Unleash Your Book: A Mini-Conference for Aspiring Authors

Schedule

Resource Table Spotlight: The Discovery Page 1:30 – 1:55 p.m.

Connect with author resources. Representatives from professional organizations and colleges will be available to discuss their services and answer your questions.

Find Your Path: Book Publishing in Today's World with Krista Soukup 2:00–2:45 p.m.

Do you dream of writing a book? Learn about today's book industry, publishing options, first steps to publication, and what to expect once your book is published. There are more options available than ever; learn how to make the best decisions to move yourself forward.

Pitching Your Work with Krista Soukup 3:15–4:00 p.m.

Writers are often in need of pitching their work, whether it's their manuscript to a publisher, their book to a reader, a speaking presentation to an organization or a story to the press. Having a strong "pitch" can help you tell the story of your work to potential collaborators, funders, and others. Learn what makes a great pitch.

How to Get a Literary Agent with Joyce Sweeney 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Discover the pros and cons of working with a literary agent, learn how to avoid predators and master the querying process with hands-on practice.

Speaker's Biography

Krista Soukup is a literary marketing consultant and owner of Blue Cottage Agency. She has a passion for helping writers and authors successfully promote their work and establish their platform. Through her expert guidance, knowledge of the publishing industry and vast experience, she has successfully supported writers and authors across the country and Europe. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing and has over 25 years of experience in sales, promotions, and marketing.

Joyce Sweeney (pronouns: They, Them, Their) is an author and director of Kidlit for The Seymour Agency. They have written fourteen young adult novels, many of which have won awards. They are also the author of two chapbooks of poetry. Most recently, they have been writing historical novels. Sweeney was a creative writing teacher, mentor and coach for over 25 years. They also published a plotting how-to book, Plotting Your Novel with The Plot Clock. (Giantess Press, 2019) As of this writing, they have successfully mentored 86 authors to traditional publishing contracts. In 2020 they joined The Seymour agency, and now represent picture books, middle-grades and young adult novels. Their hobbies are astrology, collecting illustration art, and supporting animal causes. They live in Coral Springs with their husband, Jay, and two giant rescue cats, Willow and Captain Jack.