The Dutton Writers' Room

1. They demonstrate your professionalism--When you send us a query letter instead of a manuscript, we know you are paying attention and you can follow directions.  This demonstrates your willingness and ability to collaborate.
2. They are efficient--Reading a query letter takes less time than reading a manuscript—even a short manuscript.  This allows us to respond to you and other writers more quickly.  Make sure your query letter is no longer than one page.  It should introduce you and your idea, and indicate why you chose Dutton.
3. They tell us whether your idea is right for us—There are many reasons why your manuscript may not be a likely prospect for our list, e.g. it is too similar to something we already have, or it wouldn’t work in hardcover, which is the only format we publish at Dutton.
4. They reveal your writing skill—If you can communicate clearly in a letter, then chances are good that we will enjoy reading your manuscript.  (Here’s a hint:  Don’t ever use the phrase ““my fictional novel.”)  Don’t be afraid to reveal some personality, to make your letter stand out from the crowd.  Impress us with your wit and originality, just as you would if you were meeting us at a cocktail party.
5. They involve some research on your part—We look more favorably on writers who are familiar with other books we have published and have a sense of why their story would fit in with our list.
6. They require knowledge of formats and audience—Good query letters specify the length of your manuscript and your intended age group.  If you tell us that you’ve written a 125,000-word fantasy for 8 year olds, then we know you aren’t in touch with the realities of the market.
7. They give us the 30-second pitch—This is probably the most difficult--and the most important--part of your letter. A sales rep typically has about thirty seconds to interest a retailer in taking a book.  If you can’t summarize your story in a way that is both succinct and compelling (think TV Guide program description), then we won’t be able to either, and your book will never fly.
8. They provide selling handles—You need to specify the reasons a consumer would buy your book, e.g. “This lyrical and soothing bedtime book is guaranteed to wind toddlers down to sleep,” or “This funny school story will resonate with any kid who has ever hated doing his homework” or “I couldn’t find any other young adult novel that leaves the reader feeling upbeat about an overweight protagonist.”
9. They paint a picture of you—You should conclude your letter with a little information about yourself, e.g. your writing credits, credentials for writing about your chosen subject, and/or your inspiration for writing this particular story.
   

1. Illustrations—Unless you are a professionally-trained illustrator, don’t ruin your chances by including amateurish artwork or snapshots.
2. Marketing suggestions—Geez, we haven’t even read your manuscript yet!  Don’t put the cart before the horse.
3. Gifts—Sure, we like chocolate as much as any editor, but sending it along with your query smacks of desperation.  And keep those silk boxer shorts at home—they’re just creepy.
4. Reviews—It won’t help to tell us how much your kids, grandkids or students like     your story.  We need to judge it for ourselves.
5. Your manuscript—Duh!  See first paragraph.
   

Please type your letter and send it via snail mail, not e-mail.  If you want a response from us, don’t forget that self-addressed, stamped envelope.  We look forward to “meeting” you via your winning query letter.   

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