Before you write a letter to an author requesting a quote, endorsement, or blurb for your book, take a look at our sample letter shown below. Reviewing our example will help you write your own book cover quote request—but don’t copy this sample letter word for word. It’s important that your letter asking for a book endorsement is truly heartfelt, personal, and written in your own words.
If you haven’t already, read our article about how to request a book blurb from a famous author first and then return to this sample letter.
Sample Letter For Requesting A Book Jacket Quote
Dear Famous Author,
I’ve never written to you before, but you might recognize me from our chats on Facebook. I’ve been a fan of yours ever since you published The First Book You Wrote. And it’s been so much fun getting to know you online; the pictures you posted from your book tour were great!
While this letter is appreciative fan mail, it’s also a request. My first novel, A Stone In Time, is going to be published next year by Publishing House Name. I’m so excited! It’s about an Irish shepherdess who is transported to 2045—only to discover that she has been summoned as the last of her now-extinct bloodline to hunt down a tribe of murderous demons. She has to save the future to save her past.
I think you might like A Stone in Time because you and I both write time-travel science fiction—and we both really love surprising plot lines and strong female characters. I’m wondering if you might have time in your schedule to take a look at my book (either the whole manuscript or just a few pages)?
[Alternative: I self-published my novel A Stone in Time last year and have been absolutely overwhelmed by the positive response. I hit the Amazon Best Seller lists within three months, and sales have been rising ever since. Now, I’m transitioning into traditional publishing with the help of my wonderful agent, Name Here. And I would love to include an endorsement by you—my favorite author—in future promotional efforts.] Note: In this alternative letter, the writer can’t guarantee that the endorsement will appear on a future cover. But the lure of getting a name out before a big fan base might be enough of a carrot to encourage a blurb.
If you feel you can give my book your recommendation, we’ll include your quote on the cover. I’ll also include it in my own online marketing efforts, of course! I suspect we’ll have some crossover in our fan bases. Since your last book was also about futuristic time-travel—and I loved it, by the way—I hope you’ll be intrigued by A Stone In Time.
My editor asked that I provide her with any possible endorsements by the summer: Would you be able to manage that deadline? If you need more time, you can always let me know.
Thanks so much for your consideration. You really are one of the authors who started me on the path to writing, and it would be a true thrill and honor if you recommended my book.
Sincerely,
Your Name Here
Follow Up On Your Book Blurb Request Via Email
If you don’t hear back from an author that you contact about a book jacket quote request, there are two possibilities: Either the author doesn’t want to or simply can’t blurb your book, or the author didn’t get your email. We recommend that you follow-up only once and include the text of your original email pasted below the follow up. Then, if you still don’t get a response, it may be that the author is too busy to offer you a book blurb, and it’s time to look elsewhere.
QUESTION: Have you ever requested and received a book blurb from someone you respect? Share in the comments.
This really helped. Thanks
Thank you for the Sample Letter. The only sample I have found online.
Thank you very much for the sample letter!
Thanks much, very helpful. Here goes…
do you email the ms. with the request?
Hi Lynne,
You may find this article of interest: https://writersrelief.com/2015/02/25/get-book-cover-quote-endorsement-famous-author/
Hey
Thanks,
This really has made it easier for me to frame a letter for getting feedback, review or blurb as you call. Being a novice and a first time writer this is a solid support.
Thanks so much.
Thank-you kindly for the sample letter. It’s a great start as I start my journey to get endorsements from celebrities. I love your site. Many blessings. Frances