I'm kind of calmly freaking out. Got this email from my agent:
Hey Mindi,
Two quick questions:
a) Can I get a bio of you? I forgot to ask for one before we went out!
b) Here’s a strange question from a publisher. I gave my answer but wanted to check in and see what yours was: “What do you and Mindi consider the hook that makes this novel special, aside from the voice and writing?”
Talk soon!
So, I read this and ran outside to take the garbage out in my pajamas because my husband left me a message saying he forgot. When I came back in, I started getting dressed, then read the email again so I can ponder and try to write something up while I'm on the bus. (I have to leave for work in about ten minutes. Yes, I'm sitting here in my bra, typing this when I really need to go!)
Then, I absently scrolled down further on my computer screen. And noticed this beneath the message I'd read:
Hi Jim,
I just wanted to let you know that I fell in love with Mindi Scott's novel virtually from page 1. I presented it to my publisher for acquisition, and while I highlighted all the amazing reasons to acquire, she wanted a "hook." Now, coming from Alloy (and being the creator of Gossip Girl), I should have no problem with hooks. But I am stuck. Can you help? What do you and Mindi consider the hook that makes this novel special, aside from the voice and writing? I know this is Mindi's debut novel--is there something compelling about her we can use to help sell this to Sourcebooks? I want to acquire this book!!
I realize this plea for help is somewhat unorthodox, but Publishing is made for rule-breaking.
And thus, my bio and answers for the hook are suddenly even more important than I realized! Holy crap.
*runs away to finish getting dressed*