Publishing for Writers

Sonja Hakala

Wednesdays, Noon - 2:00 p.m.
January 18 & 25, 2006
Wheelock Room at the Hanover Inn

Writing is actually a two-part relationship. The primary relationship exists between the writer and the page. The second, and equally important, relationship exists between the writer and the reader. Publishing is what happens in between.

For most writers, the publishing process is a mystery, something that happens between manuscript and bookstore shelf. But writers can maximize their chances of a successful publishing experience — and minimize their disappointments — if they understand how the process works.

This workshop begins by looking at cover letters and book proposals from the perspective of agents and publishers.

From there, the workshop will cover:

• How publishers choose books that fit their list and their market.
• The steps of the editorial process, from development to proof pages.
• The production process, from cover to interior design, to printing.
• Marketing — expectations and reality.
• Sales, catalogs, the different types of sales and who does them.

Throughout the workshop, I will use real examples culled from publishing houses to illustrate each step of the process.

Sonja Hakala's work as a professional writer has appeared in several newspapers and magazines including the Valley News, the Boston Globe, the Old Farmer’s Almanac and Vermont Magazine. She also has extensive experience in book publishing, including work as the marketing manager of The Countryman Press and as an editor and project manager for several publishers and self-publishing individuals. Sonja's first book, Patchwork Prose, will be published by St. Martin's Press in the fall of 2006.