I read that one of the better ways at trying to get an agent is by going through a mutual friend. Miraculously, I have a family friend who has been published multiple times. He writes non-fiction, but he is well connected.
Anyway I sent him my manuscript and he said he knows an agent that would probably like to look at it and to send him a cover letter and synopsis.
I have the query letter done (I'm assuming that's what he meant by cover letter), and I know synopsis's are a huge hassle to write.
Should I write one, or not? I feel like agents don't even need that anymore, and a query letter and complete manuscript are more than sufficient. I figure an agent will skim the query, read the first few pages, and if it intrigues them they'll keep going, and at some point make a decision.
So what do you think? Do I really need to write a synopsis? Is that even necessary for submitting most of the time? I have not begun submitting yet, but I figured I'd start with my connection. My friend told me to do it, yes, but he is not up on YA. I'm aware that usually even veteran professionals are knowledgeable in their specific niche. I have a dayjob, I'm writing a novel, I like to read, I don't have endless time to write a synopsis if it's supernumerary.
Your advice is much appreciated. Thanks so much.
Anyway I sent him my manuscript and he said he knows an agent that would probably like to look at it and to send him a cover letter and synopsis.
I have the query letter done (I'm assuming that's what he meant by cover letter), and I know synopsis's are a huge hassle to write.
Should I write one, or not? I feel like agents don't even need that anymore, and a query letter and complete manuscript are more than sufficient. I figure an agent will skim the query, read the first few pages, and if it intrigues them they'll keep going, and at some point make a decision.
So what do you think? Do I really need to write a synopsis? Is that even necessary for submitting most of the time? I have not begun submitting yet, but I figured I'd start with my connection. My friend told me to do it, yes, but he is not up on YA. I'm aware that usually even veteran professionals are knowledgeable in their specific niche. I have a dayjob, I'm writing a novel, I like to read, I don't have endless time to write a synopsis if it's supernumerary.
Your advice is much appreciated. Thanks so much.