Query letters are sent to literary agents and publishers after authors or writers have written a full-length novel (also known as a full-length prose narrative). At this stage of the publishing process, the author or writer approaches agents and / or publishers with the aid of a query letter to find a potential publisher for their book. Query letters are, typically, maximum one (1) to two (2) pages long and a crucial step in the publishing process.
In the publishing industry, a well-written query letter is almost as good as a well-written manuscript. The query letter is the vehicle with which an author or writer generates interest in the book they have written and, most importantly, shares information about their book. The purpose of sending a query letter to agents and / or publishers is to receive a written request to read a part or some chapters of the author or writer's new book. For the purposes of copyright protection, most publishers do not accept unsolicited submissions of complete manuscripts, and, similarly, publishers do not accept partial manuscripts for review without an accompanying letter from the copyright holder, i.e. the author or writer.
Below is an example of the content and structure of a standard query letter to guide Namibian authors. ***
Dear Nossob Press,
Purpose
I am writing to seek a publisher for my debut (or second, third, etc.) novel, “Sea Rescue”*, an 80,000 word adventure novel set along the Namibian coast.
Synopsis (also known as “hook”)
“Sea Rescue” follows the story of ....................(name of main character / protagonist), a ....................(occupation, short description of main character / protagonist), who ....................(a short description of the nature of the adventure). During their time at sea, ....................(main character / protagonist) almost drowns, but successfully rescues four crew members. Unfortunately, the boat is swept by strong currents past Sandwich Harbour and onto the barren beaches of the ancient Namib Naukluft.
Inspiration
I was inspired to write this book by recent events reported in the local (or international) media about a missing boat and crew members along the Skeleton Coast (or off the coast of Madagascar, or another relevant international event) and wondered how such a scenario would unfold along the equally harsh Naukluft. To better acquaint myself with the geography of the area, I visited the Namib Naukluft on multiple occasions and spoke at length to the Topnaar community and tour operators. Everyone I spoke to is mentioned in the acknowledgements section of my manuscript.
About
At 27 years of age, I have lived in four (4) regions of Namibia, thus far. I currently live in Karibib, Erongo Region, and teach art and music for grades 2 to 3 at ....................(official name of primary school / registered name of business / registered name of company). I write in my spare time and on weekends. Due to its necessity for my debut novel and proximity, I visit the Namibian coast as often as possible. My favourite sea adventure writers are Herman Melville (Moby Dick), Jules Verne (Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea), Jack London (Sea Wolf), and Danielle L. Jensen (Dark Shores).
Audience
As a lifelong reader of adventure fiction, I want to add this debut novel to the growing number of exciting adventure books and stories written about and in Namibia, such as the popular “Skeleton Coast” by Wilbur Smith and “An Empty Coast” by Tony Park. I believe my book will appeal to young and older adventure readers of all backgrounds, including readers fascinated by and fearful of the sea and our desert coastline.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
....................(full names of author / writer as on official Namibian documents)
***
The query letter requires that authors and writers present some of their best writing, meaning, flawless grammar and pristine spelling. Language mistakes in the publishing industry are costly because publishing and writing are, essentially, about the art of language. It goes without saying, therefore, that grammatical errors and spelling mistakes in a query letter are sufficient cause for rejection.
* fictitious title of a fictitious book
Should you require additional information or wish to send a query letter, kindly send or write to Anya at Nossob Press: nossobpress@gmail.com. Please take note that query letters are only accepted in written (typed) format, by letter attachment or e-mail, not by calling, discussion, via social media, and / or instant messaging platforms.
Thank you for your time.
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