Included in the Writers League of Texas (WLT) virtual agent symposium are three package-only presentations. I attended the first one last week.

Supplemental presentation 1: “Crafting a Query Letter” with Allison Hunter, Trellis Literary Management

Allison broke down the anatomy of a query letter, showed us examples, shared what worked and what didn’t, and delved into the importance of having good comps.

My 10 takeaways, plus a bonus:

1. A query letter should include three things: the hook(pitch), the book(plot synopsis), and the cook(bio).
2. The query should be no longer than a page.
3. Since the goal of the hook is to entice a reader, she recommends starting the query with the hook.
4. The hook is a one to two-line sales pitch for the book.
5. There are different formats for the hook, such as basing it on the plot, comps, or audience.
6. Allison likes it when you include a comp title that she represents.
7. You do not need to give away the ending or any big twists in the plot description.
8. Your bio should only be one paragraph. Share your writing accomplishments, relevant background that relates to your story, and a little bit about where you live or your hobbies. The goal is to help the agent get a good sense of who you are.
9. Beauty contest: When agents are competing for the same project.
10. Autofiction: Fictional stories that are similar or based on real life.

Bonus Mindblower: She may like a book, but she might still turn it down if she cannot position it or sell it. This is why having a really good hook is so important.

Interested in learning about the upcoming WLT 2025 Agent Symposium sessions?