Albert Zuckerman & "Exclusive" Reading
I received a positive response to my query from Albert Zuckerman -- or, to be precise, his assistant (Maya). In the letter to me, Maya wrote that Mr. Z was interested in reading the first two chapters on an "exclusive" basis. Hmm ... In the package I sent, I noted in my cover letter that I could not promise an "exclusive" reading as several other agents have already requested/received chapters of my novel. [I didn't say, but thought: Hey, can I help it if he's slow to read his mail?] I also suggested that they look into having their write-up in Writer's Marketplace reflect a preference/requirement for exclusive readings.
I offered not to send out any more chapters to any other agents, should Mr. Z still wish to consider my novel -- i.e. future "exclusivity" and not retro-active. I asked that Maya e-mail me ASAP to let me know if this proposal was agreeable -- haven't received a response yet, but I don't think my package has reached them. I'll let you know what Mr. Z thinks about this semi-exclusivity proposal.