This class aims to demystify the inner workings of the publishing business for authors: those approaching their first publication as well as those who have books out and those who simply want a better understanding of the business side of things. Writers who will benefit most from this class are those who find the publication process to be something of a black box and want to have more control over their relationships with publishers. Topics covered will include how responsibilities are divvied up within a publisher (as well as what responsibilities are the author’s), how to understand the terms of your contract, how your books’ finances and rights work, how to interact most effectively with your editor and publicist, and much more about what to expect all the way from submission through publication.

Leila Sales is an author, editor, and book developer. She’s written six young adult and middle grade novels, including This Song Will Save Your Life, and, most recently, If You Don’t Have Anything Nice to Say. Her books have been translated into a dozen languages, optioned for stage and screen, and received numerous starred reviews. Leila spent the past eleven years at Penguin Random House, where she edited bestselling and award-winning books by authors including Viola Davis, Max Brallier, Gayle Forman, Sally Green, Greg Pizzoli, and more. She is now a book developer working with authors, editors, agents, and other creators to turn their story visions into reality.