Turning the Pages: Workshops & Mentorships in Book Publishing

Workshop Fees

Price to Attend All Workshops: $175.00

Price Per Workshop: $70.00

Pay It Forward: $350.00

• Pay for yourself and for another individual experiencing financial hardship.

Make a contribution to The BIPOC Book Publishing Fund:

Help us diversify the future of book publishing!

More Than a Single Story believes in the power that is gained when writers of color can tell their own stories, in their own voices, and in their own words. However, in a field that has been, and remains, overwhelmingly white, it is important to question who chooses what stories are important enough to tell? Who chooses which books to market? Who decides which authors receive higher advances? The book publishing fund was created to provide full scholarships to BIPOC individuals interested in a career in publishing. We believe that a healthy literary ecosystem requires diversity at every level of book publishing.

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Workshop Descriptions:

An Introduction to the World of Book Publishing - Ann Regan

Wednesday, August 13th 6:00 - 8:30pm CT

Learn about the roles, departments, and processes behind your favorite books! Including discussions about editorial, design, production, marketing, and even administrative roles, this workshop is an all-encompassing introduction to the world of book publishing. Delving into thecdifferences and overlaps between large and small publishing houses, you’ll learn what it takes tocgo from acquiring a manuscript to releasing a book to readers everywhere.

Demystifying the Acquisitions Process - Barbara Moulton

Thursday, August 14th 6:00 - 8:30pm CT

Learn the ins and outs of the acquisitions process. Barbara Moulton has held roles as an Editorial Assistant, Acquisitions Editor, and Senior Editor at HarperCollins, and for over 20 years, has run her own Literary Agency. In this workshop, we’ll discuss what it means to discover and fall in love with a manuscript. You’ll learn about the data and logistics considered when making an acquisition, and even what it means to negotiate and win (or lose) the book!

Book Contracts and the Professionals Who Work With Them - Scott Edelstein

Friday, August 15th 6:00 - 8:30pm CT

Author-agent contracts are the hubs around which most of book publishing revolves. In this workshop, you’ll learn some of the essentials surrounding these agreements—from rights, royalty rates, and other terms, to negotiations and other key aspects of the contracts process. This workshop is also an opportunity to get a better understanding of the publishing ecosystem, learning about those who work directly with book contracts, as well as the roles, duties, and career tracks of each.

Book Production: The Hidden World of Design - Anitra Budd

Saturday, August 16th 12:00 - 2:00pm CT

Discover the world of design behind your favorite books. Each book contains a multitude of design choices and elements that shape your reading experience: the style of font, the shape and size of the book, and the feel of the paper in your hands. In this workshop, you’ll learn about the role of the production department in the book making process, as well as the role of the Managing Editor, proofreaders, and copyeditors. From the printer to the shelves in your favorite bookstore, learn how books get designed and delivered.

Marketing Books: From the Indies to the Big 5 - Patrick Lee Hughes

Sunday, August 17th 12:00 - 2:00pm CT

Ever wondered how books become bestsellers? This session dives into the exciting world of book publishing marketing, perfect for anyone exploring a career in the industry. Learn about key players—Big 5 publishers to indie presses—and discover how marketing drives a book’s success. We’ll break down essential strategies, from pre-launch buzz to viral BookTok campaigns, and explore career paths like Publicity Manager and Digital Marketing Specialist. With real-world case studies, interactive exercises, and insider tips, you’ll leave equipped with the skills and knowledge to jumpstart your career in publishing. Ready to turn page-turners into bestsellers?

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