Timber Creeks’ future authors connected with a publishing executive to link their in class learning to real world writing.
On Feb. 2, Nona Kummell’s Advanced Creative Writing class had a special visitor. Jennifer Canzoneri, marketing executive from publishing company Ben Bella Books, spoke to students about her role in the publishing industry.
“I was very appreciative of her willingness to interact with us,” said sophomore Tabitha Tomlinson, a student in Kummell’s regular creative working class. “She gave us valuable insight into the publishing process. She touched on everything from the business aspect to what new authors should expect.”
Canzoneri walked the class through the steps of publication, from the submissions and selection process to marketing plans that spanned far out after the book hits the shelves. Students were surprised by the amount of time that goes into the editing and marketing processes. According to Canoneri, it can take over a year for a book to be published.
“I was amazed at how many people had to check off on everything from alterations in the book to cover design,” said senior Izzy Parra, who sat in on the class as president of the TCHS Creative Writing Club. “It’s a long process.”
Many students were curious about the editing process. Canzoneri, who has a background in the subject, showed students that editors are helpful rather than threatening. Tomlinson commented, “When she talked about how editors try to keep the author’s voice, I was relieved.”
While Canzoneri delved into manuscript selection, editing, packaging, and more, she ultimately focused on her job: marketing. Through detailing strategies worked by both publishers and authors, she provided a clearer idea of what writers can do even before they have a book deal.
Canzoneri then opened the class up to questions.
“Twitter is my main outlet for my writing, and I questioned bringing my current novel to DFW Writer’s Workshop Conference in May,” said senior Sarah Ulery, Advanced Creative Writing student and the other TCHS Creative Writing Club president. “I was eager to hear her opinions on social media and those writer’s groups.”
Canzoneri was quick to help. She expanded on the concept that by connecting with other authors, and even literary agents and publishers, via social media and blogs, writers can expand their “impressions.” Through this, they make themselves of higher appeal in the publishing world.
“I was excited to ask about how age can impact your chances of publishing,” Parra added. “I would have been afraid to mention in my query letter to publishers that I was so young. But Canzoneri helped me see that as an advantage rather than a setback.”
Many aspiring writers and authors looked up to Canzeroni’s place in the business. Senior and Advanced Creative Writing student Hannah Mailhos mentioned, “Meeting people who work in the publishing business is great networking for when I have a project I want to publish. Meeting her was a special opportunity.”