Description
11th of February, 2026
Live Event | 11 February 2026 | 7.00–9.00 pm (GMT)
Joanna Swainson & Katherine Burdon
The A–Z of Publishing: An Agent and Editor’s Guide
Join us for an exclusive live event at Bàrd Books, London, featuring Joanna Swainson (co-founder and literary agent at Hardman & Swainson) and Katherine Burdon (commissioning editor at Quercus Books).
This two-hour event offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the full publishing journey — from the moment a promising novel lands in an agent’s inbox to the day it reaches bookshop shelves.
Drawing on their combined expertise in agenting and editing, Joanna and Katherine will guide you through the A–Z of publishing, breaking down:
What agents and editors really look for in a submission
How to make your work stand out in a crowded market
The selection, acquisition and editorial processes inside publishing houses
The key stages a novel must pass through on its path to publication
Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, a writer preparing to submit, or simply curious about how publishing works behind closed doors, this event will give you clear, practical insight from two industry professionals at the heart of UK publishing.
Spaces are limited — early booking is recommended.



