Last month, I published an open letter to (bad) publicists and (uninformed) authors. I wasn’t surprised by the number of comments from other book bloggers lamenting the same thing when it comes to untargeted pitches.

A few days after publishing the post, I received an impressive email pitch from Doubleday/Knopf publicist Jillian Wohlfarth. This email pitch was a refreshing change from the blanket, generic pitches I’d received all summer long.

With Jillian’s permission, take a look at the pitch she sent me:

Dear Jessica,

Many new books will debut this fall,

So many in fact, it’s hard to remember them all.

But one novel in particular I’d like to remind,

Defies all expectation, it’s one-of-a kind.

The title you ask? Why The Night Circus of course!

It’s a formidable debut, an enchanting tour de force.

 A reminder if you have yet to enter the Circus gates,

A matchless world of wonder, novelty, and fervor eagerly awaits.

 So I invite you dear friend to read with tenacity,

And you’ll see that the above is said with veracity.

 Le Cirque des Rêves is calling your name,

Once you step inside, you’ll never be the same…

As a valued blogger, I’m writing to see if you would be interested in a review copy of the most eagerly awaited fiction debut of the fall: THE NIGHT CIRCUS by Erin Morgenstern. Part love story, part fantasy, and wholly enthralling, The Night Circus has been climbing to the top of everyone’s “must read” lists this summer. Summit Entertainment (the team behind the Twilight Films) has already snatched up film rights.

If interested, I’d love to send you a complimentary review copy before the book hits stores on September 13th, as well as an additional copy to give away on your blog. You can read a first chapter excerpt here.

Many thanks,

Jillian

While I wasn’t interested in this particular title, there were so many things I liked about the pitch. Even though I declined the chance to review THE NIGHT CIRCUS, I know that I will take the time to read and reply to email pitches from Jillian and Doubleday/Knopf in the future.

Here’s what I liked about this pitch:

-It addresses me by name. Jillian took the two extra seconds to personalize this pitch and call me by name. Instantly, I was more open to reading the rest of the email.

-It’s creative. The poem? Love it. I haven’t seen this in any book review email pitch before. It’s a refreshing change from the usual book summary.

-The email is concise. Short, sweet and to the point, Jillian hooks me in, offers a few more details and goes for the ask.

-The call to action is clear. Jillian offers up a review copy, as well as a giveaway. Perfectly outlined at the end of her email.

Bravo to Jillian and Doubleday/Knopf for this fantastic pitch! This is a wonderful example of how a publicist can build a lasting relationship with a blogger.

Have you seen any impressive email book review pitches lately? On the contrary, what’s the worst pitch you’ve received lately? Share details in the comments!