As you know I made changes to my query process to make it more efficient for me and the writers. Submission periods are organized in themed rounds. This helps writers know exactly what I am looking for and helps me reply to queries faster. The first round was for Black Canadian kidlit and was a great success! For the most part, people followed the submission guidelines and I was able to move through the queries quickly. I have 3 full manuscripts left to read and reply to.
Submission periods also have pre-set closing parameters. Each round ends after two months, or if I received 100 queries, or if I sign 2 clients—whichever comes first. Predetermined breaks help me avoid burnout, so I don’t have to close for so long (14 months!) again.
Another important change is now I only give feedback if I request full manuscripts. Although I’ve talked about how queries are not the place to get feedback, I understand that getting a “no” without a “why” is frustrating. But giving everyone feedback takes to long and makes reading queries an arduous task I don’t have time to complete. Please understand that when I send you a form rejection, I am doing so to respect your time. If you are looking for feedback, I highly recommend writing groups and writer conferences.
Without further adieu, on to round 2!
Round 2: Kidlit by Canadian writers of colour
Opening: Monday Feb 15, 2021
Closing: Saturday April 17, 2021 // when I receive 100 queries // when I sign 2 clients
Don’t send me: Picture books. Graphic novels. Books with no human characters. Horror or gore. Books that “teach a lesson”
Do send me: Chapters books and higher. Books kids will choose for themselves. Books about family and friends. Funny books. Books filled with adventure. Science fiction and fantasy. Historical fiction. Engaging non-fiction for older readers. Think your book could fit in the image above? I want to read it.
Submit using my query form only. I will not read queries sent by email.
For more information on how I choose clients, check out this post. And if you have questions feel free to ask me on Twitter @leonicka.
