Beyond the Manuscript
Everything about writing,except how to write.
The practical things writers need to know, from the first idea to the finished book and beyond.
The problem
Writing the book is just one part.
How many words should it be? What genre is it? Who is it for? When is it ready? Do you need an editor? How does publishing actually work?
Writers are expected to know an awful lot about the world around their writing – often before anyone has ever explained it.
The promise
We explain the bits around the writing.
Beyond the Manuscript slows down the practical side of being a writer and makes it make sense – from early decisions and manuscripts to publishing, readers and what comes next.
- No jargon for the sake of sounding clever.
- No one-size-fits-all publishing advice.
- No pretending you should already know.
Who it is for
Still figuring it out?That’s enough.
You might be working out what to write, wondering if your word count is right, halfway through a manuscript or trying to make sense of publishing.Wherever you are, you are welcome here.
What we cover
The things writers are somehow expected to already know.
From word counts and genre to publishing, book production, finding readers and figuring out what comes next.
The book begins
Word counts, genre, audience and the early decisions that can shape a book long before anyone talks about publishing.
Publishing paths
Traditional publishing, self-publishing and the options in between – what they actually mean and what may suit you.
Editing and production
Editors, proofreading, covers, formatting and the practical steps involved in turning a manuscript into a finished book.
The book as a product
ISBNs, metadata, pricing, distribution and why some of the smallest book decisions can make a surprisingly big difference.
Readers and visibility
Understanding your readers, talking about your book, author platforms and realistic ways to help the right people find your work.
Life as a writer
Author identity, opportunities, good advice, bad advice and working out what being a writer might actually look like for you.
The pathway
Four terms.Start where you are.
Take one term, choose the parts most relevant to you, or follow the full program across the year.
The Book Begins
Understanding the book before you get too far into it.
- What kind of book are you writing?
- Genre, audience and word counts
- Planning your manuscript
- Writing routines and useful tools
- Getting from idea to finished draft
Understanding Publishing
Making sense of what happens between manuscript and published book.
- Traditional and self-publishing
- Editors and production teams
- Copyright, ISBNs and ownership
- Printing, formats and distribution
- Costs, timelines and expectations
The Book as a Product
Looking at your book through a reader’s eyes.
- Covers, design and typography
- Understanding your audience
- Pricing and profit
- Author presence and visibility
- Launches, promotion and marketing
Life as a Writer
The practical realities of continuing to write and put your work into the world.
- Confidence and imposter syndrome
- Feedback, criticism and rejection
- Opportunities and author identity
- Balancing writing with real life
- Building a writing life that works for you
How it works
Plain English.Real Examples.Questions Encouraged.
Each session takes one part of the writer’s world, breaks it down and gives you the practical information to make your own decisions.
We explain the basics
We start with what the thing actually is, what the language means and why it matters to writers.
We look at the options
There is rarely one right way. We talk through the different paths, the pros and cons, and the questions worth asking.
We bring it back to your writing
Think about your own book, goals and situation. Ask questions. Compare options. Work out what is relevant to you.
You decide what comes next
You leave with a clearer understanding of your choices and a much better idea of your next step.
Presented by Katy More
Practical, honest and grounded in real-world publishing experience.
Katy More is the founder of Scribbly and a professional writer, publisher, editor and communications specialist. Her sessions are conversational, direct and encouraging, designed for writers who want useful information without being made to feel behind.
Beyond the Manuscript can be delivered for individual writers, writing groups, libraries, programs and organisations that want clear, human guidance about the world around the writing itself.
Enrolment
One term or all four.You choose.
Join the term that answers the questions you have now, or work through the complete Beyond the Manuscript program across the year.
For individual writers
Come along for one six-week term or enrol in all four terms and follow the program from beginning to end.
Bring the program to your group
Beyond the Manuscript can be delivered as a dedicated program for writing groups, libraries and community organisations, at your venue and at an agreed time.
Group delivery availableApply for $500in course credit
Each year, one emerging or developing writer from the City of Moreton Bay receives $500 towards the Beyond the Manuscript program.
Applications open 1–31 August