Do you know the difference between a cover letter and a query letter? Many authors do not.
A cover letter accompanies your book proposal or manuscript when sending it to an agent or publisher. It’s a formality designed to identify your package.
A query letter introduces your project. It is generally the first thing that an agent or publisher receives from you and it is one of the most important elements to the publishing maze. As most professionals will tell you, a query letter is your first chance to make a good impression before an agent or publisher.
The first step to submitting anything to an agent or publisher is to study their submission guidelines. Many will request a query letter first. Some of them will outline the types of information they require. Query letters and book proposals, today, are not necessarily one-size-fits-all propositions. I suggest preparing yourself for whatever information a particular publisher might request. How? By compiling a detailed, complete book proposal including all of the elements, and by writing the most intriguing, succinct and beguiling query letter possible. If this is your first time around the publishing block, consider hiring a professional to help you get it right.
A query letter generally introduces your project through a brief synopsis. Learn how to describe your proposed book in one or two lines and then provide a concise synopsis (approximately one paragraph). Include the purpose of this book, describe your target audience and explain why they need/want this book. You’ll also want to introduce yourself—why are you the person to write this book? What is your writing experience and your background in this topic/genre? And the publisher will also want to know how you plan to promote this book—what are some of your most impressive connections? What does your platform consist of? Finally, tell the agent/publisher when your manuscript will be ready for viewing.
Actually, things have changed. It used to be that we would send queries out before completing the manuscript. We would tell publishers or agents, a date in the future when we expected to have the manuscript completed. Things move faster today. Now, agents and publishers want immediate gratification. Sure, they may take months to respond, but when they want the manuscript or proposal, they want it now. So be prepared.
You may wonder how you will fit all of this information in a one-page query letter. Actually, it is okay to spill over to a second page if the information in the letter is concise, relevant and well-written.
Let me know if you want more about the mysterious, intimidating query letter. I’ll also respond to specific questions. Leave comments here or contact me at PLFry620@yahoo.com with your requests.