Many publishers and literary agents agree that queries should be professional.
That means the letter needs to be straightforward without any outward
attention-grabbing devises.
There are however, some writers who believe that a witty query will help them stand out from the
slush pile. Some writers like to send a query written in the voice of the main character. I wouldn't recommend this tactic. It is usually frowned upon by agents.
Other writers have met agents at conferences, and they feel confident enough to approach them with a snappy synopsis or bio. Again, there is no guarantee that a writer will snag an agent this way.
Other writers have met agents at conferences, and they feel confident enough to approach them with a snappy synopsis or bio. Again, there is no guarantee that a writer will snag an agent this way.
Literary agent Mary
Kole says, “The point is, some agents will always prefer a straightforward,
businesslike query. Others will tolerate
some cuteness or gimmick. You don't know who's who until you try it, though,
even even then, most people won't tell you if that was part of the decision to
pass."
I personally
wouldn’t try a gimmicky query, but that’s just me talking. I’d be afraid my clever query might backfire. Even if my story is titled “The Bright and Brainy Pony ," I’d be scared to label myself as a bright and brainy writer in my bio. Though it’s clever and plays on the title, it’s risky.
And…I’m not a risk-taker.