After you've done some research on publishers your letter can read something like this: "I've noticed that Snapdragon Press has published many books that use humor to teach children social skills. Ask your local librarian if she has a copy. In addition, Publisher's Weekly puts out a special edition on upcoming children's books twice a year that lists books by publisher. Many publishers will also send a hard copy catalog upon request. Go to the company's website and look at what books they've released recently. However, even a little research on your part can do a lot to put yourself in an editor's good graces and save you from wasting your time. Why are you sending this manuscript to this particular publisher? The most obvious answers is that they are one of the few houses that still accept unsolicited submissions.When you're having so much fun cares who won? Even in the confusion of too many legs going in too many directions, Suzie Centipede and her friends manage to have a great time. Take another sentence or two to indicate the age group for which you are writing and to briefly describe your story: " Centipedes is a humorous story for the early grades that emphasizes the joy of participating in sports.The title of your story: " I would like to submit the enclosed picture book manuscript Centipedes Play Soccer for your consideration.".Your letter should include the following information: If you are writing to "Dear Editor" then go right into introducing your story.For instance, "We met at the recent SCBWI conference in New York after your presentation on Picture Book Humor and you said you would be interested in seeing my work." If you had any personal contact with the editor, it's a good idea to remind her of that. For instance, you may be asked to put the name of the conference on the outside of the envelope or receive a sticker designating the manuscript as one from a conference attendee. Follow any instructions you receive from the conference organizers regarding this. Editors who speak at conferences will sometimes invite attendees to submit directly to them, even if the publishing house does not normally accept unsolicited manuscripts. How do you get the name of an editor? Attending conferences is one way.Many publishers prefer that submissions be addressed to "Submissions Editor" or simply "Submissions." In that case your salutation will be "Dear Editor." (Again, you don't need to do this for email.) If your manuscript is unsolicited you may not have the name of a particular editor. and place the editor's name, the name of the publisher and address. Drop down two spaces after your contact info.Place the date and all your contact information in the upper left hand corner. If you are sending a hard copy, use the traditional format for a business letter. Some people prefer to place this below their signature. However, it is always a good idea to include a phone contact. Email will automatically include your return internet address and the date. As with any business letter, you should include your contact information.If you use the Marketplace double check the publisher's website, as the policy may have changed since the book's publication. The Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Marketplace is also a good source of information. You can usually find guidelines on the publisher's website. These guidelines will tell you whether to submit by email or snail mail, whether the publisher accepts simultaneous submissions or prefers to have the manuscript exclusively, and whether to included a self-addressed stamped envelope for reply. If you are submitting by snail mail your cover letter is on a separate sheet and included in the envelope with your manuscript.įirst, read any submission guidelines the publisher may have. If you are submitting electronically, your email will be your cover letter. The tone should be friendly but professional. A cover letter is essentially a business letter introducing your story and yourself to the editor. Your manuscript should always be accompanied by a short cover letter.
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