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How to Write a Query Letter for a Non-Fiction Book

How to Write a Query Letter for a Non-Fiction Book can be a daunting task, but it is a crucial step in getting your work published. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective query letter.

You’ve finished writing your non-fiction book, and you’re ready to take the next step: getting it published. But before you can secure a publishing deal, you’ll need to write a query letter that catches the attention of literary agents or publishers. A query letter is a one-page document that introduces your book to the literary agents or publishers and entices them to read it. Writing a query letter can be a challenging task, but with a few tips and tricks, you can create a letter that gets noticed.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective query letter for your non-fiction book. We will cover everything from formatting to content and provide you with tips to make your query letter stand out.

The Format of a Query Letter:

The format of a query letter is standard and should include the following components:

1. Your Contact Information: At the top of your query letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address.
2. The Agent or Publisher’s Contact Information: Below your contact information, include the name and address of the agent or publisher you are addressing.
3. The Salutation: Begin your query letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Agent/Publisher’s Last Name].”
4. The Opening Paragraph: The opening paragraph should be a brief introduction to yourself and your book. It should include the title of your book, the genre, and the word count.
5. The Body: The body of the query letter should be 2-3 paragraphs that summarize your book and highlight its unique features.
6. The Closing Paragraph: The closing paragraph should thank the agent or publisher for their time and consideration.
7. Your Signature: End your query letter with a formal sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards,” followed by your name.

Research the Agent or Publisher:

Before you start writing your query letter, research the literary agents or publishers you are submitting to. Make sure they represent or publish non-fiction books in your genre. Also, look for their submission guidelines and follow them closely. Agents and publishers receive numerous query letters, and failing to follow their guidelines can result in an automatic rejection.

Personalize the Query Letter:

A personalized query letter can go a long way in catching the attention of an agent or publisher. Mention why you are submitting your book to them specifically, and highlight any similarities between your book and the books they have represented or published in the past.

The Opening Paragraph:

The opening paragraph is your chance to make a good first impression. Start with a hook that grabs the agent or publisher’s attention. Briefly introduce yourself and your book, including the title, genre, and word count. Avoid starting with a rhetorical question or a general statement that does not relate to your book.

The Body of the Query Letter:

The body of the query letter should summarize your book and highlight its unique features. Use descriptive language to bring your book to life, but avoid giving away too much of the plot. Mention your target audience and why your book is different from other books in the same genre.

Sure, here are some additional tips to help you write an effective query letter for your non-fiction book:

1. Focus on the hook: Your query letter should begin with a strong hook that grabs the reader’s attention. Your hook should be concise, engaging, and relevant to your book.
2. Keep it short: Your query letter should be no longer than one page. Agents and publishers receive numerous query letters, so they don’t have the time or the patience to read lengthy letters.
3. Be professional: Your query letter should be written in a professional tone. Avoid using slang or casual language, and proofread your letter carefully for grammar and spelling errors.
4. Highlight your credentials: If you have any relevant credentials or experience that make you an expert in your field, be sure to mention them in your query letter. This can help to establish your credibility as an author.
5. Don’t oversell: While it’s important to highlight the strengths of your book, be careful not to oversell it. Stick to the facts and let the quality of your writing speak for itself.
6. Follow up: After you’ve sent your query letter, it’s okay to follow up with the agent or publisher if you haven’t heard back after a reasonable amount of time. However, don’t be pushy or aggressive in your follow-up.

By following these tips and putting in the time and effort to craft a compelling query letter, you can increase your chances of getting your non-fiction book published. Remember to always be professional, concise, and engaging in your writing. Good luck!

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