Part of the reason I started this blog was to have a place to tell my story as I write and publish my work. I want to share what I learn along the way. Please ask any questions. Many of you who look at this will know me as a chiropractor, among other things. Ask anything. The answers are up to me.
I attended the Algonkian Write and Pitch Writers’ Conference in Corte Madera, California, last week. As my first foray into the world of publishing seminars, it was a blast! Anticipation was high and I slept with one eye open for a week. I learned a bunch, had some things confirmed, and had my work slammed hard (even though they lost the writing samples they were supposed to evaluate). Michael Neff was in charge and assisted by Ann Wertz Garvin. He is a gifted man who seemed overwhelmed at times by this conference, the first of its kind. She was very funny and provided many insights as she has just published her first novel.
The conference was rescheduled once, by over three months, and the agent list changed dramatically. None of the agents I was interested when I signed up for it originally were in attendance. It was disappointing for those of us who had genre novels that could not tell from the description of the agents who to pitch to. I pitched to two before hearing about the one who was interested in fantasy work. The first one I pitched to didn’t handle my type of work, so I wasted her time. By the time I finished those two, I had to leave to go pack. I was fortunate enough that the second agent graciously asked me to send her a packet.
Over the next few days, I will detail some of the things I learned and resources we were given. The best things about the conference were the people I met. There were so many that I can’t remember all their names, but every one of them helped make it a great experience. Congratulations to everyone who got up before the mob and pitched your project. Each one taught me something and I applaude your tenacity adn guts. I love my Fairy Godmother from Canada and her engaging husband, Alan. And, of course, my new BFF Tiffany from Chicago. Thanks for keeping me laughing and listening.
Thanks for following!
