Similar books to use in query letter

[Michael]

Hi all,

I am about to start crafting my query letter for my first novel (very excited) and I want to be able to reference one or two books which are in the similar vein as mine. My problem is with work and life, I am unable to read a library of books to find the right ones. I am wondering if you could name a few books to read so I can see if they relate to mine.

Below is a rough outline of my novel.

My book is a YA fantasy. RICCI, fifteen year old orphan pickpocket, finds himself living among elves who are easy prey for his sticky fingers. But during his stay, the city's Protection Seeds begin to disappear. If all four are taken, it would likely spell the end for the elves. RICCI comes to understand the love he has developed for the elves and sets out on a quest to save them.

Any help would be greatly appreciated,

Thanks,

Michael

[Hamad]

This reminds me of Ricky Riordan's percy jackson second book, where Percy(demigod) and his other friends set out to save there camp after the protection tree gets ill and start losing its effect. so they go in an adventure to bring the golden fleece capable of curing anything ro restore their camp's security.
I don't know if this is what you are looking for but hope it helps.

Cheers
Hamad

[Michael]

Its funny that you mentioned that book, because I only just downloaded it today (for a different reason, my next novel is going to be in first person, so I wanted to read a book which has done well and was in a similar vain)

But this is the first time I have heard the plotline to it and it actually does sound pretty close to mine. Thanks a lot for your help Hamad.

[Hamad]

Take that as a good sign haha
you're most welcome.