Things You'll Need:
- A finished novel
- Pen
- Paper
- Self-addressed stamp envelope (SASE)
- Stamp
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Step 1
Address the letter to the agent you are writing to. Attention Mr. Literary Agent is the most acceptable format, but Dear Mr. Literary Agent is also acceptable.
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Step 2
The first paragraph contains the hook. The hook is one-sentence that should "hook" the reader's interest. There are many different techniques in writing a hook, but the technique is not as important as making it interesting. You have one sentence sum up the plot of your book while making someone want to read more.
Examples of hooks from published books as seen on www.agentquery.com:
When Robert Kincaid drives through the heat and dust of an Iowa summer and turns into Francesca Johnson's farm lane looking for directions, the world-class photographer and the Iowa farm wife are joined in an experience that will haunt them forever.
The true story of the meteorological conditions that created the "Storm of the Century" and the impact the Perfect Storm had on many of the people caught in its path; chiefly, among these are the six crew members of the swordfish boat the Andrea Gail, all of whom were lost 500 miles from home beneath rolling seas. -
Step 3
The second paragraph consists of a brief synopsis. You have to explain the entire novel in a paragraph. You should probably start by expanding on the hook.
Once again you have to draw the reader in. Provide a little bit of information on the main character and conflict. Brainstorm and write everything down and then cut and edit your paragraph so it is about 150 words. -
Step 4
The third paragraph is the author's biography. Write about yourself, any fancy degrees or awards you may have, should be included. Don't compare yourself to Stephen King, literary agents hate that, just talk about yourself.
If you have no credentials, no education, no awards, its really no problem. Say what you have to say about yourself and move on. Because the query is supposed to fit on one page, if your biography is short than other things can be longer (hint: the synopsis). -
Step 5
Now for the closing. The closing should be formal, including a brief thank you to the agent for his/her time and secondly reminding the agent your manuscript is ready and available upon request.
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Step 6
Print it out, put it in the SASE, lick the stamp and mail it. Remember to include all your contact information, phone number and e-mail address.
