How to Write a Query Letter for a Short Story Collection

Writing a query letter for a short story collection is a totally different monster, but don’t worry—we’re here to help.

Here’s how to write a query letter for a short story collection:

Write a query letter for a short story collection by getting stories published, including new stories, using a standard format, summarizing stories, considering a story arc, creating a novel-like structure, choosing a theme, sending samples, proofreading, and targeting the right agents.

In this article, we’ll discuss what a query letter for a short story collection is and provide you with the 10 best tips to help you create an engaging and effective query letter.

We’ll also share three different examples of successful query letters and address some common questions you might have.

What Is a Query Letter for a Short Story Collection? (Explained)

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A query letter for a short story collection is a one-page document that serves as your introduction to literary agents or publishers.

It’s your chance to pitch your short story collection in a concise and compelling manner, showcasing your unique voice and the value your stories can bring to readers.

Most query letters focus on one piece of content (such as a novel, book, or article).

In a short story collection query letter, you will pitch your entire batch of stories, making it an unusual and slightly different kind of letter.

How To Write a Query Letter for a Short Story Collection? (10 Best Tips)

Crafting an engaging and effective query letter for your short story collection is essential to catching the attention of agents and publishers.

To help you make the best impression possible, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best tips.

Each tip will be discussed in detail to ensure that you have all the information you need to create a standout query letter.

1. Get Some of Your Short Stories Published

Having a few of your short stories published in literary magazines, anthologies, or online platforms can greatly enhance your query letter.

When you can demonstrate that your work has been recognized and appreciated by others in the industry, it adds credibility and helps you stand out from the competition.

Aim to get a few of your best stories published before pitching your collection to agents or publishers.

In addition to bolstering your reputation as a writer, having published stories can also provide you with valuable feedback and networking opportunities.

Use this experience to refine your craft and make connections with other writers, editors, and industry professionals.

These connections can be invaluable when it comes time to submit your query letter.

2. Include New Short Stories, Too

While it’s important to showcase your previously published stories in your collection, it’s also essential to include new, unpublished stories.

Including fresh material demonstrates that you’re continually developing your craft and have more to offer than just your past successes.

It also gives agents and publishers a reason to be excited about your collection.

Think about it: you’re giving them the opportunity to introduce new stories to the literary world.

When selecting new stories to include in your collection, consider how they fit in with the overall theme or arc of the collection (more on that in a moment).

Aim for a balance between published and unpublished works that complement each other and create a cohesive reading experience.

3. Use Standard Query Letter Format (With a Twist)

When writing your query letter, it’s important to follow the standard format, which includes a brief introduction, a summary of your collection, your bio, and a closing statement.

However, since you’re pitching a collection of short stories, you’ll need to adapt the format slightly to accommodate the unique nature of your project.

In the letter, mention any notable publications where your stories have appeared, as well as any awards or recognitions you’ve received.

In the summary section, rather than focusing on a single story, provide an overview of the collection as a whole.

That brings us to the next tip…

4. Briefly Describe Several Stories In Your Story Summary

When summarizing your collection, it’s a good idea to briefly describe several of the stories to give agents and publishers a taste of your work.

Focus on the most captivating stories or those that best represent the overall theme of the collection.

Be sure to keep your descriptions concise and engaging, using vivid language to paint a picture of the characters, settings, and conflicts in each story.

Highlight the key themes, motifs, or narrative threads that tie the stories together.

Remember that the goal of the story summary is to pique the interest of agents and publishers, so choose your words carefully and strive to make each description as compelling as possible.

If you can leave them wanting more, you’ll have a much better chance of getting a positive response to your query letter.

5. Consider a Story Arc To Run Through All Of Your Stories

Creating a unifying story arc or theme that runs through your entire collection can help make your query letter stand out.

This demonstrates that your collection is more than just a random assortment of stories; it has a purpose and a cohesive structure that enhances the overall reading experience.

A well-crafted story arc can also make your collection more marketable, as it gives agents and publishers a clear idea of what to expect from your work.

When developing a story arc or theme, consider the common elements that connect your stories, such as recurring characters, settings, motifs, or underlying messages.

Reflect on how these elements contribute to a larger narrative or theme that will resonate with readers.

Once you’ve identified your unifying thread, make sure to emphasize it in your query letter, as this will help agents and publishers understand the value and appeal of your collection.

6. Make Your Collection a Novel Broken Up In Short Stories

Another way to approach your short story collection is to structure it as a novel broken up into interconnected short stories.

This can create a more cohesive and immersive reading experience while still maintaining the individuality of each story.

Agents and publishers are often drawn to unique and innovative structures, so presenting your collection in this way can help your query letter stand out.

To achieve this, consider how your stories can be linked together to form a larger narrative.

This might involve connecting characters, settings, or events across multiple stories, or exploring a central theme from different perspectives.

Be sure to highlight this novel-like structure in your query letter, explaining how it adds depth and complexity to your collection.

7. Choose a Theme for Your Collection

Having a strong theme for your short story collection can make it more appealing to agents, publishers, and readers.

A theme serves as the backbone of your collection, tying the stories together and giving them a sense of unity and purpose.

When choosing a theme, consider the common threads that run through your stories, as well as what you want your collection to convey to readers.

Once you’ve identified your theme, make sure to emphasize it in your query letter.

Explain how the theme is explored and developed throughout the collection and why it’s relevant and engaging to your target audience.

This will help agents and publishers understand the value of your collection and see its potential for success.

8. Send Samples of Your Stories

When submitting your query letter, consider including samples of your short stories to give agents and publishers a taste of your writing style and the quality of your work.

Choose one or two stories that best represent your collection and showcase your unique voice and storytelling abilities.

Be sure to follow submission guidelines when sending samples, as some agents or publishers may have specific requirements for formatting and length.

Including samples of your stories can help demonstrate your talent as a writer and pique the interest of agents and publishers.

If they enjoy your samples, they’ll be more likely to request your full manuscript and consider your collection for publication.

9. Proofread and Revise Your Query Letter

Before sending out your query letter, take the time to proofread and revise it thoroughly.

This will help ensure that your letter is free of errors and communicates your pitch clearly and effectively. Pay close attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling, as well as the overall structure and flow of your letter.

Don’t be afraid to seek feedback from others, such as writing peers or critique groups.

They can provide valuable insights and suggestions to help you polish your query letter and make it as strong as possible.

10. Research and Target the Right Agents or Publishers

Finally, take the time to research agents and publishers who are interested in short story collections and have a track record of success in your genre or niche.

This will increase your chances of finding a suitable match and receiving a positive response to your query letter.

Study submission guidelines carefully and tailor your query letter to each agent or publisher, addressing them by name and demonstrating that you’ve taken the time to familiarize yourself with their preferences and requirements.

By targeting the right agents and publishers, you’ll improve your chances of success.

You’ll also save time and effort by avoiding submissions to those who aren’t a good fit for your work.

Here is a good video about how to write a query letter for a short story collection:

YouTube video by Just B. Jordan – How to write a query letter for a short story collection

Short Story Collection Query Letter Examples (3 Different Examples)

To help you craft your own query letter, we’ve provided three different examples of successful short story collection query letters.

Each example showcases a unique approach to pitching a collection and can serve as a starting point for your own letter.

You’ll want to end each letter by thanking the agent for their consideration and mentioning what, if anything, is enclosed (like samples).

Use these examples as inspiration, but remember to adapt them to reflect your own voice, style, and collection.

Example 1: Themed Collection

Dear [Agent’s Name],

I am excited to introduce my short story collection, SHIFTING TIDES, which explores the complex and ever-changing nature of human relationships through ten interconnected stories. My stories have been published in literary magazines such as [Magazine A] and [Magazine B], and I was recently awarded the [Award Name] for my story, “[Story Title].”

SHIFTING TIDES delves into the lives of diverse characters as they navigate the turbulent waters of love, loss, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a small coastal town, each story reveals a new facet of the human experience, from the bittersweet reunion of childhood friends to the quiet resilience of a widow rebuilding her life after tragedy.

Example 2: Novel-like Collection

Dear [Agent’s Name],

I am submitting my short story collection, FRAGMENTS OF LIFE, a novel-like collection that follows the journey of a single protagonist through a series of interconnected stories spanning three decades. Several of my stories have been published in [Magazine C] and [Magazine D], and my work has been recognized with the [Award Name].

FRAGMENTS OF LIFE tells the story of Anna, a restless spirit who traverses the globe in search of connection, meaning, and adventure. Each story captures a pivotal moment in her life, from her rebellious youth to her struggles with identity and her ultimate quest for self-acceptance. Through Anna’s eyes, readers will experience the joys and sorrows of a life lived with passion and courage.

Example 3: Eclectic Collection

Dear [Agent’s Name],

I am delighted to present my short story collection, KALEIDOSCOPE, a vibrant and eclectic mix of stories that celebrate the diversity and complexity of the human experience. My work has appeared in [Magazine E] and [Magazine F], and I was a finalist for the [Award Name] last year.

KALEIDOSCOPE features fifteen distinct stories that span genres, styles, and themes, from a haunting ghost story set in rural Ireland to a heartwarming tale of friendship between two unlikely companions. Each story invites readers to step into a new world, challenging their assumptions and opening their hearts to the wonders of the human spirit.

Short Story Collection Query Letter FAQ

Navigating the world of query letters can be challenging, especially when you have questions about the process.

To help you feel more confident as you craft your query letter for your short story collection, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.

How Long Should My Short Story Collection Query Letter Be?

Query letters for short story collections should generally be no more than one page in length.

Keep your letter concise and focused, ensuring that every sentence serves a purpose in showcasing your collection and your abilities as a writer.

Remember, agents and publishers are busy professionals who receive countless submissions, so it’s important to make your query letter easy to read and engaging from the start.

Should I Mention My Unpublished Stories in the Query Letter?

Yes, it’s a good idea to mention both your published and unpublished stories in your query letter.

This demonstrates that you have a strong body of work and are continuing to develop your craft.

Including a mix of published and unpublished stories in your collection can also make it more appealing to agents and publishers, as it showcases your versatility and commitment to producing new and engaging material.

Can I Submit My Query Letter to Multiple Agents or Publishers at Once?

Yes, you can submit your query letter to multiple agents or publishers simultaneously.

However, be sure to research each recipient carefully and tailor your letter to their specific preferences and requirements. This demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to familiarize yourself with their work and are genuinely interested in partnering with them.

If you receive multiple offers of representation or publication, be professional and courteous in your communications with all parties involved.

Remember that the publishing industry is a small world, and maintaining positive relationships is essential for a successful career.

Final Thoughts: How To Write a Query Letter for a Short Story Collection

If you’re looking for tools and resources to help you write your short story collection query letter, here are my favorites:

ToolDescription
Jasper AIAI Writer & Image Generator
ChatGPTAI Writer
Query Letter Swipe FileBook of Query Letter Templates
Query Letter Tools: Chart

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