Strange request

Dragonfly45 · Oct 19, 2008

Sorry for posting this in two threads, but I'm in need of advice!

I just got a reply to a query/5 sample pages that says, "Can you tell me about your writing background? Thanks!" No partial request, anything like that...just that note. Um...okay, so I don't have anything, really, to tell aside from the fact that I've written two other novels that haven't been picked up...but I don't know whether to answer and mention them, answer and say this is my first novel (even though it's my third)...? All I do besides that is blog, which I don't think warrants a mention really. Help, please!

JoNightshade · Oct 19, 2008

I would be honest and mention that you don't really have any writing credits to speak of, but this is the third novel you've written. I've read some agent blogs lately talking about how an author saying "This is my first novel!" is like saying "I'm a total noob!" It seems to me that they like to know you're dedicated enough to have written three. Having two other novels that are trunked (or not picked up or whatever) tells them you've worked your butt off. Tons of authors have trunked novels, so it's not a count against you.

And unless your blog traffic is significant, I wouldn't mention it.

vixey · Oct 19, 2008

I agree with what JoNightshade said. Though, I must admit, the request for background info without a partial request was a bit odd.

MagicMan · Oct 19, 2008

Check the agent/agency on the Bewares list as well.

heyjude · Oct 20, 2008

I got the same request from a reputable agent. I don't think it's that uncommon. I just said I hadn't had anything published, but this was my 3rd book. She was super nice while rejecting me.

aka eraser · Oct 20, 2008

Please excuse the following unhelpful musing:

I don't get why an agent/pub would even ask that question. Surely, if a writer had any sort of notable publishing experience, s/he would note it in the cover letter/query. If nothing is mentioned, it seems a safe bet there's nothing to tell - so why bother asking?

Edmontonian · Oct 20, 2008

Because some agents are just...

Hi aka_eraser:

I don't get it either and I've just settled for the fact that some agents/publishers are just... Well, I should not swear. In any case, one would rather not work for people who don't understand how writing and publishing a book really works. Then, going for years without an agent is like the years in high school, when desperate for dates, one would agree to go out with, well, almost anyone.

Just my two Canadian cents,

ED

Bufty · Oct 20, 2008

You really like peeing in your own bed.

Edmontonian said:
Hi aka_eraser:

I don't get it either and I've just settled for the fact that some agents/publishers are just... Well, I should not swear. In any case, one would rather not work for people who don't understand how writing and publishing a book really works. Then, going for years without an agent is like the years in high school, when desperate for dates, one would agree to go out with, well, almost anyone.

Just my two Canadian cents,

ED

melaniehoo · Oct 20, 2008

Colby, I agree with the advice to mention this is your third novel. That shows you have the drive and commitment, even if you haven't published anything. And yes, that seems a little odd to me too, but what can you do?

Good luck!

Edmontonian · Oct 20, 2008

Hi Bufty

You're a real ...

ED

Strange request

Dragonfly45

Purveyor of the Sparkly

JoNightshade

has finally arrived

vixey

C'est la vie!

MagicMan

heyjude

Making my own sunshine

aka eraser

Fish Whisperer

Edmontonian

Bufty

Where have the last ten years gone?

melaniehoo

And thus we begin the edits

Edmontonian