I have a question about word count for MG. My completed upper MG novel is at 60,000 words. I have read that this is considered too long and that 50,000 should be the maximum word count. Naturally, I read this just hours after sending off my first batch of carefully researched queries, where I stated that the book is complete at 60,000 words. I'll just have to see what happens with those queries.
Currently I'm working on a version with a target word count of 55,000, which means cutting some description, shortening some paragraphs, but no major alterations to the plot. I also have a way of cutting one chapter, to get closer to the required 50,000, which is a shame as I like the chapter, but it can be done.
My question is whether that very fact of going to 60,000 words is really going to handicap any further queries I send out? Is it better to get to the 50,000 before querying again? Or, go for the middle ground, retain the chapter, and query for 55,000?
I don't know if it is relevant, but I am not a new author, and am well published, but not in MG.
Any insight would be very welcome.