This workshop begins with an introduction to the basics of book publication—how to craft a strong proposal, choose a best-fit publisher, approach a literary agent or editor, and meet the challenges of peer review and production—and then follows with an exploration of publication’s advantages, such as the opportunity to build a strong professional network, frame a big-picture research narrative, and experiment with different kinds of writing beyond the book to reach diverse audiences. Attendees will become familiar with aspects of the publishing industry that might seem opaque or intimidating and learn more about the time commitment required to see a book through from initial conception to print. Taught by a publishing professional with an extensive background in academic and commercial publishing, this seminar is ideal for early career scholars curious about the complexities of the book market.
Marisa Pagano is an independent editor, copywriter, and writing instructor based in Brookline, Massachusetts. She has worked in book publishing for more than two decades, holding positions at the commercial houses Putnam and Bloomsbury and at the academic presses of Columbia University and Harvard University. Her workshops at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health help students improve their core writing and communication skills, with an eye toward sustainable career development and broad research impact.
Programme:
9.30 – 11.00 Strategies for developing the Author Questionnaire and book proposal
11.00 – 11.30 Coffee break
11.30 – 13.00 Paths to academic and trade publication: choosing the right house, approaching agents and editors, and participating in the making and launching of a book (the detailed steps of publication)
13.00 – 14.30 Lunch break
14.30 – 15.30 Career development and strategies for public outreach, with an emphasis on alternative forms of writing (including grant writing and social media)
15.30 – 16.00 Q&A
Registrations:
Please note that the event will be held in Sala degli Stemmi and in hybrid mode.
Places are limited, kindly pre-register for on-site attendance using the link provided.
If you wish to participate remotely, contact Alba Parrini in order to get the zoom link.