Before I start this post, I wanted to let everybody know I came up with a blogging schedule.
Melting Pot Monday, where anything goes.
Maybe I'll write about love or instant motherhood or something inspiring.
I may post a recipe. I may speak of travels or the arts. Whatever. It's a free for all.
(and it's my blog)
Wednesday is all Write
Author interviews; book reviews; stories, tips, tricks and
thoughts on the writing and publishing process, etc.
and finally...
Francophile Friday
My life in France and all things French.
So there you have it. Now on to today's post.
When "No" Doesn't Necessarily Mean "No"
Maybe I'll write about love or instant motherhood or something inspiring.
I may post a recipe. I may speak of travels or the arts. Whatever. It's a free for all.
(and it's my blog)
Wednesday is all Write
Author interviews; book reviews; stories, tips, tricks and
thoughts on the writing and publishing process, etc.
and finally...
Francophile Friday
My life in France and all things French.
So there you have it. Now on to today's post.
When "No" Doesn't Necessarily Mean "No"
Some time ago, when I was pitching my middle grade manuscript I found myself in a conundrum.
See, I queried agent x, but agent x rejected the manuscript, saying the premise was great, that they liked my voice, but they had something similar on their list – a YA. Agent X suggested I contact a publisher directly, one of the bigger ones. But I didn't want to go directly to a publisher; I wanted an agent.
And wait a sec. My book wasn't really similar to the theme he mentioned. Not at all.
So I thought about it. And never daring to take on a rejection before, I wrote Agent X back, selling the MS.
BIG TIME.
Needless to say, I received a request for a full a few minutes later. Literally.
See, I queried agent x, but agent x rejected the manuscript, saying the premise was great, that they liked my voice, but they had something similar on their list – a YA. Agent X suggested I contact a publisher directly, one of the bigger ones. But I didn't want to go directly to a publisher; I wanted an agent.
And wait a sec. My book wasn't really similar to the theme he mentioned. Not at all.
So I thought about it. And never daring to take on a rejection before, I wrote Agent X back, selling the MS.
BIG TIME.
Needless to say, I received a request for a full a few minutes later. Literally.
"OK YOU SOLD ME!!! :) (there was an actual smiley face)
Send hard copy to address below!
Thanks, Agent X
Now, I'm not suggesting what I did will work for everybody, especially if you receive a form letter. BUT occasionally, and if you feel it is warranted (i.e. something needs to be clarified and they've given you feedback and hope), I say go for it. Worst case scenario? They'll just say no. And they'll mean it.
SOUND-OFF: Have you ever challenged a rejection? Written a thank you to an agent who has rejected you?
