rachelgrinti Hi all! Tonight @JoWhittemore and I are hosting, and we're talking queries and synopses. #MGlitchat -9:02 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske Hi @rachelgrinti and @joWhittemore! *waves and woots* #mglitchat -9:03 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson It's amazing how something so sort as a query or a synopsis can take so long to write. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Apr 5th, 2012
PBWorkshop Multi-tasking, but not willing to miss the chat! Who doesn't need to know how to "query and synopsercize correctly?" #mglitchat -9:03 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti So just curious -- How many people are working on either a query or synopsis currently? #MGlitchat -9:03 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore We're going to start with queries and then roll into synopses. For starters, let's go over Do's & Dont's with queries! Chime in! #mglitchat -9:03 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson @deegarretson that was supposed to be "short" not "sort" #mglitchat -9:04 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @rachelgrinti I am now querying (contemporary MG novel) #mglitchat -9:05 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti So I'll start with a don't. Don't workshop a query so much that it loses its voice. There is such a thing as "too smooth" IMO. #MGlitchat -9:06 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson This may be a very basic don't, but I've seen it done - don't just focus on the theme, get the plot in there! #mglitchat -9:06 PM Apr 5th, 2012
christinesarmel Query Do: Do be clear about the conflict and the stakes. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DO make sure your query has a strong hook.Write in the tone you want the reader to get from your story. Let them taste that voice #mglitchat -9:07 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore YES THIS-->RT @christinesarmel: Query Do: Do be clear about the conflict and the stakes. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DON'T worry if you don't have any credits or accolades to your name yet and don't feel the need to apologize for it. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
christinesarmel Query Don't: Don't talk about what lesson your book teaches children. Kids read for fun -- just like adults. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DO keep that query letter to one page. You want to introduce, explain, and then exit. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson Yes! I didn't have any. RT @JoWhittemore DON'T worry if you don't have any credits or accolades to your name yet. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti Don't stress over every rule you read all over the web. The most important thing is that your book sounds awesome. #MGlitchat -9:10 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell DON'T query without doing a bit of research about the agent. Choose wisely. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DO address the reader by name and get the gender right! (Starting out, I once addressed Ashley Grayson [a man] as Ms. Grayson) #mglitchat -9:12 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @mswinchell Hehe! To back up what I Tweeted a second later. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Apr 5th, 2012
ValerieFM80 Just finished- but looking for tips "@rachelgrinti How many people are working on either a query or synopsis currently? #MGlitchat " -9:13 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DO mention the genre, target age group and word-count of your manuscript. (Example: "Soap Starz is my 42,000-word middle grade") #mglitchat -9:13 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti Do read MG jacket copy and try to figure out what about it makes you want to read the book or put it back on the shelf. #MGlitchat -9:14 PM Apr 5th, 2012
ValerieFM80 Anyone have any agent research tips? #mglitchat -9:15 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson @JoWhittemore I goofed up on spreadsheet & used 1 agent's email for an email addressed to another, agent was gracious about it! #mglitchat -9:15 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DO give the back-of-the-book summary of your manuscript. Read that jacket copy and notice how much they say in so little space. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @deegarretson Oops! Those kinds of things make me want to bury my head in the sand. :) #mglitchat -9:16 PM Apr 5th, 2012
WaldenPondPress Writers - great discussion about querying on #mglitchat right now -9:16 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelnseigel @JoWhittemore @deegarretson I did that on a cover letter once- submitted the wrong cover letter 4 a job. Screwed myself bigtime! #mglitchat -9:17 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Agent research tip? Use http://t.co/pppnx1As if you're not sure where to get started. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Apr 5th, 2012
christinesarmel DO give your query some time between writing and sending. Just like a ms, it will benefit from waiting a while. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell @ValerieFM80 Yes, go to http://t.co/ObihOSH2 and use it. It is awesome. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Look at dedications/acknowledgments on your favorite books. The author will usually thank their editor/agent. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti @ValerieFM80 Start with agentquery or querytracker to get names and websites. Combine with Googling for more info as needed. #MGlitchat -9:18 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell Serious DO is query widely ONLY when you have a query AND manuscript that are ready. Query wide when signs point to future offer. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MLConklin Don't you all feel like we will see more YA themes creeping back into MG, as adult themes have into YA? #mglitchat -9:19 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore DO keep in mind that many agents and editors prefer e-queries nowadays. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen Do query in small batches. If there is little or no interest, revise query before you send it again. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @mswinchell RT Query wide when signs point to future offerCould you elaborate? (in 140 characters!) :) #mglitchat -9:21 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti Verla's forum is just awesome! RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mimicross Lurking & learning on #mglitchat ;) -9:22 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Do we have any general questions about querying? #mglitchat -9:22 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske RT @story_queen: Do query in small batches. If there is little or no interest, revise query before you send it again. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @JoWhittemore Yes - how many queries is it appropriate to send out at once? How many is TOO many (and how few too few)? #mglitchat -9:24 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen My query writing advice? When revising a query,, start from scratch. Try for a different feel. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf Sorry I'm late. #MGLitChat -9:24 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell One that is tough to learn. DON'T assume having agents offer rep will lead to an immediate and immense book deal. Different game. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @MelissaRoske Honestly, when I queried for an agent, I sent out in batches of five. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore VERY Important! RT @mswinchell: One that is tough to learn. DONT assume having agents offer rep=immediate and immense book deal. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MLConklin There are mixed reactions to loglines in queries, how do you feel about them? How do they differ from hooks? #mglitchat -9:25 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @mswinchell As long as each step is in the right direction. #MGLitChat -9:25 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @MelissaRoske @JoWhittemore I can only answer for myself, I queried once a week for about 12 weeks before I had an offer. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KatApel RT @story_queen: My query writing advice? When revising a query,, start from scratch. Try for a different feel. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti @story_queen I agree, starting over instead of poking at the same words over and over can be a big help. #MGlitchat -9:25 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou Hi all! Did anyone mention Casey's site yet? Lots of helpful info on agents there. http://t.co/OxHSehhU #mglitchat -9:26 PM Apr 5th, 2012
kurtisscaletta Is the topic agents? Writing queries? #mglitchat -9:26 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @JoWhittemore Thanks, Jo. That sounds about right - but it could take quite a long time at that rate... #mglitchat -9:26 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf I suppose queries are like submissions to mags. Just keep at it. #MGLitChat -9:27 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @kurtisscaletta Queries & Synopses #mglitchat -9:27 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson hope it's okay if I post this link-I wrote sample queries for Frankenstein & Wizard of Oz to show process: http://t.co/PFBVCmoc #mglitchat -9:27 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @story_queen 12 weeks...? Whoa. That is AMAZING! Good for you! #mglitchat -9:27 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @MelissaRoske You'd be surprised how quickly they get back nowadays with all this new-fangled technology. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @rachelgrinti When I rewrote, the first agent I sent the new query to requested a full right away. (And offered rep. after that.) #mglitchat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti @MelissaRoske I forget how many I sent out at once. A handful, I think, then research and send another as one got turned down. #MGlitchat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf How formal/informal should a query be? #MGLitChat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AngelaAckerman @AniProf Professional, but still in the tone and voice that fits the genre. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
word_working RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @MelissaRoske Ha! seemed like forever at the time. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @JoWhittemore Yes - some get back extremely quickly. Others... watching paint dry feels faster! #mglitchat -9:28 PM Apr 5th, 2012
susanwrites RT @WaldenPondPress: Writers - great discussion about querying on #mglitchat right now -9:29 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Here's my agent hunting process. Looks like it was batches o' 4: http://t.co/1PHk31gD #mglitchat -9:29 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets RT @WaldenPondPress: Writers - great discussion about querying on #mglitchat right now -9:29 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen For researching agents, I would have been lost without http://t.co/eEtg0dh5 #mglitchat -9:29 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @MelissaRoske It's always tougher around holidays and major industry events. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell @JoWhittemore @MelissaRoske So true. With i-phones agents request more within hour if totally intrigued. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Apr 5th, 2012
word_working RT @story_queen: For researching agents, I would have been lost without http://t.co/eEtg0dh5 #mglitchat -9:30 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @Ani_Lou I just did! We are on the same wavelength. Casey is awesome!! #mglitchat -9:31 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore You can still ask query questions if you have them, but let's move on to the big monster...THE SYNOPSIS. Dun-dun-DUN. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell When I searched for agent 1, had crickets till 1st offer. Then had seven other offers within week. They move quickly when must. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Let's start THIS round w/ questions about writing synopses, if you have them. Author/agent/editor friends, please chime in w/tips #mglitchat -9:32 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen More query advice: Don't worry abt following "the rules". Just write something that makes someone want to read it! #mglitchat -9:32 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou @mswinchell So true! After the first offer, the others either offer or drop out quickly. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson Bleh-the synopsis, keep repeating: Goal, Motivation, Conflict, for both good guys and bad guys #mglitchat -9:33 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @mswinchell Seven offers within a week? That rocks big time. You must have been walking on air! #mglitchat -9:33 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou @story_queen Casey is awesome! Her site was so helpful when I was searching for an agent. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AngelaAckerman W/queries, it isn't about 'telling the whole story.' It's a/b compelling the agent to want to find out MORE & request it #mglitchat -9:35 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @AngelaAckerman So a tiny bit goofy is okay for MG? #MGLitChat -9:35 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets #MGlitchat should I re-query if manuscript and fist chaptr have changed considerably? Query changed 2 -9:35 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske @Ani_Lou @story_queen There is also a helpful website called Middle Grade Ninja, but it's no longer being updated #mglitchat -9:35 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AngelaAckerman @AniProf If the tone of the story is goofy thank yes :) The voice of the book should be present in the query. :) #mglitchat -9:35 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @love8rockets How long has it been since you initially queried that agent/editor? #mglitchat -9:36 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @AngelaAckerman Gotcha! #MGLitChat -9:36 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets “@Ani_Lou: Did anyone mention Casey's site yet? Lots of helpful info on agents there. http://t.co/YshQJsET #mglitchat” best site for me! -9:37 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske I stand corrected: Middle Grade Ninja seems to be up and running http://t.co/qnBRZVaA #mglitchat -9:37 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @love8rockets Maybe change the title, too:) hehehe #mglitchat -9:37 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore There is no reason for your synopsis to be longer than one page. If you can't summarize in that space, you don't know your story. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Apr 5th, 2012
jodyfeldman Don't try to include all the plot points. You'll drive yourself crazy. Stick to the main plot, conflict. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AngelaAckerman @JoWhittemore That said, a person needs to follow guidelines. Some want a page, others two paragraphs or two pages. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AngelaAckerman RT @jodyfeldman: Don't try to include all the plot points. You'll drive yourself crazy. Stick to the main plot, conflict. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
mswinchell I suck when writing a synopsis, but Writers Digest: Guide to Literary Agents blog has recurring feature on them that is great. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore YES THIS-->RT @jodyfeldman: Dont try to include all the plot points. Youll drive yourself crazy. Stick to the main plot, conflict #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @JoWhittemore Good point. Sometimes I will write a synopsis before I revise so I can GET to know my story better! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets RT @story_queen: For researching agents, I would have been lost without http://t.co/eEtg0dh5 #mglitchat -9:38 PM Apr 5th, 2012
literaticat @JoWhittemore wait what we are talking about AGENT STUFF??? #mglitchat -9:39 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @JoWhittemore Sort of like the storyteller's rule of thumb. You need to be able to tell any story in 60 secs. #MGLitChat -9:39 PM Apr 5th, 2012
onthebird RT @jodyfeldman: Don't try to include all the plot points. You'll drive yourself crazy. Stick to the main plot, conflict. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @AngelaAckerman Yes, if they request 2 pages (weird that!), then of course, you oblige. Just use really big font! ;-) #mglitchat -9:39 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @literaticat Querying and synopsiseses to agents/editors, ma'am! #mglitchat -9:39 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AngelaAckerman An easy way to write a synopsis is to do a chapter outline first. Then you'll for sure hit all the main plot points. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @AniProf @JoWhittemore Never hurts to have an "elevator pitch" #mglitchat -9:40 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @AniProf Exactly! #mglitchat -9:40 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson Don't name too many characters in the synopsis, if secondary, refer to them by their role, too confusing otherwise #mglitchat -9:41 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets “@JoWhittemore: @love8rockets How long has it been since you initially queried that agent/editor? #mglitchat” maybe a year. -9:41 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @literaticat Any Do's/Don'ts for queries and synopses? #mglitchat -9:41 PM Apr 5th, 2012
RosanneParry @jodyfeldman I agree. I read flap copy after I've read a book to see what I can learn from it. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske I often wonder whether most agents even LIKE reading synopses. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets “@story_queen: @love8rockets Maybe change the title, too:) hehehe #mglitchat” yes... -9:41 PM Apr 5th, 2012
literaticat @JoWhittemore I might have things to say!! I AM AN AGENT! (but not home will be shortly) still if people have Q's they can @ me. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen To me, the query is more about voice, premise, and style. The synopsis is all about plot. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore What say ye, @literaticat? If a writer has reworked a manuscript that was rejected, and it's been a year, can they re-query? #mglitchat -9:43 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske RT @story_queen: To me, the query is more about voice, premise, and style. The synopsis is all about plot. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou RT @MelissaRoske: I stand corrected: Middle Grade Ninja seems to be up and running http://t.co/wQegb0Vu #mglitchat -9:43 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @literaticat Your wisdom is always welcome and sought after! xoxo #mglitchat -9:43 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou RT @story_queen: To me, the query is more about voice, premise, and style. The synopsis is all about plot. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Apr 5th, 2012
jodyfeldman @RosanneParry Once upon a time, I wrote flap copy (before I wrote books). Being detached from the story made it easier #mglitchat -9:44 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Elevator pitch is important even AFTER you have an agent. Every time someone asks you about your book...my blog post today. :) #mglitchat -9:44 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Synopsis is a who, what, when, where, why. No cliffhanger ending. Tell the agent/editor WHAT HAPPENS. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Apr 5th, 2012
kurtisscaletta Should have been paying attention so I could send my students to #mglitchat tonight. #BadTeacher -9:44 PM Apr 5th, 2012
literaticat @JoWhittemore if it REALLY IS REWORKED ... Not just surface polishing, but gut reno... And it's been a year... Sure. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou MT @KristineAsselin: Elevator pitch is important even AFTER you have an agent. Every time someone asks you about your book. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore YES THIS-->RT @KristineAsselin: Elevator pitch is important even AFTER you have an agent. Every time someone asks about your book #mglitchat -9:45 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @KristineAsselin I am so bad at the elevator pitch. "Er, um...my book is cool...., um..." #mglitchat #NeedACueCard -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
literaticat Query Do: put on your salesman hat. Does your pitch sound like a boring book report or like the exciting back of a book jacket? #mglitchat -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf RT @KristineAsselin: Elevator pitch is important even AFTER you have an agent. Every time someone asks you about your book. #MGLitChat -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore As mentioned, stick to main plot points. If secondary character's love interest isn't crucial to the main character, leave it out #mglitchat -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets RT @Ani_Lou: RT @MelissaRoske: I stand corrected: Middle Grade Ninja seems to be up and running http://t.co/wQegb0Vu #mglitchat -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
RosanneParry @jodyfeldman SO much easier! #mglitchat -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti @KristineAsselin Yes, you are so right... something I really need to get better at, too! #MGlitchat -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets “@JoWhittemore: @literaticat Your wisdom is always welcome and sought after! xoxo #mglitchat” Always! -9:46 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin @story_queen OMG. Me too. And people ask you ALL THE TIME! Def need to get that pitch down. :) #mglitchat -9:47 PM Apr 5th, 2012
literaticat .@JoWhittemore SEND ME MORE MIDDLE GRADE PLEASE. (that goes for everyone *including* you, Ms Jo!) #mglitchat -9:47 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KMFawcett RT @literaticat: Query Do: Does your pitch sound like a boring book report or like the exciting back of a book jacket? #mglitchat -9:47 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @literaticat Yes, yes! Working on one as we speak! #mglitchat -9:48 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @literaticat Queries? Synopses? Chapters? #MGLitChat -9:48 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @KristineAsselin Maybe they will give an elevator pitch workshop at SCBWILA. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Important! RT @literaticat: Query Do: Does your pitch sound like a boring book report or like the exciting back of a book jacket? #mglitchat -9:49 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf Isn't it possible to pitch too hard? #MGLitChat -9:50 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Don't confuse pitch w/ harass. :) #DoNotHarass RT @AniProf: Isnt it possible to pitch too hard? #mglitchat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
WaldenPondPress RT @literaticat: .@JoWhittemore SEND ME MORE MIDDLE GRADE PLEASE. (that goes for everyone *including* you, Ms Jo!) #mglitchat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou RT @literaticat: .@JoWhittemore SEND ME MORE MIDDLE GRADE PLEASE. (that goes for everyone *including* you, Ms Jo!) #mglitchat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
love8rockets RT @literaticat: .@JoWhittemore SEND ME MORE MIDDLE GRADE PLEASE. (that goes for everyone *including* you, Ms Jo!) #mglitchat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @KristineAsselin Point taken. #MGLitChat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou MT @literaticat: Does your pitch sound like a boring book report or like the exciting back of a book jacket? #mglitchat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS I would RT this whole chat, if I could! And we had so many good websites mentioned, we need a Link List! #mglitchat -9:52 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Synopsis opens w/ brief BRIEF description of your character. Age, name, occupation if necessary. One line about current situation #mglitchat -9:53 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Then you jump into what is changing about their life (the whole point of the story). You mention how they will fix. #mglitchat -9:53 PM Apr 5th, 2012
RosanneParry If you have a critique group you could ask everyone who's read it to draft an elevator pitch. It's fun and very revealing. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Apr 5th, 2012
writeforapples #mglitchat Great info! -9:54 PM Apr 5th, 2012
ixtumea Love reading @jowhittemore MGs. Fun stories. I'm like @literaticat, I want more too! #mglitchat -9:54 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore You mention conflicts that arise (the antagonist). You mention changes to original plan to get around these conflicts. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti If I'm writing a synopsis after the book is done, I write a short bit for each chapter, then condense as needed. #MGlitchat -9:54 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore You mention final resolution and aftermath (if in novel). #mglitchat -9:55 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @ixtumea Awww. You're too sweet! xoxo #mglitchat -9:55 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Elevator pitch = literally one or two sentences about your book. It's a good exercise--and not as easy as you'd imagine. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Scrivener notecard function is great for this. RT @rachelgrinti: I write a short bit for each chapter, then condense as needed. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen Synopsis Don't: Try to avoid the words, "Hijnks ensue". Unless of course, they do, I suppose...? #mglitchat -9:56 PM Apr 5th, 2012
word_working #mglitchat I bec a deer in headlights when I need to deliver an elevator pitch. Sad that a person can write a whole ms & suddenly go blank! -9:56 PM Apr 5th, 2012
word_working RT @Ani_Lou: MT @literaticat: Does your pitch sound like a boring book report or like the exciting back of a book jacket? #mglitchat -9:57 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LindaJoySinglet RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -9:57 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore When people ask "What is your book about?", they're asking "How is your book unique?" Focus on explaining THOSE points. #mglitchat -9:57 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KatherineBook I wonder sometimes whether we all remember what it's like to be ya so is easier, but mg is reaching #mglitchat -9:57 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @story_queen Hahaha! In real life explanations, I always tell people "Hilarity ensues" or "Mayhem ensues". #mglitchat -9:58 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Dfg bumps into a desk, oh hi, just woke up 7 Am here #mglitchat -9:58 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LaurelSnyder <dashes in late> #mglitchat -9:58 PM Apr 5th, 2012
AniProf @KatherineBook For some, MG is a natural state of mind. :P #MGLitChat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Hello, dahhhhling! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin @story_queen But "hijinks ensue" is so descriptive about almost every plot! ;) #mglitchat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Dfg @LaurelSnyder #mglitchat *stares at her* You do this every time. :p -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
ixtumea RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @Dfg Wake up! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @JoWhittemore Mayhem is highly underrated. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Any query/synopsis tips for the people? #mglitchat -9:59 PM Apr 5th, 2012
deegarretson Yes, this is me :) @AniProf @KatherineBook For some, MG is a natural state of mind. :P #MGLitChat #mglitchat -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore HI! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MelissaRoske Thanks to all for the beyond-fabulous chat! Happy holidays! #MGLitChat -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Dfg @JoWhittemore #mglitchat trying to, the power just went off again. -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @story_queen Hahaha! Agreed. We should make that into a t-shirt. #mglitchat -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Dfg @MelissaRoske #MGLitChat Happy birthday :) -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LindaJoySinglet @JoWhittemore #mglitchat I love midgrade! -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @Dfg Here, have a cookie. #mglitchat #ReturningTheFavor -10:00 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Dfg @story_queen #mglitchat #ReturningTheFavor Thanks :D -10:01 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore I don't have anything genius. I think the main thing in a query is to be professional, but HUMAN. #mglitchat -10:01 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen RT @AniProf: @KatherineBook For some, MG is a natural state of mind. :P #MGLitChat -10:01 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LindaJoySinglet Me too!! :-) #mglitchat -10:02 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore YES THIS-->RT @LaurelSnyder: @JoWhittemore The main thing in a query is to be professional, but HUMAN. #mglitchat -10:02 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LindaJoySinglet I created a 1 page synopsis template I use for SCBWI talks. #mglitchat -10:02 PM Apr 5th, 2012
story_queen @JoWhittemore I would wear it! #mglitchat #MayhemIsHighlyUnderrated -10:02 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Great advice here! RT @LaurelSnyder: @JoWhittemore I think the main thing in a query is to be professional, but HUMAN. #mglitchat -10:03 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @MiriamForster It was waiting for the perfect moment! #Mglitchat -10:04 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou Yes! I love mayhem :D RT @story_queen: @JoWhittemore Mayhem is highly underrated. #mglitchat -10:04 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS RT @JoWhittemore: Agent research tip? Use http://t.co/CkwXsKCb if you're not sure where to get started. #mglitchat -10:04 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LindaJoySinglet Ooh. Like an outline format? #mglitchat -10:04 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS RT @rachelgrint Start with agentquery or querytracker to get names and websites. Combine with Googling for more info as needed. #MGlitchat -10:05 PM Apr 5th, 2012
MaryBethC Gr8 ptRT @JoWhittemore: When people ask "What is your book about?", they're asking "How is your book unique?" ... #mglitchat -10:05 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LaurelSnyder I also think that with queries (like resume & Cv writing) it helps to swap duties with a friend. You write theirs and vice versa #mglitchat -10:05 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -10:05 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Pam_Vickers RT @JoWhittemore: Check out Verla Kay's blueboards, where some editors and agents drop in. #mglitchat -10:06 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS RT @JoWhittemore: Heres my agent hunting process. Looks like it was batches o 4: http://t.co/0VslW6Va #mglitchat -10:07 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LaurelSnyder (con't) partly because when you don't LIKE your friend's version of your book, it may help you clarify the way YOU see it. #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LindaJoySinglet @JoWhittemore yeah an outline and I'm giving a talk on it in 2 weeks. Will send to friends tho. #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KevinTCraig RT @literaticat: .@JoWhittemore SEND ME MORE MIDDLE GRADE PLEASE. (that goes for everyone *including* you, Ms Jo!) #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
word_working RT @JoWhittemore: You mention final resolution and aftermath (if in novel). #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Ani_Lou @JoWhittemore You should write an article on writing synopsis! Need to re-read your tweets about it next time I have to write one #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LindaJoySinglet RT @MaryBethC: Gr8 ptRT @JoWhittemore: When people ask "What is your book about?", they're asking "How is your book unique?" ... #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Ooh, that's a good idea. I've never done that! #mglitchat -10:08 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Rumor has it that @literaticat is looking for MORE MIDDLE GRADE. Heard it on #mglitchat #mglitchat -10:09 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @Ani_Lou I reckon I could piece something together! #mglitchat -10:09 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS RT @MelissaRoske: I stand corrected: Middle Grade Ninja seems to be up and running http://t.co/t5FfNSAB #mglitchat -10:10 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LindaJoySinglet Could I see it? Or do I need to wait until LA? ;-) #mglitchat -10:10 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti @LaurelSnyder Yes! That kind of thing can be really helpful! #MGlitchat -10:10 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Folks, #MGlitchat is officially over for the night! You're welcome to linger and mingle. Transcript will be up shortly. #mglitchat -10:10 PM Apr 5th, 2012
JoWhittemore Thanks for all your awesome participation as usual! #mglitchat -10:11 PM Apr 5th, 2012
Becky_AS RT @mswinchell:Writers Digest: Guide to Literary Agents blog has recurring feature [on writing a synopsis] that is great. #mglitchat -10:11 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti Thanks for coming, everyone! #MGlitchat -10:11 PM Apr 5th, 2012
KristineAsselin Great chat! Thanks @JoWhittemore and all the great #mglitchat hosts! #mglitchat -10:12 PM Apr 5th, 2012
LindaJoySinglet I have a mg with my agent but I've had more editor interest for my pb and ya. #mglitchat -10:12 PM Apr 5th, 2012
rachelgrinti Join us again next week for Sinking Ships and more- Disaster Books! #MGlitchat -10:12 PM Apr 5th, 2012
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