How to write a query letter for a children’s book – and what agents actually want to see
A query letter is one page with a simple purpose, but it stops plenty of talented writers from getting published. Not because the writing isn’t good enough, but because writing a winning query letter is a different cup of tea from writing a great manuscript. Here is what literary agents are looking for in a query letter, section by section.
The hook (one to two sentences)
Your opening needs to tell the agent what your book is, who it’s for, and why it’s compelling, all at once. The most reliable formula is the “comp pitch”: think of it as the logline a film producer would use. “A picture book about a small bird who must choose between safety and adventure, for readers who loved The Dot but wanted something with more teeth.” You’re not summarising the entire plot, you’re just making the agent lean forward.
Avoid opening with a question, a philosophical statement, or a description of your writing process. Get to the book immediately.
The book details (one sentence)
State the title, age range, genre, and word count. This sounds mechanical but it matters, as agents use this information to decide instantly whether the submission fits their list. For picture books: “TITLE is a picture book for ages 3-6, approximately 650 words.” For middle grade: include word count (typically 25,000-50,000 words) and any series potential if relevant.
The summary (one short paragraph)
This is the hardest part. You need to convey the story arc – the main character, the central problem, and what’s at stake – without recapping every plot point. A useful test: can you tell the story in three sentences? Character wants something. Something gets in the way. Here is what they risk by trying to overcome it. You do not need to reveal the ending.
For picture books specifically, the summary should also give a sense of the language. If the text is rhythmic, let the query reflect that. If the premise is funny, let a little of that wit show. Agents reading picture book queries are also listening for voice.
The personal paragraph (optional but often effective)
A brief note on why you wrote this book, any relevant credentials (teaching experience, work with children, previous publications), and any personal connection to the subject. Keep it to two or three sentences and avoid giving your life story. The aim is to show that you are a real person with something to say, and ideally that you understand the market you’re writing for.
The sign-off
Thank the agent for their time. Note whether this is a simultaneous submission (it almost certainly is, and agents expect this, so just say so), and offer to send the full manuscript on request.
And a note on personalisation: if you are querying a specific agent because you genuinely admire their list or read an interview where they mentioned looking for exactly what you’ve written, say so briefly, ideally just in one sentence. It shows you’ve done your homework and it is noticed.
A quick do-and-don’t checklist
Do
- Open with the book, not with yourself
- State title, age range, genre, and word count clearly and early
- Show the central problem and what’s at stake, in as few sentences as possible
- Let the voice of your book come through in the writing of the query itself
- Personalise briefly if you have a genuine reason to query this specific agent
- Note that you are submitting simultaneously, agents expect it
- Research the agent’s list before you send anything
Don’t
- Open with a question, a philosophical statement, or a description of your process
- Tell the agent your family, friends, or children loved it
- Compare yourself to J.K. Rowling, Roald Dahl, or Dr Seuss
- Submit to an agent who doesn’t represent your category
- Bury the story under caveats, context, or backstory
- Use the personal paragraph as an opportunity to tell your life story
- Send before the manuscript is as polished as it can possibly be
Further reading: How to find a children’s book agent in the UK