Submission Guidelines
Archived page. The Harris Literary Agency no longer accepts submissions or queries through this address, and this archive does not represent authors.
This was the agency's submission page as captured in February 2009. It asked for a query first, by post or e-mail, with a one to two page description, a short biography and a stamped self-addressed envelope, and set out what a requested partial should look like. The postal address and e-mail at the foot of the page have been removed; the guidelines no longer apply anywhere.
Submission Guidelines
Please query first, only by E-mail or conventional mail -- no phone or fax.
Query...
Query guidelines are often overlooked by the less experienced author. Guidelines are provided for a specific purpose and should be followed to the letter. We have a time-proven procedure for reviewing submitted work.
The initial query should contain a one to two page description plus the author's pertinent biography, neatly typed in a 12 point font with accurate spelling and proper punctuation. Make sure it is clear and succinct. Tell what the work is about and do not add hype. Include the ending and tell us how many words and pages are in your work.
Include a SASE (stamped self-addressed envelope). Without it, don't expect a response.
If you exercise cybernetic skill, an Email query is acceptable. Do not query by sending long Email messages. Tell about your work in 200-300 words.
Do not call or Email after your query. We will respond in a timely manner.
If you've tweaked our interest, you will be contacted for more information which includes a request for a synopsis and a portion of your work, usually three chapters or 50 pages. This will be reviewed for writing style, editing, and a more complete story line.
Submission...
DO:
Use a crisp 12 pt font. Times New Roman or Courier fonts are preferred. Ease of reading is paramount so make sure to double space your text. Your editing skills will be scrutinized. A wise purchase would be a how-to book on editing and manuscript presentation. Show that you've done your homework.
Include adequate SASE for your work if you wish it returned. If not, the work will be recycled. Do include a letter-size SASE for a response in any case. If you send three chapters or 50 pages, an envelope is fine. If a manuscript is sent, it must be unbound, secured with rubber bands, and sent in a 9x12 shipping box.
Description should be one page and succinctly describe your work. Do not state that it will be a best seller, a blockbuster movie, or you have six sequels lined up. This is an area that will challenge you to tell about your work. It must describe your effort in the best light and include the ending.
Synopsis should be two to five pages and tell the entire story in greater detail than the description.
If we like the work we will offer you representation. We will spend considerable time and attention on your behalf to prepare and submit your work to demanding publishers.
The odds of a first-time author being published are long. We all live in dreams, hopes, and aspirations; however, dreams do sometimes come true.
DO NOT:
Use a typewriter. Word processors or computers are necessary in order to make required changes.
Use a fiber-filled envelope.
Over-tape the package or use staples.
Perforate, punch, staple, or bind your work. It must be loose. Use a rubber band to keep the pages together.
Send material by express carriers that require signatures. It's a waste of your money and will not expedite your work being reviewed.
Call to see if your work arrived. If you wish to know that your ms has been received, insert an additional SASE or postcard.