Pitch Perfect - Recording
It’s not only agents and editors who judge a book by the first page: in an industry driven by ‘Look Inside the Book’, the opening of a novel or memoir is one of the keys which draws a reader in irresistibly – or lets them wander off. Before even that, your covering letter to an agent or editor can start your submission on the front foot – or hobble it hopelessly.
What’s more, thinking clearly about your synopsis and pitch can alert you to problems with the rest of the book, before it’s too late. In this tutorial we will explore what makes an irresistible submission across different genres: the synopsis, the different elements of a good covering letter, and how to make the most of the chapters you will send. You should gain a clearer idea of how to grab your reader from the first line whether you’re writing a gritty thriller or the lightest of comedies, and you’ll learn how to show an agent that you and your writing deserve their attention – and how to see that promise through.
This session is ideal if you are planning to submit to any of the first novel competitions including our First Novel Award, being judged this year by agents Hellie Ogden and Suzannah Ball as well as author Samuel Burr.
This is a recording of a live event. You will be sent a link to view the recording on VIMEO along with the handout from the session.
Emma Darwin
AuthorShe teaches creative writing at Oxford University and Goldsmiths, University of London, and has given workshops from Auckland to Zurich.
Emma Haynes
Head of Events & CompetitionsEmma is responsible for BPA’s bespoke programme of literary events and retreats as well as managing the First Novel Award and submissions
Assistance to writers on low incomes and/or from communities under represented in publishing
We are offering a free place on each of our online tutorials and Q & A sessions for UK based writers on low incomes and/or from under represented communities in publishing. Writers may apply for a free place on one of the sessions by contacting BPA with a short bio and a summary of their writing career to date. Please click here to Contact BPA with your application and in the case of writers on low incomes, proof of financial eligibility such as: Jobseeker’s Allowance; Disability Benefit; Income Support; Working Tax Credit; Child Tax Credit; Proof of being a full-time student; Housing benefit; Proof of being a full-time carer. All details will be kept confidential. Decisions on who receives the free places rest with the BPA team not the tutors.
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