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HOW TO BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR

  • The Writing Salon 2042 Balboa Street San Francisco, CA, 94121 United States (map)

This in-person course which meets for two hours on three Saturdays in April 2023 is perfect for writers at any stage of their writing life or career (from beginner to advanced) who want a better understanding of how the publishing world works and how to navigate it to their advantage.

“It’s the kind of course I wish had been available when I was starting my writing career,” says instructor John J. Geoghegan. “Since I learned the hard way through multiple mistakes, I’ve strived to strip away the mystery around what it takes to get published. Based on real world experience, concrete examples, and entertaining anecdotes, I’ll demystify how the publishing industry works while covering all the important basics including:

  • How to find the right publisher and/or literary agent            

  • How to write a compelling query letter and elevator pitch

  • Understanding “coded feedback” from agents and editors

  • How the publishing ecosystems work and trends you can work to your advantage

  • 10 rookie mistakes first time authors make

  • And more!

The course will include lectures, group discussion, and workshop exercises. For example, students will craft their own query letter based on time-tested principles we’ll review in class, and receive feedback both from me and their peers. We’re all in this together, so the classroom will be a nurturing, safe, and supportive environment with plenty of laughter and fun. Questions and group discussion will be welcome and encouraged.

The class will meet on Saturday April 1, 8, and 15 from 10:30-1:00 PM at The Writing Salon, 2042 Balboa St., San Francisco, CA 94121, For more information visit: https://www.writingsalons.com/all-classes/ or phone: (510) 982-6252