip

Guilt is not an effective tactic to get me to give you free editorial advice after I've passed on your work. #pubtip

The No. 1 thing I don't want to see in the first paragraph of your novel is your character waking up. The No. 2 is a metaphor. #pubtip

Scene, a Query:

"I wrote a YA novel! <Starts long explanation of adult characters' problems>"

<Agent slams head against desk.>

#pubtip

Pretty much if you say your book spans 3-4 different genres, I can tell that you've never read a book in at least 2 of those genres. #pubtip

Don't call an agent until that agent is your agent. #pubtip

Don't. Respond. To. Rejections. #pubtip

The point of sample chapters is not to show the "best chapters." The point is to show me the BEGINNING of your novel. #pubtip.

A tragedy is not your marketing opportunity. #pubtip

Beside hair color and shoe brand, I care almost zilch about how/when/with what force your character is breathing. #pubtip #baddetails

I don't respond to your query with "WOW THIS SUCKS!" so don't respond to me with "WOW YOU SURE WILL REGRET REJECTING THIS!" #pubtip