Writing a strong query letter requires a great hook and clear premise. The first sentence should immediately catch the reader’s attention, while the ending should leave the reader wanting to dive into the pages of the manuscript. Your first pages should work similarly—you want the person reading to find it absolutely unputdownable. But this takes practice, patience, and an eye for detail. Which is why we’re here: to discuss what to do and not to do and to make your query and first pages as stand-out as possible.
Suzie Townsend is a literary agent at New Leaf Literary & Media and represents NYT bestselling and award-winning novelists. She’ll help you understand what information prospective authors need to grab an agent’s attention and stand out in the “slush pile.” She’ll also help you weigh all of your options before choosing an agent. This workshop will take place over two, 60-minute sessions. Each session will include instruction from Suzie followed by Q&A.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Tips on writing the most effective query
Tips on writing strong first pages
Tips on the actual querying process
Key querying resources and revising resources
FEEDBACK FROM SUZIE:
After the second session, participants will be invited to submit the first five pages of a manuscript or proposal for critique by Suzie. She will provide feedback to each person in the form of a marked-up manuscript or proposal and a brief feedback letter.
This event is perfect for anyone age 15+ who wants to write and publish a novel. Suzie invites anyone in the following position to join: