* NOTE: This workshop is for students who are working on or have completed a draft of a novel or nonfiction book.
“By sidestepping the common pitfalls—and adding strong selling points—you will make your query part of the elite group of ideas that is seriously considered for publication.. . . a query that couples a professional approach with a sound idea can easily launch your writing career—or build upon the successes you've already had."
Lisa Collier Cool, How to Write Irresistible Query Letters
Writing the Query Letter is designed for novelists and nonfiction book writers. The purpose of this online workshop is to build query-writing skills with slant, clarity and impact. You will acquire greater understanding of the importance of queries and cover letters, as well as learn how to showcase your novel’s or nonfiction book’s assets and qualities. This course was developed by a well-published writer whose queries and proposals have greatly contributed to her success.
This workshop will consist of four one-week sessions. Each session will include online lectures and associated textbook reading assignments, along with writing assignments specifically related to your novel or nonfiction book idea. You will submit these assignments to the instructor for private review at the end of each week of the session. In addition, work will be posted each session for group review and feedback. Throughout the workshop you will be able to participate in asynchronous lecture discussions and encouraged to take advantage of ongoing informal discussions and posted self-directed writing and creativity exercises. (0.8 CEUs)
| Workshop length: |
4 weeks |
| Textbook(s) to purchase: |
There is no textbook required for this course. |
| Course Developer: |
Kristen Johnson Ingram |
| Tuition: |
$150.00 |
Workshop Outline
Session One:
Writing Assignment:
Submit a brief (up to 250 words) description of your novel or book, a brief bio describing why you are the right author for this project (up to 100 words), and a list of up to three agents, publishers, or editors you feel are appropriate to submit the project to.
Session Two:
Finding the right market for your book; Slanting your queries for different venues
Writing Assignment:
Create up to three different “pitches” for it in 100 words or fewer each.
Session Three:
Writing Assignment:
Write the draft of a query letter (up to 250 words)
Session Four:
Writing Assignment:
Revise and polish your query letter (up to 250 words). Optional: Submit a second query letter (for the same project or a different one) for review.