example of cover letter for literary agent

How to write the perfect pitch letter to an agent

Related courses, edit & pitch your novel, the rewrite doctor, by anna davis, 7th jan 2019.

So, you've finished your manuscript and are eager to share your work with literary agents. One question I'm always asked by students is: How do you write the perfect pitch letter to a literary agent? Here are my top 15 tips on how to make your submission pitch letter stand out from the pack:

1. Write to a specific agent and do your research

Start out by thinking carefully about who you're going to send your work to. Research thoroughly on literary agency websites and generally online, reading interviews with individuals and checking their social media profiles. Pick agents who are clearly interested in the kind of book you're writing and who appear to be eager to find new writers. When you write your query letter, tailor it to the individual - even though this means you'll have to rethink your pitch letter for each agent you address it to. Don’t write to 'Dear Curtis Brown' or 'Dear Sir' or 'The Submissions Department' etc. Always write to a person.

2. Address the agent by their first name

Only the oldest, most formal of agents are uncomfortable about being addressed by their first names – and really, those are not the people you should be approaching for representation in any case. There’s no need for Mr, Mrs, Ms etc.

3. Keep the pitch-letter short

It should be no more than three brief paragraphs, one which pitches your novel; one which tells the agent a little about you; and one which talks about why you’ve chosen to target this particular agent. It’s up to you which order you do these in. I’d probably kick off by pitching the novel, but others would advise differently. People will tell you that the letter should be no more than a page – actually I’d say it should be much shorter than a page. Whenever we run agent-letter workshops with our London-based students, we end up telling at least 80% of the students that their letter is too long …

4. Kick off your letter by pitching your novel

This is the time to utilize your best one or two-line pitch. You should be giving the central question which drives your novel and hooks in the reader, or stating what’s at the heart of your novel. Ideally, use a slightly different version than whatever you've put in your synopsis to avoid repetition. And it’s good to tell us whose story this is too … Aim at two or three sentences (no more than that, really – this has to be brief and to the point) which introduce your story. Don’t try to cover your whole plot – your synopsis will be doing that job. You’re just looking to whet the agent’s appetite. Include the title of your novel (perhaps even as the heading for the letter). You should also give the genre of your novel if you know it. People often mention their word-count, in their pitch letter but there’s no real need for this: You should probably put that on the title page of your material.

5. Talk about why you’re addressing this particular agent

Agents like to feel you’re writing to them for a reason. Find out something to say which is specific to them: If you’ve read or heard something they’ve said about writing or the kind of novels they’d like to represent – or perhaps if you’ve met them – you could mention this. If there’s a reason you think you’d fit well on their list, say what it is.

6. Include mention of one or two comparison novels

This is when you liken your novel to other similar works. It’s a good idea to find books to compare to yours which are current and commercially successful – and ideally which are represented by this particular agent (though this might not be possible – it will depend very much on their client list). But don’t pick novels which are really major works or you’re setting the bar very high for yourself – perhaps unreachably high. If you can’t come up with good comparison novels, it could instead be a good idea to simply mention one or two of the relevant agent’s clients whose work you particularly admire. Don’t worry too much about the issue of ‘comparison novels’ though, if you can’t come up with any. It’s not the most important aspect of the letter. And don’t include lots of them. Two is enough.

7. Tell the agent a little about yourself

What you do, etc. Leave out details which are not strictly relevant or interesting. If you are a doctor writing a medical drama – say that. Mention any creative writing courses you’ve taken which are prestigious and with selective entry. It’s not worth mentioning self-published books unless they’ve sold well (by which I mean well into the thousands). Mention awards and writing competitions you’ve won if they are not too obscure. Remember, this should only be a short paragraph – don’t get bogged down in detail – be selective and only mention points which speak positively of you and clearly work in your favour.

8. Avoid bragging

... or stating that your novel will be the next huge international bestseller etc. On the other hand, don’t apologise for your novel  or for taking up the agent’s time with it – present it confidently. Read over your letter when you’ve finished writing it to make sure that everything you say is positive – don’t say anything negative at all.

9. Don’t tell us that your wife/husband/best friend/children etc love your novel

The agent doesn’t care about any of that!

10. Be focused – don’t pitch more than one novel or memoir in your letter

Talk about just one novel. If the agent calls you in for a meeting, that’s the time to talk about other projects, future work etc.

11. Do put time, thought and care into your pitch letter

Don’t be slapdash, and check your grammar and spelling. You need to be professional in order to be taken seriously by a professional.

12. There’s no need to include ‘polite padding’ in the query letter

For instance, you don’t need “I’m sending you the opening of my novel and synopsis in search of representation” – the agent will know why you’re writing to them, and you can just go straight into the pitch. Similarly, you don’t need to thank them for their time or say you’re looking forward to hearing from them etc – just write the real meat of the letter and then sign off. Make every word count.

13. Don’t ask for a meeting with the agent

... or state that you’re interested in working editorially on your novel. Just present the novel and then allow the agent to come forward with their idea of what should happen next. They will, in any case, assume you’re happy to come for a meeting or do some rewriting if requested to. Don’t make a point of saying that you’re sending also to others … They'll assume that anyway.

14. Don’t crack corny jokes

It’s just excruciating. And don’t talk about a ‘ fictional  novel’ – all novels are fiction.

15. Don’t be obsequious

The agent doesn’t need you to flatter them or suck up to them.

Oh - and did I say keep it short? ...

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How to Write a Submission Cover Letter That Will Wow Literary Agents

As a writer, you spend countless hours perfecting your manuscript, pouring your heart and soul into every word. But did you know that the cover letter you include with your manuscript submission is just as …

Written by: Adam

Published on: November 20, 2023

The purpose of a submission cover letter is to introduce yourself and your work to literary agents. It gives you the opportunity to make a strong first impression and convince the agent that your manuscript is worth their time and consideration. While the content of your manuscript is undoubtedly important, a well-written cover letter can help it stand out from the slush pile and increase your chances of getting noticed.

Understanding the purpose of a cover letter for manuscript submission

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of writing a cover letter for manuscript submission, it’s crucial to understand its purpose. A cover letter serves as a professional introduction to your work and provides a glimpse into your writing style and personality. It should be concise, engaging, and tailored specifically to the agent or agency you’re submitting to.

When a literary agent receives a submission, they often have limited time to review each one. A well-crafted cover letter can pique their interest and make them eager to delve into your manuscript. Think of it as a teaser, enticing them to read further. It’s your chance to showcase your writing skills and convince the agent that you’re not only a talented writer but also a professional who understands the industry.

Essential elements of a cover letter for manuscript submission

Now that you understand the purpose of a cover letter, let’s explore the essential elements that should be included. First and foremost, your cover letter should be professional in tone and format. Use a standard business letter format with your contact information at the top, followed by the agent’s details and the date. Address the agent by name if possible, as it shows you’ve done your research and personalized the letter.

Next, introduce yourself and mention the title of your manuscript. Briefly explain why you chose to submit to that particular agent or agency. This demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in working with them. Highlight any relevant writing credentials or experience you have that make you uniquely qualified to write the manuscript. Keep this section concise and focus on the most impressive aspects of your background.

Finally, provide a brief summary or pitch of your manuscript. This should be a compelling and concise overview that captures the essence of your story and leaves the agent wanting to know more. Avoid giving away too much detail or spoiling the plot. Instead, focus on intriguing the agent and creating a sense of curiosity. Think of this section as a movie trailer – it should leave the agent eager to dive into your manuscript and discover the full story.

Tips for writing an attention-grabbing opening paragraph

The opening paragraph of your cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and grab the agent’s attention. Start with a compelling hook that will immediately engage the agent and makes them curious about your manuscript. It might be an intriguing question, a shocking statistic or a captivating anecdote. The key is to make the agent want to keep reading.

After the hook, briefly introduce yourself and your manuscript. Mention any relevant writing credentials or experience that make you stand out. Highlight why you chose to submit to that particular agent or agency. Show them that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in working with them. This personal touch can make a significant impact and show the agent that you’ve put thought into your submission.

Remember to keep the opening paragraph concise and to the point. Agents receive numerous submissions every day, so they appreciate brevity. Avoid rambling or providing unnecessary information. Instead, focus on crafting a strong and attention-grabbing opening that leaves the agent eager to read more.

How to showcase your writing credentials and experience

When it comes to writing a cover letter for manuscript submission, showcasing your writing credentials and experience is essential. This section allows you to demonstrate your expertise and convince the agent that you’re a talented writer who is worth their consideration. Here are a few tips to help you effectively showcase your credentials:

Highlight any relevant writing achievements: Focus on the writing credentials that are most relevant to your manuscript and the genre you’re targeting. This could include published (or self-published) works, writing awards, or any other accomplishments that demonstrate your skill and experience (such as building an audience on social media).

Provide details but be concise: While it’s important to provide some context and details about your writing credentials, remember to keep it concise. Agents have limited time, so make sure to highlight the most impressive aspects without overwhelming them with unnecessary information.

Tailor your credentials to the agent or agency: Research the agent or agency you’re submitting to and tailor your writing credentials accordingly. If they have a particular interest or speciality, highlight any relevant experience you have in that area. This shows the agent that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in working with them.

By effectively showcasing your writing credentials and experience, you can establish yourself as a credible and talented writer. This increases the agent’s confidence in your abilities and makes them more likely to consider your manuscript.

Crafting a compelling summary of your manuscript

Perhaps the most crucial part of your cover letter for manuscript submission is the summary of your manuscript itself. This section is your chance to give the agent a taste of what your story is about and entice them to read further. Here are a few tips to help you craft a compelling summary:

Keep it concise: Your summary should be brief, typically no more than a few paragraphs. Focus on the main plot points and the core themes of your story. Avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary details or subplots.

Capture the essence of your story: Your summary should give the agent a clear idea of what your story is about and what makes it unique. Highlight the main conflict, the protagonist’s journey, and any intriguing elements that set your manuscript apart.

Create a sense of curiosity: The goal of your summary is to leave the agent wanting to know more. Don’t give away all the details or spoil the ending. Instead, create a sense of curiosity that compels the agent to dive into your manuscript and discover the full story.

Crafting a compelling summary takes time and careful consideration. It’s often helpful to draft multiple versions and seek feedback from trusted peers or writing groups. Remember, your summary is your manuscript’s first impression, so make it count.

Do’s and don’ts of writing a cover letter for manuscript submission

To wrap up our guide on writing a submission cover letter, let’s go over some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

• Address the agent by name if possible.
• Tailor your cover letter to the agent or agency you’re submitting to.
• Highlight your most relevant writing credentials and experience.
• Keep your cover letter concise and to the point.
• Proofread your cover letter for any grammatical or spelling errors.

Don’t:

• Ramble or provide unnecessary information.
• Oversell or exaggerate your writing credentials.
• Give away too much detail or spoil the plot in your manuscript summary.
• Forget to personalise your cover letter for each submission.
• Forget to follow the submission guidelines provided by the agent or agency.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your cover letter is professional, engaging, and tailored to the agent you’re submitting to. Remember, the goal is to get a foot in the door, make a good first impression and convince the agent that your manuscript is worth their time and consideration.

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The Perfect Cover Letter: Advice From a Lit Mag Editor

Today’s guest post is from Elise Holland, co-founder and editor of 2 Elizabeths , a short fiction and poetry publication.

When submitting your short-form literature to a magazine or journal, your cover letter is often the first piece of writing an editor sees. It serves as an introduction to your thoughtfully crafted art. As such, it is significant, but it shouldn’t be intimidating or even take much time to write.

As editor at 2 Elizabeths , I see a variety of cover letters every day; some are excellent, and others could stand to be improved. There are a few key pieces of information to include, while keeping them short and sweet. In fact, a cover letter should only be a couple of paragraphs long, and no more than roughly 100-150 words.

A little research goes a long way

Seek out the editor’s name, and address the letter to him/her, as opposed to using a generic greeting. Typically, you can find this information either on the magazine or journal’s website, or in the submission guidelines.

Read the submission guidelines thoroughly. Many publications will state in their guidelines the exact details that need to be included in a cover letter. With some variation, a general rule of thumb is to include the following:

• Editor’s name (if you can locate it)
• Genre/category
• Brief description of your piece
• If you have been published previously, state where
• Whether your piece is a simultaneous submission (definition below)

Terms to Know

The term simultaneous submission means that you will be sending the same piece to several literary magazines or journals at the same time. Most publications accept simultaneous submissions, but some do not. If a publication does not accept them, this will be stated in their guidelines.

Should your work be selected for publication by one magazine, it is important to notify other publications where you have submitted that piece. This courtesy will prevent complications, and will keep you in good graces with various editors, should you wish to submit to them again in the future.

The term multiple submission means that you are submitting multiple pieces to the same literary magazine or journal.

Cover Letter That Needs Work

Dear Editor, Here is a collection of poems I wrote that I’d like you to consider. I have not yet been published elsewhere. Please let me know what you think. Bio: John Doe is an Insurance Agent by day and a writer by night, living in Ten Buck Two. He is the author of a personal blog, LivingWith20Cats.com. Best, John Doe

What Went Wrong?

John Doe didn’t research the editor’s name. A personal greeting is always better than a simple “Dear Editor.” Additionally, John failed to include the word count, title and a brief description of his work.

There is no need to state that John has not yet been published elsewhere. He should simply leave that piece of information out. (Many publications, 2 Elizabeths included, will still welcome your submissions warmly if you are unpublished.)

John included a statement asking the editor to let him know what he/she thinks about his work. Due to time constraints, it is rare that an editor sends feedback unless work is going to be accepted.

Unless otherwise specified by the magazine or journal to which you are submitting, you do not need to include biographical information in your cover letter. Typically, that information is either requested upfront but in a separate document from the cover letter, or is not requested until a piece has been selected for publishing.

Cover Letter Ready to Be Sent

Dear Elise, Please consider this 1,457-word short fiction piece, “Summer.” I recently participated in the 2 Elizabeths Open Mic Night, and am an avid reader of the fiction and poetry that you publish. “Summer” is a fictitious tale inspired by the impact of a whirlwind, yet meaningful, romance I experienced last year. In this story, I gently explore the life lessons associated with young love, with a touch of humor. This is a simultaneous submission, and I will notify you if the piece is accepted elsewhere. Thank you for your consideration. Kindest Regards, John Doe

What Went Right?

In this letter, John includes all pertinent information, while keeping his letter clear and concise. In his second sentence, John also briefly states how he is familiar with the magazine. While doing this isn’t required, if done tastefully, it can be a nice touch! Another example might be: “I read and enjoyed your spring issue, and believe that my work is a good fit for your magazine.”

I hope these sample letters help you as you send your short works to magazines and journals for consideration. While you’re at it, I hope you will check out 2 Elizabeths ! We would love to read your work.

Elise Holland is co-founder and editor of 2 Elizabeths , a short fiction and poetry publication. Her work has appeared in various publications, most recently in Story a Day . Through 2 Elizabeths, Elise strives to create value and visibility for writers, through writing contests , events , and more!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

[…] view post at https://janefriedman.com/perfect-cover-letter-advice-lit-mag-editor/ […]

[…] To get into literary magazines, you need a cover letter, so Elise Holland lays out how to write the perfect cover letter for a literary magazine. […]

Love this! The letter is short and to the point, and covers all the necessary information. Great tips! I always worry that the only publishing credit I have is the winning entry in a short story contest through the local paper. Should I mention that? And writing conferences I’ve attended?

As Elise says, it’s OK if you’re unpublished. Don’t worry about it. But feel free to mention your winning entry. If the writing conferences would likely be known to the journals’ editors, you might mention one or two.

[…] recently wrote a full article on the perfect cover letter, here. Check it out for clear, simple instructions, along with sample […]

[…] publication. Her work has appeared in various publications, most recently in Story a Day, and at JaneFriedman.com.  Through 2 Elizabeths, Elise strives to create value and visibility for writers, through writing […]

Thanks for the concise and useful information! I’ve heard that it’s also a good idea to include a sentence or two that makes it clear that you are familiar with the kind of work the magazine has published in the past. Is this generally advised, or would you consider it nonessential unless specified in the submission guidelines?

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Hints for a Great Cover Letter

[I originally posted this piece over 12 years ago. The information still holds true, but I suspect many have not found the necessary information elsewhere, so I dare post it again. I’ve left all the comments intact since they add to the ongoing conversation. Feel free to add your thoughts.]]

_________________________

Here are a few suggestions for you to consider when approaching an agent or an editor. Remember to use these as hints…do not follow them slavishly as if a literary agent will spend their time critiquing your cover letter.

By the way, we distinguish between a cover letter and a query letter. A cover letter goes on top of a longer proposal and sample chapters. The query letter is a stand-alone letter that goes to the editor/agent without a proposal or sample chapters. We prefer the cover letter and the rest of the package. Why? Because a query only shows that you can write a letter. A proposal begins the process of showing that you know how to write a book.

Address the letter to a specific person. If sending something to The Steve Laube Agency, simply address the appropriate agent. Every proposal will cross the desk of the designated agent eventually. (Please do NOT send it to all of us at the same time)

Use this cover letter in the body of your email, but NOT the proposal and sample chapters! You’d be stunned to see how many people contact us with a blank email carrying only a subject line of “here it is.”

Don’t waste your time or ours. Do your homework! If you are submitting to an agent, visit their website and follow their guidelines!!! We cannot emphasize this enough! Make certain to spell the person’s name right. (My name is spelled, Steve Laube. Not “Laub” “Labe” “Lobby” “Looby” etc. But note that Bob Hostetler has to address me as “sir” or “the honorable” or “Mr. Boss”.)

If you use The Christian Writers Market Guide or some online database listing agents or editors, make sure you have the most current information because addresses do change (go to their website). Our main office changed its mailing address in February of 2007…and we still discover material is being sent to the old address. You would be astounded by the number of calls or inquiries we receive from writers who have not done their research. Someone called the Phoenix office the other day looking to talk to one of our agents who does not live or work in Phoenix.

Whatever you do, do  not say your book is the next bestseller like Purpose Driven Life , Eat Pray Love, Left Behind , or  The Shack , or that it will sell better than  The Da Vinci Code ,  Twilight ,  Harry Potter , or  The Chronicles of Narnia . That shows an ignorance of the market that is best left alone. [update note: These examples will date you really fast. The Harry Potter books are over 25 years old, published in 1997.]

In addition, please do not claim “God gave me this book so you must represent or publish it.” We are firm believers in the inspiration that comes from a faith-filled life, but making it part of your pitch is a big mistake. Read this blog post for a larger discussion on this point.

____________

The 4-part Cover letter:

1) A simple introductory sentence is sufficient. Basically, you are saying “Hi. Thank you for the opportunity…”

2)  Use a “sound bite” statement. A “sound bite” statement is the essence of your novel or non-fiction book idea in 40 words or less.

The fiction sound bite could include:

a. The heroic character b. The central issue of the story c. The heroic goal d. The worthy adversary e. Action f. The ending g. A grabber h. Or a twist

The non-fiction sound bite should include the main focus or topic. One suggestion is to describe the Problem, Solution, and Application.

If someone were to ask about your book you would answer, “My book is about (write in your sound bite.)”

Another word for sound bite is “hook.”

3)  Tell why your book is distinctive – identify who will read it . (Targeted age group….adult, teen, youth) – point out what’s fresh, new, and different.

One suggestion would be, for your intended genre, read several recent books in the same genre as your own to familiarize yourself with the market.

4)  G ive pertinent manuscript details : a) mention whether or not your book is completed (if it is not, then give an estimate as to when it will be finished) b) word length of the complete manuscript, even if it is an estimate (approximate – round off the number) c) pertinent biographical info d) tell the agent if it is a simultaneous submission e) let the agent know they can discard the proposal if rejected.

Click here to review a sample non-fiction cover letter from someone who approached us via an email inquiry. We signed her as a client.

Keep the letter to one page!!

Please don’t use narrow margins or tiny print to fit it all on one sheet. That is silly. We once received a cover letter with an 8-point font and 1/4-inch margins. It was virtually unreadable.

About Steve Laube

Steve Laube, president and founder of The Steve Laube Agency, a veteran of the bookselling industry with 40 years of experience. View all posts by Steve Laube →

Reader Interactions

January 17, 2011 at 5:45 pm

Thanks for clarifying the difference between a query and a cover letter. And I never thought about including a note about discarding the proposal if it’s rejected. I’ll remember that next time.

January 17, 2011 at 8:40 pm

Thanks for the helpful information. Appreciate, too, your making it print friendly. This is going into my “Writing Aids” file.

January 19, 2011 at 2:52 pm

This is very helpful. Thank you for this overview of the cover letter. I critique manuscripts at writers conferences, and I plan to refer them to this post!

January 19, 2011 at 11:09 pm

I am confused; this article requires a cover letter be ONE page, double-spaced, exactly while the Guidelines article requests the story be summed up in up to THREE pages, single-spaced. So what are you supposed to do since these contradict and I would like to present myself as expected by Mr.Laube?

January 20, 2011 at 8:24 am

Let me clarify so as there is no confusion.

This article is about the cover letter. Keep that to one page.

The synopsis is not the cover letter. That piece is where you tell the whole story of the novel in a maximum of three single spaced pages.

Any presentation package to an agent or a publisher has three parts. 1) The cover letter (one page) 2) The proposal – which includes, among other things, a synopsis of the book or story 3) Sample chapters

Hope that helps!

March 8, 2012 at 11:53 am

Thank you Steve. Any bits of wisdom imparted to the masses is wonderful.

February 4, 2016 at 11:54 am

So, just to clarify, should the promo sentence, sales handle and back cover copy be included in the same document as the synopsis?

The word count, target audience and platform are all mentioned briefly in the cover letter. Should they also be reiterated more in-depth in the proposal?

Just trying to line up my wayward ducks. There’s no point in submitting a manuscript if it isn’t submitted properly.

September 21, 2017 at 8:20 am

Thank you for your guidance and clarification. It helps to have every aspect broken down so well.

May 21, 2021 at 4:29 am

thanks for the offered clarification, one further point please. Perhaps I am reading too deeply and detailed, but cover letter, sample chapters, synopsis, we are talking three separate attachments to the email, given the different structures of each piece. Thanks

January 20, 2011 at 10:33 am

Now I understand. Thank you for taking the time to reply 🙂

As an aside, for further clarification – the sample chapters should always be the first three correct? (No other chapters instead?) And if you have a prelude, I would assume that would not be counted as the first chapter, particularly if it is only a few pages?

One last question please: in the cover letter should you use specific names of characters or simply be broad until you arrive at the synopsis?

Thank you so much for making things clear and God bless you.

January 20, 2011 at 11:06 am

Sample chapters. Always the first pages. Include a prelude or a preface if applicable. The idea for the limitation is to keep what you send under 50 pages of text. Some chapters are very short, some are long. But sending too much will put you in the “I’ll read this someday, when I have the time” pile.

As for the cover letter? You aren’t retelling the whole story in the cover letter so character names are not as critical. But they can be used if appropriate. Don’t write something like “Snow White along with Sneezy, Sleepy, Dopey, Doc, Happy, Bashful, and Grumpy went to the local grocery store to buy some apples.” That can wait for the manuscript or the synopsis if you want to use those names.

January 20, 2011 at 1:37 pm

Great! Thank you again and one absolutely necessary (and final) question please: my prelude is the first 4 pages and that with the first three chapters bring you to page 60. Is that a problem? Should I just cut the story off at page 50? Thank you and this is my final question 🙂

January 20, 2011 at 1:44 pm

I can safely say, without seeing your work or reading a word, that your chapters are too long to begin with.

Cut your chapter length by thinking in terms of scenes. Make chapter breaks more frequent. A twenty page chapter in a novel is far too long in today’s market.

To be even safer, consider hiring a good freelance editor ( click here for a list ) to give you help and advice before ever sending it to us. If a manuscript is pretty good, we will reject it. It has to be magnificent and nearly ready for market.

March 20, 2017 at 10:23 am

Any idea of the price range for a freelance editor that you have listed on you link?

January 20, 2011 at 7:17 pm

Thank you for the input. My work is Christian fiction, so a few of the chapters are for world-building so that is why some of the chapters may be a little longer. I have plenty of chapters that are 8 or 11 or 14 pages long, but the third one in particular is 27 pages. I suppose I will have to split that up of course, and I do think in terms of scenes (as in a movie)…So be it then.

January 21, 2011 at 1:43 pm

One more question: if you are writing a trilogy and are only submitting the first book thus far, would the synopsis cover only the 1st book or would it encompass all 3? Thank you!

January 21, 2011 at 1:47 pm

Ryan, There is no hard and fast rule. It is usually a good idea, when submitting a trilogy, to have at least a half page worth of synopsis included in the proposal. A publisher needs to have something they can see in order to buy.

March 16, 2013 at 4:14 am

I have a project encompassing 5 books on the religious beliefs of the Founding Fathers which uses the historical record to refute the Internet claim that the FF were deists and atheists. The first book is done, 2 others are 85% done. There are over 600 separate cited sources in the first book, two-thirds of which are in the public domain. Must I get written permission from the other 200 sources before I can publish the book or will footnoting the quotes used with TITLE, AUTHOR, PUBLISHER INFO, DATE, AND PAGE NUMBER be sufficient ?

Thanks very much for your help.

January 21, 2011 at 9:38 pm

Great, and with that, I have run out of questions, much to your satisfaction 🙂 Thank you and I will be sending you something soon.

February 15, 2011 at 4:58 pm

This is a great post. Thank you.

I do have a question, though. I have published my book (11/8/09), but I would like to be represented. What kind of pages do I submit? The book or the final draft of the ms before it went to print?

Also, this book is the first of a series of books that I have outlined at this point with one other ms done (children’s book, which is apart form the series).

How would I document this in a cover letter (the book and subsequent ideas I have outlined as I know you don’t accept children’s books)?

I appreciate your time and attention.

February 19, 2011 at 11:05 pm

A necessary question: are the sales handle, promo sentence & back cover copy lumped in with the synopsis or are they separate in a fiction proposal so that the proposal would contain a cover letter, synopsis, sample chapters and then another page with those 3 items? It just is not clear from what I have read on here. Thank you for clearing this up! God bless you in His name, Ryan

May 17, 2011 at 6:58 am

Dear Steve,

Thank you for explaining what you expect of our submissions to your office. I spent the night finishing my proposal and cover letter to your specifications and sent out my package today.

Faithfully, Christopher Holms

August 19, 2011 at 8:33 pm

Steve, I’ve finished my first Biblical historical novel about Jesus, the God-man. While my goal was to stay with twenty pages per chapter, some are a couple of pages longer. And how many lines per page do you suggest? I’ve tried to stick with the typical publisher’s guideline, but would appreciate your comments on this area. Also since you state that you’re open to all genres of fiction, does this include Biblical historical?

August 20, 2011 at 11:13 am

Simply use the computer’s double-space format. Also use one inch margins on all four sides. And use a Times Roman 12 point font. Whatever you do, do NOT try to squeeze more lines on a page. That will only irritate a reviewer.

In general, when using the above formatting you will end up with about 300 words on a page…which is very similar to the word count on a finished book.

A chapter that runs to 20 pages is probably going to feel long, depending on the action and dialogue included. That is over 6,000 words in a chapter.

As for our agency’s interest? I personally tend to stay away from most Biblical fiction. The only exception is Tosca Lee (see her novel HAVAH: The Story of Eve). But you may find that our other two agents may be more interested.

And be aware that if your novel is based on the life of Jesus you will need to compare it to the classic novels by Marjorie Holmes and the novel by Walter Wangerin…all of which are still in print.

October 2, 2011 at 7:35 pm

As as up and coming writer, it’s so important to attend conferences, begin networking, but most of all, read about your craft. In order to put your best foot forward, a writer needs to know what is expected. I’ve learned the answer to many of the questions above through writers groups, networking at conferences and obtaining an editor to work with me on my projects.

October 8, 2011 at 8:58 pm

Thank you for this practical advice! Much appreciated. I in preparing the proposal to send off, I am grateful for your graceful bluntness of what you are looking for. Saves us both time and energy when communicating.

October 20, 2011 at 11:46 am

Thank you for outlining so clearly what exactly you expect in a cover letter! I was unclear on one point, however; the first part you identify – “a simple introductory statement is sufficient.”

I confess, I’m unsure on what you are looking for in that statement. Your example is, “Hi, thanks for the opportunity,” but I can’t imagine that you’re looking for something to blunt and plain. What are you wanting from the author in this statement; what are you seeking to know? Is this statement really necessary, or could a cover letter open with the second part, the sound bite?

Thank you for taking the time to clarify this matter.

November 5, 2011 at 10:55 am

I have the same question regarding the Introductory Statement. Thank you for posting this information about the cover letter. It is a huge help!

November 25, 2011 at 4:21 am

Steve, when submitting a proposal for a novel that is intended as the first of a trilogy, is this something that should be mentioned in the cover letter? I’m uncertain as the second book is not yet written and the first works as a stand-alone.

Thanks so much,

November 26, 2011 at 8:43 am

Marge, If you intend to propose a series, even if book one stands alone, that should be mentioned in the cover letter and the proposal. If you are doing a query letter without a proposal then most definitely reveal the plan for a trilogy.

But if you are not certain a second book can be written then do not mention it, instead go with the stand alone.

There are times where the success of a first book creates demand for a sequel. However, most agents and publishers like to know that there is a career or a future with a particular author beyond the first book. One-book wonders do happen, and with some success. But generally we look at the total potential of an author.

May 9, 2014 at 5:50 am

Steve, Is your answer intended to convey to those of us in later life that we have little chance of finding agents and publishers? Now that I am in my early sixties and have retired I finally have the time to write but I am realistic enough to see that my literary career is unlikely to be long.

How do foreign authors work with American agents? Our style and spelling do not always align well with yours – I am English but I write (and speak) in British English not American.

Many thanks Steve

May 9, 2014 at 9:09 am

Steve Long,

We have no idea of the age of an author because we are reviewing the content of a proposal. The age of the author is immaterial.

Our primary audience is the U.S. reader. If you write with British English a U.S. based publisher will note that they will have to work harder at the various editing stages to change the style to fit U.S. English standards. Some contracts even name the Chicago Manual of Style as the standard to which the submitted manuscript must comply.

My advice? Change to the American style of English and it won’t be a potential barrier.

December 5, 2011 at 7:03 am

We write for the love of it, to entertain and educate and nobody knows for certain what will fly, so don’t worry too much about anything.

Yes, being professional is good so one ought to be polite and open minded, but we need to write compelling stories – – those that will pull readers in and not let them out easily.

Set our tone, grab a theme and move the story along like an expert, keeping us engaged, questionning and interested. Action, drama, suspense, pathos and transformative characters are excellent pieces of narrative. Hook ’em and don’t let them go.

January 24, 2012 at 12:59 pm

If I have a self-published book but hope to see it reach a greater audience, do I make copies of the pages to submit to you? I do not have them on a Word document form any longer. Thanks!

February 9, 2012 at 12:11 pm

You will need to have your manuscript in digital form at some point (Word is preferred by most publishers). If you self-published it had to be in digital form at some point. Even your printer should be able to provide a file. If it is a PDF it can be converted back to Word with the right software.

Just copying pages and mailing them is not a good idea.

January 25, 2012 at 3:19 pm

I’m a Canadian who has a completed manuscript about a personal family tragedy that garnered both political and public support. It tells how our faith and God’s intervention brought discoveries that eluded authorities after the failure of the largest search launched in 30 years.

Although this is a personal story, the case is now being used at symposiums for both Crown and Defence attorneys in Canada.

Does this story fall into the category of anything you’ve worked with or be willing to work with. I am looking for an agent in a very competitive field.

February 9, 2012 at 12:14 pm

Hard to comment in a blog comment like this because technically I still don’t know what the story is about. Best not to use the comment section to make the pitch.

We have, on occasion, represented a personal story if it is highly unusual and has commercial appeal. In 2013, look for UNTIL WE ALL COME HOME by Kim de Blecourt as an example (published by FaithWords).

March 2, 2012 at 10:40 pm

Steve – I am seriously impressed to see that you are still tracking new comments on this post a year after it was first posted.

April 30, 2012 at 2:41 pm

Thanks for the how-to on the cover letter.

May 7, 2012 at 2:46 pm

Hello: I’d like to receive an example of a one page cover letter to an agent. I have query and synopsis letters and some agents want a cover letter as well. Thank you for your help! Brenda Sue (This is a fiction, suspenseful, murder, romantic novel dealing with international art theft.)

June 19, 2012 at 1:08 pm

Hi Steve, Thanks so much for going far beyond the call of duty and explaining exactly what is a cover letter. Now, it’s up to me. I’ll do my best.

Blessings, Jackie King-Scott

July 7, 2012 at 11:58 am

Steve, I have a quick question. I am nearing completion on a Biblical fiction novel about the nativity of Jesus. Since everyone is already familiar with the story, should I take a different approach to the cover letter and synopsis?

Thank you for any advise.

Respectfully, Deborah

January 18, 2014 at 11:03 am

Your cover letter should focus on what makes your story unique. That “selling point” is critical for a publisher when considering whether or not they can make room for it in the marketplace.

July 23, 2012 at 7:03 pm

Thanks so much for all the help you’ve given us in this post.

Sincerely, Jackie

August 8, 2012 at 7:49 pm

I’m curious to know if you can provide a sample cover letter as an example. I’m sure it would help others who are visual learners like myself.

In Christ, Fletch

January 18, 2014 at 5:56 pm

A sample non-fiction cover letter is now available for review on our site: https://stevelaube2.wpengine.com/sample-cover-letter/

August 23, 2012 at 10:04 am

Hello Steve, I have a question. I published a book with another publishing company that turned out to be a POD. My book has a part two to it. The way that I wrote part two you really don’t need to read part one to understand. I would like to send it to you. Would this be a good idea to send in part two.

January 18, 2014 at 11:01 am

That is risky because while you may think the reader doesn’t need part one, in reality there may be things in the story that are confusing to a reader of book two.

I’ve never seen a publisher jump at the chance to publish book two in a series if they do not also publish book one.

August 23, 2012 at 6:46 pm

Hello, I am currently self published under a freewill contract in which I can cease printing at anytime. I have had issues getting proper statements and wish to be represented for traditional publishing. Will this be an issue for you to accept a manuscript?

January 18, 2014 at 11:00 am

Not an issue if you own the publication rights. It is your book to sell to another publisher.

January 13, 2014 at 11:08 am

Thank you for the helpful information. I have one question: when sending a proposal by email, do you want a query letter in the body of the email and the a cover letter, sample chapters and synopsis attached as a file, or is the cover letter in the body of the email? Thank you, Lara Van Hulzen

January 18, 2014 at 10:59 am

The body of the email should contain a pitch of some sort. The content of the cover letter described above would serve that purpose well.

A HUGE mistake is made by some who send an email with the body of the email blank or with a sentence like “Here is my book. Take a look.”

Or “If you want to read my book go to this web page.”

January 18, 2014 at 10:39 am

Do you prefer single or double-spacing in a cover letter?

January 18, 2014 at 10:56 am

Single spaced. Just like a regular letter.

The only thing that is double-spaced is the sample chapters or manuscript itself.

January 18, 2014 at 11:57 am

Thank you, sir, for the fast reply.

April 29, 2014 at 9:03 am

I have nothing to submit in the moment except my deep gratitude for your site, so full of so much a writer needs to understand and apply. It’s like a free tutorial, clean, clear, concise, a true resource for the explanation of the sticky things, like query, and proposal and what to send to whom, what never to do, what’s absolutely necessary to do, and anything else that causes a writer to do the Stupid Stumble. You save our face over and over with all this help.

I just want to express my pleasure to have discovered such a credible site run by a gifted teacher. Okay. Back to the memoir.

July 22, 2014 at 11:23 am

I am now confused over the length of chapters. My chapters in standard spacing are between 8-13 pages in length. When I double space them as asked the first three chapters are 19 pages in length. So when you recommend chapters be less than 20 pages are you talking about double-spaced print or standard print? Thanks for your reply.

July 23, 2014 at 6:42 am

Always send a manuscript using Double-spaced text. The proposal and synopsis is single spaced.

Thus your chapters are very long. But it may be that they are just fine as is. Sometimes you can get away with longer chapters.

I do recommend leaning toward shorter…

March 7, 2015 at 8:30 pm

Within the first paragraph (second sentence) one reads, “…As if a literary agent is going to spend their time….” I would have thought someone in the “profession” would be a bit more capable of matching a singular subject with a singular pronoun. This confusion of “number” has become acceptable I suppose because so many are willing to worship at the altar of political correctness, so as not to appear behind the times while ruffling feathers.

March 7, 2015 at 10:31 pm

I suppose I could have use “his or her” or “his/her” instead of “their.” But instead I used what is called the “Singular Their.”

See this post about that topic: https://stevelaube2.wpengine.com/the-singular-they/

Hope that helps clarify.

May 18, 2015 at 2:49 pm

I have written a memoir and believe that Karen Ball is most likely the agent with your group who would be interested.

I understand that a cover letter, proposal and sample chapters should be sent to her. In reviewing your instructions for submissions, it seems that much of the information in the cover letter gets repeated in the proposal (or is it just me?!)

Should I therefore just keep the cover letter very succinct? Or do a combo cover letter/proposal and attach sample chapters? Thank you! I’m very new to this.

June 5, 2015 at 11:48 am

So when writing a cover letter you should specify that you are writing or have written a series of books? I am on my third book and plan on making at least two more. I was told before when writing the manuscript to only focus on that one book, and to reveal the ending of that one book.

October 27, 2015 at 5:50 pm

Hi Mr. Laube, After reading through the post and the comments, I just want to make sure I understand. Do you prefer the cover letter and proposal to be emailed or mailed?

November 8, 2015 at 8:00 am

When researching agents and their submission requirements, I see “query, synopsis and first 3 chapters or 50 pages”. I’ve never heard of a “cover letter”. My novel is a 29,000 word middle grade story.

February 3, 2016 at 8:43 pm

It’s really, really hard to boil down a 200 page book to 40 words. I feel like I”m trying to write a haiku of my entire life….

February 10, 2016 at 11:35 am

When you write or type a query letter; should you follow the guidelines of literary sites or not to follow the submission guidelines? There were a few writers who didn’t follow the guide-lines and sent a query letter and got represented.

June 13, 2016 at 3:33 pm

Steve, can you offer a sample 40-word sound bite for a historical? Struggling with the 40 word concept.

Always learn from you.

August 22, 2016 at 2:29 am

if you are writing a cover letter, or book review, synopsis etc. you should take a glance at this page to find out some tips

September 19, 2016 at 9:50 am

I was hoping you might clarify for me concerning your guidelines for submission of a query letter versus a cover letter. Do you prefer a query letter be sent via email with the book proposal and sample three chapters or a cover letter sent through the mail with an attached book proposal and sample three chapters? I am slightly confused because its appears the cover letter would only be sent if you were interested in the query letter. Would it be possible to send the covered letter instead via email with the attachments for the book proposal and sample chapters?

July 4, 2017 at 7:55 am

Daniel, I can see how that might be confusing. Try not to overthink it.

Let me clarify…as far as our agency goes, which is not a universal thing.

Never send us a query letter. That one page, if sent by itself, will not help us evaluate your writing in any way.

Always send a full proposal. A part of that proposal will be your cover letter, which is basically a “hello my name is” sort of introduction.

November 2, 2016 at 7:32 pm

Great post. I didn’t think I could shorten my pitch to a 40 word sound bite, but I did. Thanks

April 6, 2017 at 9:09 am

Hi Steve This is great. I just watched your interview in the Masters class in the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild. That was very informative. Thank you. If I want to use a pen name do I include this information in the cover letter? Thank you for your time.

July 4, 2017 at 7:52 am

Yes. It can be as as simple as “I write under the pen name of I. Noah Tall, which you will notice on the title page of the proposal.”

July 3, 2017 at 11:18 pm

Thanks so much for this helpful post! I just have one question–where can I find the book Hope for Anxiety Girl from the example cover letter? I am 100% the target audience and I so want to read it! I can’t find it online and I’m wondering if a) it was retitled, b) it’s not yet published, or c) it was repurposed into a different book. Thanks again! 🙂

July 4, 2017 at 7:50 am

Rebecca. That specific book idea has gone through multiple iterations but has yet to be published. However, the writer has had other successful projects released. The latest is a co-authored book (with Kathy Lipp) called OVERWHELMED.

https://www.amazon.com/Overwhelmed-Quiet-Chaos-Restore-Sanity/dp/0736965386/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1499179781&sr=1-1&keywords=cheri+gregory

July 4, 2017 at 8:52 am

Thanks! I purchased a copy of Overwhelmed last night. 🙂

July 28, 2017 at 10:50 am

In the Proposal Guidelines, it says to include:

Promo Sentence Sales Handles Back Cover Copy

Do you actually want to see those headings in the proposal? Sorry if this is a dumb question.

September 22, 2017 at 11:37 am

You’re my kind of girl! Although we’ve seasons and waxing and waning needs, I’ve grown comfortable in the book club porch hammock with a tome of my own selection. I hate someone else deciding where I need to mature or what I’m going to spend a month devouring.

“Teach us to number our days aright, o Lord, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” With a barrage of published and digital words stalking us, we need discernment on what edifies.

October 9, 2017 at 12:41 pm

I’m a man with a unique name and a unique manuscript searching for a unique agent. I found your answers very helpful, practical and instructive. Thank you.

July 18, 2018 at 3:09 pm

Hello! I’m not sure if you still check a post this old, but I’ll give it a try. Should the cover letter be the body of the email with the rest of the proposal as the attachment, or should it be a part of the attachment with the rest of the proposal?

August 15, 2018 at 7:51 am

Thank you for the helpful post! It’s nice to have a concrete idea of what the agent is looking for before sending out the book proposal.

April 11, 2019 at 12:48 pm

This is wonderfully informative. Thank you!

June 10, 2019 at 5:47 pm

In looking at the guidelines for a proposal, it lists a number of things for non-fiction, compares fiction and adds a few additional notes. My question is, in non-fiction it asks for a half page to one page overview. If all of the additional topics are addressed for fiction it seems to cover a lot of what is described in the overview. Do you want a half page to one page overview for a fiction proposal as well?

June 13, 2022 at 6:54 am

Steve, Thank you for this terrific perennial post! The patient answers to the many questions demonstrate your passion for supporting writers. Thank you for taking the time to instill such great knowledge. It is much appreciated by this new author.

June 13, 2022 at 8:10 am

Thanks so much, Steve! These posts with examples for how to do the basics are always so helpful. I look back on them whenever I work on my proposals. Such a great resource!

June 13, 2022 at 1:26 pm

Steve, I’ve published numerous articles and love my work as an editor of books and articles and author and editor of academic research. If I submit everything you described in this great article correctly and well, and my contemporary and historical women’s fiction books have been alpha and beta reviewed with strong support and appropriately edited, but I have virtually no platform (only 1046 Followers on my website), is there realistically any point in submitting a proposal to an agent before I build a larger platform? Thanks to reading Writer’s Guide and this column for many years, I think I’ve mastered and actually enjoy the submission process you described, but I keep running into the platform roadblock. If there is no platform of thousands to cite in the proposal, is it likely to generate an offer to represent or publish? Thanks!

August 2, 2022 at 9:59 am

Okay, so I got to eat a little crow here(which isn’t bad if you put a little A-1 on it), I didn’t read the submission instructions properly and submitted my information, and a portion of my book totally wrong. I have since gone back and read as I should have done in the first place. Now I will PROPERLY submit my work as it should be. I hope this didn’t cause too much of a headache for you and your staff and please forgive my anxious foolishness. I do have a couple of questions: 1. Do I have to wait a certain amount of time before I can re-submit my work? 2. The manuscript is being edited, should I wait until the edit is complete before I resubmit it?

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How to Write a Stand-Out Cover Letter

• How to Write a Stand-Out…

SO, WHAT IS A COVER LETTER?

Literary agents and many literary competitions require a cover letter along with your sample chapters and synopsis. This is a formal introduction to you and your novel. Note: It is not a CV, a bio or a blurb for the book. It’s a letter, written from one professional to another, that should make the agent or judge want to read more. The biggest mistake entrants to the BPA First Novel Award made this year was getting the balance off, either writing too much about the novel or too much about themselves – some poor novels didn’t get a mention. There’s a rough template most agents and competition judges will look for, and it’s pretty doable! Let’s give it a go.

TELL US ABOUT THE NOVEL

First, tell us about the novel. That’s what you’re trying to sell! You want the agent to finish the cover letter with such curiosity about the book that they’re hungry for the sample chapters. 

The first paragraph will usually reveal the title , the genre , the word count of the completed manuscript (If you don’t include this, they might worry you haven’t finished it!) and something that offers a taste of the novel, like a mention of the themes you’re going to explore.

Be specific when stating the genre – if it’s general fiction, think about whether the market is commercial, book club, upmarket or literary. If it’s YA, don’t just say it’s YA – is it a YA romance? YA dystopia? Who’s out there writing YA crime? The literary agent will be familiar with all the terms, so the more specific you are, the easier it will be to picture an audience for the book.

Once you’ve provided these core facts, write an elevator pitch . This is a single sentence that conveys your novel’s hook or USP. For inspiration, check out the Sunday Times Bestsellers List:

• Richard Osman’s  The Thursday Murder Club : Four friends in a retirement village team up to solve a mystery on their doorstep.
• Paula Hawkins’  The Girl on the Train : A commuter’s fascination with a married couple she passes every day turns deadly.

It’s a good idea to follow this up with a one-paragraph description of the novel. Unlike the synopsis, it doesn’t need to tell the entire story, but it should be just more than the premise. Tell us who the protagonist is, what happens to upset the balance of their life, and what their goal is (presumably to restore said life balance!). If you can do that in a couple of sentences, you might also mention one of the novel’s core turning points.

Cover letters should describe the novel first, then the writer, then remind us of the novel at the end. In a short final paragraph, say what inspired you to write the book and offer some comparable titles . (Check out agent Nelle Andrew’s advice on comparable titles .)

The letter should be targeted towards the literary agent or competition judge you’re writing to. Some writers choose to open with this and others incorporate it into the later paragraphs. The best way to make a connection and show you’ve done your research is to mention an author on the agent’s list who has a relevant readership. You could also explain why you think your novel aligns with what they describe in their wish list.

TELL US ABOUT YOU

It’s the writing, not the writer, that’s important … but the agent or judge does want to know about you too. They especially want to know why you were the one person who could write this book . And it’s true – no one else could write the book you’ve written. So tell us why. Did your job as a psychiatrist inspire the analysis of your antagonist’s motivation? Do you live in the idyllic town where the book is set? Have you studied the era of your historical novel? Share relevant details about yourself. 

The agent or judge also wants evidence that you are a writer. You’re not just someone who thinks they have a novel in them; you take your craft seriously. If you can, share what magazines your short fiction has been published in, the competitions you’ve been listed in or the creative writing courses you’ve completed. If you don’t have that kind of experience, share anything that tells us you’re serious. Join a writer’s workshop group and tell us about that. Attend an online masterclass (like the ones BPA runs ) and mention that. Experiment with writing in different forms and tell us about it. S hare which contemporary authors have inspired you, so it’s clear that you’re well read. Just don’t put, ‘This is my first attempt at writing fiction,’ and leave it at that. It doesn’t inspire confidence.

A cover letter should be professional, like the cover letter you would send with a job application, but you also want it to have some personality. And given you’re basically applying for the role of ‘novelist’, it needs to be well written.

So, keep it formal, make sure it’s eloquent, and try to get some flow into it. When you read it aloud, it should sound natural. If it doesn’t, it might be that you haven’t varied sentence length, that you’ve used rigid language, or simply that you’re trying too hard. As formal as a cover letter should be, you want your enthusiasm for this novel you’ve spent so long writing to imbue the lines. 

COMMON ISSUES IN ‘BPA FIRST NOVEL AWARD’ SUBMITTED COVER LETTERS

• Formatting it like a CV or splitting it into sections titled ‘Bio’ and ‘Novel Summary’.
• Sharing irrelevant detail about your personal life. 
• Making it too short – 200-350 words is a good guideline.
• Or too long – unfortunately, nobody’s going to read a cover letter past the first page!
• Writing a vague description of the story e.g. ‘When a mysterious event happens, a woman will have to look to the past to uncover the truth.’
• Including long-winded explanations of why there’s a huge market for your book.
• Coming across as arrogant … or lacking in confidence.
• Sharing more about the novel’s message than its story.

WRITE THE COVER LETTER YOUR NOVEL DESERVES

Once you’ve finished a manuscript, the instinct is to get it on submission as soon as possible, but it’s worth taking the time to give an accurate and exciting representation of the work . Literary agents receive many submissions a day and have to fit reading time in with a huge workload. You need to grab them in the cover letter so that they’re already thinking of you as a potential client when they read the sample.

Out of everything you could have written on the blank pages of a document titled Novel , you’ve carefully chosen each word of this story that has to be told. You know people will love it and you hopefully have a sense of who and why . Get that across to the agent or competition reader, and maybe, just maybe, they’ll request the full manuscript.

For personalised feedback on your cover letter, you might want to consider a BPA Submission Package Report – enquire here .

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16+ Literary Agent Cover Letter Examples & Samples

Explore 15+ literary agent cover letter examples for 2024, designed to help authors create compelling submissions. Discover effective cover letter templates, tips on structure, and insights into common mistakes. Enhance your chances of success with professional examples tailored to meet literary agent submission guidelines.

In the competitive world of publishing, securing a literary agent is a pivotal step for any aspiring author. A well-crafted literary agent cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression, illustrating not only your writing talent but also your professionalism and understanding of industry norms. Literary agents are inundated with submissions, making it essential for your cover letter to stand out. Key qualities that a successful literary agent seeks include authenticity, clarity, and a strong connection to your manuscript. Tailoring your cover letter to resonate with the specific interests and submission guidelines of each agent can significantly enhance your chances of success. In this guide, we offer over 15 literary agent cover letter examples for 2024, providing you with effective templates, writing strategies, and insights into common mistakes to avoid. Whether you are crafting your first submission or refining an existing letter, our resources will empower you to showcase your work and passion effectively. Begin your journey toward literary representation by exploring our collection, and take a confident step forward in your publishing aspirations.

Literary Agent Cover Letter Example

How to write a literary agent cover letter.

Creating a compelling literary agent cover letter goes beyond simply listing your qualifications and experiences; it is an essential piece of your manuscript submission that can significantly influence an agent's first impression. A well-organized cover letter not only showcases your writing abilities but also reflects your professionalism and understanding of the literary market. In the world of publishing, effective communication is key, and the format of your cover letter plays a crucial role in conveying your dedication to your craft.

In this section, we will guide you step-by-step through the process of formatting a literary agent cover letter. You'll find profession-specific insights and tips, along with examples that can inspire your own writing. Following a structured approach is vital to ensure that your cover letter aligns with common literary agent submission guidelines and resonates with the agents you are targeting.

Key Components of a Literary Agent Cover Letter:

Cover Letter Header

• This section includes your contact information followed by the agent's details, ensuring professionalism.

Cover Letter Greeting

• Address the agent by name if possible, as it demonstrates your effort and respect for their individuality.

Cover Letter Introduction

• Start with a brief introduction that captures the agent’s attention, typically including the title of your manuscript and a succinct hook.

Cover Letter Body

• Here, you expand on your manuscript, explaining its main themes, genre, and target audience while establishing your unique authorial voice.

Cover Letter Closing

• Conclude with a professional closing statement, expressing gratitude for their time and consideration, and a call to action indicating you look forward to their response.

Each part of your literary agent cover letter is essential in showcasing your dedication and compatibility with the submission requirements. Follow these guidelines closely to craft a standout document. Let’s dive deeper into each section to highlight what makes your cover letter effective and tailored to engage a literary agent.

Cover Letter Header Examples for Literary Agent

Great header.

Emily Johnson

(555) 123-4567

[email protected]

[email protected]

Explanation

The cover letter header is crucial for creating a first impression on potential employers in the publishing industry. For a Literary Agent position, a well-organized header serves not only as a professional introduction but also reflects your attention to detail and understanding of the business. A carefully formatted header can set the tone for your entire application, establishing your credibility and professionalism right from the start.

What to Focus on with Your Cover Letter Header

As a Literary Agent, your cover letter header should be clean, precise, and professionally laid out. Include your full name, a professional email address, and a reliable phone number. The date and recipient's information should be accurately formatted as it demonstrates your attention to detail—an essential skill for negotiating and managing client relationships. Make sure to align the header content with the remainder of your application, creating a cohesive experience for the reader. It’s best to avoid unnecessary personal details or informal language, as professionalism is key in this competitive field.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using an unprofessional or gimmicky email address (e.g., [email protected])
• Inconsistent formatting with the rest of your cover letter
• Omitting the recipient's full name or using a title that is incorrect or outdated

To enhance the impact of your cover letter header, ensure it is formatted neatly, using a professional font and consistent size throughout the document. Your email address should convey professionalism—consider creating one specifically for job applications if necessary. Also, keep the layout aligned; left-aligning the text often works best for readability. This attention to detail in your header can set a strong precedent for the quality of your application.

Cover Letter Greeting Examples for Literary Agent

Great greeting.

Dear Ms. Smith,

Bad greeting

The greeting of your cover letter is crucial as it establishes the tone for the entire letter and reflects your professionalism. For a Literary Agent position, a well-crafted greeting not only addresses the recipient appropriately but also indicates your seriousness about the role and respect for the publishing industry. It sets the stage for the hiring manager to engage with your application and perceive you as a fitting candidate for the literary world.

How to Get Your Cover Letter Greeting Right

As a candidate for a Literary Agent position, aim to personalize your greeting by addressing the hiring manager by name if it's available. If the job listing does not specify a name, using a general but respectful title, such as 'Dear Hiring Committee' or 'Dear [Publishing House] Team,' is preferable. Avoid generic greetings like 'To Whom It May Concern' as they often convey a lack of effort or interest. A personalized greeting can demonstrate your attention to detail and genuine enthusiasm for the position, which is highly regarded in the literary field.

When crafting your cover letter greeting as a Literary Agent, prioritize professionalism and personalization. Use the hiring manager's name if available; otherwise, address the team or committee respectfully. This shows your dedication to the role and connection to the literary community.

Cover Letter Intro Examples for Literary Agent

Great intro.

As a lifelong lover of literature and a professional with over five years of experience in publishing, I am excited to apply for the Literary Agent position at [Agency Name]. My background in editorial work and my passion for championing diverse voices in literature align perfectly with your agency’s mission to promote innovative storytelling. I am particularly drawn to your commitment to supporting debut authors, and I am eager to bring my expertise in manuscript evaluation and author development to your team.

I am applying for the Literary Agent position. I have read a lot of books and think I would be a good agent. Your agency appears reputable, and I like working with writers.

The introduction of your cover letter serves as your first opportunity to engage the hiring manager, making it crucial for establishing your credibility and enthusiasm for the role of a Literary Agent. It should succinctly convey your relevant experience and demonstrate an understanding of the publishing industry. An effective introduction showcases your passion for literature and your eagerness to contribute to the success of authors and their works, setting a positive tone for the rest of your application.

How to Craft an Effective Cover Letter Introduction

In your introduction for a Literary Agent position, begin by highlighting your background in the literary field, such as degrees in literature, experience in publishing, or prior roles in agenting. Follow this by expressing your excitement about the specific agency or role you’re applying for, and mention any particular authors or projects that resonate with you. Tie your experience and enthusiasm back to the agency’s values or mission, demonstrating how you can support their goals and vision in the industry.

• Using a generic introduction that could apply to any position or agency.
• Overloading the introduction with personal anecdotes that aren’t relevant to the role.
• Failing to show knowledge of the agency's authors, reputation, or values.
• Making your introduction too lengthy or complex, which can lose the reader's interest.

To make your cover letter introduction stand out, highlight your genuine passion for literature and your commitment to the authors you represent. Incorporate specific achievements or experiences that illustrate your qualifications and enthusiasm for the literary world. Additionally, clearly align your professional goals with those of the agency to leave a lasting impression.

Cover Letter Body Examples for Literary Agent

As a Literary Agent with over five years of experience, I have successfully represented numerous bestselling authors, including Jane Doe, whose novel sold over 150,000 copies in its first year. I excel at identifying emerging trends in the market, which enables me to spot promising manuscripts that resonate with readers. My approach involves working closely with authors to refine their work and fully develop their unique voices, ensuring they stand out in a competitive marketplace. In my previous role at XYZ Agency, I secured a deal worth $500,000 for debut author John Smith, making it one of the largest advances of the year. I am passionate about nurturing new talent and am excited about the potential to contribute to your agency's continued success.

I like books and have read many of them. I am interested in becoming a Literary Agent because I think it would be fun to work with authors. I have not represented anyone yet, but I believe I can learn quickly. I am good at talking to people and think I would enjoy meeting new authors. Working at your agency would be great since I want to get into the publishing world.

The body of your cover letter is crucial for showcasing your qualifications and passion as a Literary Agent. This section should highlight your understanding of the publishing industry, your experience representing authors, and your ability to identify marketable manuscripts. It's vital to be specific and provide examples that illustrate your successes and the unique approach you bring to the role.

How to Craft an Effective Cover Letter Body

When crafting the body of your cover letter as a Literary Agent, emphasize your experience in reading and evaluating manuscripts, your relationships with publishers, and your success in negotiating deals. Use concrete examples to showcase your achievements, such as specific authors you have represented or successful deals you have negotiated. Articulate your unique vision for the role, how you identify potential bestsellers, and how you help authors develop their work, which will demonstrate your commitment to their success and your understanding of the market's needs.

• Providing vague descriptions of your experience without specific examples of manuscripts or authors you've worked with.
• Focusing too much on generic duties instead of showcasing notable successes, such as contract negotiations or authors' achievements.
• Failing to personalize the letter to the agency or specific role, showing a lack of research.
• Using clichéd language or overly formal tone that doesn’t convey your genuine passion for literature and author representation.

To make your cover letter body stand out, focus on demonstrating your successful track record in the publishing industry. Include specific achievements tied to authors you have represented, significant book deals you have negotiated, and your unique insights into market trends. This will highlight your effectiveness as a Literary Agent and your commitment to supporting authors on their journeys.

Cover Letter Closing Paragraph Examples for Literary Agent

Great closing.

With my extensive background in literature and a keen eye for emerging talent, I am excited about the possibility of joining your team as a Literary Agent. My experience in evaluating manuscripts and developing author relationships aligns perfectly with your agency's mission to discover and nurture exceptional voices. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills can contribute to expanding your roster of talented writers.

Bad closing

I think I might be a good fit for this job. I have read many books and would enjoy working at your agency. Please let me know what you decide.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter is a critical component that leaves a lasting impression on the hiring manager. For a Literary Agent position, this section should encapsulate your passion for literature, your understanding of market trends, and your ability to connect authors with their audiences. A strong closing not only reiterates your fit for the role but also demonstrates your excitement about representing authors and negotiating lucrative deals on their behalf.

How to Craft an Effective Cover Letter Closing

When crafting your closing paragraph as a Literary Agent, focus on reiterating your enthusiasm for the literary world and the specific contributions you can make to the agency. Highlight your experience in talent scouting, your understanding of industry trends, and your commitment to building long-term relationships with authors. Be sure to express your eagerness for an interview and your readiness to discuss how you can elevate the agency's portfolio with fresh literary talent.

• Concluding with generic statements that lack specificity related to the Literary Agent role.
• Failing to express clear excitement about the opportunity to represent authors and negotiate deals.
• Using passive language that doesn't convey confidence in your abilities.
• Not providing a proactive statement about wanting to discuss your application further.

To close your cover letter effectively, emphasize your enthusiasm for the Literary Agent role, connect your skills to the needs of the agency, and express your desire to further discuss your qualifications in an interview. It's crucial to convey confidence and a proactive attitude as you seek to provide value to their team.

Cover Letter Writing Tips for Literary Agents

Highlight your industry knowledge.

When crafting your cover letter for a Literary Agent position, it’s essential to showcase your in-depth understanding of the publishing industry. Discuss your familiarity with current publishing trends, market demands, and genre-specific insights. Describe any experience you have with manuscript evaluation or editorial feedback, emphasizing your ability to identify commercially viable projects. Tailoring your cover letter to reflect your insider knowledge will position you as a valuable candidate who is attuned to the dynamics of the literary world.

Showcase Your Sales Skills

A successful Literary Agent acts as a key player in selling manuscripts to publishers. Use your cover letter to highlight your sales experience, particularly in negotiating deals and securing contracts for authors. Provide examples of successful pitches you’ve made, mentioning specific titles or authors you've represented. If available, include quantifiable achievements, such as percentage increases in sales or the number of deals closed, to illustrate your effectiveness in this role.

Demonstrate a Passion for Literature

Your love for literature should shine through in your cover letter. Share personal anecdotes about how your passion for reading has influenced your career choice and your enthusiasm for representing authors. Mention any specific genres or authors you are particularly passionate about and explain why. This connection to the literature will resonate with hiring managers looking for agents who are genuinely invested in their clients’ success.

Customize Your Letter for Each Application

Avoid sending out generic cover letters. Each letter should be tailored specifically to the Literary Agent position you are applying for. Research the agency’s current roster of authors and recent acquisitions to comment on how your skills align with their needs. Reference any projects or authors you admire from the agency to show your interest and investment in their work. This personalized touch will demonstrate your commitment to the position and help you stand out.

Maintain a Professional Tone and Format

Your cover letter should be polished and professionally formatted. Start with a strong introduction that captures attention, followed by well-structured body paragraphs that detail your qualifications. Conclude with a strong closing that encourages follow-up. Use formal yet engaging language, and meticulously proofread for any errors. A well-organized and articulate cover letter reflects your professionalism and attention to detail—both critical attributes for a Literary Agent.

Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid as a Literary Agent

Generic opening paragraph.

One of the most frequent mistakes candidates make in their cover letters for Literary Agent positions is starting with a generic opening. This approach can result in a lack of engagement from the reader. Hiring managers are looking for passion and enthusiasm for the role and the industry. A specific and compelling opening that reflects your understanding of the literary field, such as mentioning a particular book you've represented or a writer's career you've helped develop, can create a strong first impression.

Focusing Solely on Experience

While experience is undoubtedly important, many applicants make the mistake of focusing solely on their previous roles without showcasing their unique insights into the literary market. It's crucial to articulate not just what you've done, but also how your experiences and understanding of current trends set you apart. Highlight specific trends you've noticed or innovative strategies you've implemented to attract authors to your agency, ensuring your cover letter speaks to your proactive engagement with the industry.

Overlooking the Importance of Networking

Some candidates neglect to mention their networking efforts or relationships within the literary community, which are vital to a Literary Agent's success. Hiring managers value candidates who actively engage with both authors and industry professionals. Including references to literary events you’ve attended or collaborations you've made can highlight your commitment to networking. Demonstrating an ability to leverage those relationships for the benefit of both your clients and the agency can significantly bolster your application.

Being Vague About Your Vision

A common pitfall is failing to articulate a clear vision for how you would approach representing authors. This lack of specificity can be detrimental, as hiring managers want to see your understanding of the authors they are representing and the marketplace. Use your cover letter to share your thoughts on the types of authors you aspire to work with, the genres you’re passionate about, and any unique ideas you have for building an author’s brand. This clarity will help hiring managers envision you in the role.

Ignoring Formatting and Presentation

Finally, meticulous attention to detail is paramount when applying for a position as a Literary Agent. Many candidates overlook the importance of formatting, grammar, and the overall presentation of their cover letter. A cluttered or poorly organized cover letter can give the impression of carelessness. Ensure that your cover letter is well-structured, free of typos, and conveys a professional image. Consider using bullet points for key achievements or skills to enhance readability and impact.

Cover Letter FAQs

What should i include in my literary agent cover letter.

Your cover letter should include a concise introduction that states the manuscript title, genre, and word count, followed by a brief author bio highlighting your writing credentials. Include a summary of your manuscript that hooks the agent in a few compelling sentences. Finally, express why you are approaching this particular agent, referencing any relevant works they've represented or their submission guidelines.

How do I make my literary agent cover letter stand out?

To make your cover letter stand out, tailor it specifically to the agent you are addressing. Mention any of their previously represented works that align with your manuscript, showcasing your knowledge of their preferences. Use a professional yet engaging tone, and consider including a unique angle about your story that makes it intriguing or relevant to current trends in publishing.

What is the ideal length for a literary agent cover letter?

Aim to keep your cover letter to one page. Utilize concise paragraphs to convey essential information. Avoid lengthy descriptions; instead, focus on clear, persuasive writing that encapsulates your manuscript and highlights your relevant background.

How should I format my cover letter for a literary agent?

Format your cover letter in a business letter style, complete with your contact information, the date, and the agent’s information at the top. Use a standard font such as Times New Roman or Arial, size 12. Organize your letter into clear paragraphs - an introduction, a main body that covers your manuscript summary and author bio, and a closing that thanks the agent for their consideration.

What common mistakes should I avoid in my literary agent cover letter?

Common mistakes include sending a generic letter that doesn’t address the specific agent, errors in spelling and grammar, and failing to follow submission guidelines. Avoid overly informal language, clichés, or excessive praise for the agent. Make sure to proofread your letter multiple times and possibly have someone else review it for clarity and professionalism.

How do I express my unique voice in my literary agent cover letter?

Your unique voice can be conveyed through your writing style in the cover letter. While maintaining professionalism, let your personality shine through your word choices and the way you describe your manuscript. Share a personal anecdote relating to your writing journey or inspiration, as long as it aligns with the message you're trying to communicate about your work.

Should I include my writing experience in my literary agent cover letter?

Yes, include relevant writing experience, such as previous publications, awards, or credentials that add credibility to your authorship. Highlighting your experience helps establish your qualifications and demonstrates your commitment to the craft. Be concise and specific; don’t overwhelm the letter with too much information about your writing history.

What kind of closing should I use in my literary agent cover letter?

Your closing should be professional and courteous. Thank the agent for considering your query and express a desire to hear back. For example, you might write, 'Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of working together.' End with a formal sign-off, such as 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards,' followed by your name.

How can I tailor my cover letter to specific literary agents?

To tailor your cover letter, start by researching the agent’s preferences and past works they represent. Address them by name and reference specific titles they have worked with that are similar to your manuscript. Mention any events, conferences, or networks where you may have interacted with them, which can further personalize your approach and establish a connection.

Literary Scout Cover Letter Example

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161 Examples of Successful Query Letters from Famous Authors

On the road to traditional publication, your query letter plays a central role in getting your book noticed. In fact, when it comes to landing literary agents and publishers , a compelling and properly formatted query letter is just as important as a good manuscript. To help inspire you, we’ve collected 161 query letter examples from famous authors spanning various genres:

Adult Fiction

Author: Sean Ferrell

Genre: Contemporary

View the query letter

Author: Richard Harvell

Genre: Historical

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Author: Garth Stein (This query letter example comes from a New York Times bestseller.)

Genre: Animal Fiction, Contemporary

Author: S.G. Browne

Genre: Contemporary, Dark Humor

A Mad, Wicked Folly

Author: Sharon Biggs Waller

Genre: Fiction

Between Earth and Sky

Author: Amanda Skenandore

Genre: Historical Fiction, Psychological Fiction

Author: Alyson Gerber

Genre: Fiction, Bildungsroman

People Who Knew Me

Author: Kim Hooper

Genre: Psychological Fiction

If I Fix You

Author: Abigail Johnson

Where the Watermelons Grow

Author: Cindy Baldwin

Mosquitoland

Author: David Arnold

P.S. I Miss You

Author: Jen Petro-Roy

Genre: Fiction, Epistolary Fiction

Darling Rose Gold

Author: Stephanie Wrobel

Genre: Fiction, Psychological Thriller

Hunting Annabelle

Author: Wendy Heard

Order a query letter.

Children’s Fiction

The Rise and Fall of Mount Majestic

Author: Jennifer Trafton

Genre: Fantasy, Children’s Literature

A Snicker of Magic

Original title used in query letter: There’s Magic in Midnight Gulch

Author: Natalie Lloyd

Genre: Children’s Literature, Fantasy & Magic, Family

Jacob Wonderbar and the Cosmic Space Kapow

Author: Nathan Bransford

Genre: Science Fiction, Children’s Literature

It’s Raining Bats & Frogs

Author: Rebecca Colby

Genre: Children’s Literature

The Peculiar

Author: Stefan Bachmann

Steering Toward Normal

Author: Rebecca Petruck

Genre: Children’s Literature, Middle Grade

Sure Signs of Crazy

Author: Karen Harrington

Pickle Impossible

Author: Eli Stutz

Genre: Children’s Literature, Middle Grade, Adventure

Author: Amber McRee Turner

Genre: Children’s Literature, Adventure, Middle Grade

I Have A Balloon

Author: Ariel Bernstein

Genre: Humor, Fiction, Children’s Literature

Maximillian Villainous

Author: Margaret Chiu Greanias

Crime Fiction

One for the Money

Author: Janet Evanovich (This query letter example is for the first book in a beloved series.)

Genre: Crime Fiction, Mystery, Women’s Fiction, Women Sleuths, Humor

Murder on the Rocks

Author: Karen MacInerney

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Women Sleuths

Blessed Are Those Who Mourn

Original title used in query letter: Blessed Are the Dead

Author: Kristi Belcamino

Genre: Crime Fiction, Mystery, Thriller

The Big Rewind

Original title used in query letter: No Awkward Goodbyes

Author: Libby Cudmore

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime

Untold Damage

Author: Robert K. Lewis

A Bad Day for Sorry

Author: Sophie Littlefield

Genre: Mystery, Crime, Women Sleuths

The Phoenix Reich

Original title used in query letter: The Phoenix Conspiracy

Author: Joshua Lisec

Genre: Thriller, Adventure

Tiger’s Curse

Author: Colleen Houck

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance

Author: Gail Carriger

Genre: Steampunk, Gothic Romance, Fantasy

By Darkness Hid

Original title used in query letter: Prince Gidon

Author: Jill Williamson

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Religious Fiction

Magic Lost, Trouble Found

Original title used in query letter: Thief of Souls

Author: Lisa Shearin

Genre: Fantasy, Speculative Fiction

Luck in the Shadows

Author: Lynn Flewelling

Genre: Fantasy, Action & Adventure

Throne of Glass

Original title used in query letter: Queen of Glass

Author: Sarah J. Maas (The novel launched by this successful query letter took the young adult world by storm.)

The Demon’s Lexicon

Author: Sarah Rees Brennan

Genre: Paranormal & Urban Fiction, Fantasy, Young Adult

Enchanted, Inc.

Original title used in query letter: Magic, Spells and Illusions, Inc.

Author: Shanna Swendson

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy, Chick Lit, Women’s Fiction

Author: Kim Chance

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Fantasy

An Enchantment of Ravens

Author: Margaret Rogerson

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Midnight Thief

Author: Livia Blackburne

The Iron Witch

Author: Karen Mahoney

Genre: Young, Adult, Urban Fantasy

The Accidental Demon Slayer

Author: Angie Fox

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Author: MarcyKate Connolly

Genre: Children’s Books, Fantasy, Young Adult

Gates of Thread and Stone

Author: Lori M. Lee

Genre: Fantasy

Bitten & Smitten

Author: Michelle Rowen

Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Vampire Literature

The Whitefire Crossing

Author: Courtney Schafer

Genre: Crime Fiction, Dark Fantasy, Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fantasy

All the Stars and Teeth

Author: Adalyn Grace

City of Lies

Author: Sam Hawke

Midsummer’s Mayhem

Author: Rajani LaRocca

The Secret Ingredient of Wishes

Author: Susan Bishop Crispell

Genre: Magical Realism, Fantasy

The Night Circus

Author: Erin Morgenstern

Genre: Romance, High Fantasy, Fantasy

Author: Edward David McDonald

Genre: Fantasy, Apocalyptic Fiction

Mystery/Suspense

Author: Hank Phillippi Ryan

Genre: Mystery, Women’s

The Night Child

Original title used in query letter: Split

Author: Anna Quinn

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Women’s, Psychological Thriller

The Handbook for Lightning Strike Survivors

Author: Michele Young-Stone

Genre: Mystery

The Lost Night

Author: Andrea Bartz

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Fiction

Author: Allison Brennan

Genre: Romance, Suspense, Psychological Fiction

Trust Me, I’m Lying

Author: Mary Elizabeth Summer

Genre: Fiction, Thriller, Suspense

You Can’t Get There from Here: A Year on the Fringes of a Shrinking World

Original title used in query letter: Hobbits on the Silk Road

Author: Gayle Forman

Genre: Autobiography, Travel

The Hand-Me-Down PC

Author: Morris Rosenthal

Genre: Nonfiction

War Is Boring

Author: David Axe

Genre: Graphic Novel, Memoir

Over-the-Counter Natural Cures

Original title used in query letter: The Wal-Mart Cure

Author: Shane Ellison

Genre: Nonfiction, Health

Buy Ketchup in May and Fly at Noon: A Guide to the Best Time to Buy This, Do That and Go There

Original title used in query letter: Timing Is Everything: A Guide to the Best Time to Buy This, Do That and Go There

Author: Mark Di Vincenzo

Genre: Nonfiction, Reference

Dumbemployed

Author: Phil Edwards & Matt Kraft

Genre: Humor, Anthology, Nonfiction

Hidden Cities: Travels to the Secret Corners of the World’s Great Metropolises: A Memoir of Urban Exploration

Original title used in query letter: Hidden Cities: Inside the Secret World of Urban Explorers

Author: Moses Gates

Genre: Travel Memoir

You’ll Never Nanny in This Town Again: The True Adventures of a Hollywood Nanny

Author: Suzanne Hansen

Genre: Memoir, Humor

Queen of the Road: The True Tale of 47 States, 22,000 Miles, 200 Shoes, 2 Cats, 1 Poodle, a Husband, and a Bus with a Will of Its Own

Author: Doreen Orion

Genre: Memoir, Humor, Travel

River of No Return: Tennessee Ernie Ford and the Woman He Loved

Original title used in query letter: Ernie and His Lovely Wife, Betty

Author: Jeffrey Buckner Ford

Genre: Autobiographies, Memoirs

Peaches & Daddy: A Story of the Roaring 20s, the Birth of Tabloid Media & Courtship That Captured the Heart and Imagination of the American Public

Author: Michael Greenburg

Frantic Francis: How One Coach’s Madness Changed Football

Original title used in query letter: The Rise and Fall of Francis Schmidt

Author: Brett Perkins

Genre: Nonfiction, Biographies

The Power of Memoir: How to Write Your Healing Story

Original title used in query letter: Becoming Whole, Writing Your Healing Story

Author: Linda Myers

Genre: Self-Help, Nonfiction

Sandhill Dreams

Original title used in query letter: A Fort Robinson Summer

Author: Cara Putman

Genre: Historical Romance, Religious Fiction, Western & Frontier

Proof by Seduction

Author: Courtney Milan

Genre: Historical Romance

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

Original title used in query letter: The Panama Hotel

Author: Jamie Ford (This successful query letter was for the author’s debut novel.)

Genre: Historical Fiction, Family Saga

Rumble on the Bayou

Author: Jana DeLeon

Genre: Mystery, Supernatural, Contemporary Romance

Only with You

Author: Lauren Layne

Genre: Contemporary Romance

The Healer’s Apprentice

Original title used in query letter: The Woodcutter’s Daughter

Author: Melanie Dickerson

Genre: Teens, Religious Fiction, Historical Romance

Catching Jordan

Original title used in query letter: Score

Author: Miranda Kenneally

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Young Adult

The Notebook

Author: Nicholas Sparks (A successful query letter from a famous romance author.)

Private Arrangements

Original title used in query letter: Schemes of Love

Author: Sherry Thomas

A Gift of Grace

Author: Amy Clipston

Genre: Amish, Christian Fiction, Romance

A Royal Pain

Author: Megan Mulry

Genre: Regency Romance, Women’s Fiction

Author: Tiffany Reisz

Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance

Letters from Home

Author: Kristina Mcmorris

Genre: Women’s Fiction, Historical, Romance

A Widow’s Hope

Author: Mary Ellis

Grave Intentions

Author: Lori Sjoberg

Genre: Romance, Paranormal

Devil on a Sparrow’s Wing

Author: Calista Taylor

Genre: Steampunk, Romance

Dark Desires

Author: Eve Silver

Genre: Romance, Historical Fiction, Gothic Fiction

Author: Jennifer Estep

Genre: Humor, Fiction, Romance, Paranormal Romance

The Husband Trap

Author: Tracy Anne Warren

Genre: Romance, Historical Romance, Regency Fiction

Some Kind of Magic

Author: Mary Ann Marlowe

Genre: Erotic Romance, Fiction, Romance, Contemporary Romance

Caged in Winter

Author: Brighton Walsh

Genre: Romance, New Adult

Author: Jennifer Blackwood

Chasing Crazy

Author: Kelly Siskind

Genre: Romance, Coming-of-Age, New Adult

Sorcerer to the Crown

Author: Zen Cho

Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Historical Fantasy

Science Fiction

Ancillary Justice

Original title used in query letter: Justice of Toren

Author: Ann Leckie

Genre: Science Fiction

Death Thieves

Original title used in query letter: The Revolution

Author: Julie Wright

Genre: Science Fiction, Young Adult

Hazzardous Universe

Genre: Science Fiction, Children’s Books, Fantasy, Adventure

The Daedalus Incident

Author: Michael J. Martinez

Genre: Fantasy, Steampunk, Science Fiction

The Disasters

Author: M.K. England

Author: Erin Bowman

Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure, Dystopian Fiction

Author: Michael Mammay

Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller

A Spark of White Fire

Author: Sangu Mandanna

Genre: Science Fiction, Young Adult, Fantasy

Here and Now and Then

Author: Mike Chen

Genre: Science Fiction, Domestic Fiction, Time Travel Fiction

Women’s Literature

The Arrivals

Author: Meg Mitchell Moore

Genre: Women’s Fiction, Domestic Fiction

She Came from Beyond!

Original title used in query letter: She Came from Beyond

Author: Nadine Darling

The Art of Falling

Author: Kathryn Craft

Genre: Women’s Fiction

The Weird Sisters

Author: Eleanor Brown

Simply from Scratch

Author: Alicia Bessette

Genre: Women’s Fiction, Domestic Fiction, Contemporary

Author: Allie Larkin

Genre: Contemporary, Women’s Fiction

Take It Like a Mom

Original title used in query letter: Better Than T.V.

Author: Stephanie Stiles

Genre: Women’s Fiction, Humor, Domestic Fiction

If You Follow Me

Original title used in query letter: Repeat After Me

Author: Malena Watrous

The Last Will of Moira Leahy

Author: Therese Walsh

Genre: Women’s Fiction, Contemporary

The Department of Lost & Found

Author: Allison Winn Scotch

Young Adult Fiction

Author: Gayle Forman (This bestselling author shares several successful query letters on her blog.)

Genre: Young Adult, Bildungsroman, Social & Family Issues, Realistic Fiction

The Maze Runner

Author: James Dashner (This successful query letter launched a famous young adult series.)

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Science Fiction

Pride and Popularity

Author: Jenni James

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Romance

Author: Kody Keplinger

Genre: Young Adult, Teens, Romantic Comedy, Social & Family Issues

Author: Marissa Meyer (This query letter example launched a popular young adult fairytale series.)

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopian

Give up the Ghost

Author: Megan Crewe

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal

A Wicked Thing

Original title used in query letter: After

Author: Rhiannon Thomas

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Fairy Tales

Under a Painted Sky

Original title used in query letter: Golden Boys

Author: Stacey Lee

Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Adventure

Original title used in query letter: Perfectly Pia

Author: Jessica Khoury

Genre: Young Adult

Of Poseidon

Author: Anna Banks

Not a Drop to Drink

Author: Mindy McGinnis

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Dystopian

The Heir and the Spare

Author: Emily Albright

As You Wish

Original title used in query letter: There Are No Stars in Caliban

Author: Jackson Pearce

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Fantasy, Romance

You’re Welcome, Universe

Author: Whitney Gardner

Genre: Contemporary, Young Adult

Sad Perfect

Author: Stephanie Elliot

Real Mermaids Don’t Wear Toe Rings

Author: Helene Boudreau

The Weight of Zero

Author: Karen Fortunati

Genre: Young Adult, Social & Family Issues

A Death-Struck Year

Author: Makiia Lucier

Genre: Young, Adult, Historical

Falls the Shadow

Author: Stefanie Gaither

Genre: Young, Adult, Science Fiction

The Rules for Disappearing

Author: Ashley Elston

Genre: Young Adult, Thriller

Author: Amanda Sun

Genre: Young, Adult, Fantasy

Skyship Academy: The Pearl Wars

Original title used in query letter: Skyship Academy

Author: Nick James

Genre: Young Adult, Children’s Books, Science Fiction, Dystopian

Oh. My. Gods.

Original title used in query letter: Growing Up Godly

Author: Tera Lynn Child

Genre: Young Adult, Mythology, Fantasy

The Liar Society

Author: Lisa & Laura Roecker

Genre: Young Adult, Mystery

Author: Karsten Knight

Genre: Young, Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy, Mythology

Author: Mindi Scott

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

The Last Good Place of Lily Odilon

Author: Sara Beitia

Genre: Young Adult, Suspense

Losing Faith

Author: Denise Jaden

Shadow Hills

Author: Anastasia Hopcus

I Was a Teenage Popsicle

Author: Bev Katz Rosenbaum

A Match Made in High School

Author: Kristin Walker

Author: Mara Purnhagen

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Did these famous query letters inspire you? If you’re ready to start pursuing a publishing deal for your book, get in touch with our team of experts . We can help you craft a successful query letter , a manuscript synopsis, and other material to pitch your book to a literary agent or publisher and get you one step closer to achieving your goals.

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How to pitch your book to an agent

The majority of authors we publish, especially fiction books, will be represented by a literary agent.  To get a literary agent to represent you as a new writer, you’ll need to pitch your book to them, usually in the form of a covering letter or email.   

Cathryn Summerhayes, a literary agent at Curtis Brown, talks to us about what she looks for in a pitch from a new writer.

When should a writer approach an agent?

For fiction, whether you’re writing for adults or for children, it always makes sense not only to finish your book, but to revise it. Get some readers (not just your mum and dad), and redraft and redraft until you feel you have got it to absolutely the best point you can without help from an agent and/or publisher.

No author’s first draft ever gets published – and an agent wants to really get the sense that you are hard-working, have spent a lot of time with your manuscript and you are determined to get it right. 

For non-fiction, you need a proposal that gives an overview of the project, a breakdown of the chapters you plan to write and at least one complete chapter to give a sense of your voice and direction. 

For all writers I would work on your ‘back of the book’ pitch – a couple of hundred words that really crystallises what the book is about. I far prefer these to long synopses.

What are you looking for in a writer?

I’m always looking for the same three things:

• Authenticity – why are you so well placed to tell this particular story?
• Uniqueness of voice – don’t tell me you are the next JK Rowling, instead be the best NEW thing.
• Intricacy of plotting – a good story cannot stand up if an author hasn’t thought about what every page will add to the telling of that story.

What are the common pitfalls?

Typos, accidentally cc-ing every other agent you’ve sent to, submitting to the wrong agent – I often see material I wouldn’t consider on my list, even though my online profile and the agency’s website make it very clear what I do and don’t like. We understand that you will want to submit to more than one agent, but just make sure if you are copying and pasting material over, that you make the necessary changes. 

You’d be amazed how many times I see things like ‘I would love  to be represented by United Agents’ (I work for Curtis Brown).  Sloppiness suggests your work will be lazy and that you might not be a good self-editor, and ultimately that you might not be the best author for me to represent. 

This is your audition, your biggest job interview ever, so do put the work in!  If you have written something brilliant, you don’t want to fall at the final hurdle by messing up the covering letter.

What do you like to see in a covering letter?

I like to get a very clear sense that the writer is in this because they love writing, not because they see pound signs flashing up. So, if you are working on a second book, say that. We like to see that you are not a one-trick pony and are in this for the long haul. Tell me that you have entered short story competitions, been published in magazines, attended a creative writing course, festivals, etc. Just show me that you are passionate  about the business of writing. 

Cathryn's top tips for a covering letter

• The key thing when approaching agents is research, research and more research. It helps your submission when you make each agent you approach feel like they have been specially selected because of authors they represent, projects they are committed to, or even hobbies they love. Check the acknowledgements pages of books you love which are in a similar genre to yours. Often they will thank their literary agent - this could be a good place to start.
• Don't make basic mistakes. Spell the agent's name and the name of the agency they work for right. I’m afraid little things loom large on the slush pile – treat this as a job application.
• Pitch with confidence! But not arrogance. If you feel this book is the best thing you have written and that it is ready to share with agents, then communicate that with enthusiasm. 
• Nail your one line pitch – is it  Star Wars  meets  Bridget Jones ?  
• Have a nuanced 200 words that really crystallises what the book is about. A smart, to the point submission letter, that gives a clear overview of the material that is being submitted, is vital to capture an agent's interest.
• A sense of where your book would sit on the shelves if it were to be published today. Is it literary or commercial? Fantasy or sci-fi? Is it a memoir or a book examining a social issue?
• Make sure your first page is killer  so that you have the agent hooked straight away. 
• Only put relevant details about yourself in your letter - things like prizes won, your qualifications, where you were born, are fine, but be brief. 
• If you have a big social media presence, you can include your handles - but be prepared for the agent to look at your content. 
• Sell yourself, and sell your work. You are your own best advocate.

The best place to find a full list of literary agents in the UK is the  Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook . 

Read about a day-in-the-life of a Literary Agent in  How To Get Published .

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Blog & Newsletter – 06.09.2022

Writing Tips: How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter  

You’ve come this far: you’ve written your manuscript and polished it as much as you can, and now you’re ready to share your work with literary agents. But before you share your work, you need to write a submission cover letter. So, what is a submission cover letter? And how can you write one that will make your work stand out from the rest? As an agency that receives hundreds of submissions each week, our agents have shared their tips on how to write the perfect cover letter, and make sure that yours is a cut above the rest.

What is a cover letter?

In short, a cover letter is something which introduces you and your novel to an agent. It’s the first point of contact between you and the agent, so it needs to be short, convincing and to the point. Your cover letter should entice the agent and make them want to pick up and read your manuscript.

How should I structure my letter, and what do I include in it?

Firstly, make sure you address the specific agent you are submitting to.

Include an enticing pitch in the body of your email. This should include a one-line hook outlining the central premise of your book; a short, back-of-the-book type blurb; three comparable books in the market today; a short bio; and any other information relevant to your work, such as any courses you have taken, or any prizes you have been shortlisted for, or won. 

When thinking of your three comparable books, try and make the comparisons as precise as possible. For example, ‘this story blends the charm of Gail Honeyman’s Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine with the Agatha Christie-esque mystery of a Ruth Ware novel.’ This will give us a clear sense of where it might sit in the market.

What are your agents looking for in a cover letter?

Madeleine Milburn, CEO and Literary Agent: I look for a clear, concise covering letter with a professional yet conversational tone that gets to the heart of the story quickly. Imagine you are pitching your favourite book…how would you get a reader excited? Look at the blurbs on the backs of books and see how they entice someone to start reading. I also love a title that stands out, and resonates in some way, before even opening the manuscript or knowing anything about the story. 

Hayley Steed, Senior Literary Agent : Personally, I love a strong concept – a one line pitch that makes me stop and catch my breath, an idea that feels new and exciting whilst having a clear audience and pitch, a book that feels like it’s doing something different within a familiar genre. I’m always reassured by convincing comparison titles too – I know that a novel is going to deliver if the writer knows exactly who they’re targeting and where it would sit in the market.

Olivia Maidment, Literary Agent: I am always really impressed by a cover letter that shows that an author has really thought about and grappled with their key themes and central ideas, and how to navigate those ideas in their writing, their style, and the stories they tell. I want to work with authors who have something to say and really put the time into working out how to say it, and I love to see those elements coming together in their pitch.

Emma Bal, Literary Agent:  For non-fiction what I am looking for in a cover letter is an author’s mission statement – why they want to write this particular book and why they should be the one to write it. If an author can establish how their ideas fit into the wider discourse, and what is original about those ideas, even better.

Hannah Todd, Literary Agent: The thing I’m always impressed by in a covering letter is accurate comparison authors or titles. It takes some market awareness to be an author, and this shows that you know what is out there and where your book would sit on the shelf. It also shows us that there is already a market out there for your book! There are LOADS of great resources out there on this (most recently  this twitter thread ) and maybe we’ll do our own post on it in future!

Rachel Yeoh, Associate Agent : In upmarket and literary fiction, I really want to get a strong sense of the themes that that author is writing about – why are these themes important? How are you tackling them in fresh, distinctive ways that will make readers pause for thought?

We know how daunting the querying process can be, but we hope that with these tips you can polish up that cover letter and feel confident whenever you decide to share your work with agents. Good luck!

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When you are preparing to submit your finished story to an agent or publisher, it can be rather daunting. First, you need to decide whether you are going to approach an agent, a publisher, or both simultaneously. Once you have decided, you need to write the cover letter to accompany your manuscript – but how do you make the perfect pitch to an agent or publisher?

The importance of a cover letter

This is your introduction to an agent or publisher and an opportunity to concisely provide information about your book and yourself. First impressions count, so make sure it’s brilliant. (No pressure, then). Check there are no errors in the letter, such as spelling or grammatical mistakes and also ensure you have the correct name (and spelling!) of the person you’re writing to. Don’t distract an overworked editor or agent with fancy fonts or gimmicks. Just keep it simple and keep it clear. You want to leave the reader feeling confident that:

• You are familiar with the market and that there could be a place for your book.
• Your book itself will be worth reading.
• You could be a good author to work with (writing credentials aren’t essential for this – just follow submission guidelines, proofread your letter and make the effort to research the publisher/agent and authors they work with).

How to write your letter

Think of your letter as having a beginning, middle and end. There’s no precise formula, as long as everything that needs to be included IS included. A letter might look like this:

Beginning – this introduces yourself and your work. What age group is your book aimed at? Genre? Word count (this shows you know the market, and your word count is appropriate for the age range)? Why have you approached this agent/publisher specifically? It’s fine to submit to several places simultaneously, but out of courtesy, mention if other agents or publishers are also reading your manuscript or whether this publisher/agent has it exclusively.

Are there published books with a style similar style to yours? Mentioning these will not only give agent/publishers a feel of your book and where it might be placed, but it also shows you’ve read widely and are familiar with the market.

If nothing really springs to mind, don’t worry. If you say it’s like Harry Potter and it clearly isn’t, your reader will just think you’re wasting their time.   

Middle – this is your big chance to showcase your book. Write a few lines with the bones of the plot, without revealing everything. If you’re writing a funny book, it can be a good idea to include an element of humour, too.

You can start with a concise pitch, which can help focus your reader’s attention. Using a logline like the ones you see on Netflix descriptions can help. One well-used formula is:

When (inciting incident happens) (character) must (do something) in order to (accomplish something).

There are other ways to communicate the information, however. You could introduce your pitch with a tagline – those witty, concise descriptions (which often come in threes), like the phrases at the bottom of a cinema poster. Or you could include memorable, impactful quotes from your story. Or you could pose questions to the reader.

Look at these examples for my middle-grade debut, The House At The Edge of Magic:

• When pickpocket Nine steals a house ornament which transforms into a full size magical house, she must break the curse which traps the mysterious residents in exchange for her heart’s desire: freedom.
• A witch’s curse. A hidden treasure. A wizard in fluffy slippers. Welcome to the House At The Edge Of Magic.
• Sometimes you are a whisper away from magic without even realising it. When pickpocket Nine accidentally steals a cursed house ornament, her life is about to change. Can she break the curse and secure her own freedom before the clock strikes 15, time runs out and her chance is lost forever?

End – after you have pitched the book itself, let the reader know a little about yourself. Do you have any writing credentials or writing experience? Have you attended writing festivals or courses? Agents like to know you’re capable of producing more than one book, so it’s helpful to give a brief outline of other stories you’ve written or works in progress.

Choosing where to submit

• Research agents – who do they represent? What books do they like? Have you heard of their authors? Follow them on Twitter to see whether this could be the agent for you. Attend webinars or talks where agents are speaking if possible.
• Follow publishers on Twitter, read their blogs, ‘like’ their Facebook page – how well do they promote their authors? Which books do they love at the moment?
• Do the publishers / agents have similar books to yours on their list?
• Do they accept books for your targeted age range? Some don’t accept picture books, or rhyming texts, or fantasy, or young adult books. Always double-check before you submit.
• You can use books or magazines (e.g. Children’s Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook ) to research agents and publishers but always visit their websites for up to date information.
• READ SUBMISSON GUIDELINES – submitting without reading them may lead your story to be rejected.

The road to publication isn’t always easy but with a good submission and a perfect pitch, you stand a far better chance. So good luck and happy submitting!

Sample lette r

Top Secret Location

The Depths of My Imagination

Dear CAREFULLY RESEARCHED NAME INCLUDING PRONOUNS IF APPROPRIATE,

A witch’s curse. A hidden treasure. A wizard in fluffy slippers.

Welcome to The House At The Edge of Magic.

I hope this finds you well. I’m delighted to send you the synopsis and first three chapters of my novel, The House At The Edge of Magic. I heard you speak at a webinar run by SOMEONE where you expressed an interest in funny books and fantasy, so I thought my story might be of interest.

The House At The Edge of Magic is a 30,000-word comic fantasy adventure for middle-grade readers.  When orphan pickpocket Nine plucks a beautiful ornament from someone’s purse, she’s sure her bad luck is about to change. But when her treasure grows into an enormous house full of magic, mystery and ridiculous residents, she learns the house is under a terrible curse. If Nine can break the curse before time runs out, she will be given something in exchange. Something which she longs for with all her heart: freedom. But time is running out, and someone is watching her every move. The race is on.

With flavours of Dianne Wynne-Jones’ Howl’s Moving Castle and Alice in Wonderland , against a backdrop of Oliver Twist , this story has heart, humour and more than a sprinkling of mischief.

This is my first middle-grade book, but I have been writing picture books for several years, and recently attended a Writing Fantasy and Magic course by Amy Sparkes. I am currently working on a chapter book series about a pig-obsessed princess who lives in a sock, and a picture book about Maud the Carrot who decides to rule the world.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope you enjoy it!

Best wishes,

Amy Sparkes

www.amysparkes.co.uk

OPTIONAL FOOTER WITH CONTACT DETAILS

Phoebe Morgan

Author and Editor

My submission letter to my agent

I thought it might be helpful to share the original submission letter which I sent to my lovely agent, Camilla at Darley Anderson.

Now, please bear in mind I wrote this letter a couple of years ago, when I was young and fairly naive – but it did get me an agent, so I thought still worth sharing in case anyone out there finds it useful (although if I’m honest, it makes me cringe a bit now!)

After this letter, Camilla emailed me within 48 hours and asked to read the whole manuscript – we then did some intensive editing together, and she then made an offer of representation (at which I was delighted, of course).

I attached the letter to an email, along with a synopsis of my book (which gave away the ending – you need the full, summarised plot) and the first three chapters. I emailed Camilla directly, after seeing her manuscript wishlist on a website, having looked for agents who enjoyed the genre I thought I was writing. I don’t know why I call it literary in the letter, as it’s not really, its commercial, and the plot has changed a bit since I submitted it first – but this is the completely unedited letter that led to agent representation. This novel changed name to become The Doll House , but The Architect’s Daughters was it’s original name. It outlines a bit about me, a very basic plot including themes of the novel, and is (I hope…) polite and professional.

Dear Ms Wray,

I would like to submit to you a sample of my novel, ‘The Architect’s Daughters.’ This is a piece of literary fiction which tells the tale of how a mother’s loving lie kills her own daughter.

Thirteen years ago, the death of the famous London architect Richard Hawes left his two daughters reeling with grief. Now, as Ashley and Corinne Hawes navigate the pitfalls of adult life, they find that everything they held true about their parents and what it means to be honest is to be turned upside down. Battling with their own demons of infertility, errant teenagers and an odd dislike for their own mother, the sisters are fighting for the truth within a family that has never understood the term. The underlying themes of this novel are honesty, sisterhood and the illusion of reputation.

I am now working as an editorial assistant at Octopus Books, Hachette UK. Writing is the only thing that I find makes sense to me; I am prepared to work very hard (probably for my entire life!) in order to pursue a career in this field, and would be delighted to have the opportunity to work with you if you like my book. There is nothing quite like the fantastic feeling that comes with reading a really great story, and if even one person could enjoy my own it would be an honour. I am in the process of writing another novel (partly to stop myself frantically checking my emails for agent responses!) and have plans to continue writing for as long as possible.

I worked as a news reporter previous to my publishing role, and have had many news articles published in print and online. However, there is only so much one can write about potholes and 101-year-olds; I find writing fiction to be a little more satisfying! I have also completed a creative writing course at the University of Illinois which is where I really began writing seriously.

Thank you so much for your time, and I do hope to hear from you.

It’s not a perfect letter, by any means. But, it is properly spell-checked, and it does give a flavour of what the book is about. I tried to put a little bit of my personality into it too, which I think is always a plus, but it doesn’t ramble on for too long and it’s quite to the point. I had spent a lot of time on the first three chapters I sent to her, proofreading them multiple times, making sure that the beginning really did give a good insight into the book, and closing the third chapter at a point which I hoped would make an agent want to read on.

Every agent will be looking for different things at different times, but I think as a whole, the submission process can be a very daunting one for a new writer so any light I can shed on it from the author angle will hopefully be a tiny bit useful! I would advise keeping your covering letter relatively short – 3/4 short paragraphs maximum, as agents get a lot of submissions and no-one wants to read an essay. Make sure you outline your commitment to writing, explain your day job if you have one, and give a clear idea, very early on, of what your book is about. Agents sometimes use information from your covering letter to pitch you to editors, so be honest, don’t exaggerate anything too much, and above all, keep it professional – you’re essentially asking to go into business with your agent and sign a formal contract, so they need to know that you’re taking this whole writing thing seriously.

Writing cover letters and synopses can be really hard, because you don’t have pages and pages to play with and you need to be succinct, so give it a few goes, make sure you edit your letter as much as you can before sending, and don’t be disheartened if you don’t get an immediate response. I waited months to hear from some agents – Camilla was very quick but that isn’t always the case, so always keep positive and keep writing while you submit – it will help, I promise.

If you enjoyed reading this article, my debut novel is only 99p here if you wanted to check it out and make me a happy writer 🙂 Thank you for visiting my blog.

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Published by phoebemorganauthor

I am an author and editorial director, currently working on the HarperFiction crime and thriller team. My psychological thrillers,The Doll House, The Girl Next Door and The Babysitter are out now with HQ, an imprint of HarperCollins. My fourth, The Wild Girls, will publish in April 2021. My books have sold over 150,000 copies and been translated into nine languages. They are also on sale in the US and Canada. View all posts by phoebemorganauthor

3 thoughts on “ My submission letter to my agent ”

V. interesting! It’s funny to see how much the book changed in between this letter and coming out, too.

What’s up, every time i used to check website posts here early in the dawn, since i love to learn more and more.

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How to write the perfect letter to a literary agent

Posted 27 November 2020 by Rufus Purdy

Rufus Purdy, an editor and tutor on the forthcoming Write Here… Online novel-writing course , explains how to write the perfect submission letter to a literary agent.

I’ve heard a lot of writers moaning about literary agents. People say they’re lofty gatekeepers of the publishing industry, they’re only looking for authors who are already famous or who have at least 100,000 followers on social media, they’re not interested in new talent unless that person is writing a slightly different version of what’s sold by the shelfload over the past year, they make you wait for months before sending you a crushing, two-line rejection… And while there is a small element of truth to all those statements, most agents are very nice people, who do what they do because they adore great writing. I worked for the Curtis Brown literary agency for six years, and all my colleagues there were constantly on the lookout for great stories, told in a fresh and interesting way. And all were desperate to find talented new authors and get their work in front of as many readers as possible.

Your first point of contact with a literary agent will be the covering letter you send to them along with your synopsis and sample chapters. So what will agents be looking for in that letter? Well, a good covering letter should be short and it certainly shouldn’t go on for more than one page. And by a page, I mean a single page in Microsoft Word, with an easily readable, 12-point font (ideally Times or Times New Roman) and normal margins – not with lines stretched right out till they’re touching the edges of the paper. This letter should be written to a specific agent. Your aim in this letter is to make the agent you’re targeting feel as though you’ve singled them out above all others to represent your novel, so don’t use ‘Dear Sir’, Dear Madam’, ‘To whom it may concern’ or – worst of all – ‘Dear agent’. Using the agent’s first name is absolutely fine, but make sure you spell it correctly. Nothing screams sloppiness and a lack of attention to detail like getting someone’s name wrong in the opening line of a letter.

You want to grab the agent’s attention, so your first paragraph should deal with pitching your novel. You don’t need to go into great detail – you’ll also be submitting a synopsis, remember – but you do want the agent to be excited by the idea of the book you’re sending them. You should also let them know what genre your novel sits in (if it is, indeed, in a clearly defined genre) and what sort of books your novel would sit alongside in the bookshops. While you should avoid grandiose and ridiculous comparisons, you shouldn’t be afraid to liken it to work by other authors – especially if those are authors which that agent represents, or who are doing particularly well in the current book market. A sentence such as ‘this novel will appeal to readers who enjoy the books of Gillian Flynn and Erin Kelly’ tells the agent everything they need to know about your book’s place in the market, without you coming across as arrogant.

You should then introduce yourself to the agent and, if you can, tell them about why you chose to tell the story you’re sending them. If you’ve spent the past 15 years playing in midfield for Hartlepool and your novel is about the world of English lower-league football, then that’s something the agent should know. Flag up anything, too, that shows how seriously you take your writing. Mention any work you’ve had published, any prizes you’ve won and any writing courses you’ve taken. I would avoid talking about novels you’ve self-published, though, as, no matter how good those books were, self-publishing is – I’m afraid – no distinguisher of quality. Unless, of course, that self-published novel shifted thousands of copies and made the Amazon Kindle top 10. If you don’t feel as though you have anything to say in these areas – and the majority of authors approaching agents don’t – then just tell the agent something interesting about yourself. Try to pique their interest with a couple of memorable details – perhaps you grew up in a hippy commune, you won the Blue Peter Christmas card-designing competition when you were a child, you’re a keen falconer – so your letter stands out from the hundreds they receive each week. Don’t make jokes or go into self-deprecation though. This is you, formally introducing yourself as a potential client, and you want to come across as professional.

Then you need to talk about why you’ve chosen to target that particular agent. There’s a reason you’ve selected this person to write to, so tell them what it is about them that chimed with you. Is it that they represent your favourite author? Do they say in their online biography that they’re looking for books just like you’re sending them? Are they particularly dedicated to finding authors from a particular country or region? Did you like what they said about finding new talent in an interview you’ve read? Show the agent you genuinely want to be represented by them, but don’t be too crawling and obsequious about it. Just be polite and professional.

Finally, make sure you check the spelling and grammar in your letter, and any author names and titles of books you’ve mentioned. I’ve seen far too many covering letters in which the author hasn’t done this, and it just gives a really bad first impression.

Rufus Purdy is an editor and tutor on the Write Here… Online novel-writing course , which costs £99 for eight weeks and begins on 18 January. For more information, please visit writehereuk.com .

Mandie Hines Author

Poetry, Horror, Psychological Thrillers

Cover Letters for Literary Magazines

by Mandie Hines · April 13, 2017

Cover letters are the first impression a writer makes on an editor at a literary magazine. I’m going to tell you how to write one, so you don’t ruin your chances of getting published before the editor has a chance to read your work.

A cover letter to a literary magazine may be the simplest thing you can write, and yet writers often overcomplicate the process and make the wrong impression. I’m going to tell you a secret that will help tremendously when writing your cover letters. The cover letter serves a function, which is to give the editors the information they need at a glance. That’s it.

Cover letters are far different than query letters you write to a literary agent or publisher.  There’s no explanation of what the story is about, and there’s hardly anything, if anything, about you in the letter.

Let’s start with what information goes in a cover letter.

• Genre:  This lets the magazine know that you’re piece is in a genre that they publish. A horror magazine isn’t going to waste their time reading a romance, so this is a quick way for them to make sure you read their guidelines, are familiar with their publication, and are submitting a piece that they would print.
• Approximate length of piece: This let’s the editor know that the length of the piece falls within their guidelines. Round to the nearest hundred words, or if it’s poetry, you’ll put the number of lines. 
• If the piece is being submitted simultaneously with other publications:  Only put in a line for this if you plan to submit to other publications simultaneously. Again, pay attention to the magazine’s guidelines. There are several publications that do not allow simultaneous submissions. If you do not plan on submitting to other publications at the same time, omit this line.
• A short list of where your work has been published:  If you’ve been published in several publications, only list three (preferably within the same genre as the magazine where you’re currently submitting). If you have not been published, omit this line.
• A brief thank you:  Editors go through hundreds, if not thousands, of submissions every month. A thank you is always appreciated.
•   Contact information: This makes it easy for an editor to respond to your submission.

Before beginning your cover letter, do your research on the name of the editor(s) of the publication. It is important to address your cover letter to a person, and shows that you took the time to track down who would be reviewing the piece. Keep in mind, there are several magazines that have multiple departments, so select the correct editor.

Here’s an example of a cover letter.

Many magazines are now accepting submissions only online, so if you are sending your submission via email, start the email at “Dear” and the rest of the letter will be the same.

Now that you have the general idea of how to write a cover letter for a literary magazine, let me give you some tips about things NOT to include, along with some additional advice.

• Do not put “To Whom it May Concern:” because no one will be concerned if that is the salutation of your letter.
• When you put Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms. in your salutation, make sure that you have the correct gender. Many editors use their initials. If you absolutely cannot discover this information online, then drop the Mr. or Ms. and just put their full name.
• In the event that you cannot discover the editor, put “Dear Editor:” in place of a name.
• Check your letter for errors. Editors will notice them, and it will create a bad impression.
• Do not list every place your work has ever been published. Select three publications that may be relevant. If you want to make a point that your work has appeared in several publications, put something like “My work has previously appeared in . . . among others.”
• If you do not have any publication credits to list, don’t worry, but don’t point it out either.

A cover letter should be clean and simple. Many magazines separate the cover letter from the story, so your piece will be judged on the quality of the piece and whether it’s a good fit for the magazine. In other words, you don’t want your cover letter to leave an impression.

If you’re drafting your cover letter, you may find these posts useful:

Manuscript Formatting

The (Submission) Grinder

Best of luck with submitting your work!

Tell me your success stories with submitting to literary publications. Are there any lessons you learned about submitting, the hard way? Are there any struggles that you’ve had or are having with preparing a story for submission, or with submitting a story to a literary magazine?

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Tags: Cover letters Literary Magazines Poems Publishing Tip Query letters Short Stories Submissions Writing

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Following the instructions very carefully for Clarkesworld Magazine’s online submission process, my cover letter resulted in one substantive sentence, the salutations, and my contact info. That was all. If I’d added anything else, it would have violated their instructions. This was actually a relief. Ten or so years ago when I was submitting by paper, the process was much more painful. I LOVE ONLINE SUBMISSIONS.

Another good post.

Thank you, Kecia. The importance of following a literary magazine’s guidelines can’t be stressed enough. I love that almost all magazines have switched to online submissions. Some magazines no longer even require a cover letter, but most still allow one to be submitted whether it’s in an email or through providing a space to add it in their online submission form. I can’t believe how many literary magazines have switched over to either include an online version, or many have even switched to exclusively putting out an online version within the past five years. Thank you for reading and commenting. I enjoy our conversations. 🙂

I forgot to mention that Clarkesworld Magazine is one of the most challenging magazines to get published in. They’re currently listed as No. 6 of the Most Challenging magazines on Duotrope, and I’ve seen them in the top two before. They’re acceptance rate is 0.19 percent. You write amazing sci-fi pieces though, so I hope yours gets accepted. And if you do, after I scrape my jaw off the ground, I’ll probably be in awe of your forever. And if not, just know that you’re an incredibly talented writer. That was the first place I submitted “Alger’s Dimension,” but I should have known it wasn’t a good fit. My story is sci-fi/horror, but really soft on the sci-fi end.

I haven’t submitted yet, but researched them because of their reputation. I wanted to keep that quality of work as my goal as I write.

That’s one of the best approaches, Kecia. By reading a magazine you get a sense for more than the genre they publish, you also get the feel of the magazine and what type of stories they are most likely to accept. At some point, I would like to write a piece with a certain magazine in mind, as opposed to the way I’ve done it in the past where I write a story and then try to find a magazine that would make a good fit for the story.

This is great, thanks for writing this. I’ve been sending out mag subscriptions as a sort of mini-query (if that’s possible). Most of them end up looking something like you have prescribed, but I didn’t really have a formula for it yet. Now I do. thanks so much. Think I’m going to link this page on my “Resources” list, so don’t let your website go anywhere. 🙂

Haha Thank you so much. I’m am thrilled that you found this useful. And no worries, I plan on having this website around for a long time. 🙂

Some very good advice. I learned some of this during my Freelance Writing class with Penn Foster, so it was a nice rehash.

Thank you. It’s a great thing to have as a template, and takes the thinking out of that part of the submission process. I remember the first time I wrote a cover letter for a magazine, it was so nerve-wracking. I was afraid I would mess it up somehow. Now I have a cover letter template that I start with each time. It’s a good way to make sure you don’t inadvertently leave information in the letter that is specific to another publication or about another story.

You made some great points. Less is often more.

Thank you for stopping by and reading, Russell. And you’re right, less is often more.

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Acting Cover Letter

Cover letter maker.

The acting world is full of opportunities, but also full of competition. One way to make your mark and open doors is through a well-crafted acting cover letter . A carefully written cover letter can catch a casting director’s eye, showcase your uniqueness, and make you stand out from the crowd. Here’s everything you need to know about creating a stellar acting cover letter.

What is an Acting Cover Letter?

An acting cover letter is a personalized introduction that accompanies your resume or headshot. It’s your chance to express interest in a specific role or project, summarize your acting experience, and showcase your unique attributes and passion. Essentially, it’s a sales pitch for your talent. See Blank Cover Letter Examples

What is an example of an Acting Cover Letter?

Jane Smith 123 Main St. New York, NY 10001 Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email: [email protected]

May 15, 2023

John Doe ABC Productions 456 Hollywood Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90001

Dear Mr. Doe,

I am writing to apply for the role of Mary in “The New Play.” Having performed in various theater productions over the past three years, I believe my passion for storytelling, my diverse acting skills, and my dedication to my craft make me a perfect fit for this role.

In my recent role as Laura in “The Glass Play,” I was commended for my ability to connect with the character and bring authenticity to the performance. I am drawn to Mary’s complexity in “The New Play” and am eager to bring my unique interpretation to this character.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to audition and hopefully work with you on this exciting project.

Sincerely, Jane Smith

Size: 31 KB

Free Acting Cover Letters – Copy & Paste

Feel free to browse the good cover letter examples below for different roles and circumstances. Each cover letter is distinct, catering to various acting needs.

Acting Cover Letter Format

When writing an acting cover letter, it’s important to follow a professional format. Here’s an example:

[Your Name] [Address] [Phone Number] [Email]

[Recipient’s Name] [Company/Agency] [Address]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am reaching out to express my interest in the role of [Role Name] in [Production’s Name]. With a strong background in [Specific Acting Experience], I believe I can bring a unique perspective to this character.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with diverse directors, performers, and scriptwriters, enhancing my ability to adapt and create compelling performances. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and energy to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to discuss further how I can fit into this role.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name]

Size: 25 KB

New Actor Cover Letter Example

For actors new to the industry, a cover letter is a way to showcase your passion, potential, and willingness to learn. Here’s a sample:

Although new to the professional acting scene, I am excited to bring my fresh perspective, raw talent, and undying passion for performance to the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. My recent experience in community theater and acting workshops has honed my skills, and I am ready to take on the challenge of a professional role.

I am drawn to this character because [Reasons Related to the Character]. I believe I can bring an authentic and unique interpretation that resonates with audiences.

Thank you for considering me for this opportunity. I eagerly await the chance to audition and show you what I can bring to this role.

Size: 26 KB

Acting Cover Letter with No Experience Example

Entering the world of acting without experience doesn’t mean you lack potential. Here’s a cover letter with no experience that emphasizes other attributes:

While I may not have professional acting experience, my passion for the craft, my dedication to learning, and my natural ability to inhabit diverse characters make me a promising fit for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. My background in [Related Field] has allowed me to develop skills that directly translate to the acting world, such as [Specific Skills].

I am excited about the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to your production. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how I can fit into this role.

Size: 29 KB

Experienced Actor Cover Letter Example

As an experienced actor, your cover letter should reflect your portfolio, range, and how you align with the particular casting call. Here’s an example:

With over 10 years of experience in both film and theater, I am writing to express my interest in the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. My diverse portfolio includes roles such as [Past Roles], showcasing my ability to adapt, interpret, and bring characters to life.

I believe my extensive experience, professional approach, and artistic insight align perfectly with the needs of this character. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your production and bring [Character’s Name] to life.

Actor Cover Letter Example

If you’re an actor seeking a specific role, your cover letter should highlight your unique attributes, experiences, and alignment with the character. Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With my previous experience as [Previous Roles] and my unique approach to storytelling, I believe I can bring a fresh and compelling interpretation to this character.

Your production’s focus on [Specific Themes or Style] resonates with my own artistic vision, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills, creativity, and dedication to this project.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to audition and discuss how I can

contribute to this exciting project.

Actress Cover Letter Example

An actress can use her cover letter to emphasize her range, previous performances, and alignment with a particular role. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With my background in both film and theater, including roles such as [Previous Roles], I believe I have the versatility and artistic sensibility needed for this character.

Your production’s emphasis on [Specific Themes or Style] aligns with my passion for storytelling, and I am eager to bring my energy, creativity, and commitment to this role.

Acting Cover Letter for Agents Example

Seeking representation from an agent requires a clear expression of your marketability, portfolio, and alignment with the agent’s focus. Here’s a sample:

[Agent’s Name] [Agency’s Name] [Address]

Dear [Agent’s Name],

I am writing to seek representation from your esteemed agency. With a portfolio that includes roles in [Specific Productions], awards such as [Awards], and a dedication to continued growth, I believe my talents align with your agency’s focus on [Agency’s Specialization].

My unique approach to acting, my ability to connect with diverse audiences, and my commitment to professional development make me an exciting prospect for representation. I am eager to discuss how we can work together to further my career and contribute to your agency’s success.

Backstage Cover Letter Example

Working backstage requires technical skills, a commitment to the production process, and an understanding of the various roles. Here’s an example:

With a passion for the technical side of theater and an extensive background in [Specific Backstage Roles], I am excited to apply for the backstage position in your upcoming production of [Production’s Name].

My previous experiences include work on productions such as [Previous Productions], where I was responsible for [Specific Responsibilities]. I understand the importance of precision, collaboration, and creativity in the backstage environment.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your production’s success.

Acting Cover Letter to Casting Director Example

When addressing a casting director, it’s important to show understanding of the role, previous experiences, and eagerness to audition. Here’s a sample:

[Casting Director’s Name] [Production’s Name] [Address]

Dear [Casting Director’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. Having followed your casting work in [Previous Productions], I am excited about the opportunity to audition for a role in your current project.

My previous experiences include [Specific Roles], where I honed my skills and deepened my understanding of character development. I believe my approach to acting aligns with the needs of this character, and I am eager to bring my energy, creativity, and professionalism to this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to audition and discuss how I can contribute to your exciting project.

Sample Acting Cover Letter Example

A general cover letter can be tailored to different roles. Here’s an example:

[Recipient’s Name] [Production’s Name] [Address]

I’m writing to express my interest in auditioning for a role in your upcoming production, [Production’s Name]. With a diverse background in roles ranging from [Previous Roles], I believe I can bring depth, creativity, and passion to your project.

I am drawn to your production because of its focus on [Specific Themes or Style], and I’m eager to contribute my talents and energy to creating a memorable performance.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to audition.

Cover Letter for Acting Agent Example

When seeking representation from an acting agent, the cover letter should highlight your portfolio and what you can offer. Here’s an example:

I am seeking representation and believe that your agency’s reputation for nurturing talent aligns with my career goals. My portfolio includes roles such as [Specific Roles], and I have received accolades like [Awards or Recognition].

I am committed to further developing my craft and eager to explore new opportunities. I believe that together, we can achieve great success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how we can collaborate.

Acting Cover Letter for Male Actor Example

A cover letter for a male actor should emphasize relevant experience and suitability for a particular role. Here’s an example:

I’m writing to apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With my experience in roles such as [Previous Roles], I believe I can bring authenticity, depth, and dynamism to this character.

I appreciate your production’s commitment to [Specific Themes or Style], and I’m eager to contribute my skills to create a compelling performance.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to auditioning for this role.

Acting Cover Letter Female Actor Example

A cover letter for a female actor should highlight relevant experience and enthusiasm for a specific role. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With my experience in roles such as [Previous Roles], I am confident in my ability to bring depth, nuance, and creativity to this character.

Your production’s exploration of [Specific Themes or Style] resonates with me, and I look forward to contributing my talents to your project.

Acting Cover Letter for Child Actor Example

When applying on behalf of a child actor, the cover letter should highlight the child’s experience, suitability for the role, and parental consent. Here’s an example:

[Parent/Guardian Name] [Address] [Phone Number] [Email]

I am writing on behalf of my child, [Child’s Name], to apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With experience in roles such as [Previous Roles], [Child’s Name] has demonstrated talent, professionalism, and enthusiasm for acting.

I fully support [Child’s Name]’s interest in this role and believe that [he/she] can contribute positively to your production. Enclosed are the necessary permissions and documentation.

Thank you for considering [Child’s Name] for this opportunity. We look forward to the audition.

Sincerely, [Parent/Guardian Full Name]

First Time Acting Cover Letter Example

For someone new to acting, the cover letter should emphasize enthusiasm, transferable skills, and alignment with the role. Here’s an example:

While I may be new to professional acting, I am eager to pursue my passion and apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. My background in [Related Field or Hobby] has given me skills that I believe are transferable to acting, such as [Specific Skills].

I am drawn to your production’s focus on [Specific Themes or Style] and am committed to learning, growing, and contributing my energy to this exciting project.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to audition and learn from this experience.

Artist Cover Letter Example

When applying for a role that requires artistic skills in addition to acting, a cover letter should showcase both sets of talents. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name], which combines my passions for acting and [Specific Art Form]. With experience in both fields, including [Previous Roles and Artistic Achievements], I believe I can bring a unique perspective and creativity to this role.

Your production’s integration of art and storytelling resonates with me, and I am eager to contribute my diverse talents to your project.

Acting Cover Letter for Interview Example

When invited for an interview or audition, the cover letter should express gratitude and eagerness. Here’s an example:

Thank you for inviting me to audition for the role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. I am honored by the opportunity and eagerly look forward to demonstrating my skills and discussing how I can contribute to your project.

Your production’s emphasis on [Specific Themes or Style] aligns with my artistic vision

, and I am excited to explore this creative collaboration.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to meeting you on [Date of Audition/Interview].

Background Actor Cover Letter Example

Background actors play vital supporting roles, and a cover letter should emphasize willingness to contribute to the overall success of the production. Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for a background actor role in [Production’s Name]. With experience in [Previous Roles as a Background Actor], I understand the importance of this role in creating a believable and engaging setting.

I am committed to professionalism, punctuality, and contributing to the overall success of your production. Your focus on [Specific Themes or Style] resonates with me, and I’m eager to be part of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute.

Series Regular Cover Letter Example

When applying for a series regular role, the cover letter should highlight relevant experience, alignment with the character, and commitment to a long-term project. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the series regular role of [Character’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With experience in [Previous Long-term Roles], I understand the dedication and continuity required for this position.

Your series’ exploration of [Specific Themes or Style] aligns with my interests, and I believe I can bring depth, consistency, and creativity to this character over the long term.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to audition and discuss how I can fit into this exciting project.

Co-star/Day Player Cover Letter Example

Applying for a co-star or day player role requires highlighting adaptability and readiness to contribute to a specific scene or episode. Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for the co-star/day player role of [Character’s Name] in [Episode/Scene of Production’s Name]. With experience in [Previous Co-star/Day Player Roles], I am confident in my ability to adapt, collaborate, and deliver a strong performance.

Your production’s focus on [Specific Themes or Style] resonates with me, and I am eager to contribute my skills to this specific part of your project.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to audition and work with your team.

Body Double Cover Letter Example

A cover letter for a body double should emphasize physical resemblance, experience, and professionalism. Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for the body double role for [Character’s Name/Actor’s Name] in [Production’s Name]. With a physical resemblance and experience in [Previous Body Double Roles], I believe I can effectively contribute to creating seamless visuals for this character.

I am committed to professionalism, attention to detail, and working closely with the team to achieve the desired effects.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your production.

Stunt Double Cover Letter for Theater Example

When applying for a stunt double role in the theater, emphasize your relevant skills, experience, and commitment to safety. Here’s an example: [Your Name] [Address] [Phone Number] [Email]

[Recipient’s Name] [Theater’s Name] [Address]

I am excited to apply for the stunt double role for [Character’s Name/Actor’s Name] in [Theater Production’s Name]. With training in [Specific Stunt Skills] and experience in [Previous Stunt Roles], I believe I can execute the required stunts safely and convincingly.

I am committed to collaboration, safety protocols, and working closely with the director and actor to achieve the desired visual impact.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my skills to your production.

What Should a Cover Letter Say for Acting?

An acting cover letter should be tailored to the specific role and production. It must include your contact information, the recipient’s details, a formal greeting, an introduction, a body highlighting your qualifications and alignment with the role, a closing statement expressing gratitude, and a formal sign-off.

How Do You Write a Cover Letter for Acting?

1. Identify the Role and Production: Tailor your letter to the specific character, project, or agency. 2. Highlight Relevant Experience: Mention previous acting roles, training, or related experiences. 3. Express Alignment with the Role: Explain why you are drawn to the character or production’s themes. 4. Show Professionalism: Use a formal tone, clear language, and proper formatting. 5. Include Contact Information: Ensure that casting directors or agents can easily reach you. 6. Express Gratitude: Thank the recipient for considering your application. 7. Proofread: Check for grammar and spelling errors.

Tips for an Acting Cover Letter

When crafting an acting cover letter, consider these specific tips: 1. Do Your Research: Understand the production, director, and character. Tailor your letter to show that you’ve done your homework. 2. Be Concise but Detailed: Focus on what makes you a fit for this particular role. Mention specific skills or experiences that relate to the character or production. 3. Use a Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout. 4. Show Your Passion: Convey your enthusiasm for the role and the production’s themes or style. 5. Provide Accurate Contact Information: Make it easy for them to reach you. 6. Follow Submission Guidelines: If there are specific guidelines for submitting your cover letter, follow them precisely. 7. Proofread: Errors can make a poor impression; ensure your letter is free of typos and grammatical mistakes.

How Long Should an Acting Cover Letter Be?

An acting cover letter should typically be one page in length. It should be concise enough to read quickly but detailed enough to demonstrate your suitability and enthusiasm for the role. Always prioritize quality and relevance over quantity.

Crafting a thoughtful and targeted acting cover letter can make a significant difference in your pursuit of acting roles. From background actors to lead roles, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out and convey your passion and alignment with the character and production. Remember to tailor each cover letter to the specific role, show your understanding of the production, highlight your relevant experiences, and maintain a professional tone. By doing so, you increase your chances of capturing the attention of casting directors, producers, and agents.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company

Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.