Page views since Feb 1993
A writer-friendly e-publishing platform.
Home | About | What is E-Publishing? | Resources | For Publishers | Affiliates | Directory | Forum | Email Us
Good writing is the foundation. The rest is preparation and the right contacts.
A query letter should be one page, addressed to the editor or agent by name if you can find it. State the title, the type of work, the word count, a short description of the story, and a brief author bio. Close with a polite offer to send the manuscript or sample pages.
A synopsis summarizes the story in one or two pages. It should show the main plot, the principal characters, and the ending. Write it in plain language. Do not attempt to make it dramatic. Editors want to see that you understand the story you are sending.
Use directories such as Writer's Market, the Authors Guild listings, and publishing society resources to find reputable agents and publishers. Check recent credits and submission guidelines carefully. An agent who has placed books in your genre is usually a better option than one who only works from a generic list.
Join a local writer group or an online mailing list if you can. Peer critique helps you see weaknesses in your writing and gives you practice explaining your work to others. Our forum is one place to compare notes on manuscript questions and submission practice.
Keep a list of every editor or agent you contact, the date, the materials sent, and the response received. If you send both a hard copy and an electronic version, note which formats were delivered and by what method.
Copyright © 1993 Electronic Books Online. All rights reserved. For writers, editors, publishers, and authorized affiliates.
Page views since Feb 1993