I like Helen's point about writing something even shorter and then possibly expanding it.
Try the elevator pitch method. Imagine you're in a lift with the agent and you have their undivided attention until you reach the top floor. How would you sell your piece/idea to them in that time?
These are very busy people so if they say 500 words, 200 words, or one page of A4, with a font of 12; don't send them more. You're less likely to get a read in the first place if you overshoot the target.
It may be telling granny how to suck eggs, but avoid superlatives and expletives. Don't say your story is 'amazing', 'wonderful', or anything someone might consider a bit off-colour. The piece should sell itself.
Finally, you may want to consider finding out who else they represent/publish, and check some of their work out. You may be able to say, 'In the same style as xxxxx, but with a female protagonist and set in the 19th century', or 'I am a great admirer of yyyyy but I would describe my work as somewhat darker'. Never criticise the stable of writers they already publish/represent.
These are great pointers, Paul. Comparing the work to that of others is also something that needs to be included and you provided great examples.
I like Helen's point about writing something even shorter and then possibly expanding it.
Try the elevator pitch method. Imagine you're in a lift with the agent and you have their undivided attention until you reach the top floor. How would you sell your piece/idea to them in that time?
These are very busy people so if they say 500 words, 200 words, or one page of A4, with a font of 12; don't send them more. You're less likely to get a read in the first place if you overshoot the target.
It may be telling granny how to suck eggs, but avoid superlatives and expletives. Don't say your story is 'amazing', 'wonderful', or anything someone might consider a bit off-colour. The piece should sell itself.
Finally, you may want to consider finding out who else they represent/publish, and check some of their work out. You may be able to say, 'In the same style as xxxxx, but with a female protagonist and set in the 19th century', or 'I am a great admirer of yyyyy but I would describe my work as somewhat darker'. Never criticise the stable of writers they already publish/represent.
Good luck and give us a little posting.
PabloJ.
500 words sounds about right. According to freelance editorial consultant Cressida Downing (who works with Writers and Artists) a synopsis should be:
1.One side – or at most two – of A4, single spaced
2.A complete plot summary (including twists, turns and the ending)
3. Easy to follow
4. Include all your main characters
There are several articles on this site that might help. Check out the following area:
https://www.writersandartists.co.uk/writers/preparing-for-submission/query-letter-and-synopsis