If you are a new or aspiring writer our packed day will provide everything you need to know to get your work through to publication. You’ll hear from the people who have been there before you and who are currently working as professional writers, publicists and agents in what is an incredibly competitive business. Our sessions will share invaluable advice from professionals in the industry with sessions exploring the route to publication, starting with the intricacies of editing your novel right through to seeing it on the bookshelves. On the way you’ll find out how to hook an agent, how you might get funding support, what the publishers are really looking for and finally what you need to do to get your book into the hands of readers. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with publishing professionals and gain insider knowledge of the industry.

Featuring acclaimed writers Susanna Jones and Tom Vowler, alongside debut novelist Kim Slater, participants will have the chance to learn about the publishing process from those who know it first-hand. These authors will be joined by the publishing professionals they work with, their agents and publicists, providing unique insight into the journey from page to publication.

Aimed at writers who have completed a manuscript or are well on their way, but may be unsure of the next steps, the Literature Works New Writers Conference will provide valuable advice and guidance to support these writers in their journey to publication.

Tickets for the day can be purchased via Eventbrite here. Don’t miss our special early bird rate of just £40 for those booking before October 7th. Tickets priced at £50 for the day with a £30 rate for students with a valid NUS card. Tickets include lunch and refreshments.

Programme 

9.30-10.00: Registration and refreshments

10.00-10.10: Opening, Tracey Guiry (CEO, Literature Works)

10.10 -11.10: Editing and polishing – Susanna Jones (Novelist) & Sophie Orme (Editor)

11.10-11.30: Break

11.30-12.30: Finding an agent & getting a book deal – Kim Slater (Novelist) & Clare Wallace
(Agent)

12.30-1.40: Lunch (provided)

1.40-2.00: Applying for development grants – Kate Offord (Literature Officer, ACE)

2.00-3.30: Being a writer, getting published, and marketing your work including Q&A – Tom Vowler (Novelist), Charlie Brotherstone (Agent)

3.30-3.45: Closing

4.00-5.00: Drinks reception 

Editors notes: 

Literature Works is a literature development agency and an Arts Council national portfolio organisation for the South West of England. They bring together all elements of the literature sector, writers, poets, libraries, booksellers, publishers, agents, schools and communities of readers in ways that strengthen and sustain the whole. They enable the best talent to develop and ensure that the very best writing and reading opportunities are made available to the widest and most diverse audiences and communities. They provide information, news and resources via their website www.literatureworks.org.uk. To find out more about the First Page Prize and to read the winning first page sign up to receive their newsletter at http://www.literatureworks.org.uk/Literature-Works-Newsletter

Main press contact: Tracey Guiry, CEO Literature Works, ceo@literatureworks.org.uk or T: 01752 585070, or via Kate Wilson, Co-ordinator, kate@literatureworks.org.uk or T:01752 585073