Ask the Author: Wade Albert White
Answered Questions (10)
Wade Albert White
I'm inspired by all kinds of things. A lot of what I write simply comes out of my own imagination, but I also get inspired by books I read or movies I watch. Sometimes even paintings or other artwork sparks an idea.
Wade Albert White
There are many wonderful aspects to being a writer, and I would find it difficult to name just one thing as *the* best. I always have a lot of story ideas spinning around in my head, so getting to write them down and share them with other people is definitely near the top of the list. Hearing other people's reactions to my stories is also fun.
Wade Albert White
I'm currently working on Book 3 of my series. The title is THE ADVENTURER'S GUIDE TO TREASURE (AND HOW TO STEAL IT).
Wade Albert White
It took me approximately four and a half months to write the first draft. I wrote five more drafts after that (each of which took much less time) before trying to find a literary agent. When added altogether, the total writing and editing time was probably close to a year.
Wade Albert White
It's on my to-read list! :)
Wade Albert White
Hi Hannah,
This is a great question, and I would offer several thoughts in response:
First, search around and read other queries that you know led to requests. For example, check out the many, many queries posted on Michelle Hauck's blog (she runs a lot of query writing contests through the year). You can learn a lot by studying these.
Second, treat your query the same as your manuscript when it comes to editing. Go over it several times, have others read it, revise revise revise, etc. It's your first point of contact with an agent and should be as well written as possible.
Third, make sure the query is written in the voice of your manuscript (caveat: the query should be written in third person no matter what person the manuscript itself is written in). The query is a sort of promise that the manuscript then delivers on, and in that regard should be designed to give the reader a little taste of what is to come.
Fourth, don't assume there is only one best version of a query. I wrote three very different queries, and all received at least some response. Also tied to this, research the agents you intend to sub to and make sure they're looking for the type of story you've written.
Finally, don't give up. I sent out over 70 queries, and that's probably average these days (and I know others who sent out more). Just because one agent passes doesn't mean others won't be interested.
I hope that helps, and best of luck!
This is a great question, and I would offer several thoughts in response:
First, search around and read other queries that you know led to requests. For example, check out the many, many queries posted on Michelle Hauck's blog (she runs a lot of query writing contests through the year). You can learn a lot by studying these.
Second, treat your query the same as your manuscript when it comes to editing. Go over it several times, have others read it, revise revise revise, etc. It's your first point of contact with an agent and should be as well written as possible.
Third, make sure the query is written in the voice of your manuscript (caveat: the query should be written in third person no matter what person the manuscript itself is written in). The query is a sort of promise that the manuscript then delivers on, and in that regard should be designed to give the reader a little taste of what is to come.
Fourth, don't assume there is only one best version of a query. I wrote three very different queries, and all received at least some response. Also tied to this, research the agents you intend to sub to and make sure they're looking for the type of story you've written.
Finally, don't give up. I sent out over 70 queries, and that's probably average these days (and I know others who sent out more). Just because one agent passes doesn't mean others won't be interested.
I hope that helps, and best of luck!
Wade Albert White
I find going for a walk or a run tends to clear my head most times.
Wade Albert White
I believe there are only two rules in writing: 1) never bore the reader; and 2) always meet your deadlines.
Wade Albert White
I wanted to write a book that was equal parts fantasy and science fiction.
Wade Albert White
I don't wait for it. I sit down to write at scheduled times and let the inspiration take care of itself. If it doesn't come, I write anyway.
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Apr 11, 2018 04:30PM · flag