Waking up at 5 AM, sitting next to a rapidly chilling cup of coffee while pumping out query letter after query letter, hoping that this one will be THE ONE.
Or, at the very least that you’ll actually hear SOMETHING….ANYTHING….
It’s a rite of passage for writers.
But does it have to be?
How can you ensure you have a higher request rate?
One way is by studying how literary agents review query letters & what they’re looking for.
Insights from Literary Agent Emmy Nordstrom Higdon
In a past interview, literary agent Emmy Nordstrom Higdon shared their perspective on how some agents navigate author submissions.
With an emphasis on personal connection, Emmy sheds light on the thought process behind the how and why of reviewing queries a certain way.
“Query First”
Emmy claims to be a “query-first person.”
But why?
Why does the query matter if the writing is great?
Emmy explains…
“And part of that is just because, you know, trial by fire as an agent over time, you learn how important it is to get to know the people who are writing the books.”
This emphasis on understanding the writer behind the words helps to ensure a genuine and lasting partnership between agent and author.
“Good Metadata”
Emmy emphasizes the importance of “good metadata” and the inclusion of compelling components such as
- compelling comps
- a captivating summary
- a glimpse into the author’s background.
So let’s think about it this way…
A query review by some agents entails a balance between creativity and clarity.
As writers, we need to have a clear focus on essential elements that encapsulate the heart of the manuscript…without going overboard.
This can be really hard!
We’re often trying to cram a lot into our query.
But maybe clarity should be the goal.
“Editorial Experience”
Emmy says…
“Ideally in a query letter is to know what people’s editorial experience is… because some people I’ve come in really hot with lots of feedback and they’ve been really overwhelmed.”
It seems like some agents (Emmy included) want a more holistic understanding of the individual behind the manuscript.
Are you a writer who takes your craft seriously?
Are you a career author?
Showing this through your query letter could help your chances of gaining agent interest.
