When searching for a literary agent, some people think about only their query letter. But usually agents ask for more.
Synopsis
These are not always the most fun, but they do point out your plot right off the back. Does it all flow together? Does it make sense? Is there a spot where it may be slow? The agent will be able to see through it.
Spend a little more time explaining the beginning more than the rest, but make sure to hit key points. You won’t have space to put in all the sub plots or so in here. These are typically between 300 to 500 words. Most agents will ask for a certain word limit. Pay attention to that.
Sample pages
Agents always know the number of pages that want for sample pages. This could be from the first five pages to the first three chapters. Make sure these are the most polished pages ever. Grammar mistakes could put the agent off.
Author Bio
This isn’t long at all, but some agents (though more rarely) will ask for an author bio as well. Make sure this still grabs and catches the agent’s attention. Though it may be small, it’s still like a part of your “resume.”
Anything else an agent has asked you for? Gotten a response from an agent before? Leave a comment below!
I submitted my book to a number of agents before I got published, all the points above are valid, but the work must stand on its own two feet. Agents are only human and are likely to be impressed with courtesy as much as anything else, particularly if your work is a borderline yes.
And watch out for the sharks (vanity publishers!), anyone lavishing flattery on you or your work, or asking for money is best viewed with a healthy dose of skepticism.
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I agree! Great advice!
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Great advice – looking for an agent 😊
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That’s great! Good luck on your search!
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Thanks so much
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No problem, friend!
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🌸😊
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