The goal of this conference, and all its companion editorial and development programs, is to set you on a realistic path not only to publication, but to becoming a career author. The Write to Pitch 2024 utilizes a time-tested methodology that works to get writers published. Pitching TV/Film pros, literary agents, and publishing house acquisition editors is a vital component (see the Schedule), of course, but when asked what specific elements make the event unique and better than other writer conferences, our response lists a number of game-changing factors, both major and minor, that when combined thoroughly answer the question:
Pre-event development and narrative forums complete with a new customized conference eBook as well as supplemental editorial and marketing forums created by author-agent faculty and vetted by publishing house professionals (see more below).
A demonstrable record of writer publication and author careers launched (see links above).
Novel and nonfiction elements and execution critiqued by professionals only.
Extensive pitch prep prior to sessions with agents and publishers.
Editorial focus on market-positioning, high concept, and competitive execution.
A partitioning of the conference into development-and-pitch workshops with senior leaders who are experienced authors and/or agents, and who specialize in defined genres.
Extra time for productive dialogue with acquisition editors and agents, and in a quiet, one-on-one environment.
A perfect location in mid-town Manhattan at the legendary Ripley-Greer Studios, home to both Broadway and NY publishing.
Seasoned faculty chosen carefully for their expertise, reputation, and the valuable role they play in the publishing, film, and television industry.
Does all the above sound almost too good to be true? Yes, but not when you take into account that we've been tweaking and improving this event for nearly 19 years to make it the most productive writer conference it can possibly be. The old NY Pitch was a great conference, but the Write to Pitch 2024 is better. We provoke an aspiring author like you into further editing and refining your work in order to make it as competitive as possible, and when ready, pitching it to faculty professionals by utilizing a strategy and format that greatly increases the chances of selection, and therefore, publication. As such, this conference benefits all writers looking to become published, and regardless their current skill set or knowledge base.
The conference begins before you arrive and continues upon departure with specialized programs and online forums custom designed to raise the bar for you, as necessary, when it comes to the art of development and execution (see the conference event schedule). Genres we work with include all varieties of suspense, mystery, crime, and thrillers; serious and light women's fiction including rom-com; YA and adult science fiction and fantasy sub-genres, as well as historical fiction, horror, general fiction, upmarket, and competitive literary forms (i.e. stories with actual plot). In the context of nonfiction, we work with narrative nonfiction and memoir.
The event is held four times a year and features successful commercial agents, TV/Film content seekers and producers, as well as accomplished acquisition editors from major houses and renowned presses such as Penguin, St. Martins, Harper Collins, Tor, Del Rey, Kensington, and many more, all actively searching for new voices in a variety of genres.
You've been working on your novel or nonfiction for a few months or a few years (or more) and you now feel you need a reality check to determine whether or not you are on the right track. Perhaps you're not sure about the premise or evolution of the plot and/or you've received conflicting or potentially bad advice from too many amateurs in your writer's group. Reality check time. The publishing house editors, agents, and other commercial veterans at the event will be analytical and frank with you, but do not forget to shed whatever thin skin remains. If not certain you've properly shed, go to Algonkian's "Novel Writing On Edge" and take this test, then return here.
Writers Seeking Pro Editorial Guidance
Our writers obtain an event eBook as well as receive logins to select and advanced project development forums at Algonkian Author Connect (AAC). For post-event purposes, as appropriate, writers utilize the Algonkian Editorial Program for final rewrites prior to submission. Prose enhancement forums at AAC also contribute. Note that editorial and pitch advice in project work sessions does not come from amateurs at the conference, only from professionals with many years of tested experience.
Writers With a Complete or Near Complete MS
If you have a complete or near complete novel ms or narrative nonfiction and you feel it is ready to pitch to an editor or agent, the Write to Pitch Conference is organized and designed to benefit you in a number of different ways. See the event schedule page for more detailed information. However, if you are early stage or at mid-point, you might choose to attend because you've wisely realized you need guidance on shaping your novel (see "Frank Reality Check" above).
Writers Who Wish to Understand Publishing
Regardless the condition of your novel or nonfiction, you wish to use this conference as a means of learning more about the publishing business from a variety of insiders, and just as importantly, in an atmosphere that allows for productive interaction. Both the acquisition editors and agents will cover this subject matter in considerable detail. Also, the faculty will be very frank. This is not for writers who simply want their backs slapped.
A compilation of articles drawn from Act I of the schedule. Every attendee needs to order a copy and read prior to the event. The eBook addresses vital core points and elements that will be discussed. From matters of proper title choice to polished interior monologue, it's all here. The eBook also applies to memoir writing in the context of story and character arc.
Very Relevant 2024 Links
LIVE DECEMBER 5 - 8, 2024
- WTP 2024 Director, Michael Neff
Photo Left - Best Selling Author Carola Lovering
"Write to Pitch: Development Guideposts and Crucial Craft Prior to Pitching"