How to Write a Nonfiction Book Query Letter That Gets Attention

You've written a nonfiction book and decided to try to sell the idea to a conventional publisher. Where do you begin? Whether you are going directly to the publisher or trying to interest an agent in representing you, you begin with a well-crafted query letter.
A query letter is a one-page document that must entice the recipient to want to know more about your book. It is by definition concise, so every word must count. Its job, like that of a good resume, is to get you in the door. To do that it must be informative and inviting -- both steak and sizzle. A query letter may be the first step in contacting a publisher or agent but it is the last step in writing your book proposal.
In essence a query letter is a mini proposal, an encapsulation of your most salient points on a single piece of paper. It has four steps.
1. Your book hook The book hook is single sentence that grabs your reader's attention. It not only explains what your book is about, it sums up the essence of the story. It pulls the reader in and elicits a response, which should be one of interest and curiosity. If you have written a powerful concept statement, you already have your book hook.
Here are a few examples:
The freedom and independence of a freelance writer's life is only half the story; the other half includes the practical realities of finding work, writing well on demand, and managing a business -- all at the same time.
Dealing with difficult people in the workplace is a given; but it takes people skills and practice to build and sustain productive relationships with peers, supervisors, and others on or off the job.
Ask any ten successful women these questions -- What does success mean to you? How have you achieved it? What advice would you give other women? -- and you will get ten completely different answers.
In her early teens Jane Doe suffered a devastating depression that came on with no warning and signaled the beginning of a life-long battle with bipolar disorder, a condition that was not diagnosed until she reached adulthood.
2. More about the book This is your opportunity to answer the questions an agent or publisher might have after being captivated by your book hook. It is a synopsis with punch, your book boiled down to a short paragraph. What is the book's purpose? What are its main points? Why does it important and timely? If your hook is your elevator speech, consider this paragraph what you might say if you and the other person traveled a few more floors together.
3. About the author What would an agent or publisher want to know about you as it pertains to your book? Are you an expert on this subject, and, if so, what makes you one? Here is your chance to explain your qualifications and writing credentials. If your education is relevant to the subject, include it; otherwise, leave it out. Have you been published and where? Have you won any awards? Has your work been reviewed? Keep this paragraph focused on your subject matter and writing experience.
4. Action step Your closing paragraph should be short and simple. Express your appreciation for the reader's time and consideration of your submission. Include a complete book proposal or an outline and sample chapter and your contact information. Mention a date when you will follow up.
A solid query letter is not something you dash off. It takes a great deal of thought and often many revisions. Certainly, it will be a smoother process if you have written your book proposal, but it is not only the content that counts; it is also packaging. The publisher or agent wants to know what your book is about, why you are qualified as the author, and how well you write. This letter may be the single most important piece of writing you will do.