AI and the Query Letter

 How to Use AI 

to Better Your 

Query Letter

by Angie Azur

Attention Writers: Did you know that you can leverage AI to enhance your query letters and improve your chances of getting noticed by agents?

 Here are a few ways AI can be used in this context:

Grammar and language refinement: AI language models can help writers polish their query letters by providing suggestions for grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Tools like Grammarly or language models like OpenAI's ChatGPT can offer real-time feedback to ensure the letter is well-written and error-free.

Personalized writing style: AI models can analyze an agent's previous work or preferences and provide insights into their preferred writing style. Writers can use this information to tailor their query letters to match the agent's interests and increase the chances of a positive response.

Comparative analysis: AI tools can compare a writer's query letter to successful queries that have resulted in representation. By analyzing patterns and identifying common elements, writers can gain insights into effective approaches and improve their own letters accordingly.

Storytelling techniques: AI models can assist writers in refining the storytelling aspects of their query letters. They can suggest compelling hooks, engaging opening paragraphs, and effective summaries that captivate the agent's attention and generate interest in the manuscript.

Query letter optimization: AI algorithms can analyze large volumes of query letters and agent responses to identify common strengths and weaknesses. Writers can use this information to optimize their own letters, ensuring they include the necessary components and address potential concerns that agents often have.

Targeted agent search: AI-powered platforms and databases can help writers find agents who specialize in their genre or have a track record of representing similar works. These tools provide valuable insights into an agent's preferences, recent deals, and submission guidelines, enabling writers to find the most suitable agents for their manuscripts.

Query letter evaluation: Writers can use AI-based tools to evaluate the effectiveness of their query letters before sending them out. These tools can provide feedback on elements such as clarity, persuasiveness, and the overall impact of the letter, helping writers make necessary adjustments and improvements.

Here are a few examples of a query letter vs. an AI query. Then the prompts I used to create a humorous query, or serious query, or a query enhancing a particular style.

Original Query: Asked Ai to create a query for this PB.

Dear [Agent/Publisher's Name],

Meowdy there! My name is [Your Name], and I'm thrilled to introduce you to my purr-fectly delightful picture book, "Mouse the Cat."

Book Overview:

"Mouse the Cat" is a hilariously heartwarming tale that's all about a cat named Mouse who's been having a ruff time at school. You see, Mouse is not your typical feline—she has a name that's, well, a bit unusual for a cat. And that has led to some pretty funny and furry-tastic situations. The other animals at school just can't resist poking fun at her, but Mouse has a secret weapon—her sense of humor.

One day, Mouse stumbles upon a group of mice who appreciate her quirks and celebrate her unique name. They become fast friends, embarking on adventures that are as wacky as they are wonderful. Through laughter, camaraderie, and a whole lot of cheesy jokes, Mouse learns that true friends love you for who you are, no matter how different you may be.

Why "Mouse the Cat" is Pawsitively Special:

• A whimsical and relatable story that addresses the theme of bullying and the power of friendship.
• Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and witty wordplay that will tickle young readers' funny bones.
• Vibrantly illustrated to bring Mouse's world to life, captivating young imaginations.
• A heartwarming message about embracing individuality and finding your tribe.

I believe "Mouse the Cat" has the potential to be a cherished addition to your catalog of children's books. It speaks to the importance of kindness, inclusivity, and the magic of friendship—all wrapped up in a package of feline fun.

I would be absolutely delighted to provide you with the complete manuscript and discuss how "Mouse the Cat" can find its cozy spot on your bookshelves. Thank you so much for considering my submission, and I look forward to the possibility of working together on this endearing project.

Wishing you whiskers of joy and a tail-wagging good day!

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Ai with the same query but directed to use the voice of the cat:

Dear [Agent/Publisher's Name],

Hey there, cool cats of the literary world! I'm Mouse, and I've got a tail-tastic tale that's gonna make you giggle, grin, and maybe even do a happy cat dance. It's called "Mouse the Cat," and I promise you're in for a paw-some treat.

Book Overview:

"Mouse the Cat" is the meow-nificent story of yours truly, Mouse. Now, don't let the name fool ya—I'm a cat through and through, but my parents had a funny sense of humor. Because of that, school hasn't exactly been a walk in the park. You see, when your name is Mouse, the mice in your class think they've won the lottery of teasing material.

But here's the scoop: I've got a secret weapon, and it's called humor. I've learned to laugh at myself and turn those snickers into snorts of laughter. And guess what? One day, I stumbled upon a bunch of mice who thought I was the cat's meow! They saw past my name and loved me for being, well, me.

With my new rodent pals, we embarked on epic adventures that are as funny as they are fuzzy. We told cheesy jokes (literally), pulled off daring stunts (well, for mice, anyway), and had more belly laughs than you can shake a tail at. I learned that real friends don't care if you're a cat named Mouse or a mouse named Fluffy—they just care about the size of your heart.

What Makes "Mouse the Cat" a Paw-some Read:

A side-splittingly hilarious story that tackles the serious topic of bullying with a ton of humor.

• Bursting with witty wordplay and knee-slapping moments that'll have kids and grown-ups chuckling together.
• Illustrated with dazzling colors and playful details, bringing my quirky world to life.
• A heartwarming message about celebrating our quirks and finding friends who love us, no matter what.

I truly believe that "Mouse the Cat" will have kids and cat lovers alike purring with delight. It's a story that teaches kindness, inclusivity, and the magic of being your unique self.

I'd be over the moon (or should I say litter box?) to share the whole manuscript and chat with you about how "Mouse the Cat" can find its special spot on your bookshelf. Thanks a gazillion for considering my tail-tastic tale, and I can't wait to hear from you!

Wishing you mouse-tastic days and endless belly laughs,

XO,

Mouse

Ai creating a very serious query for this PB: 

Prompt: Create a very serious query letter for Mouse the Cat. 

Dear [Agent/Publisher's Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to introduce my picture book, "Mouse the Cat," a poignant and thought-provoking story that addresses the profound themes of identity, bullying, and the transformative power of friendship.

Book Overview:

In "Mouse the Cat," readers meet Mouse, a cat with an unconventional name that sets her apart from her peers. At school, Mouse endures relentless teasing and bullying from the other animals due to her name. Her daily struggles to fit in are compounded by a profound sense of isolation.

As the story unfolds, we witness Mouse's inner strength and resilience. Despite the adversity she faces, she clings to her sense of self and refuses to be defined solely by her name. Mouse's journey takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a group of mice who accept her for who she is, rather than what she is called. Through these newfound friendships, Mouse learns about the unbreakable bonds of camaraderie and the enduring capacity of the human spirit.

Why "Mouse the Cat" is Remarkable:

• A deeply touching narrative that delves into the emotional impact of bullying, making it relevant and relatable to young readers.
• A timeless and universal theme of acceptance, showcasing the importance of kindness, empathy, and inclusion.
• Illustrations that complement the story's emotional depth, enhancing the overall reading experience.
• A message that resonates with readers of all ages, promoting understanding and compassion.

I believe "Mouse the Cat" has the potential to inspire meaningful conversations about empathy and acceptance in the classroom and at home. It offers readers a powerful lesson in the value of embracing diversity and standing up against bullying.

I would be honored to provide you with the complete manuscript and discuss how "Mouse the Cat" could become a significant addition to your catalog, sparking essential dialogues on these crucial topics.

Thank you for considering my submission, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how "Mouse the Cat" can find its place among the outstanding publications your agency or publishing house represents.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Ai prompt: Create another query letter for Mouse the Cat in the style of Shel Silverstein.

Hey there, groovy cats and storytelling catsup makers!

I'm [Your Name], and I've got this wild and wacky picture book called "Mouse the Cat." Now, hold onto your socks because this tale is gonna shake 'em right off!

Book Overview:

"Mouse the Cat" isn't your run-of-the-mill cat-and-mouse game. Nope, it's about a cat named Mouse. Confused yet? Well, so is everyone at Mouse's school. See, they can't wrap their whiskers around the fact that a cat could be called Mouse.

But here's the skinny: Mouse is one cool cat with a sense of humor as sharp as a claw. She ain't gonna let a little name-calling ruffle her fur. Nope, she's got bigger fish to fry (or mice to chase, as the case may be).

One day, she stumbles upon a group of mice who are as quirky and fun-loving as she is. They roll together like peas in a pod, sharing cheesy jokes and having adventures that'll tickle your whiskers.

Why "Mouse the Cat" is Cat-tastically Cool:

• It's a zany, hilarious story that flips the cat-mouse world on its head.
• Packed with puns, giggles, and surprises that'll have kids and grown-ups alike in stitches.
• Illustrated with colorful chaos that'll make you want to dive right into the pages.
• A message about friendship, embracing your quirks, and dancing to your own whisker-twitching tune.

So, if you're ready for a picture book that's as bonkers as a catnip-fueled dance party, "Mouse the Cat" is your ticket to a purr-fectly good time.

I'm itching to share the whole shebang with you and chat about how this nutty cat tale could shimmy its way onto your bookshelf. Thanks a heap for considering my crazy creation, and I'm eagerly awaiting your reply like a cat by the mousehole!

Keep the silliness alive and keep those pages turning,

[Your Name]

___________________________________________________________________________________

As you've seen above, AI can be a valuable tool in refining your book marketing strategies and capturing the attention of potential agents. The key takeaway here is to be specific when providing prompts to AI. Clearly articulate what you envision in your query letter. Whether you desire a touch of humor, a more serious tone, or a literary flair, express your preferences to AI.

AI is a fantastic listener, but it thrives when you initiate the creative process. Start by crafting an original query letter that reflects your unique voice and message. Afterward, harness the power of AI by uploading your creation and requesting revisions based on your specific goals and preferences.

By following this approach, you can leverage AI to your advantage in crafting the perfect query letter for your book. Wishing you the best of luck in your writing journey, and as always, keep writing!

Write~on,

Angie

And if you'd like to be featured on the blog, please reach out.

angazur @ gmail . com