This is the actual query letter that my student and website regular Judy Winn sent out. She received a very prompt response from Ms. Fitzpatrick, asking to see the ms. So if you want an example of a good and successful query letter – here it is!
Mary Rosenblum, Web Editor
WOMAN’S WORLD 2021 Plantation Oaks Dr
The Woman’s Weekly Navarre, FL 32566
Heinrich Bauer North America, Inc. June 4, 2003
270 Sylvan Ave
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Attn: Kathy Fitzpatrick, Features Editor
Dear Ms Fitzpatrick,
"Judy, come here. You need to see this," called my husband Roger.
I put the large spoon back in the mixing bowl where I was fixing Christmas chocolates and went to look over his shoulder as he sat at the computer.
"This is a free offer from a site called Ancestry.com. It traces genealogy. Maybe you can find Bridget."
"I don’t know, " I answered. Although discouraged by failed attempts, I agreed to look at the site.
She would be nearly 40 years old now. Married and might not want anything to do with me. But she was my half-sister. I’d always wanted to see her, wanted to make sure she was okay. After all, we did share the same biological father.
This is the beginning of the true experience article "Finding Bridget". I’d like to share with you the excitement of locating her. In approximately 1100 words, I tell the true story of the quest, the reasons for the separation, and the ultimate first meeting with my sister. I think your readers will enjoy the discovery and perhaps take courage in trying to pursue finding their own lost loved ones.
This has been a very positive experience for both of our families. I cannot imagine my life without her now.
Although I have limited writing experience, I have stories published in True
Confessions as well as Humpty Dumpty and Clubhouse. May I send this article to you to consider printing in Woman’s World?
I hope you are interested in reading "Finding Bridget". Thank you for your consideration. A self-addressed, stamped enveloped is enclosed for your response.
Sincerely,
Judy Winn
Return to Reviews