Hi all. I've read several times that when people are ready to submit a m.s. they have to send the first three chapters, a synopsis and a cover letter. I know what the first two are for but what information would you put in a cover letter? Is it just basic, name, age, interests etc? I've often wondered what the reason is for this. Thanks
Hi Elsie. The coverng letter is like the synopsis, follow the agent's guidelines and add as much guesswork as you can! From my research last year here are two agents' requirements:
"The covering letter should include an ‘elevator pitch’ and a few lines about yourself and your writing career to date. Be sure to mention if you have sent another novel to Zeno before."
From
"• Please write a one-line elevator pitch and up to three comparable books or authors you'd place your book alongside in your email
"• In the same way you would write a formal covering letter, please send a professional email introducing your book. Pitch your book in your email - write a compelling blurb to get us interested in the story and include information about yourself that is relevant to the work you are submitting."
From
Hope that helps! Search agents' websites under 'submission guidelines' for variations on the theme.
Steve