Queries are one page letters written to a submissions editor. Query letters are skillfully written to sell a story. We do this with a three step process.
The first step is to grab the editor’s attention, skillfully composed to keep the editor reading. In this first paragraph, we provide the title. We inform the submission editor of word count, genre and whether the story is fiction or nonfiction. We also include the age level and a brief explanation of why it’s a good fit for this publisher.
As an example, we have written a children’s story about puppy love. Our first paragraph should begin with a question or statement that will grab the editor’s attention. As an example, we may open with question:
1Dear Mr. Johnson: Have you ever been bitten by a love bug? In Jasper and Me, Tommy was bitten on his first visit to Paw Prints Pet Shop.
This is your opportunity to give the title, word content, and genre and age level.
The second paragraph should give a brief story description. What are the conflict, obstacle and resolution? This sentence is written for one reason only, to sell your story. Weed out unnecessary words, check grammar and punctuation for accuracy. Weigh each word for its worth in a brief explanation about you and your story.
Our third paragraph we list our publishing credits, if we have them. We also include any expertise or experience we might have on the subject. This will carry weight with the publisher if your query is well-written, and the subject is one of interest to the publisher. Let the publisher know when you can submit your story. Include your contact information and a self addressed, stamped envelope for the publishers reply. At the bottom of your query letter, write: S.A.S.E. included.