The present climate is notoriously difficult for scholarly publishing, and making a first approach to academic presses with the fruits of your doctoral research in a book proposal can be a daunting and uncertain business. This workshop given by an experienced publishing professional is designed to demystify the task, shedding light on the decision-making process and helping researchers considering book publication to present their work to publishers in the best way. It encourages participants to view their research as others will see it, along the line that stretches from commissioning editors and peer-reviewers all the way down the supply chain through wholesalers, library suppliers and purchasing librarians to the prospective readership. This involves thinking about the market, choosing and approaching a publisher, and learning what makes an effective book proposal. Discussion and exercises ensure that the material remains practically based throughout. Handouts and recommended reading are supplied.
Preparation for the workshop includes two short articles as advance reading and a video presentation on the current state of the academic publishing industry, designed to give an understanding of the market and conditions in which publishers operate. It includes discussion of issues raised by digital publishing, the profound changes now underway with the rise of open access, and how this climate affects the reception of publishing proposals.
Increased understanding of the academic publishing industry and the market conditions which play into editorial decision-making, including the move towards open access
An understanding of the fundamental differences between writing a PhD for examination and a monograph for an international readership and market
A focus on readership and what you have to offer them
An ability to broaden the focus and develop the larger implications and applications of your research for book publication
An understanding of what makes an effective book proposal
An understanding of issues relating to interdisciplinarity in publishing
Increased awareness of what differentiates publishers and how to choose between them
An understanding of the importance of titles in the book trade: what works and what doesn't
Developing the ability to package your work and identify selling points