Publish Now!

Last year we presented “Publish Now!,” a popular one-day program focusing on rapid changes in the publishing world and the resulting opportunities and challenges for writers. The event was a great success – the room buzzing with conversation at the reception following the close of the formal program -- so we’re glad to offer a second “Publish Now!” program on Saturday, October 26.  The day-long program will offer insights into the world of self-publishing in the digital age, Speakers include Amy Abrams, Ken Ackerman, Laura Ambler, Austin S. Camacho, Barbara Esstman, Neal Gillen, C.M. Mayo, Margaret Meacham, Jennifer Miller, Phil Sexton, and Wilson Wyatt.

 

Phil Sexton, Writer's Digest Publisher

The "Publish Now!" annual seminar is designed to give all writers the latest information they need to publish their work in print or e-book format in the digital age. Self publishing once carried a tremendous stigma, but a Writer’s Digest survey of 5,000 authors revealed how attitudes are changing.  The survey found that 70% of traditionally-published authors who had also self-published actually preferred self-publishing. It's easy to understand the appeal:  self-publishing can be more lucrative for authors than the traditional payment arrangements with established publishers; authors can also have more control over the final products, whether in the form of print books or e-books. Additional control implies extra responsibilities for authors seeking to successfully self-publish.  Our speakers will address the challenges they have faced and ways avoid many of the common pitfalls of self-publishing. 

 
Wilson Wyatt, an author and photographer active in the Delmarva writing community, has observed significant changes in the publishing landscape: “Self-publishing stands on its own feet and competes head-to-head with traditional publishing. Writers can now take control of their own publishing experience.” Wyatt, a founder and executive editor of The Delmarva Review, played a prominent role in organizing both Publish Now! programs. 

Writer’s Digest publisher Phil Sexton will offer a writer’s perspective in his opening talk, which will address the current  trends in publishing. Sexton has worked with Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books-a-Million and many other major book retailers and wholesalers in the country. He is also the author of A Picture is Worth 1000 Words, Legends of Literature and The Writer’s Lab.

The program will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 26.  Sessions will cover: preparing and editing your manuscript, alternative publishing techniques, self-publishing choices and costs, business and legal issues and proven marketing strategies. In addition to novels and nonfiction, specialized breakout sessions will be devoted to publishing children’s and young adult, memoir, art and photography, travel and interactive books.

Space is limited and early registration is recommended. Tickets are $100 ($85 for Writer's Center members and $50 for full-time students and military veterans.)  A $25 increase will go into effect after Oct. 1.