Lauren Spieller

Writers, it isn't appropriate to tweet at agents for feedback after they've passed on your work. #querytip

Your teen girl MC being "bored" by other girls is not a selling point for me. #querytip

Too often I see queries for picture books by people who are clearly not reading PBs. This goes for all writing, but if you're writing PBs it is crucial that you *study* picture books published in the last 1-3 years--for format, for voice, for content, for inspiration. #querytip

Here's your semi-regular reminder to remove "aspiring" from your bio. If you write, you're a writer! #querytip

Writers, if an agent gives you less than a week to accept or decline their offer of representation, that's unreasonable. Insist on at least a full week, not just to give other agents time to read, but to give YOURSELF time to make this very important business decision. #querytip

Queries are professional correspondence. With that in mind, here's a checklist of things *not* to do:

-Don't misgender agents
-Don't overshare personal details (no TMI please)
-Don't lie/misrepresent yourself/your work
-Don't drop F bombs
-Don't be aggressive/entitled

#querytip

#querytip(s) from my client ❤️

Journal of a Debut Year: How to Prep for Your Debut Year NOW

Great post by @lauraeweymouth! #writetip #querytip #TriadaTip

lauraeweymouth.com/2018/01/journa…

It is not appropriate to privately message agents on Facebook, or to DM them for updates on the status of your submission. We know you're waiting. We know you're excited. But we also need to maintain professional boundaries. #querytip

If you accidentally query an agent while they are closed to queries, never fear--you can query again when they reopen! #querytip

Writers, if an agent invites you to submit again in the future, they mean your *next* book. One that shows growth and improvement. Not a manuscript you shelved and are bringing out on a Hail Mary. #querytip

I received a query for *15* manuscripts. Please don't submit more than one unless you've been specifically invited to do so. #querytip

If an agent says they only accept finished manuscripts, then we mean it. You are not the exception. #toughlove #querytip

Is there advice somewhere telling everyone to send requested materials in a new email? Can I request that you...not...do that? #querytip

Please don't send your picture in your query. Even if your eye makeup is 🔥 #querytip

#PitMad is coming up! If/when you get requests, you'll need to send a GREAT query. May I suggest checking this out first? #querytip

ICYMI, I had a lot to say about writing queries over the weekend. #QueryTip #TriadaTip

twitter.com/laurenspieller…

Also, if it helps, you can check out these summary-writing guidelines I wrote up a few years ago. laurenspieller.com/2012/11/29/the… #QueryTip

Any questions? #QueryTip

That's it. That's a query. #QueryTip