FOR NON-SEASON TICKET HOLDERS Virtual Intensive with Sera Rivers, Agent, Speilburg Literary Agency
Nov 18, 2023
Online event
“Begin at the beginning," the King said, very gravely,” and go on till you come to the end: then stop.” ~ Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll Whether you’re just starting a novel, about to revise a finished draft, or ready to begin querying, writing a full synopsis is a must for all novelists. When considering a novel, some literary agents and all editors require a full synopsis (typically 1–2 pages). Different than the quick summary of a novel in a query letter (the pitch), a full synopsis includes all the major plot points of the novel—most importantly the climax and resolution. A synopsis can be more difficult to write than the novel itself. What information do you include? What do you leave out? How many characters and plot threads should you mention? What if you have multiple points of view? Most importantly, how do you write a synopsis that’s just as engaging as your novel? In this workshop, you will learn tips to help you write a full synopsis that is clear, concise, and compelling. Using the sample synopses submitted by San Diego Season Ticket holders, Rivers will demonstrate how to write a sizzling synopsis to catch an editor's eye. The workshop will include tips to help MG-YA writers to create a one-page synopsis that gives the reader a complete picture of what happens in your book. Rivers will explain how to fine-tune the synopsis to incorporate both the main character’s emotional arc and key plot points. Whether you have a completed manuscript or a basic story idea, this workshop will prepare you to write an effective synopsis.
Sera Rivers, Agent, Speilburg Literary Agency
Sera Rivers (she/her) is a Literary Agent at Speilburg Literary Agency, an AALA member, and a writer. She represents middle-grade, young adult, children’s graphic novels (author/illustrator only), and select picture books. She does not represent adult fiction/nonfiction. She holds an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University. Prior to agenting, she worked in educational publishing for seven years and launched Avenue A Books, a children’s book imprint at the Center for Responsive Schools. As Avenue A’s acquiring and managing editor, she worked with new and established children’s book writers and illustrators to create picture books and middle-grade graphic novels. Sera only accepts queries through referrals, conferences, and pitch events. Check out her full MSWL and status updates at SeraRivers.com. Follow her on Twitter @writeloudly