First-time novelist Jon Jordan talks about overcoming writing obstacles; writing his first work of fiction; and getting it published. Lidewijde Paris shares her expertise as former publisher of Querido and founder of Lid.Paris Literature Unlimited. Their goal: to map out how writers attract literary agents, editors, and publishers, and audiences. Moderated by Lisa Friedman and organised by Amsterdam Writing Workshops.

How to Publish a Novel

How do you get your first novel published? And the one after that? At this event, panelists answer these questions from opposing viewpoints: writer and publisher. American novelist Jon Jordan talks about writing his first novel, from self-doubt to “having fun” to earning a book contract. Jordan’s novel, In the Name of Sarah Pogford, will be published next year.

Panelist Lidewijde Paris addresses the prospect of publishing fiction. She describes exactly what happens on the publisher’s side when a manuscript is received. As a former editor (various publishing houses) and publisher of Querido’s adult line of books, Lidewijde knows which books resonate with readers. Now an independent literary journalist, she shares her observations on literary trends.

Jon Jordan
Author Jon Jordan grew up in the rural American Midwest, the setting of his debut novel, In the Name of Sarah Pogford. Jordan tells the story of Elda Graff, an elderly schoolteacher whose fantasy life protects her from a gruesome past brought on by misplaced loyalties. On the brink of Elda’s retirement, a troubled student will either help her find redemption... or cause her to fail yet again. The novel will be published by the Permanent Press in Summer/Fall 2008.

Lidewijde Paris
Lidewijde Paris is the founding director of Lid.Paris Literature Unlimited, designed to promote the pleasure of reading literature. Through this organisation, Lidewijde scouts new stories for the weekly Vrij Nederland; discusses books Opium Radio each month; and conducts workshops, readings, interviews and presentations. As publisher of Querido from 1999 to 2006, she presided over a book list that included world-class authors like Bernlef, Hella S. Haasse, A.F.Th. van der Heijden, Doeschka Meijsing and Thomas Rosenboom. Lidewijde initiated Querido’s list of 'foreign' contemporary writers including Edward P. Jones, David Mitchell, Marlene van Niekerk and Dan Sleigh.

Lisa Friedman
Discussion moderator Lisa Friedman (US) created the Amsterdam Writing Workshop to help writers thrive.

Language: English

Further information:

www.amsterdamwriting.com/