Conference at Sarah Lawrence College Provides Valuable Advice and Guidance for Book Authors

Four lively panel discussions provided a wealth of insider knowledge about the publishing marketplace and self-publishing at the second annual “Publish and Promote Your Book Conference” on June 27, 2015. The conference, conducted by The Writing Institute of Sarah Lawrence College at the school’s Heimbold Visual Arts Center, followed the same format introduced a year ago.

Along with guidance and advice for authors close to or ready to publish, a comprehensive update of the state of the book industry and its major players was provided.

The audience seemed especially appreciative of the detailed information that was revealed about the royalty practices and payment policies of Amazon and other digital and print publishers and book sellers.

Topics covered during the panel discussions included ways to seek out, judge and choose appropriate literary agents and publishers, the essential need of assistance from editors, budgeting, and maximizing sales through coordinated marketing and publicity efforts.

The panel sessions

1. Literary Agents. Moderator: Cynthia Manson, instructor at The Writing Institute and agency founder
2. Book editors. Moderator: Caitlin Alexander, instructor at The Writing Institute and independent editor
3. Digital Publishing. Moderator: Tessa McGovern, author of Cocktails for Book Lovers
4. Promoting through Social Media: Eileen Palma, author of Worth the Weight

The conference chairperson was Patricia Dunn, director of The Writing Institute and the author of Rebels by Accident, published in December, 2014.

At the conclusion of the day-long program, optional pitch sessions were held for authors (having unpublished manuscripts) with participating literary agents and editors.

Center for Continuing Education, The Writing Institute, Sarah Lawrence College, 1 Mead Way, Bronxville, NY 10708, 914-395-2205.