Consider this is Part 1 of a 2 part blog. The second half will run Thursday. I’ll swear right now on a stack of religious books of your choice, Thursday’s blog will be both funny and entertaining.

On the writing front, I met with Editor person and reviewed the query letter for the Ridge Runner. That conversation went something like thus…

sam: It’s good on the sales pitch side, but it lacks personality.
Editor Person: There’s only so much personality you can cram in 350 words.
sam: I need something that makes mine stand out just that extra bit.
Editor Person: Let’s see, you have zero publishing credentials. You’re a novice on the subject matter. You still don’t know how to use commas consistently. I think you stand out.
sam: This query has got to look different from the others, or it’s getting tossed.
Editor Person ( reads ): You got one shot at distinguishing yourself. Go for one laugh and hope for the best.
sam: Suggestions?
Editor Person: For you to be funny? Look in a mirror, perhaps?
sam: Anything else?
Editor Person: 2 words, Harry Potter. Play the JK Rowling angle. Publishing loves the underdog forced into a career change.

So the new query letter does just that.