How To Decipher A Rejection

We've all been there...

One finger hovers over the mouse, ready to click open the e-mail that just popped up in your inbox from an agent you've queried. Your heart is hammering against your ribs.

Maybe it's a partial request! Maybe it's full request! Maybe it's an invitation to set up a call!!!

Or maybe *sad violin music* it's a rejection.

And when someone tells you they don't like your heart and soul, and all the blood, sweat and tears that go with it, you want a good reason, don't you?



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Dude, I feel you pain. I'm somewhat of an expert on rejections. Suffice to say, I've racked up my fair share. And with that experience comes wisdom.

Here are some actual rejections I've received over the years and what they really mean.


#1. Rejection on JUST JESSE from editor.

Thanks for sending this my way, but I'm afraid the story didn't hook me like I had hoped. Keep in mind another agent may feel differently.

What it means: Keep writing. Keep sending out queries.



#2. Rejection on JUST JESSE from editor.

I loved the setting and the pacing of the story, but I didn't fall in love with the main character to my satisfaction. Thanks for thinking of me and please keep me in mind for future projects.

What it means: Keep writing. Keep sending out queries.


#3. Rejection on query for NIGHT SHIFT by agent.

A YA paranormal from a male POV isn't selling well in this genre. Most readers are girls and want to live the experience through the protagonist. If you consider changing the POV to a girl, I'd be willing to take a look at the first three chapters.

What it means: Keep writing. Keep send out queries. Also, HARRY POTTER and PERCY JACKSON.


#4. Rejection on query for THE ASP by agent.

This is a unique premise and I love the unexpected twist, but unfortunately my client case load is such that I'm no longer looking for YA writers at this time.

What it means: Keep writing. Keep sending out queries.


#5. Rejection on query for JUST JESSE by agent.

Sorry, but your work isn't the right fit for our agency. Please forgive the impersonal nature of this email, but it is necessary to send a form rejection if we strive to respond to every query.

What it means: Keep writing. Keep sending out queries.


Hm...it looks like they're all saying the same thing, keep writing, keep sending out queries. And here's a bonus. DON'T GIVE UP!!!