Lots of varying answers here because let’s face it publishing is weird.
But for most, a self published book will NOT be picked up by a traditional imprint.
Are there exceptions to every rule? Of course. The trick is to not assume you are the exception.
#askagent #querytip

A #querytip that I'm reading April queries right now.

All the amazing Pride Book Fest Panels are up on YouTube, if you weren't able to watch over the weekend. Check them out anytime! #PubTip

It's veggie burger night in the Nordstrom household, and I can smell the burgers but they're not ready yet. I'm going to do one of those threads where I tweet about my queries and try to get through a handful before the burger lands in front of me. Ready? #QueryTip

For authors querying me personally: I get a lot of stuff where folks are worried about triggering content in my inbox. My past life is as a crisis social worker, so I'm good to read what you send me, and I put detailed CWs on all my submissions to editors! #QueryTip #AmAgenting

I'm not sure when exactly, but I'll be closing to queries at some point this summer. Likely late June/early July. Just a heads up. #QueryTip

How Literary Agents View Comp Titles youtu.be/tJY9fSIGJJY via @YouTube #writingcommunity #querytip

Most blurbs come from an author/editor/agent/pub contact. Ways to personalize the request/galley mailing:
1) Annotate the cover letter w/ a personal handwritten note.
2) Write a notecard to go with the letter.
3) Email directly.
#pubtip

I will also be removing this verbiage. Please note that for queries, I prefer diverse and inclusive, identity-driven stories, that reflect the first-hand, lived experiences of the author/s. ✌️ #QueryTip #AmAgenting #WritingCommunity

Please make sure to read agents' submission guidelines! It saves everyone a lot of time and trouble. #amquerying #querytip

Writers, if your word count is so outside the norm for your genre you set yourself up for rejection. #pubtip

Are you using a template to send out your query letter to multiple literary agents at once? Be sure to double check that the information is correct for each agent. #QueryTip

Want to succeed in publishing? This is a business, just like any other. Network like crazy (and no I don't mean FB and Twitter). After a while, you'll know who to trust. #pubtip

Don't be defensive and suspicious toward agents and publishers. It's a waste of energy and emotion. Instead, learn what a good deal looks like, and you'll know when the good isn't there. #pubtip

Want to learn how to succeed as an author? Attend a writers' conference at every opportunity. #pubtip

Don't ask "which are the best-selling genres?" before you write your book. Just find your passion, and write your book. #pubtip

Worth a read to help create a strong opening
#querytip #amquerying #WritingCommunity

I've received three queries so far today that are for books that are already published, so, #QueryTip:

#QueryTip: I get a lot of query letters that tell me a lot about the characters in a book, but not what they actually do. What is the plot? What are the stakes? Where does it happen? What makes it important? There is so much more to a book than just who it's about.

Just because: I don’t believe writers should have to stress about personalizing their query for every agent if it’s not something absurdly specific as “I know your favorite emo bad is Cute Is What We Aim For and that’s the vibe of my book.” #querytip