Rejection #1: Not Joining Barbara Kingsolver

My first rejections are beginning to file in, so I thought I'd share a few of them on the blog. Here's one from Ellen Geiger, of the Frances Goldin Literary Agency (which represents Barbara Kingsolver! Damn!):

Dear Author:

Thank you so much for sending your project to me for possible representation. I’m sorry that sheer volume prevents me from responding personally to your submission.

I am so busy these days that I take on very few new clients. In this case, I just didn’t feel your work was right for my list at this time. In this highly competitive environment, you need an agent who can represent you with 100% enthusiasm.

I wish you every success in placing the book.

Sincerely,
Ellen Geiger


All in all, a pretty nice rejection: well-written, straightforward, apologetic but not overly so. Thanks, Ellen.