Books

The Future Bookshelf: Hachette seeks more diversity in publishing

A new initiative from Hachette invites unpublished writers – particularly from more diverse backgrounds – to submit their work to The Future Bookshelf

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Tomorrow sees the launch of The Future Bookshelf’s Open Submissions period, a new hub for aspiring writers that aims to demystify the process of publishing by providing a guide through the process of writing, editing, submitting and publishing.

During 2017, The Future Bookshelf  has covered different aspects of creative writing in an infographic, which features tips from Hachette authors and industry experts, including Q&As, first-person accounts and a range of blog entries that answer the burning questions novice writers have.

To make publishing more diverse, we have to diversify our approach

Their Open Submissions period is aimed at unpublished, un-agented writers of novels and non-fiction, who feel that the industry doesn’t sufficiently represent people of their background or experiences. The period runs from December 1-7.

“The Future Bookshelf is such a dynamic, positive response to the important conversation we’re having about diversity of voice in literature,” says Lisa McInerney, the Baileys Women’s Prize for Fiction winner .

Francine Toon, the Editor at Hachette imprint Sceptre, added: “To make publishing more diverse, we have to diversify our approach, and The Future Bookshelf is one way we are hoping to achieve this.”

Hachette also offers a range of trainee and internships to give insights into the publishing industry, editorial departments and more.

Authors who have contributed to The Future Bookshelf include Felicia Yap, Mike Gayle, Juno Dawson, Jess Richards, Patrick Gale, and Sarah Winman. This is alongside some key figures in the trade who have contributed to the online content of The Future Bookshelf, including Bookseller Rising Star and literary agent at PFD, Nelle Andrews.

Andrews said: “The Future Bookshelf is one of those simple yet effective initiatives that is a digital opening of the doors to authors at all stages of their career.

“It’s a forum of truly expert advice from the industry that is about broadening the publishing landscape as much as it is to inform. I am proud to be part of such a worthy scheme.”

You can find out more about the submissions process at thefuturebookshelf.co.uk/submissions

Words: Shaun McGlashan

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