Navigating the Query Trenches: Tips for Writers from the Writers with Wrinkles podcast
In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid introduce a new segment called "Ask Beth and Lisa." They dive into the challenges of surviving the query trenches, offering practical advice on managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking literary representation.
Key Discussion Points
- Coping Strategies for Querying: Beth and Lisa share their contrasting approaches to dealing with the long waiting periods in the query process. Beth suggests immediately starting a new project to stay productive, while Lisa advocates for taking a break to decompress.
- Understanding Personal Writing Processes: Both hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing and embracing individual writing processes, whether it’s jumping into a new project or taking time off.
- Realistic Expectations: They discuss the current slow pace of the publishing industry, encouraging listeners to set realistic expectations about the timeline for responses from agents.
- Admin Work During Downtime: The episode suggests focusing on administrative tasks like building your platform, researching agents, and catching up on podcast episodes during the waiting period.
- New Segment Introduction: The episode introduces the “Ask Beth and Lisa” segment, which will be featured monthly to answer listener questions anonymously.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa provide a mix of humor and practical advice for writers navigating the challenging and often slow query process. Listeners are encouraged to use downtime productively and to participate in the new "Ask Beth and Lisa" segment by submitting their own questions.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
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Lisa Schmidt's Giveaway: Enter by requesting her new book at your local library to win a prize package, including a book, t-shirt, tote bag, and bookmarks. The giveaway runs until August 26th on Twitter, Threads, and Instagram.
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Beth McMullen’s Focus Forward Accountability Group: Learn more about this six-week coaching experience designed to help writers achieve their goals. Details will be available on Beth’s Substack starting September 4th.
- Ask a Question here!
Beth McMullen
Author
Beth McMullen is the author of the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series , the Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter series, and The Secret of the Storm series (Aladdin/S&S).
She is also the author of the Spy Mom series (Hyperion).
Beth lives in Northern California with her husband, kids, and very grumpy cats. She's obsessed with podcasts and might give up writing in order to have more time to listen. Could happen.
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