At Pitchapalooza, you have just one minute to pitch your book idea of a panel of publishing experts. Make sure to check out the publishing workshops before the big event for tips on editing, which publishing option is right for you, and, of course, perfecting your book pitch. Illinois graduate student planning to participate? Make sure to bring your university ID on Friday.

Pitchapalooza

Friday, February 26, 4 - 6 p.m., Lincoln Hall Theater

In this exciting new event, any student (undergraduate or graduate) or postdoc with an idea for a book will have the chance to pitch it to a panel of expert judges, but they get only one minute. Eckstut and Sterry, The Book Doctors, team up with two published University-affiliated guests to form the judging panel. Entrants will be chosen at random to pitch their idea, but all attendees come away with concrete advice on how to improve their pitch as well as a greater understanding of the ins and outs of the publishing industry. The winner of the contest will receive an introduction by Eckstut and Sterry to an agent or publisher appropriate for their work.

Traditional, Independent or Self-Publishing Workshop

Thursday, February 25, 7 - 8 p.m., Illini Union, room 405

There are more ways to get published now than ever before! This interactive seminar will break down the process of getting published by traditional publishers like HarperCollins, Penguin, Random House, etc. as well as advice to land a book deal with a well-respected independent publisher like Gray Wolf, Tin House, or Soft Skull. You’ll get the 411 on self-publishing, too. The Book Doctors will discuss your book pitch, break down the strengths and weaknesses of it, and suggest whether the author should try traditional, independent, or self-publishing.

Making Editing Fun Workshop

Friday, February 26, 10 - 11 a.m., Illini Union, room 406

One of the hardest things for writers is to take their beautiful unshaped pieces of clay and turn them into a glorious work of art that agents, publishers, and readers will fall in love with. But what may seem a confusing, and slightly terrifying task can actually be a systematic and easily understood process. Advice will be given for all types of work.

Perfecting Your Pitch Workshop

Friday, February 26, 1 - 2 p.m., Illini Union, room 406

A great pitch is one of the most powerful and underestimated tools any writer can have in their quest to be published successfully. From landing an agent and a book deal to convincing booksellers that they must carry your book, the perfect pitch is the goose that will lay your golden publishing egg. Find out how to craft a dynamite pitch and be sure to bring your pitch with you, even if it’s far from perfect! This is an opportunity to prepare for Pitchapalooza!

Sponsored by the Career Services Council, Department of Journalism English Department, the Graduate College, and the Career Center.