A Selling Query Letter

• 1). Research publishers or companies that sell sketch books and are willing to take submission ideas for publishing purposes. Make a list of the ones you would most like to work with. Write a query letter that states who you are, offer a brief explanation of your creative background and what your project is. The letter should have a maximum of three paragraphs and be one-page long. In the project section, state clearly what your goals and objectives are and how your project will help the public. Publishers always look at demographics and how well a project will sell before offering a contract.
  
  
• 2). Assemble a contents page of what is included in the book along with artwork if you intend to have any in the book. If the book is going to be for the buyer to sketch in, you could develop an interesting and eye-catching cover with a few embellishments inside. If the project is for an idea-filled book, include at least 10 to 12 sample pages to show the editors what the book will look like. Send only the best of your work.
  
  
• 3). Place the neatly typed pages and samples in a manila envelope, insert a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of your work and send to the publishers of your choice. The waiting period for a response is often up to three months, so be patient.
  
  
• 4). Send the project and query letter by email if this is allowed by the companies you want to contact. Many companies will take only paper submissions, but it is becoming more acceptable to send email submissions. Follow submission guidelines to the letter.