Becoming An Author: From Proposal to Publication
- Unit value:
Workshop Leader Background Information:
Deborah Spring has worked in the publishing industry for over 20 years. Starting as a commissioning editor for social sciences, she later moved into university publishing, and was head of academic publications at the Institute of Education, University of London, from 1994 to 2007. Deborah draws on her wide experience of work with academic authors, and her inside knowledge of both commercial and university publishing, to provide training and support for those making the transition from research to publication.
Target Group:
The process of publishing can be intimidating for the first-time author. In this workshop, potential authors will find out how publishing works, and how to present a book proposal to publishers.
The workshop is for researchers and staff who want to:
- find out how to convert research into books
- understand the mechanics of getting a book published commercially
- gain a realistic understanding of what publishers are looking for.
Course Content:
It will enable participants to understand:
- how books get commissioned
- how to approach publishers
- how publishers make decisions.
It includes practical advice on:
- putting together a book proposal
- providing information that publishers need
- understanding and negotiating a contract
- Reviewing different publishing options, including journals and the internet
