I'm writing a query letter, it's my first one and it's my first book, any tips????

Answer 1

Nicholas Sparks has a great writer's corner on his website, which includes a sample query letter and advice on how to find an agent. Here's the letter:
http://www.nicholassparks.com/WritersCorner/Query.html

Answer 2

Use the full name and correct title of the person you're writing.

Tell him/her why you have chosen that company or agency. Be very specific. It's best if you can name a similar book brought out by that company or represented by that agency.

Describe your book in no more than three sentences. Do not use qualitative words, such as "excellent," or "compelling." Make the recipient want to read your book.

Describe your previous writing experience, if you have any.

Carefully proofread, read the letter out loud several times, and show it to a friend. It may be the most important letter you'll ever write.

Use a laser printer, not an ink-jet. Use 20-pound cotton bond paper and a matching envelope.

One good way to get their attention is to FedEx the letter. That way they have to sign for it, it stands out from the U.S. mail, and it shows that you are serious. Of course, this isn't a good idea if you're going to end up sending letters all over the country, but it might be if you have very carefully targeted a particular publisher or agent.

Best of luck!

Answer 3

Good advice above. Check out Predators and Editors to ensure you are not sending to con artists.

My advice, for what it's worth, is not to write the letter in the style of a book jacket blurb. Write it in a serious tone if it is a serious book. One to two pages is enough. It does not have to be double-spaced but space out the paras. Make it look easy to read - remember that the poor junior editor who will read it will have a mountain of them to read through. For fiction you should include 1-3 chapters, depending on what they ask for in their submission guidelines. For non-fiction, the idea may be enough.

Answer 4

Check out these links:

http://www.suite101.com/discussion.cfm/playwriting/119623
http://www.right-writing.com/guide.html
http://www.writerswrite.com/journal/apr98/keegan7.htm