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RCW partner with Spread the Word, Dialogue and Megaphone to extend workshop for aspiring authors of colour, now to include writers of adult commercial fiction

RCW Literary Agency announce the return of a free publishing workshop for aspiring authors of colour, now in association with Spread the Word, Megaphone and Dialogue’s new commercial imprint, Renegade Books.

First launched in 2020 with a focus on children’s & YA fiction and returning in 2021, this year the workshop providing transparency and clarity into the publishing process from beginning to end is also open to authors writing adult commercial fiction. Previous attendees include British Book Award shortlisted debut author Tọlá Okogwu. 

Joanne Harris, Charlotte Vassell and Tanya Byrne are among the speakers confirmed to attend, and they will be joined by editors and agents from across commercial adult fiction and young adult fiction publishing for a panel covering a range of topics: including the submissions process, the role of agents and editors, and building an author profile.

A single, 90-minute session will take place at 1pm on July 5th, 2023. After the workshop, the authors will receive one-to-one feedback sessions with an editor or agent to discuss their manuscripts.

Following the workshop in July, Megaphone will be offering participants writing for young adults ongoing support, advice and critiques from other writers and industry professionals. Spread the Word will be running a bespoke session for the participants covering their next steps to develop their craft and career as writers.

Open from Thursday 20th April, applicants should send a sample of between 1,000-5,000 words of their adult commercial fiction or young adult fiction along with a synopsis and a brief statement about their eligibility as an author of colour.

A summary of the workshop and a series of resources will be made available online after the event.

Applications are now closed for the 2023 summer workshop. All applicants will be notified with a decision via email.

Free Workshop Resources >

Workshop Handbook