Writing an author's bio for a literary agent query

It can be hard to write about yourself but it also can be necessary. It can also be fun if you don't take it too seriously. For an agent query experts suggest keeping it short, like the bios found on the back covers of book jackets. But producing one of those edited down bios is hard work. The fun is in going over your life — from beginning to now — and sorting out all those events, experiences, joys, accomplishments, sorrows, and loves and, as you recall each one, deciding which are relevant to your agent query and which are just personal memories you're now reliving.

Make two lists, one of the memories you can savor for your own pleasure and one (the short one!) you can use to build your agent query bio. When you get done, save the longer one, the personal one. You can use it to tell stories to your kids and grandkids and friends — who may or may not show any interest.

Make a game of it. then it's fun, not an onerous chore. And remember, if you're querying an agent, the bio is something you have to have ready.