YA queries if you plan on a Series

Regardless of whether you have a second one or a third one or a dozen sequels written, you need to sell the first one on it's own merits. Like you said, if the first one is good enough they'll ask you about a second one. I don't believe any publisher will find a first book more attractive if they know a second one is planned by the author. All they care about is whether they can make money off your first book. If they do, then they'd love to have the first crack at your second book.

An agent, on the other hand, might be mildly interested to know you've got more written. It means you're more than a casual writer. You're productive. You're someone who might make them more money down the line. Of course, none of that matters one lick if your first book is lousy.

My advice would be to focus on writing the best book you can possibly write and all the rest will take care of itself.

Best wishes,
Jim

Agrees with Jimmer.

I am planning a series but fortunately I already have an agent so she handles the selling part for me *thanks lucky stars*

Great question.

The way I'm going to handle it (I'm a few weeks away from being in the same boat, hopefully) is to mention during my agent queries that while the book is a standalone, I'm hard at work on a second novel set in the same 'universe.'

I've actually got like four novels in mind already, and I think my brain's working out the details for the fifth already. Can't I just finish one first?

I only know what I've read on agent's blogs and such, but they all say they prefer a series, and so its best to let them know in the query. They want to know you're good for more work, and not just a one-hit-wonder.

justpat said:

I only know what I've read on agent's blogs and such, but they all say they prefer a series, and so its best to let them know in the query. They want to know you're good for more work, and not just a one-hit-wonder.

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I think agents may prefer the series, but editors do not. The editors feel the book must stand on its own, and if it works out then perhaps a series will develop (ala Millicent Min, Girl Genius).