How to pitch your book to publishers

Advice on how to get your novel or non-fiction book published – from book industry expert Scott Pack

Have you always dreamed of getting a book published? Whether you’re writing fiction or non-fiction, this class with publisher Scott Pack offers straight-talking advice on how to ensure your submission gets noticed by editors. You’ll learn everything from how to identify the right publisher or agent, to how to write a killer synopsis and cover letter.

Plus, for those brave enough to share their pitches, he’ll be looking for volunteers to submit their work for live feedback during the class. If you’re ready (or almost ready) to pitch your book to a publisher, you won’t regret investing in this course.

Course content

• How to write a cover letter that will ensure your pitch and synopsis get read by an editor
• The secrets to writing a good synopsis
• Fiction v non-fiction
• Putting together an enticing submission package for a novel or non-fiction book
• Researching possible agents and publishers – and identifying the right ones for your work
• Common mistakes made by writers – and how to avoid them
• Practical session – a few volunteers are selected to have their pitch critiqued during the class
• Q&A – an invaluable opportunity to pick the brains of a highly experienced publisher

Pre-course preparation

• If you would like to bring along a copy of your cover letter and/or pitch, Scott will be looking for volunteers on the night to submit their work for live feedback. Please note that this is not compulsory and only a select few submissions will be reviewed during the class

Tutor profile

Scott Pack has worked in the book industry for fifteen years. He was head of buying for Waterstones before becoming a publisher and running the Friday Project imprint at HarperCollins. Scott is currently associate editor at Unbound, the world’s first crowdfunding publisher. He tweets @meandmybigmouth.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website