Advice needed

The Otter · Sep 15, 2007

Hello--I recently sent a query letter to an agent for my fantasy novel and got a request for a partial. She also requested that I include "a complete resume." I'm not really sure what that means, in this context. I mean, typically a resume includes all your work experience and job skills, but in this case should I just focus on my publication history? I can't imagine that my entire work history would be relevant, here, unless I've had jobs somehow related to writing (which I haven't.)

She also requested "a 1-2 page analysis of how your story fits into the current market." I'm kind of lost on how to write this because I've never seen an example of this type of thing, or heard of it being requested.

Any ideas?

Carmy · Sep 15, 2007

You might have more luk if you post this in the Ask the Agent forum.

For "resume" read author's bio whcih should include writing-related things.

I've seen others post about the request for the marketing analysis but I think it's rare for an agent to demand this. Usually they will ask what your readership is, i.e., women, YA, etc.

victoriastrauss · Sep 16, 2007

May I ask who the agent is? PM me with the name if you prefer.

I'm wondering about this because it is not typical for a (successful) agent who represents fiction to ask for a market analysis. By stating the genre of your novel in your query letter, you've already given the agent a sense of where it belongs in the market. Also, while agents will often ask about your publication history, it's a little odd to request a complete resume, since much of the info on your resume won't be relevant to your novel.

- Victoria

Advice needed

The Otter

Friendly Neighborhood Mustelid

Carmy

victoriastrauss

Writer Beware Goddess