Kidlitchat Transcript – November 17 (part 1)

bonnieadamson: TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

kidlitchat: TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

gregpincus: TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

AERought: Hi, everyone. It’s my first time in, so I’ll be overwhelmed, I’m sure! #kidlitchat

onbeyondwords: After weeks of playing truant – I’m joining #kidlitchat

EngridE1: @gregpincus Drum roll……………………………………… #kidlitchat

CynthiaCWillis: RT @lyonmartin: My pub is looking for submissions for their 2012 and beyond list. http://bit.ly/3Y8UD4 (expand) Please RT! #kidlitchat

skodobah: All of the above. #kidlitchat

jeanie_w: RT @kidlitchat: TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

skodobah: Patience. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @princess2293 Tweetchat is a chat room to follow specific hashtags (like #kidlitchat). Easier than trying to follow chats w twitter directly

michellewitte: @lyonmartin Who is your pub? #kidlitchat

sjaejones: Lurking tonight. (Hi @RebeccAgent! It’s JJ.) #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: (and pls. let eds and agents know how we can help with this topic) #kidlitchat

sharifwrites: @bonnieadamson Synopses. I want to write so much more, but the idea is to condense and summarize. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: Oh good. With this topic, I’m sure I’ll end up causing more fears than allaying them… #kidlitchat

ninaberry: Biggest submission hurdle – overcoming feelings of rejection, maintaining belief in self and in quality of my work. #kidlitchat

skodobah: Perfecting the query – writing it over, and over, and over. Then having it ripped apart at Absolutewrite.com. #kidlitchat

carolgrannick: Biggest hurdle: synopses…How I get past: study, experiment, critique…and over again. #kidlitchat

gregpincus: @AERought You will, indeed, be overwhelmed. But don’t worry. Just jump in where you can #kidlitchat

heatherayris: @gregpincus Biggest submission hurdle: personalizing each letter. It takes a long time. Sometimes I wonder if it’s necessary. #kidlitchat

Shelltex: Biggest hurdle is finding agents who are open and rep what I write or pubs open to unagented. Overcome it with research – lots. #kidlitchat

PattyJMurphy: Like Thomas Jefferson once said, “The harder I work…the luckier I get.” #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: sorry i’m late, great topic! Hurdles include getting over dejection at rejection! #kidlitchat

jlpowers: My biggest hurdle is studying the publication to get a feeling for whether an article idea would be right for that pub. #kidlitchat

skutir: The biggest hurdle is discipline. Should be writing, not tweeting. #kidlitchat

skodobah: Synopsis = headache = Excedrin. #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: @elanaroth I’m thinking the same thing . . . . Please don’t fear me. #kidlitchat

CynthiaCWillis: Writing a synopsis is not my favorite thing to do, and yet it is a great exercise. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: For me I read synopses after loving query & sample for proof of plot w/ beginning, middle, and end Don’t fret too much bout em #kidlitchat

lyonmartin: @michellewitte Magical Child http://bit.ly/44EVMA (expand) #kidlitchat

skutir: Synopses are hard because it’s writing a summary of a book I haven’t read. #kidlitchat

elizaosborn: The synopsis is the easiest part for me. Making sure I follow query guidelines? Now that trips me up. Bad me. #kidlitchat

gregpincus: @RebeccAgent I think editors and agents can allay a lot of fears. For one – no one is rejecting PEOPLE. #kidlitchat

amyknichols: Three minutes late, but here. Hi everyone. #kidlitchat

michellewitte: Honestly, working both sides of the publishing fence (editor & writer), I’ve learned not to let anything stop me, even rejection #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: @bonnieadamson I just posted on my blog today about query tips and advice for new writers: http://bit.ly/1Anamq (expand) #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: Submission hurdles. Great topic! #Kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @shelltex research is key but don’t get so mired in it you don’t ACT/SUBMIT #kidlitchat

catesfolly: Which hook is the right hook in a query I find really tough. #kidlitchat

AERought: Are any publishers accepting picture books w/artowrk? How would I query that? #kidlitchat

elanaroth: I very very very rarely ever want a synopsis. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: Me: queries. Am NOT successfully hurdling. #kidlitchat

gregpincus: So, editors and agents, is personalizing each letter necessary? And to what degree? #kidlitchat

skutir: Rejections are just feedback. I don’t take them personally. #kidlitchat

SuePinto: Biggest hurdle is determining who is the best fit for my ms. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: Synopses are very tough to write, I far prefer the query. #kidlitchat

RileyCarney: The query – it’s very difficult to have a bio when you’re unpublished #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @gregpincus Yes! If you have my email address, then you have my name. Please address me specifically. #kidlitchat

michellewitte: When you see how books are acquired, you realize it isn’t personal, but what that publisher can sell at that time. #kidlitchat

jlpowers: I’ve always let my agent write the synopsis, but should start-writing synopsis helps when people ask, “What’s ur bk about?” #kidlitchat

EngridE1: How to write a dynamic query letter, that is what I find a challenge. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: I haven’t run into an agent or editor in awhile who wanted a synopsis. #kidlitchat

sjaejones: Synopses are usually useful for series books–to get a sense of where the overall plot is headed. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @gregpincus personalizing is good, but it’s most important to put your work’s best ft forward #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: I think reading synopses is one of my least favorite things. #kidlitchat

TheAsianAngel: Hurdle: Synopsis too detailed. Solution: Stick to the points that advance internal/external arc. Best friend’s probs go bye #kidlitchat

onbeyondwords: My hurdle – aside from a tendency to procrastinate – is delaying to make revisions – striving for perfection #kidlitchat

Idaho_Laurie: For queries & synopses: you need to be able to identify the heart of the story. Reading flap copy on other books is helpful, too #kidlitchat

skodobah: @lyonmartin Yes, waiting for replies. When… when…. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @jlpowers Wow, they do that? Agents write synopses? #kidlitchat

Livingbymypen: RTcheriwilliams Submission hurdles. Great topic! #kidlitchat

sharifwrites: @rillajaggia I’d just imagine I was writing the blurb of my book-to-be. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @EgmontUSA Good, because writing them is one of my least favorite #kidlitchat

sarahockler: RT @lyonmartin: Biggest hurdle 4 me – being patient waiting for replies <–that was mine, too. Hard to rem. agents are BUSY! #kidlitchat

Shelltex: A good basic hook outline: Story of __ who ___ until ___. Once you define char, trait or desire and inciting incident it helps. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @rillajaggia We write a lot of things #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @gregpincus it is nice to know writers are submitting to me for specific reason/know the books I’ve sold #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @rillajaggia well, yes, when they pitch an idea to an editor #kidlitchat

gwenhayes: @jlpowers Your agent writes your synos? If mine is lurking, I’ll have what she’s having. #kidlitchat

AnnaZiska: Do you feel like you’re reading the same queries? RT @gregpincus: So, editors & agents is personalizing each letter necessary? #kidlitchat

KellyDHouse: Exactly my problem > RT @RebeccAgent: @shelltex research is key but dont get so mired in it you dont ACT/SUBMIT #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @sharifwrites Blurbs are great. They’re a lot of fun to write! #kidlitchat

sarahockler: Synopsis is like a book report. Hate writing them! Have 2 do it to sell on partial. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @elanaroth Do tell! #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: Sad to say, @rillajaggia, you still have to write them. They have their uses. #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @rillajaggia but I’m thinking I should start doing it, too, just so I can have a glib reply when people ask me to describe books #kidlitchat

RileyCarney: Once you’re published the query is easier #kidlitchat

joeelynn13: i really want another good book to read once i am done with this one.any suggestion? i am a college student.and i love romance #kidlitchat

carolgrannick: @RileyCarney You have to start somewhere,can only be who you are.The writing is more important than bio, sending your best work. #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: Biggest querying hurdle: Time. I want to spend my time writing my next book! #Kidlitchat

elanaroth: @rillajaggia Pitches…summaries…et al. But I usually start with what an author gives me. #kidlitchat

michellewitte: It might be helpful if the agents/eds share ways to work through the hurdles writers have. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: But I only use a synopsis when selling on partial ms. And then the author writes the first draft, and I edit/rewrite. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @EgmontUSA I know, I do write those synopses and give them my all, but they still are the toughest part of the process. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @michellewitte That sounds like a very generic suggestion…specify? #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @jlpowers That’s what I have two line pitches for. Synopses are too long for most attention spans. #kidlitchat

happybluejess: Hi all! Knowing when a ms is ready to send is hard. Even after multiple passes through my crit group. #kidlitchat

carolgrannick: @cheriwilliams Good point. Same here! #kidlitchat

literaticat: I am here! What did I miss? #kidlitchat

sharifwrites: @cheriwilliams I know. I’d spend a lot of time nitpicking my query. #kidlitchat

skutir: @michellewitte I was going to tweet that — what can help w/hurdles? Can writers also share solutions? #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @gregpincus Loosely, yes I want to know why me. But I don’t need excessive praise of my client list…or my Twitter usage. #kidlitchat

AERought: Agnets/Editors With synopses, do you shy away from character POV written ones? #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: I couldn’t write a synopsis to save my life till I took a class with Mary Buckham, author of BREAK INTO FICTION #kidlitchat

Shelltex: @RebeccAgent I submit but don’t want to send something they don’t want or rep, etc. & I write mainly PBs so there’s that hurdle #kidlitchat

EngridE1: I’ve written copy for ads so I can be succinct in my synopsis. What to write in a Bio for an unpublished writer ?????? #kidlitchat

PatEsden: It’s easier for me if I write a basic synopsis before I write the story, then tweak it when I’m finished.#kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @jlpowers yes, the glib reply has to be the second most difficult partof the process, after the synopsis. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @joeelynn13 Yes! Try THE SEASON by @sarahmaclean #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @literaticat TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

_vickie_p: Biggest hurdle for me is knowing whether a query works or not. Is it bad, or the topic just doesn’t interest agent? #kidlitchat

RileyCarney: @carolgrannick I am published now, but that was my biggest hurdle before, that and my age #kidlitchat

gregpincus: @literaticat you missed EVERYTHING! #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @tehawesomersace totally agreed! but I have a TERRIBLE time creating those two-line pitches as well. #kidlitchat

Livingbymypen: RT Ditto! happybluejess Hi all! Knowing when a ms is ready to send is hard. Even after multiple passes through my crit group. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @happybluejess If you are happy with MS it’s ready to submit, but don’t think the revising is done so don’t burn out b4 submit #kidlitchat

Idaho_Laurie: I’m a character person all the way. Synopses are awful, but useful for mapping the logic (or lack thereof) in your plot. #kidlitchat

jeanie_w: I agree RT @happybluejess: Hi all! Knowing when a ms is ready to send is hard. Even after multiple passes through my crit group. #kidlitchat

skutir: Synopses are important when you’re trying to sell a book on proposal. Hard work but every hour on process probably saves five. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: To clarify – we’re talking about book synopsis – 3-10 page summary. Not flap copy or elevator pitch synopsis. #kidlitchat

carolgrannick: @skutir I read lots and lots of jacket flaps to help with synopsis-writing. #kidlitchat

dlschubert: Howdy, y’all! I’ve had a stellar week – got offered representation! #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: Then I sent the synopsis to my agent and she loved it – used it to create pre-submission buzz in NY #kidlitchat

mgbuehrlen: I think I’m just going to lurk tonight. #kidlitchat (via @_rachelsimon) << ditto. In bed icing back. Look forward to transcript.

KarenCollum: I often plan my books using The Snowflake Method which encourages being able to sum up story in 25 words. Great for synopsis. #kidlitchat

TheAsianAngel: Synopsis: who, what, when, where, why, how. Boy wizard at magic school when turns 11 so he can fight evil with learned skillz. #kidlitchat

ninaberry: Twitter won’t let me see #kidlitchat conversation and can’t dowload any other application to view it on work computer! Sorry, kidlitchatters

literaticat: Synopses are from the devil. #kidlitchat

gregpincus: @rileycarney I’m not sure that’s true that after you’re published the query is easier. Or more successful, for that matter! #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @jlpowers I do mine like movie trailer intros: in a world with only cookies, HE was the Muffin Man! #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @dlschubert CONGRATULATIONS! #kidlitchat

sarahockler: RT @dlschubert: Howdy, yall! Ive had a stellar week – got offered representation! <–CONGRATULATIONS! #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @dlschubert Congrats! That’s fantastic! Who? #kidlitchat

LaurelSnyder: What I hate about them is feeling wedded to them after the book sells on prop. #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: Synopses help you pin down what your story is, where the strengths and weaknesses are. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @skutir jack flap is more like fodder for query than synopsis #kidlitchat

SuePinto: @dlschubert Fantastic! Congrats! #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @sarahockler OK, sorry! Snowflake also teaches you to write 4 page summary of plot. I like that and it’s at least a skeleton… #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @mgbuehrlen Get well soon, you need to get that back back in action soon. #kidlitchat

michellewitte: @elanaroth The most common hurdles being listed are queries, synopses, & waiting. It’d help to get agents/eds perspective on it. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: What’s agent or editor view of movie-like loglines in queries? — My story is BLANK meets BLANK. #kidlitchat

skodobah: @literaticat AMEN!!!! #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @literaticat I know why writers feel that way, but you’re the first agent I’ve heard say so! #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: synopsis needs to focus on plot, not be elusive, give plot pts from beginning to end #kidlitchat

_rachelsimon: @dlschubert Congratulations!!!!!! #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: What’s the topic today? #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @tehawesomersace LOL. I’ll have to experiment…#kidlitchat

skutir: For me synopsis means a long narrative outline. Last one is 10 pages. #kidlitchat

EKokie: Synopsis was difficult, but it made me confront plot/structure weaknesses. Synopsis wouldn’t work b/c of issues in book. #kidlitchat

literaticat: @dlschubert Who by? Details, babe! #kidlitchat

amyknichols: @dlschubert Congratulations! #kidlitchat

TheAsianAngel: I keep synopsis to 1 or 2 pages. Can’t imagine anyone wants to read more than that. #kidlitchat

PattyJMurphy: RT@RebeccAgent @happybluejess If you’re happy with MS its ready to submit, but dont think the revising’s done<-It’s just begun:) #kidlitchat

WriterRoss: @bonnieadamson I thought you wrote “WithHoo?” not “Woohoo” <gg> #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @michellewitte Isn’t that what we’re already providing right now? #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @MargieGelb TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @KarenCollum I read about snowflake method but haven’t tried. Do u like it so far? #kidlitchat

lyonmartin: @literaticat we’re making plans to take over the world. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: RT @RebeccAgent: synopsis needs to focus on plot, not be elusive, give plot pts from beginning to end #kidlitchat

literaticat: @rj_anderson Well, I certainly don’t want to read them – that just as painful as they are to write, I am sure. #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @literaticat I completely agree with your idea of synopsis. I HATE writing them. HATE. What’s the point? #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: I start writing synopses by pinning down the five main plot points, the skeleton that the flesh of the story hangs on. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @catesfolly that’s fine as long as you also give a full pitch then summarize with its this meets that… #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: I’ve never had anyone request a synopsis… #kidlitchat

Livingbymypen: RTRebeccAgent synopsis needs to focus on plot, not be elusive, give plot pts from beginning to end #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @WriterRoss HooDoo? #kidlitchat

hatbooks: RT @gregpincus: TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: @catesfolly We find them helpful, esp. when we have to get sales people to first get a book. #kidlitchat

devinewriter: @literaticat Synopses are from the devil. I hate writing them. #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: RT @literaticat: Synopses are from the devil. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @RebeccAgent Do you want the entire end or is it OK to leave a teaser question even in a longer synopsis? #kidlitchat

AnnaZiska: Short lived today. Must pick up my dd from water polo. Maybe catch the end. #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @sarahockler Yeah, I do. Works for me. Start from one-line premise then build on it. A bit scientific for some but I like. #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: RT @EKokie: Synopsis was difficult, but it made me confront plot/structure weaknesses. It wouldnt work b/c of issues in book. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: …but make sure its this meets that is spot on and not what everyone would say (it’s Twilight meets Shiver isn’t helpful) #kidlitchat

RileyCarney: @gregpincus You’re right about that – maybe just the bio part of the query is less difficult! #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: @dlschubert Congrats on the repersentation! #Kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: RT @sarahockler: RT @dlschubert: Howdy, yall! Ive had a stellar week – got offered representation! <–CONGRATULATIONS! #kidlitchat

Shelltex: @dlschubert CONGRATULATIONS! #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: I’m really bad at evaluating a book from a synopsis, unless I can tell there’s way too much plot or no plot. I like a sample #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @BonnieAdamson Thanks! #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: @KarenCollum I’m writing a five book series and agent asked for synopses for all five. So she can see where the story is going. #kidlitchat

dlschubert: RE: Agent offer – Thanks, everyone! #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: @catesfolly, but I’d still want a fuller sense of the story in your query. #kidlitchat

mitaliperkins: RT @gregpincus #kidlitchat TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves … getting over your biggest submission hurdles.

Georgia_McBride: RT @RebeccAgent: synopsis needs to focus on plot, not be elusive, give plot pts from beginning to end #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @dlschubert Doing a happy dance for you! Congrats!! #kidlitchat

literaticat: @MargieGelb aren’t you lucky that your agent feels the same way. #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @Scribblerati Could be really useful tool for you then. Worth looking into… #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: I have never refused representation because a client didn’t write a good enough synopsis… #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @EgmontGal With only a sample, aren’t you assuming that the story’s as good as the writing? Or is that all that matters? #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: @Georgia_McBride All hail to Georgia, my boss at #YAlitchat! #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: …though it can lead to questions for prospective clients whose queries and samples I love #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: @KarenCollum Randy Ingermanson just released Snowflake software to help writers plot their books! #Kidlitchat

hatbooks: Try to write a 5-sentence synopsis to distill your book; this helps with writing the longer synopsis. And with revising. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: I like a “hook” in a query or agent’s cover letter. Who is your book for? How can I pitch it? Then I want chapters. Just FYI #kidlitchat

EKokie: I also think a hurdle can be lack of confidence=inability to sift through & weigh opinions. Not all advice/crits/opinions equal. #kidlitchat

johnbolson: Randy, my coauthor, just released a snowflake program that takes writers through the process and auto-produces a proposal. #kidlitchat

TheAsianAngel: Synopsis is good for hashing out plotline. I’m not a huge fan but it gives me clarity. #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: RT @EgmontUSA: @catesfolly We find them helpful, esp. when we have to get sales people to first get a book. #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: My experience is that query, synopsis and sample all come back to how well you can present your own ‘voice’ through that medium #kidlitchat

KellyDHouse: @KarenCollum Heard of the Snowflake method. Where do I find out more about it? #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @rillajaggia No, the story matters! But I can’t get interested from just a synopses, have to see what the writing is like. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: @EgmontUSA How much do you like theme addressed in query, beyond the hook and high plot points? #kidlitchat

cupcakeandy: RT @literaticat: Synopses are from the devil. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: Is @sarahshum here tonight? She has a great checklist. Daunting, but good info on what author needs to know. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: I would only buy on sample chapters if I knew the writer and he/she had done great plotting before and I was confident. #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: That’s a relief! RT @RebeccAgent: I have never refused representation because a client didnt write a good enough synopsis… #kidlitchat

YolaRamunno: #kidlitchat I have received rej and wonder if it is my writing or the story. I have had my ms critiqued tons before even submitting.

jlpowers: @Scribblerati There’s a #YAlitchat????? WHEN???? #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @ekokie don’t take all feedback. Take feedback that resonates and feedback that you hear often from diff sources #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @literaticat Yo. What’s everyone talking about this evening? #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @KellyDHouse Snowflake is from Randy Ingermanson: http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com I think… #kidlitchat

gregpincus: I have an idea – let’s decide, as a group, that synopses are banned moving forward! #kidlitchat

PattyJMurphy: RT@EgmontGal:I like a “hook” in a query or agents cover letter. Whos’s your book for? How can I pitch it?Then I want chapters. #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @cheriwilliams I just bought that Snowflake software! Can’t wait to try it out. #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: @dlschubert CONGRATULATIONS. Well deserved. #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: RT @johnbolson: Randy, my coauthor, just released a program to take writers through the process & auto-produces a proposal. #Kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @literaticat Yes! Thank you! My editor likes them, though. :-p But length varies, no? Could long summary pass for synopses? #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @ColleenLindsay TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: RT @gregpincus: I have an idea – lets decide, as a group, that synopses are banned moving forward! #kidlitchat

hatbooks: RT @EgmontGal: I like a hook; in a query or agent’s cover letter. Who is your book for? How can I pitch it? Then.. chapters. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: Amen to that RT @RebeccAgent: I have never refused representation because a client didnt write a good enough synopsis… #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: How do folks do synopses? I summarize each chapter in one or two sentences, and then smooth from there… #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: RT @RebeccAgent: I have never refused representation because a client didn’t write a good enough synopsis… #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: I will admit: I often don’t read the synopsis. I read the chapters first and ask other Egmontians their thought on synopsis. #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @mitaliperkins So YOU are the infamous toilet querier! LOL. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @gregpincus I’m with you, fearless leader!–>>let’s ban synopses! #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: @jlpowers #YAlitchat is amazing. @Georgia_McBride hosts it on Wednesdays at 6 pm PST #kidlitchat

AERought: IF you have to write a synopsis, I found here guide very helpful: http://www.mycoolwell.com/subscribe/subscribe.html #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @bonnieadamson Thanks! #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: As far as my biggest submission hurdle – early on it was understanding how the industry worked. Protocols etc. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @rj_anderson Snowflake AND Scrivener? You’re hardcore this week! #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: Writing queries I actually like. Does that make me weird? #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: Because I’m really really bad at imagining the book from the synopsis. It does tell me if they book has a plot, though. #kidlitchat

LaurenBarnholdt: Used 2 not query agents who required synopsis — now have to write them for proposals, wish i had confronted the fear earlier #kidlitchat

brianklems: RT @RebeccAgent: I have never refused representation because a client didn’t write a good enough synopsis… #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: @catesfolly @EgmontGal breaks it down well: I like a “hook”+Who is your book for? How can I pitch it?+Where it fits in market. #kidlitchat

happybluejess: Yes! That is me. RT @EKokie I also think a hurdle can be lack of confidence=inability to sift through & weigh opinions. #kidlitchat

onbeyondwords: With my journalism & PR background I’m less worried about writing a compelling query, more concerned about submitting a great ms #kidlitchat

gregpincus: RT@EgmontGal:I like a “hook” in a query or agents cover letter. Whos’s your book for? How can I pitch it?Then I want chapters. #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: Now I’m getting the hang of protocol, it’s researching to make sure I fit the agent/publisher and being able to demonstrate that #kidlitchat

Shelltex: Synopses are hard for me because once I get going I want to put in too much. 2 eds at conf this wknd said they want them. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @mitaliperkins is not the only toliet querier all faculty at conferences have experienced at least 1 #kidlitchat

lyonmartin: sounds like writing a synopsis for a PB would end up being longer then the book itself. maybe that’s why I don’t do them? #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @sarahockler I’ve used Snowflake before. It’s Scrivener that I’m still figuring out! #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: RT @EgmontGal: I like a “hook” in a query or agent’s cover letter. Who is book for? How can I pitch it? Then chapters. FYI #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @Scribblerati I’ll check it out tomorrow night if possible. #kidlitchat

sjaejones: @sarahockler @rj_anderson Scrivener is sort of the best writing tool in existence. #kidlitchat

WriterRoss: @PattyJMurphy @EgmontGal So is the hook the plot in a line or two? Should that hook work for both editor AND reader? #kidlitchat

mgbuehrlen: @skodobah Come share my lurking corner, it’s nice and dark. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: I don’t always read the synopsis but I always request one. It shows me that the writer has control over his/her story. #kidlitchat

EKokie: Agreed. A lot of writers struggle w/it @RebeccAgent don’t take all feedback. Take fdbck that resonates & heard from diff sources #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: RT @rj_anderson: @cheriwilliams I just bought that Snowflake software! Cant wait to try it out. <-It looks so great! #Kidlitchat

elanaroth: If there’s a hook to your story, I should be able to find it and state it in 10 words tops. That’s what I want in a query. #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @Scribblerati p.s. thanks for the info #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: Here’s advice from Nathan Bransford — http://blog.nathanbransford.com/2007/08/how-to-write-synopsis.html #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: Personally, I need to see the writing, but I wnat to know where your story’s going. I need a synopsis + the sample. #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @BonnieAdamson Good. That I can handle. Just the chapter by chapter stuff kills me! #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: Hint:our sales dept DEMANDS we say competitive, similar titles. If you have reasonable ones to mention in your cover letter a + #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @lyonmartin do not write synopsis for PB! include complete MS #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: I’m wary of coming across too flippant in query–end up being way too formal. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @WriterRoss The hook needs to work for the agent, too. #kidlitchat

gregpincus: Yes! RT @RebeccAgent: don’t take all feedback. Take feedback that resonates and feedback that you hear often from diff sources #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: @johnbolson Do you have the link to the Snowflake software? #Kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @MargieGelb Nope! I used to write the query before I wrote the book, at least in my mind… #kidlitchat

catesfolly: Agents and editors want to say anything about being queried by Twitter? Massive no-no or not necessarily? A new genre of query? #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @Scribblerati Wow! Amazing story. Your writing must have really impressed. #kidlitchat

YolaRamunno: #kidlitchat I am the type that wants to know how I can improve so I can become the best that I could be. Query rej leave me with questions.

aecbks: RT @RebeccAgent: @lyonmartin do not write synopsis for PB! include complete MS #kidlitchat

dlschubert: Again, thanks everyone! Writing a synopsis & query helps you communicate your story, which isn’t always as easy as it seems. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: AAck! 10 words?!? RT @elanaroth: If theres a hook to your story, I should be able to find it and state it in 10 words tops. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: Yes, exactly! –> RT @elanaroth If there’s a hook to your story, I should be able to find it and state it in 10 words tops. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @bonnieadamson striking a balance is definitely important #kidlitchat

cheriwilliams: RT @rj_anderson: @mitaliperkins So YOU are the infamous toilet querier! LOL. <-Toilet querier? What did I miss!?! #Kidlitchat

elanaroth: @catesfolly NO TWITTER QUERIES. EVER. #kidlitchat

jlpowers: @Scribblerati Prob kind of rare. My agent did take me on for an anthology idea in process, however, so maybe not so rare… #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @catesfolly Gosh, how would you go about querying on Twitter? Your synopsis must be REALLY concise. #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @teribrownwrites I used to freelance for mags too. I guess that’s why I like them too. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @catesfolly Don’t query me by Twitter. I’ll block you. That’s not what Twitter is for. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: DO NOT QUERY BY TWITTER OR FACEBOOK EVER #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @catesfolly You’d have to be *tres* awesome to do it in 140 characters. #kidlitchat

onbeyondwords: @MargieGelb – not weird – I don’t mind writing queries either – it’s actually formulaic #kidlitchat

literaticat: I can give tips on effective pitching / querying. I think people get in their own way a lot. #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: W/ @elanaroth That hook is SO important. If you can’t come up with a pithy description, there may be a problem. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: RT @EgmontGal: sales dept DEMANDS we say competitive, similar titles. If you have reasonable ones to mention in your letter a + #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @bonnieadamson 10 words. I mean it. Don’t want the whole plot. Just the hook. The “What if.” #kidlitchat

WriterRoss: @ColleenLindsay Did I leave out agent in the trio of people we need to sell our work to? Yes.I.Did. so…Editor, Agent, Reader. #kidlitchat

teribrownwrites: @tehawesomersace I find it helpful to start out with a query. Helps cement the plot in my mind.#kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: @gregpincus I personally refuse to query anyone who requires it or paper submissions! #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @elanaroth So, I’ve got this manuscript and I was wondering… JUST KIDDING!!! #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @elanaroth No twitter queries? Not even in 10 words? #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @elanaroth @katesfolly I don’t really like getting facebook queries either! It’s easy to find me at work. #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @_rachelsimon Um, don’t want to write them, but would be happy to critique yours. #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @cheriwilliams Check Mitali’s tweet where she admits to having queried @chavelaque in the ladies’ room before she knew better. #kidlitchat

KellyDHouse: I avoid the software for fear it will take my precious moments away from writing. Maybe I should reconsider. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: Do you know if there’s industry agreement re: this issue? RT @elanaroth: @catesfolly NO TWITTER QUERIES. EVER. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @tehawesomersace Actually you should be able to do it in 140 characters. That’s a great test. #kidlitchat

Livingbymypen: Wow! RTScribblerati When my agent took me on I had no idea what my story was. She waited for me to find it #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: @KarenCollum I truly feel blessed. Agent is @literaticat‘s colleague. Great agency. #kidlitchat

peg366: @dorothiar Do it on tweetdeck for now. Use Tweetchat for the next one. It is easier . go up to the magnfying glass.Type in #kidlitchat.

cheriwilliams: @gregpincus Don’t hate me–I *like* synopses. They help me make sure I’m on track. #Kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @literaticat “People get in their own way” — I like that — elaborate? #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @EgmontGal I get Facebook queries, too. I block those people as well. #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @teribrownwrites Me too, like writing the back copy in your mind. #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @elanaroth I’ve heard it called ‘The Elevator Pitch’ – you need to be able to say it in 25 words or less in case an agent asks #kidlitchat

KarlaErikaCal: I have a multiple POV novel. I was told to write the query in only 1 POV. Do I mention the multiple POV elsewhere? #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @catesfolly YES this is the stance of everyone I know in the industry #kidlitchat

skutir: Twitter queries may be verboten but sound like funny experiment, esp. if they include a bio. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @elanaroth Good lord. I was struggling with 20. Sigh. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @catesfolly well I don’t know an agent or editor who wants to be queried on twitter. but if someones says ok, then go for it #kidlitchat

amyknichols: @Livingbymypen How does that work? Getting an agent without knowing your story or having written it yet? #kidlitchat

elanaroth: A test to all: sum up your plot in a single Tweet. Then you know you have something. (Not here, just…sometime.) #kidlitchat

cvaldezmiller: @EgmontGal I hope there are more like you. It’s hard to do justice to a complicated YA para w/ a short synopsis #kidlitchat

cvaldezmiller: @EgmontGal I hope there are more like you. It’s hard to do justice to a complicated YA para w/ a short synopsis #kidlitchat

michellewitte: @catesfolly It’s impolite and unprofessional to query someone on a social networking site. It’s a business standard, if anything #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: Me too!!! RT @cheriwilliams: @gregpincus Dont hate me–I *like* synopses. They help me make sure Im on track. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @catesfolly As far as I know, no agent wants Twitter queries. Just don’t do it. #kidlitchat

Buffyandrews: Thoughts on queries by snail mail? #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @ColleenLindsay I’m nicer than you! IF queried on facebook i say “please write me at work” #kidlitchat

WriterRoss: @KarenCollum Unless you are coming down from a very high floor.. Then make it 35. <g> #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @karlaerikacal I would write the query in 3rd person. Your voice/voice of the author not a character #kidlitchat

JoTreggiari: RT @dlschubert: RE: Agent offer – Thanks, everyone! #kidlitchat yay!

elanaroth: @catesfolly I can’t tell if you’re kidding… #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @bonnieadamson My one-line summary of my debut (written by my agent) is 18 words. I think under 20 is okay. #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: Great advice. RT @elanaroth: A test to all: sum up your plot in a single Tweet. Then you know you have something. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @elanaroth hah! I think I would give 2 sentences for a pitch, ok if all of 180 characters. #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: @EgmontGal I agree. For my series package I had to write synopses for all 4 books. I was amazed to see it all come together. #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @elanaroth Hmmm…that might be a fun contest if an agent were so inclined… #kidlitchat

andreacremer: ack late to #kidlitchat what’s tonight’s topic

literaticat: @rj_anderson By “people get in their own way” I mean, people overthink things and set themselves up to fail. #kidlitchat

literaticat: @rj_anderson By “people get in their own way” I mean, people overthink things and set themselves up to fail. #kidlitchat

sjaejones: @Buffyandrews Some agents/editors do snail mail, but most of us prefer email. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @KarlaErikaCal Multiple POV YA is damned hard to do well. #kidlitchat

gregpincus: @CheriWilliams @Scribblerati But an outline is what keeps you on track. a synopsis is summarizing the work afterwards, yes? #kidlitchat

JessieHarrell: sorry to lurk & run; really interesting chat tonight. will look for transcript in am. g’night #kidlitchat

KarenCollum: @WriterRoss LOL #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @elanaroth <– *opens can of query worms* #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: Somebody did Twitter queries as a special “event”–was it Bookends? #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @KarlaErikaCal Writing query in mult. POVs would be hard. Why not just say the plot in query and say it’s told from mult. POVs? #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @cvaldezmiller Well, publishers rely on agents to do 1st screening. we trust there’s a decent book if they are sending it. #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @buffyandrews for me method of query should be decided by writer. It’s what’s best for you (email or snail) #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @EgmontGal I make sure I can pitch every book in a sentence. Comes in handy in a pinch. #kidlitchat

sharifwrites: @RebeccAgent Also in present tense (got that tip elsewhere). #kidlitchat

MandyHubbard: unless an agent does a twitter query “game” I can’t imagine anyone whose worth repping would think its ok to pitch via twitter! #kidlitchat

PegPhifer: @JohnBOlson – and I just ordered/downloaded it. Can’t wait to see how it works! #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @sarahockler Ha, seriously. I must be more tired than I thought. #kidlitchat

michellewitte: @bonnieadamson Yeah, that was a few months ago. #kidlitchat

Buffyandrews: @sjaejones I don’t get why everyone doesn’t do e-mail. #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: If you get the chance to submit pages for review by an agent/editor at a workshop you can bypass the query letter hell. #kidlitchat

_rachelsimon: Sounds weird to me to pitch/query on Twitter. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @gregpincus I’ve written syn first, then used it as outline to write book, tweaking as needed. #kidlitchat

catesfolly: @elanaroth No I wasn’t kidding. I’m not an editor but I can imagine wanting people in your seat wanting to keep it REALLY short. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @elanaroth We find that our “books with a hook” are getting good response. Candor, Dark Divine, Scones and Sensibility. #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @literaticat This is true. I think unpubbed authors are often scared/overawed of agents and editors & so try way too hard. #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @Buffyandrews Agents accepting e-mail queries made me super happy! Didn’t like doing them via snail mail AT ALL. #kidlitchat

literaticat: @catesfolly Do you think there are agents who DO want twitterqs? I might ask what yr book is, but that’s diff. #kidlitchat

tehawesomersace: @bonnieadamson I think so, back in May, maybe? #kidlitchat

amyknichols: @_rachelsimon Tacky, too. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @elanaroth Well if u get any pitches via Twitter tomorrow, you must RT them! #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @michellewitte Well, and not a regular thing, obviously–but a fun exercise. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @catesfolly But Twitter is informal. So it’s a bit inappropriate. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @_rachelsimon sounds gauche to me to pitch/query on twitter. much professional advice available on when and where to pitch #kidlitchat

johnbolson: I always write the synopsis before writing the book — it’s a lot easier to keep it short that way. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @EgmontGal Yes, I’m evil. =) But I used to get 700 queries a week before I closed. #kidlitchat

_rachelsimon: @EgmontGal @EgmontUSA @BreeDespain I am on ch4 of TDD. Love it so far! Great job, you guys. #kidlitchat

YolaRamunno: I’d pitch something on twitter. It would be challenging but I would go for it. #kidlitchat

michellewitte: @Buffyandrews Some agents have said they do snail mail to weed out the wackos who enter tons of emails and hit send. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @EgmontGal Must be why I’ve sold a you a few books #kidlitchat

skutir: I’m on to jump my biggest hurdle, “getting off twitter/fb and working on ms.” G’night all. #kidlitchat

Buffyandrews: @MargieGelb Agree on e-mail queries. So much more efficient. #kidlitchat

RileyCarney: @EgmontGal What kind of “hook” – doesn’t that often come off gimmicky? #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @skutir twitter queries a funny experiment to you, maybe. To us? Possibly a nightmare! #kidlitchat

lyonmartin: I write an “elevator pitch” in my query letters. TY RT @RebeccAgent: do not write synopsis for PB! include complete MS #kidlitchat

fullofstars: @BonnieAdamson I’m pretty sure it was @colleenlindsay Why do I remember this? Vampire little league. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @mitaliperkins You didn’t really pitch someone in the bathroom, did you??? *is horrified* #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @mitaliperkins You didn’t really pitch someone in the bathroom, did you??? *is horrified* #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @skutir You’re an example for us all! Good luck! #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @_rachelsimon thank you! Please spread the word. Bang the drum. We love Dark Divine. It is one fine book. #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: Hell, yes! Wings to your fingers! RT @skutir: Im on to jump my biggest hurdle, “getting off twitter/fb and working on ms.” #kidlitchat

MissusM: I send the agent whatever they want however they want it. If they want me to write it on a cake and mail it, so be it. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @RileyCarney No, not a gimmick. A book where people can get what it’s about easily. Easy to pitch, to get a handle on #kidlitchat

literaticat: 1) When I’m composing a pitch, I’m going for about the length and tone of book jacket copy. #kidlitchat

skutir: @EgmontGal I didn’t mean anyone would actually send them, just share among selves. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @fullofstars Yes, that was a Twitter query contest I ran. There were some damned good ones, too! #kidlitchat

catesfolly: @elanaroth Yes I hear you. Just interested b/c the etiquette about Twitter is in flux I think. #kidlitchat

DDHearn: Hi, all. I’m late to the party. Is it about the proper way to query agents? #kidlitchat

nikiburnham: I’ve never mentioned POV in a query. #kidlitchat

MandyHubbard: I’ve been reading slush, & gotta say, the really gimmicky queries just annoy me. QUERY LETTERS WORK. Stop reinventing the wheel! #kidlitchat

jlpowers: Glad I was able to dip in for awhile and now I have to bow out again. See ya’ll next week…#kidlitchat

literaticat: 2) I am NOT trying give a summary or synopsis of the book, or telling every single thing that has ever happened in MCs life. #kidlitchat

AuthorTaraKelly: Summations are NOT my friend. #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: What about coming of age books? No high-concept hook . . . #kidlitchat

gregpincus: @sarahockler A synopsis, to me, implies a summary of what’s done. So you could synopsize your outline, I guess. Anyway, I get ya #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @RileyCarney A hook is “Emma meets Anne of Green Gables” or “New Moon meets New Testament” or “Stepford Wives for teens” #kidlitchat

Livingbymypen: @amyknichols I didn’t I was RTing Scribblerati #kidlitchat

sharifwrites: @Buffyandrews I think some ppl are still afraid of spam or hacking. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @EgmontGal A few people just recommended Dark Devine to me. Can’t wait to check it out! Bree is my agent sis! #kidlitchat

HeleneBoudreau: To get a hang of crafting a one-sentence hook, I looked for examples in the deal listings on Publisher’s Marketplace. #kidlitchat

carolgrannick: RT @literaticat 1) When I’m composing a pitch, I’m going for about the length and tone of book jacket copy. #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: @nikiburnham I don’t remember ever reading about POV in a query! Only if it’s truly significant, why else mention? #kidlitchat

_rachelsimon: @MandyHubbard Whats an ex. of a gimmicky query? Just curious! #kidlitchat

PublishingSpy: Are any publishers accepting picture books w/artowrk? How would I query that? #kidlitchat http://ow.ly/162sZB

bonnieadamson: @MandyHubbard What counts as “gimmicky”? #kidlitchat

literaticat: 3) What I AM doing is giving a taste of the story… and making them want more. Just like handselling at the bookstore. #kidlitchat

AuthorTaraKelly: @bonnieadamson Those describe my books, Bonnie. I focus on character and their main conflict. #kidlitchat

KarlaErikaCal: @MargieGelb That could work. It is more plot-driven after all. #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @MandyHubbard By really gimmicky do you mean sending gifts, perfume paper, etc.? #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @bonnieadamson Don’t say coming-of-age in a YA query. We assume they all are in some way, anyway. #kidlitchat

joeelynn13: has anyone read i heart you, you haunt me by Lisa Schroeder if so. what did you think? #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @DDHearn topic is about your biggest hurdle and how to overcome it–synopses, queries, rejections, et. al. #kidlitchat

ninaberry: RT@literaticat: I can give tips on effective pitching / querying. I think people get in their own way a lot. #kidlitchat

KarlaErikaCal: @ColleenLindsay Eh, I post teasers and I get a lot of good comments. I hope they aren’t just being nice haha #kidlitchat

MargieGelb: @KarlaErikaCal When agents/eds see mult POV in query, they’d prob. just want to read pages for themselves then anyway, right? #kidlitchat

MandyHubbard: @bonnieadamson anything without a true hook is a tough sell in this market. execution has to be extroardinary #kidlitchat

Scribblerati: synopsis helps me write outline RT @gregpincus: But outline keeps you on track. synopsis summarizes the work afterwards, yes? #kidlitchat

cvaldezmiller: @ColleenLindsay I can’t stand to be talked to in the bathroom. I can’t imagine someone pitching a book there. Ahhh! #kidlitchat

fullofstars: @ColleenLindsay Seriously, that was one of the best writing exercises ever. Talk about helping to hone down an elevator pitch! #kidlitchat

EgmontGal: Ok, gotta go, promised @egmontUSA and @rossgriffin I would read 2 full ms tonight, still on 1st one. Thank you all for good chat #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: @literaticat EXACTLY like handselling! #kidlitchat

EngridE1: @rj_anderson I have to leave the chat, but quick ?? about Snowflake method. How did you buy the software? Thought it was diagram #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: RT @ColleenLindsay: @bonnieadamson Dont say coming-of-age in a YA query. We assume they all are in some way, anyway.<–Ah. #kidlitchat

elanaroth: A good pitch should paint a picture AND leave room for the recipient’s imagination to run away with all the great possibilities. #kidlitchat

EKokie: Me, too. RT @HeleneBoudreau: To get a hang of crafting a one-sentence hook, I looked at deal listings on Publisher’s Marketplace #kidlitchat

michellewitte: @PublishingSpy Most publishers prefer you don’t include artwork unless you’re a professional artist. They’ll choose illustrator. #kidlitchat

DDHearn: RT @PublishingSpy: Any publishers accepting picture books w/artowrk? How would I query that? #kidlitchat http://ow.ly/162sZB #kidlitchat

dlschubert: Agents – do you ever use query &/or synopsis to help draft submission letters? #kidlitchat

KatGirl_Studio: had to run an errand for my mother, what’s this weeks topic? #kidlitchat

sarahockler: @gregpincus I’d rather do syn. after writing, but selling on partial means doing it backwards. i don’t like that part at all! #kidlitchat

catesfolly: RT @ColleenLindsay: @bonnieadamson Dont say coming-of-age in a YA query. We assume they all are in some way, anyway. #kidlitchat

_rachelsimon: @EgmontGal Bye! Have a good night! #kidlitchat

PattyJMurphy: RT @ColleenLindsay: @literaticat EXACTLY like handselling! <–Great analogy! #kidlitchat

KarlaErikaCal: Once an agent represent a writer’s work.,how long does it usually take to reach booksellers? #kidlitchat

EgmontUSA: @ColleenLindsay It happened to me at my first conference. I am scarred. #kidlitchat

carolgrannick: RT @literaticat 2)I am NOT trying give summary or synopsis of book, or telling every single thing [that] happened in MCs life. #kidlitchat

dorothiar: Summing the plot in book with one sentence is more difficult if the plot and characters are complicated. #kidlitchat

dorothiar: Summing the plot in book with one sentence is more difficult if the plot and characters are complicated. #kidlitchat

lyonmartin: 10 words should be easy for Twitter folks. We have to complete thought in 140 characters or less. #kidlitchat

Georgia_McBride: @ColleenLindsay @EgmontGal You mean ppl sending actual queries to u via FB rather than ur email addy? #kidlitchat

elanaroth: @dlschubert I use the query as a starting point almost every time. #kidlitchat

ColleenLindsay: Link to Twitter Query Contest entries: http://theswivet.blogspot.com/2009/01/contest-query-in-140-characters-or-less.html #kidlitchat

bonnieadamson: @KatGirl_Studio TOPIC: Queries, synopses, info, nerves…what are your biggest submission hurdles and how do you get over them? #kidlitchat

literaticat: 4) If in person, be ready to answer follow up questions about yourself or your story. Be attuned to their mood. BE LISTENING. #kidlitchat

DDHearn: @rillajaggia Thanks for the topic. I think my biggest hurdle is inertia. It’s sometimes hard to get that old rock rolling. #kidlitchat

dlschubert: @EgmontGal Read 2 ms in one night? How is that even possible? #onemorereasonIcouldneverbeanagentoreditor #kidlitchat

rj_anderson: @mitaliperkins I almost gave a hard copy of my ms. to @chavelaque at a conf. Clearly she is a saint for being patient w/us! #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @dlschubert only for clients that are esp good at pitching themselves &/or summarizing (ex. my client Tricia Rayburn!) #kidlitchat

RebeccAgent: @dlschubert only for clients that are esp good at pitching themselves &/or summarizing (ex. my client Tricia Rayburn!) #kidlitchat

EKokie: RT @elanaroth Good pitch should paint a picture AND leave room for recipient’s imagination to run away w/the great possibilities #kidlitchat

YolaRamunno: If you don’t get a personal response from a query does that mean they saw no potential in your writing? #kidlitchat

EngridE1: Got to go. Will have to read the transcript. Thanks for all the insight, everyone. Have a great night and a great #kidlitchat

rillajaggia: @lyonmartin yes, twitter is great practice for succinct writing. #kidlitchat

Please click here for part two of the transcript.

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