ASK THE CONFERENCE DIRECTOR

Q & A with Writers Conference Director
by Linda Gilden
Q: For us to speak to publishers about a book project, is it correct form to have two chapters ready to show each publisher? Is that what they like to see? Is an article that summarizes the theme of the book acceptable or not?

A: Our publishers, editors, and professional writers are there to help you in any way they can. Of course, we all come to the conference hoping to go away with a contract. But many times the more valuable take-away is the advice and suggestions you get as to how to make your proposal/article stronger BEFORE you actually submit to them or anyone else.

Bring whatever you have to show them or bring a well-thought-out idea and let them help you refine it. If you have chapters that are highly polished and would like to bring them, that helps them see your writing style and whether or not it will fit in with their publishing houses. An article or synopsis of your theme is also helpful.

However, if your work-in-progress is not finished and carefully edited, I wouldn't show that to the editors. This will be the first time they meet you and what you show them or say will be the impression they remember. So rather than show a fairly rough draft of your work, I would show a polished or published example of your work and then share your dynamite idea.

A book proposal with two or three chapters along with table of contents/summaries is what you usually send unless this is your first fiction book. Then the editors want to see the entire manuscript. There are specific things that should be included in a book proposal. You can find good examples online. We also offer a full-day workshop on Wednesday before the conference called "Book Proposal Blitz." That class not only helps you polish and perfect your book proposal but also offers suggestions for presenting it to editors in a clear and concise way. This workshop has an additional $150 charge.

If this is your first conference you may want to consider "On Ramp." This full-day Wednesday class is for people who are not familiar with how a conference works and gives excellent tips for navigating the conference and making the most of your experience. The class also includes tips on how to interact with editors and how to get your work ready for the editor's eyes! There is no cost for this workshop (only your personal costs for lodging and food).

We are so glad you will be joining us at the Ghost Ranch.

Looking forward to meeting you. Please let me know if you have any more questions.