Previously, I shared how a cover letter is critically important for a book submission because it's the first introduction of your book idea to an agent or editor. It's the cover letter that has the potential to excite the agent or editor about your project. Not only is it an introduction to your book, but it also highlights why you're the right person to write the book and showcases your writing skills.

In the last blog post about cover letters for book manuscripts, we covered 

If you didn't already read the first post about cover letters, go and do that now. I'm not going anywhere.

In your cover letter, you have already greeted the agent or editor, provided an introduction or connection to them, and showcased your hook and book. Let's finish the letter.

Why You? The Bio (Paragraph 3)

Now it’s time to tell the editor why you’re the right person to write this book and any publication experience you have. No publishing credits or awards? That’s okay. (Most agents and editors suggest skipping minor publishing credits.) Mention writing conferences or associations such as SCBWI. I know you have this experience because you know the importance of learning about the publishing world before trying to get published. 

Like before, I want to show you examples that helped me get published. Perfect examples? No. But my examples. 

This is my third paragraph for The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion: A Chapter-by-Chapter Guide. I can’t believe I didn’t include the blog I created (now at WilderCompanion.com), though I know I included it in the book proposal. You might wonder why I didn’t mention the to-be-published book by name. That’s because it was a work-for-hire book, and my contract included a clause to not talk about the topic of the book prior to publication.

My first book will be published this fall by Rourke Educational Media. I provide pioneer presentations for schools and libraries with a special focus on Laura Ingalls Wilder and her books. I have an established platform through my blogs and social media. My years of teaching help me write for children’s inquisitive nature.

 This one is for Whooo Knew? The Truth About Owls. 

I’ve written five science and social studies books with Rourke Educational Media. My biographical and activity book, THE LAURA INGALLS WILDER COMPANION: A CHAPTER-BY-CHAPTER GUIDE, is set for publication with Chicago Review Press next year. In addition, Cobblestone and Highlights for Children plan to publish my activities and an article in their magazines.

This bio is for Quirky Critter Devotions: 52 Wild Wonders for Kids. This was obviously a different kind of book than the previous ones I’d written or pitched since it was for the Christian market. I included relevant faith-based writing experience in this cover letter that I don’t include in general market cover letters (Focus on the Family magazine and the Sunday school materials). 

As a former teacher and now as a writer and presenter, I celebrate curiosity and inspire a sense of wonder in readers about science and history. This year I’ll have 10 published books including THE STORY OF THE WRIGHT BROTHERS (Rockridge Press), THE LAURA INGALLS WILDER COMPANION: A CHAPTER-BY-CHAPTER GUIDE (Chicago Review Press), and WHOOO KNEW? THE TRUTH ABOUT OWLS (Reycraft Books). I also have experience writing for Highlights for Children, Cobblestone, and Focus on the Family as well as Sunday school materials. I provide adult and children’s presentations at schools, conferences, and community events focusing on history, science, faith, and writing. My platform reaches 6,000 followers.  

Final Sentence (or Two)

Conclude with a brief sentence thanking them and letting them know you’re looking forward to hearing from them. Some say this is optional, but can we be too polite?

It's recommended that this be a single sentence--or at most two. Apparently, I struggled with this. If you choose to submit as an exclusive submission (fairly rare these days), mention it here. 

This was for The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion: A Chapter-by-Chapter Guide.

This is a business letter, so we want to use a professional closing before signing (typing) your name. Some might consider my closing boring, but I call it classic or traditional. I also like to include my contact information in my signature. (FYI, this should be single-spaced. I'm not sure what's going on here to make it look double-spaced.)

You'll likely prefer additional thoughts on creating professional cover letters for book submissions. Here are a few. You'll notice that we don't all say exactly the same thing...but the bones are the same. 

http://www.kidlit411.com/2014/01/query-letters.html 

I hope these blog posts about cover letter submissions have helped you. Be sure to read part one about cover letters for book manuscripts, too.

I hope this helped you create a fabulous cover letter for your fabulous book. If you want more writing resources, please consider signing up for my monthly author newsletter. Thanks!