Querying in the UK - synopsis length question

Chiquita Banana · Apr 28, 2009

Hi there.

I'm planning on starting the agent search in the UK because that's where I'm living for the time being (and my genre fares better here than in the US).

Some of the agencies request a 'short synopsis' and some request simply 'a synopsis'. I've written one that clocks in at 1101 words. Does this qualify for the short version? The regular version? Neither?

Many thanks,
Chiq

qwerty · Apr 29, 2009

I'd say 1100 words is too long for a "short" syno, but probably okay for a standard one unless you can get it down a bit.

As a rough guide, I've sent one page (around 400 words) when a short synopsis is stated, or a couple of pages when the guidelines just say a synopsis. The latter is what my UK agent sends to publishers, so he obviously feels it's enough.

waylander · Apr 29, 2009

There is no consistency whatever amongst British agents when it comes to what they want in a synopsis. Some say one page, some say up to 8 pages, some don't want one at all. You can however phone them to ask.
What you have sounds adequate

Chiquita Banana · Apr 29, 2009

Thank you both! I really appreciate the advice.

Querying in the UK - synopsis length question

Chiquita Banana

practical experience, FTW

qwerty

exiled Brit

waylander

Who's going for a beer?

Chiquita Banana

practical experience, FTW