“The more I can promote those bands, the more I can guarantee that our genre is going to continue…it’s all about paying it fucking forward because somebody helped me. If I don’t help somebody else, how is this going to continue?” - Corey Taylor #PubTip #WednesdayWisdom

Friendly reminder:

Query = pitching your book (introduce characters, conflict, tension, hook, leave the reader wanting more)

Synopsis = literal (polished and readable) list of the plot points in your book (not meant to hook or entice, should give EVERY spoiler)

#querytip

I have to say this about attempting to read 300+ queries in a row: The people who boil down their plot to 'book jacket' status are currently my favs. #querytip Remember, agents are usually sitting down to read lots of queries, not just your one so stand out being short & sweet.

100%. If you have a ton of followers, and nobody cares enough about what you're saying to comment/like/share, it's not a good indication that they'll care enough when you say, "Buy my book." #PubTip

Please follow submissions guidelines. They vary from agency to agency, but they always are the way they are for a reason. Please follow them. My work life is organized in a very specific way for a reason. Thank you. #querytip #subtip

Hi loves, it helps you to personalize your query. I know it feels like an extra hoop, but it shows you're doing your research & being thoughtful re: your work & career. When you query w/o naming an agent & it's a bcc, we see that. & again when you bcc a mass followup. #querytip

One of the fundamental challenges of writing a book is getting everything you know about your subject/characters/plot/etc from your head to the actual page. You know what you know, but the reader doesn't know what you know until you tell them. #pubtip

For all you writers working on writing your query.

Agent @msmariavicente shares 9 Ways to Rock Your Query Letter bit.ly/2H7RrzU #querytip

#QueryTip With me, no means not yet. If you query me, and I pass, you are welcome to send new projects to me, or a significant revision after six months. I am impressed by creators who don't give up and continue to write/revise + master their craft. Best of luck! #amquerying

I cannot express how important this is. No, you won’t annoy agents by alerting us you have an offer. Even if we haven’t gotten to your query. Or have had requested material for a bit. Please PLEASE tell us. #querytip

Just a reminder to query me using Query Manager (not my email address!). Thanks! #querytip

The reason why I say this is because realistically an editor won’t or can’t buy multiple projects from the same agent at the same time, so essentially the agent is pitting their clients against each other for the same editor’s attention. #pubtip

.@BookEndsKim is back! She joins @BookEndsJessica and @jamerrson as they discuss 6 Things that MAKE A Great Query Blurb. youtu.be/C7ndytGR4Y4 #AmQuerying #QueryTip

Authors, please do not have someone (a lawyer, manager, etc) submit your query on your behalf. I promise I will read it even if you've never written or been published before. I'm honestly less inclined to read it if you're not sending it yourself. #querytip

What's the difference between market and platform?

katemckean.substack.com

#amwriting #writingcommunity #pubtip #amquerying

Also, it’s to a writer’s HUGE benefit to weigh ALL of their options before rushing to accept an offer, especially if you’re being pressured by the initial offering agent. #pubtip

If an agent took the time to thoroughly read your query and request the full MS, the very least a writer can do is keep them apprised of any movement. It’s a professional courtesy that I hope querying writers will keep in mind. Thank you! #pubtip

A note on queries for urban fantasy novels whether for middle grade, young adult or adult readers...

Urban fantasy is "our world + magic." Be clear in your query - do the humans (muggles/ normals/ whatever) KNOW that there is magic? Or, is magic a secret.

#agenting
#querytip

Hello. It is not necessary to notify me if another agent has requested your full manuscript. Congrats! But I don't need to know. Tell me if you get an offer of rep, but otherwise, we're good. #pubtip

A few #querytip(s):

~ share your query w someone who hasn’t read your book to spot holes

~ don’t ask for permission to query. Just do it.

~don’t respond to form rejections (either to thank us or to ask for an explanation—we unfortunately don’t have time)

~ Don’t give up!!!