Seeking Representation: Next Level Querying with Sera Rivers
Learn how to craft a successful query letter that stands out from the rest, how to find the right agents to query, and what to do/next steps when an agent is interested in your book. This workshop includes: examples of successful queries from real clients, handouts of resources for agent research, publishing timeline examples from query-to-rep-to-publication, and Q&A at the end of the presentation.
During the Breakout Session, Sera covered:
- How to write a successful query letter
- What to include in your query packet
- How to find the right agents to query
- What to do when an agent makes an offer of representation
"The purpose of a query letter is to grab the immediate attention of an agent!"
Your pitch should be specific, not vague!
The pitch provides specific, concrete details of the project that:
-Includes a compelling hook that paints a clear snapshot of the project in as few words as possible
-Introduces the main character and grounds the reader in the setting
-Presents the MC's main want/goal, the obstacles the MC needs to overcome to achieve that goal, and the stakes at risk
"Universal but Distinct"
A successful query letter must include the genre and word count and should include:
-Compelling hook
-Short, specific description of project (the pitch)
-Succinct and relevant author bio
A Next Level Query also includes:
-The reason for querying that specific agent
-A personal connection to the project
-Two comparable titles; TV shows/ movies count
A successful author bio:
-Highlights resume stats ONLY when relevant
-Provides a personal connection to the project when relevant
-Includes other relevant details
-The main characters of the book
-All the major plot points of the book, including the dramatic and emotional stakes
-The ending--most important
The next step is:
Research, research, research!
When you find an agent, then it's time to do a thorough Google search!
Get to know if the agent is right for you!
"It is like dating!"
Here are some questions to ask:
1. Agency
-Is agent affiliated with reputable agency?
2. Clients
-Have clients that write in same genre or similar topics/categories as you?
3. Manuscript Wish List (MSWL)
-Does MSWL match the types of books you write?
4. Social Media feed
-MSWL mentions
-Agent updates (on vacation; closed to queries)
-Anything else that informs querying process
More can be found in an attachment that will be available with the replays of the conference.
If you want to view this session to hear the full content, along with the rest of the conference, register at https://www.scbwi.org/events/summer-conference-2023. Replays of the conferences will be available until September 10, 2023.
Agent
Sera Rivers is a Literary Agent at Speilburg Literary. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University. She represents middle grade, young adult, graphic novels (author/illustrator only), and select picture books. Check out her MSWL and submission guidelines at SeraRivers.com. Prior to agenting, Sera worked as an editor in educational publishing for seven years. Follow her on Twitter @writeloudly.
Sera Rivers is a Literary Agent at Speilburg Literary. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University. She represents middle grade, young adult, graphic novels (author/illustrator only), and select picture books. Check out her MSWL and submission guidelines at SeraRivers.com. Prior to agenting, Sera worked as an editor in educational publishing for seven years. Follow her on Twitter @writeloudly.
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