General rules:

• Keep it short (one page is best).
• Showcase your best writing.
• Send the letter to an acquiring editor and be sure to spell the name and list the title correctly.
• Avoid hyperbole. Let your work speak for itself.
• Be professional and direct. Avoid gimmicks.
• Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the agent or editor's response

For Nonfiction:

Begin with a brief description (a paragraph or two) describing the subject you intend to cover and your reason for choosing it.

Example:
(Note: all information is purely fictional)

This year, weight-obsessed Americans will lose (and gain) a staggering six hundred tons of excess adipose tissue. The Complete Aggravation Diet offers a unique new approach to our ceaseless, monumental, and often losing, battle of the bulge.

While it may be true that stress drives some people straight to the refrigerator, researchers at the world-renowned Beef-trust Institute have found that extreme stress can be a highly effective appetite suppressant. The secret is maintaining the critical aggravation level, which requires seizing all possible work, family, medical, financial, natural and emotional catastrophes.

The next paragraph discusses competing books and market potential.

Example:

The Complete Aggravation Diet requires no special foods, memberships or equipment. It is suitable for men or women as well as adolescents. Only the morbidly optimistic will find the program difficult, if not impossible, to follow. Given its myriad advantages, this diet program should capture a major share of the $300 million/year diet book market. The runaway success of The Dysentery Diet last year, demonstrated the insatiable American appetite for quick, straightforward, surefire weight loss programs.

Next: Explain why you are qualified to write the book.

In addition to holding a PhD in Nutrition and Weight loss, Dr. Clarence Porkwhittler has twenty years experience in private obesity management and counseling. Dr. Porkwhittler has taught at the Overweight Institute and written several articles for The Journal of Blubber Reduction (see attached clips.) He is a winner of the prestigious No-belly Prize.

Finally: Conclude.

I enclose three sample chapters and a synopsis of The Complete Aggravation Diet. The finished volume will include approximately 300 pages, including a comprehensive glossary of aggravation exercises and opportunities.

I look forward to hearing from you.

For Fiction:

The first paragraph (or two) should briefly describe the work.

Note: Never refer to a book as a "fiction novel," a common mistake. A novel is fiction by definition.

Example: from my novel, After the Fall.

When their "perfect" son stands accused of a heinous crime, Jess and Charlie Magill are forced to confront a parent's worst nightmare. After the Fall is the story of a family in cataclysm in the tradition of Deep End of the Ocean and Before and After. The horrifying accusation strains the parents' marriage, pits them against friends and community, and calls their most cherished beliefs in serious question.

The rest of the query describes the author's experience or relevant expertise, if any.

Judith Kelman is the author of twelve bestselling novels of psychological suspense. (If this were a legal thriller and I were an attorney, I would mention that).

Again, conclude with an offer to send samples and an outline or a mention that sample chapters and an outline are attached.

Following Up:

Wait four to six weeks. If you have not received a response, e-mail or call the publication and politely inquire about the status of your submission.

If you have other questions or want to suggest your favorite bit of practical advice, e-mail me at jkelman@jkelman.com.