Hi, Alison! Thanks for the note and the kind words. I'm a fan of your Unschool for Writers.
Yes, I have a completed novel that I'm querying. Some of the agents I've identified request a long synopsis, which is what I was finishing up on the retreat. Others request a short synopsis (2-3 pages), and I have that done now, too. Do you have any recommendations you'd share?
That's what I was wondering: if the novel is completed. Yes. And to understand that the writing-of-synopsis (my LEAST favourite part!) is for agents. I honestly don't understand why they want a long one (which is not helpful for you to hear, I realize). A short one, 2-3 pp., makes sense, and after that they should be reading the book to get a feel for your writing, and the working of this particular story. I feel for you, working on these pieces.
I trust you've read my piece on looking for agents, and the more recent one on what goes into a cover letter--though I'm guessing you've done both these pieces, too.
It's a significant task to find an agent--I wish you the best with the search, and that the right connection happens! Ultimately, you want an agent who's a big fan of your work. I know some like to think it's all business--but there has to be a deep emotional connection, too. That has to come across--even subconsciously--when it's THEIR turn to write the cover letter, and convince an acquisitions editor.
Hi Ed! Love these photos! And a good read. I'm curious: do you mean you are querying agents with a novel, or a novel synopsis?
Hi, Alison! Thanks for the note and the kind words. I'm a fan of your Unschool for Writers.
Yes, I have a completed novel that I'm querying. Some of the agents I've identified request a long synopsis, which is what I was finishing up on the retreat. Others request a short synopsis (2-3 pages), and I have that done now, too. Do you have any recommendations you'd share?
That's what I was wondering: if the novel is completed. Yes. And to understand that the writing-of-synopsis (my LEAST favourite part!) is for agents. I honestly don't understand why they want a long one (which is not helpful for you to hear, I realize). A short one, 2-3 pp., makes sense, and after that they should be reading the book to get a feel for your writing, and the working of this particular story. I feel for you, working on these pieces.
I trust you've read my piece on looking for agents, and the more recent one on what goes into a cover letter--though I'm guessing you've done both these pieces, too.
It's a significant task to find an agent--I wish you the best with the search, and that the right connection happens! Ultimately, you want an agent who's a big fan of your work. I know some like to think it's all business--but there has to be a deep emotional connection, too. That has to come across--even subconsciously--when it's THEIR turn to write the cover letter, and convince an acquisitions editor.