Cliche openings and other things that I've seen a lot of recently

It is very common to run across a number of submissions that have similar openings. I wanted to share what I see a lot of, and what will probably dissuade me from reading further.

1. We first see the character when they are waking up and going through a routine.
2. A dream. This sort of goes along with number 1.
3. Flashback.
4. A very descriptive/wordy opening that is all telling. The imagery may be well written, but it's always important to consider how everything you include works to move the story forward, or helps with character development. Is there another way to establish the setting?

Another thing I find quite often is a prologue. While prologues can be great, it's always a good idea to ask yourself if it is absolutely necessary.

Pet peeve: I've recently read a number of YA submissions where the characters attend a party, which I totally understand, but I didn't really see the significance, why the scene was important, or how it helped move the plot forward/tied into the rest of the story.

- Everything should tie together. I've come across scenes that really don't serve a purpose. I would always recommend considering why something is important, and how does whatever it is affect later events? Always think of cause and effect...even with character motivation!

When you read so many queries that have similar themes, they tend to all start to sound similar...with a similar voice, similar characters, settings etc. If the pages don't stand out, we won't want to read any further.

I would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks so much for reading!

~Jordy

From Twitter: speculative fiction vs. sci-fi; what's the difference? Does speculative as a genre sell?

Recently, I tweeted that I was looking for blog post ideas. Please continue to send ideas! 

I received a tweet asking what the difference was between speculative fiction and sci-fi. From what I understand, sci-fi would fall under speculative fiction, along with other genres, such as fantasy, horror and dystopian--to name a few. Also, genre crossover is rather common, and a novel could fit into more than one category, especially sci-fi. 

Here are a couple of links with more information regarding sci-fi and speculative fiction.

Speculative fiction actually seems to be doing very well, which is fantastic! I love sci-fi and other speculative fiction because it's an escape from the ordinary; we get to read about cool things like visiting other planets, meeting aliens (hopefully mostly friendly), or traveling in time and space. 

@LisaArnseth thanks so much for your question, and I hope that helps! 

Updates and Call for Submissions

I hope 2013 is going well for everyone so far! I just wanted to do a quick blog post. I am running a bit behind on submissions and queries (I do have some that I've put aside to look at again, and I just haven't had the chance to go back through them). I recently requested quite a few full manuscripts from pitch contests, and a number of queries from another (#PitMad) that I didn't have the opportunity to look at fully yet. Also, while I try to review submissions in order, it's not always possible, especially if an author has an offer or offers. If you have a partial/full with me, I will definitely respond. Unfortunately, as much as Brittany and I would love to respond personally to each query, time just doesn't allow...see, this is why we need a TARDIS!

I'm also doing a Call for Submissions: 

What I would like to see:

*Romance (contemporary/historical) 

*YA (Adult/New Adult) -contemporary or historical, sci-fi/fantasy, action/adventure (think Goonies, Princess Bride, NeverEnding Story, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure). I would love to see YA that are heavy on romance. 

*I'm not really looking for non-fiction, suspense/thrillers, middle grade/picture books at this time. Also, please note we are not currently representing screenplays. 

Have a great weekend!!

~Jordy

Why it's important to follow submission guidelines and research agents before querying.

I love to receive queries, and hear from authors! I'm excited to read your work and see if we would be a good fit. However, as part of the querying process it's important to make sure the agent you are querying is looking for the type of story/genre that you are submitting for his/her consideration.

I've received a number a queries that just don't fit into the genres (please see my call for submission and our web site to see what I'm considering.) I am looking for at this time. If I notice that your query does not fit into the genres I'm representing, I will most likely move on to the next query. And while I would love to respond to each query, alas, time just doesn't allow me to provide feedback to every submission.

Along with researching agents, it's important to follow submission guidelines. At our agency we ask for certain materials, such as query, synopsis and sample pages, to help us determine if we'd be interested in seeing more of your work. If your submission is missing some materials, I am unable to decide if I would like to see more and, unfortunately, it would be a decline. We also ask that you do not include attachments. Submission guidelines differ from agent to agent/agency to agency, so it's extremely important to know who you're querying and his/her guidelines.

I have also received a number of queries that just have a link. Your query is sort of like an interview, and just sending us a link would be like submitting a job application with just your name filled out. I'd also like to mention that you should NEVER query more than one agent in an email.

I'm sure many of you are already familiar with querying, but I hope you guys find this entry helpful. Please just drop me a comment (with email if you'd like a response) if you have any questions.

WISHING YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR AND BEST WISHES FOR 2013!

Wow! It's Christmas already?

It's December 19, 2012, less than a week until Christmas. It just seems like we were getting ready to hand out candy and cook Thanksgiving dinner. I can't believe how fast this year has gone. What an amazing ride. There is so much I am thankful for this year. My friends and family. My dog Bernie!

I am also very thankful to Marisa Corvisiero. She took me under her wing, guiding me and allowing me to learn and grow as an agent. I wish the whole Corvisiero team much success.

Brittany Booker, most excellent friend and my partner at The Booker Albert Literary Agency; I'm so thankful that we have the opportunity to work together. It's been an amazing journey so far...looking forward to great things in the future. Love ya, girl!

Also, shout out to my clients (love you guys!), and the great friends I've met through Twitter/fb, new and old.

I wish you all a wonderful Holiday, and best wishes for 2013!!!

Now, just waiting for Doctor Who Christmas Special...CAN'T WAIT.

News!

I am so pleased to announce Brittany Booker and I have teamed up to form a new agency. The Booker Albert Literary Agency will be open to queries beginning December 1, 2012. Brittany and I are so excited to begin a new chapter in our careers. Many thanks to Marisa Corvisiero who mentored us and provided us with such great guidance.

Please visit our website for more information. We look forward to reading your submissions!!!

You can also find us on Facebook @ The Booker Albert Literary Agency.

Motivation & Continuity

The other day on Twitter at #CorvisieroQueries I posted about motivation and continuity. I believe that both are equally important, tools that will help hook your audience, so that they want to keep reading. Too often I'll come across a query with some really nice description, but unfortunately tells us little about the character or motivation. In my humble opinion, motivation is second only to plot. Motivation helps drive the story forward. Why is your character behaving a certain way? What does your character want? How are they going to get it?

Along with motivation, continuity helps ground the reader in the world you're creating. If you jump around too much, it's so easy to get lost. Make sure your reader is right with the characters in the story. I'd also like to mention be consistent with voice. I've come across a number of submissions that begin in 1st person and then will switch to 3rd, or will begin in past tense and go to present. Always be consistent!!

Happy writing!!