What Does Querier Expect Me To Include In My Nonfiction Synopsis?

Rather than investing their time reading a full nonfiction book proposal, some agents will ask for a synopsis, or a concise, narrative overview of your book. Unlike the more comprehensive proposal, a synopsis is a shorter document designed to provide a clear sense of the book’s content, structure, and appeal. If the agent likes the synopsis, they may ask for the full proposal.

In order to meet the requirements of agents Querier classifies as requiring a nonfiction synopsis, your synopsis should include the following elements:

1. The Hook and Core Idea:
Open with a strong, engaging statement that conveys the essence of your book. This is your hook—the unique angle or argument that sets your project apart. In a few sentences, articulate the central question, problem, or subject your book addresses. Agents want to see that you can frame your topic in a way that sparks curiosity and signals broad appeal.

2. Scope and Focus:
After the hook, expand on the scope of your project. Clarify the boundaries of your subject matter: what exactly you will and won’t cover, and why. 

3. Structure and Organization:
A nonfiction synopsis should summarize the book’s structure, often chapter by chapter or section by section. Keep it concise: a few sentences per chapter is sufficient. The goal is not to reproduce the full text of your book proposal but to give the agent a map of how your ideas unfold.

4. Key Themes and Takeaways:
Highlight the major themes and insights readers will gain from your book. Whether your project is prescriptive, narrative, or investigative, agents want to see that you know the “so what” of your work—the larger relevance beyond the specific material. Be clear about what the reader walks away with, whether that’s practical advice, a new perspective, or a deeper understanding of a subject.

5. Market and Audience:
Identify your specific target audience and explain why they need this book. You should also mention comparative titles (books that are similar in topic or tone) and explain how your book is different and better. This demonstrates your understanding of the market.

6. Author's Authority and Platform:
While the synopsis focuses primarily on the book, a sentence or two about why you are the right person to write it can strengthen the presentation. Briefly establish your credibility, expertise, or lived experience. This reinforces confidence that you can deliver on your promise to readers.

A nonfiction synopsis is more than a simple sales tool. By describing the hook, scope, structure, themes, audience, and your authority, you can create a document that communicates both the content of your book and its appeal to readers. Remember your goal—to make the agent want to read more!

* Always review Agent submission requirements to confirm your synopsis meets their needs before submitting.