The Nonfiction Query Letter Format

This is a basic format. The non-fiction format can change from agent to agent. Be sure to research the agency’s preferred format and use it as it applies.

1. The first paragraph includes your setup, hook and resolution. Also included are the title, the proposed word count and brief explanation of the topic. Be creative with your setup, hook and resolution. If it reads like a textbook, you have failed.
2. Unlike a fiction query, you place your credentials in the second paragraph. This will include your qualifications, experience, education, previous articles or writings published, anything that applies to why you are the writer for the proposal. Be confident here, but don’t overdo it. Balance your confidence with humility. Show why you are the writer for this book.
3. The third paragraph is the comparison. You will compare your book to others on the market and show why yours is different and marketable. Explain why yours is fresh, unique and timely. Don’t ever say yours is the first ever to touch the subject. It isn’t.
4. The fourth paragraph is where you invite the agent to represent you and look over your proposal. You must give an estimated time of how long it will take for you to complete the writing. Unlike fiction, non-fiction proposals do not have to be completed at the time of the query.
5. The last line is in bullet format. You enclose the book proposal and list them in the same order as the query letter.
6. The very last line is your professional thank you. “I look forward to hearing from you,” is not professional. “Thank you for your consideration,” is professional.

Please note that the non-fiction query can vary from agent to agent. The information above is the most generic template. An agent may desire a specific format for the query on non-fiction, so again be sure to look up that agent’s website, agency, etc. before you commit yourself to something in error.

Example of a Nonfiction Query Letter

Agent Spectacular
Spectacular Associates
123 West 35th Street
Suite 456
New York, NY 10001

Dear Mr. Spectacular:

This paragraph is where I write my setup, hook and resolution. THE TITLE IS CAPS ALL with this many potential words when completed and my short explanation on the topic. This paragraph better be tight, exciting and get to the point quick.

Here I spill out my numerous experiences, credentials, education, previous works, the reason I am so smarmy and sexier than Brad Pitt. Okay, maybe not the sexy part unless my nonfiction book is about grooming or Hollywood gossip.

Now, I compare my book proposal to other books on the market. Here I will also tell why mine is different and fresh. I will stress my target market here with the comparisons.

This paragraph is where I invite the agent to represent me and look over the proposal. I include how long it will take me to finish the manuscript. If it is already done, say so. Again, unlike fiction queries, it is not assumed to be completed at the time you contact the agent.

Enclosed below are the bullets:

• First proposed idea in query letter
• Second one
• Third one
• Fourth
• Etc.

Thank you for your time and attention line.

Sincerely,

Arden S. Wolfe
1313 Mockingbird Lane
Somewhere, NY 12345
(123) 456-7890
AWolfe@nowhere.com