How to finish your book and get it published

Actions Panel

How to finish your book and get it published

By The Guardian Masterclasses

Date and time

Sunday, November 23, 2014 · 10am - 5pm GMT

Location

The Guardian

Kings Place 90 York Way London N1 9GU United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Contact the organizer to request a refund.

Description

Everything you wanted to know about publishing but didn’t have the contacts to ask

To new writers, the business of publishing can seem impenetrable. This no-nonsense course equips aspiring authors with all the facts needed to make sense of the industry, and get the most out of it. You'll learn how to polish your draft ready for publication, how to improve your chances of getting a deal, and will leave with a workable 'elevator pitch' for your book. You'll also receive an introduction to the economic nitty-gritty of publishing, including what to expect from advances and royalties.

This comprehensive symposium features advice from a panel of publishing experts. Mslexia Books editor Danuta Kean covers how to research and approach agents and publishers, and offers essential tips for writing a strong pitch letter. Author and self-publishing consultant Ben Galley provides an in-depth lesson on how authors can use social media to promote their work and create a buzz for a book. Publisher Ed Peppitt offers insider information on the mechanics and potential benefits of self-publishing. Whether you're yet to finish your first draft or preparing to send your manuscript to agents, it's a day that will prepare you for any eventuality – from rejection by publishers, to runaway self-publishing success.

This course is for you if...

  • You're working on a first draft of a novel and don't know how to progress
  • You've received a rejection from a publisher or agent and want to explore your options
  • You would like to write and publish your own book one day, and want to learn about the publishing process
  • You're a creative writing student, keen to learn more about the publishing industry

Course description

Featuring talks from a number of publishing experts, this large-scale symposium provides prospective authors with a broad overview of how to get a work of fiction published, and how to ensure it has the best chance of success in the market. Topics covered on the day include:

  • How to write a pitch letter
  • How to approach agents and publishers
  • How to deal with rejection
  • Social media platforms, and how to use them
  • Evaluating your writing
  • Creating and publishing an ebook
  • The economics of self-publishing
  • Marketing and publicity for authors

Tutor profiles

Danuta Kean is an expert on the publishing industry, as well as Books Editor for Mslexia, the magazine for women writers. For five years she taught unpublished novelists on the acclaimed MA in Creative Writing at Brunel University, and has written about publishing for the Financial Times, Independent on Sunday and the Author. Find out more about Danuta on her website.

Ben Galley is the author of the epic fantasy books of The Emaneska Series, as well as Shelf Help – The Pocket Guide to Self-Publishing. Ben provides self-publishing advice via his websites and guest blogs, as well as providing a consultancy service for upcoming authors of all genres and skill levels at www.shelfhelp.info.

Ed Peppitt worked in publishing over 25 years before founding Get Published. He consults for the publishing industry, as well as teaching and coaching writers to get their book published profitably and successfully. He runs seminars and workshops every year, helping authors to get published effectively, and then to get their books selling profitably. Ed is the author of How to Self Publish: A Guardian Masterclass, an ebook published by Guardian Shorts.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website

Organized by

Welcome to Guardian Masterclasses – a unique programme of learning embedded within one of the world's most forward-thinking media organisations.

We offer a broad range of short and long courses across a variety of disciplines from creative writing, journalism, photography and design, film and digital media, music and cultural appreciation.

Harnessing the expertise and specialisms within the organisation, our courses are led by first class and award winning guardian professionals whilst also drawing on the skills and expertise of other leading figures at the forefront of the creative and digital industries.

The programme is aimed at anyone interested in personal or professional development whether that be refining your skills, focusing your ambition or simply broadening your mind and gaining inspiration.

Sales Ended