INDUSTRY

Here’s a good giggle. Literary agent Sharlene Martin posts this sample of truly pathetic query letters she’s received (sorry, there simply is no better word). The desperation is palpable, people.

(Scroll down on her page to view)
Query Madness, Writers’ Digest, Nov-Dec 2007

Okay, snarkiness aside, I can see how many of these folks might have thought they would win her over–cut through all the earnest wannabes–with their wit and self-deprecating manner but please! Can an agent sell self-pity? Give people something to work with.

My favourite?

We have written a “self-help” book. It actually is more than just self-help because it helps others also.

Great. I can see the bidders lining up for that one.