Happy Agent Monday, everyone! Some Monday mornings are harder than others – and today requires extra java somehow… But not everything is difficult. One thing that is really easy and helpful? Using #MSWL. What’s that, you ask? Well, if you are a writer querying literary agents, it’s time to find out!
#MSWL is a twitter tag that stands for Manuscript Wish List. Head on over to twitter, and search for the tag. Go ahead, I’ll wait… Taps foot… What you should find there are entries made by editors and agents about what they are looking for RIGHT NOW. It’s pretty awesome. And simple to use, which is really key.
It’s simple for me as a Literary Agent, because, even BEFORE that second cup of coffee, you’ll see that this morning I tweeted a whole bunch of things I’m really looking for in queries. Things like diverse meaningful fiction, spooky ghost-like tales, heartfelt and funny middle grade with a STEM tie in, riveting memoirs – especially with a foody slant, hilarious and fresh women’s fiction, smart and edgy contemporary YA with a romantic touch. Got one of those? Definitely send me a query! But please follow my submission guidelines, which can be found by clicking here.
And it’s simple for querying writers to make use of #MSWL too. You can search for the tag on twitter, but this isn’t limited to twitter. This info also gets compiled into a searchable website. Cool, right? Go to www.manuscriptwishlist.com and search away. While you are there – look me up!
This will add an up-to-date twist to your agent hunt that just might give you and your manuscript the edge you need.
Happy querying!
*Marie is a Literary Agent at The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency in New York City. To keep up with all her Agent Monday posts, subscribe to her site.
Marie Lamba, author 
I first heard about this at the Liars Club Coffeehouse in Willow Grove, Pa. Sounds really easy. Not ready to query yet, but good to know.
Hi Dawn!
Yep – every bit of information helps. 🙂