Trying to get your work published can feel like wandering in a maze. If you're running into one dead end after another, not sure which way to turn, this workshop can demystify the process and help you reach your destination—publication.

Mapping the Maze is an online workshop designed for writers who have developed their craft and are now ready to make a concrete plan for getting their work published. This edition of Mapping the Maze is designed with fiction writers in mind.

In this workshop you will:

Learn to prepare submissions to literary journals and presses
Get tips on querying literary agents
Gain insight into the business side of publishing
Network with an established author as they share stories from their own paths to publication
Be introduced to Poets & Writers’ online resources
Leave with a clearer understanding of the publishing industry to support your personal goals

This workshop might be for you if you are:

Ready to submit stories to literary magazines but don’t know where to begin
Submitting work regularly, but not getting the response you want
Seeking direction on publishing your debut manuscript
Interested in exploring agent representation
Eager to expand your writing community

To ensure equitable access to classes for writers who might not otherwise be able to cover registration fees, a limited number of fee waivers are available. We encourage applications from writers traditionally underrepresented in publishing, including, but not limited to, writers who identify as Black, Indigenous, persons of color, immigrants, writers with disabilities, LGBTQ+ writers, writers residing outside of major cities, and writers who do not have an MFA or equivalent degree. Please submit fee waiver applications no later than two weeks before the first session of the workshop. If granted a fee waiver, you will be responsible for a nominal $25 fee. Apply for a fee waiver!

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Below is an overview of the workshop, which will span two days. In addition, prior to the workshop, participants will be asked to watch Publishing 101, a video about publishing narrated by Kevin Larimer, editor in chief of Poets & Writers. Participants will be emailed a link to watch the video prior to the workshop.

Monday, April 28
6:10-7:00 p.m. ET | Publishing 101 Q&A w/Emma Komlos-Hrobsky (senior editor, Poets & Writers)

7:00-7:10 p.m. ET | Break

7:10-8:00 p.m. ET | Submitting to Literary Magazines & Journals w/Oscar Villalon (editor, ZYZZYVA)
A literary magazine editor will share their publication's submissions processes, what they are looking for in new work, and other opportunities. They will also discuss the editorial process, what happens once a work is accepted, and share tips for making sure your submission has the best chance of getting published.

Wednesday, April 30
6:10-7:00 p.m. ET | Working with an Agent w/Danielle Chiotti (agent, Upstart Crow Literary)
A literary agent will offer tips on how to identify agents best suited for the writer and their project(s), share what makes for an effective query letter, describe what they do and don’t do for their clients, and touch upon much more.

7:00-7:10 p.m. ET | Break

7:10-8:00 p.m. ET | The Writer’s Journey w/Deesha Philyaw (author, The Secret Lives of Church Ladies)
An acclaimed author will share stories about their literary careers—how they got started and their experience in the publishing world—and offer advice for aspiring and early-career writers.

Each session will include a Q&A period with the featured presenters.

Mapping the Maze for Fiction Writers: Chart Your Path to Publication