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Publishing Industry Fundamentals: How Books Reach Readers


By the end of this series of seven online courses, you'll understand how books move from manuscript to marketplace—and the many people, decisions, and business relationships that shape their success.

What will this series consist of, practically speaking?

  • 7 live online meetings for the 6 courses that include a combination of lecture, reading discussion, Q&A, workshop and guest lectures from industry experts

    • Sign up for the full series, or, choose individual topical courses tailored to your interests and busy schedule*

  • Curated readings and assignments designed specifically for busy adult learners, with an emphasis on practical application rather than busywork

  • Small-group discussions and networking opportunities with fellow students from across the publishing ecosystem

  • For full series students: Two or more mentor meetings with publishing professionals for personalized guidance and career development

  • For full series students: An optional included culminating in-person experience at WriterFest Nashville (November 20–21, 2026), where students can connect with authors, agents, editors, and other industry leaders in a two day celebration of the writers of book, song and screen

  • There is one online asynchronous course so even if you can’t attend live class you can still take at least one course with Your Publishing Professor!

  • Special discount for teachers and librarians (heroes!)

Choose from courses such as:

  • Publishing 101 —September 9, 6-8:15 pm CST

  • Literary Agenting—September 16 & 23, 6-8:15 pm CST

  • Paths to Publishing (indie, hybrid, trad)—September 30, 6-8:15 pm CST

  • The Amazon Effect— October 21, 6-8:15 pm CST

  • Bookstores and Retail Relationships— October 28, 6-8:15 pm CST

  • Library Roles in Trade Publishing— October 14, 6-8:15 pm CST

  • How Books Become Bestsellers (don't worry, no sleaze here, more of a walk through what the bestseller lists are and how they are created)- Offered asynchronously online in September and onward

See full information and sign up for one or all the courses at:

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August 26

WriterFest Series: Office Hours with Your Publishing Professor, Sara Wigal

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September 11

A Dolly Good Time: Benefit for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Middle TN