RCW extends workshop for aspiring authors of colour to include adult commercial fiction

RCW Literary Agency is partnering with Spread the Word, Renegade Books and Megaphone to extend its workshop for aspiring authors of colour to include writers of adult commercial fiction.

First launched in 2020 with a focus on children’s and YA fiction and returning in 2021, the workshop aims to provide transparency and clarity into the publishing process from beginning to end. Previous attendees include British Book Award shortlisted debut author Tọlá Okogwu.

A single, 90-minute session will take place at 1 p.m. on 5th July. After the workshop, the authors will receive one-to-one feedback sessions with an editor or agent to discuss their manuscripts. This year, the workshop is also open to authors writing adult commercial fiction.

Joanne Harris, Charlotte Vassell and Tanya Byrne are among the speakers confirmed to attend. They will be joined by editors and agents from across commercial adult fiction and young adult fiction publishing for a panel. This will cover a range of topics, including the submissions process, the role of agents and editors and building an author profile.

Following the workshop, Megaphone will be offering participants writing for young adults ongoing support, advice and critiques from other writers and industry professionals. Spread the Word will be running a bespoke session for the participants covering their next steps to develop their craft and career as writers.

Applications are open until 6 p.m. on Monday 29th May, and UK-based applicants can send a sample of between 1,000-5,000 words of their adult commercial fiction or young adult fiction, along with a synopsis and a brief statement about their eligibility as an author of colour.

A summary of the workshop and a series of resources will be made available online after the event.