Thanks to the Simpson Center for the Humanities, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Los Angeles Review of Books workshop this summer. This experience offered more than just a deep dive into the world of publishing—it was a chance to refine skills that I will carry forward in my academic and professional journey.
Anna Malin Gerke
A key element of this growth was the opportunity to collaborate with professionals across various departments, foster relationships with literary agents, and engage in one-on-one networking. These interactions allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of building strategic partnerships within the industry.
I participated in the Book Track, where we worked closely together in small groups every day to explore central aspects of book publishing, from acquiring books to promoting and selling. We had the privilege of hearing from guest speakers who held various roles at numerous presses worldwide, offering valuable insights into the inner workings of the industry. The flexible structure of the Book Track was particularly thoughtful, allowing participants to engage fully without overwhelming our summer schedules, a considerate touch for those balancing outside commitments.
As I am now a PhD candidate [abd], this workshop got me already thinking about the exciting final step in my future academic journey: eventually turning my dissertation into a book! The hands-on exercises were a highlight, as we worked on a short manuscript as if we were staff members of a small press launching its first publication. This provided invaluable experience in project management, teaching me to oversee processes from acquisition to final launch. I also learned about strategic alignment, market fit, and audience engagement, skills that are crucial in both traditional and academic publishing.
I am profoundly grateful to the Simpson Center for making this opportunity possible. It was an enriching experience that equipped me with the tools to bridge my academic background with the broader publishing industry. I look forward to applying these skills both within and beyond academia, and I am excited to see where this newfound knowledge will take me.