Trying to get your work published can feel like wandering in a maze. If you're running into one dead end after another, not sure which way to turn, this workshop can demystify the process and help you reach your destination—publication.

Mapping the Maze is an online workshop designed for poets and writers of literary prose (fiction and narrative nonfiction) who have developed their craft and are now ready to make a concrete plan for getting their work published.

This edition of Mapping the Maze is designed with narrative nonfiction writers in mind, and is presented in partnership with the Asian American Writers' Workshop.

In this workshop you will:

Learn to prepare submissions to literary journals and presses
Get tips on querying literary agents
Gain insight into the business side of publishing
Network with an established author as they share stories from their own paths to publication
Be introduced to Poets & Writers’ online resources
Leave with a clear, actionable plan outlining your personal publishing goals and the steps you will take to achieve them

This workshop might be for you if you are:

Ready to submit stories to literary magazines but don’t know where to begin
Submitting work regularly, but not getting the response you want
Seeking direction on publishing your debut manuscript
Interested in exploring agent representation
Eager to expand your writing community

**The registration fee includes a one-year subscription to Poets & Writers Magazine (or an extension of your existing subscription).

To ensure more equitable access, a limited number of fee waivers are available, with priority to writers who identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC). Accepted fee waiver applicants will be responsible for a nominal $25 fee. Apply for a fee waiver!

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Below is an overview of the workshop, which will span two days. In addition, prior to the workshop, participants will be asked to watch Publishing 101, a video about publishing narrated by Kevin Larimer, editor in chief of Poets & Writers. Participants will be emailed a link to watch the video prior to the workshop.

Tuesday, May 28
6:15-6:45 p.m. ET | Publishing 101 Q&A w/ Kevin Larimer (editor in chief, Poets & Writers)

6:45-8:00 p.m. ET | Submitting to Literary Magazines & Journals w/ Dana Isokawa (editor in chief, The Margins)
A literary magazine editor will share their publication's submissions processes, what they are looking for in new work, and other opportunities. They will also discuss the editorial process, what happens once a work is accepted, and share tips for making sure your submission has the best chance of getting published.

Thursday, May 30
6:15-7:30 p.m. ET | Working with an Agent w/ Annie Hwang (Ayesha Pande Literary)
A literary agent will offer tips on how to identify agents best suited for the writer and their project(s), share what makes for an effective query letter, describe what they do and don’t do for their clients, and touch upon much more.

7:30-7:45 p.m. ET | Break

7:45-9:00 p.m. ET | The Writer’s Journey w/ Sarah Aziza (author of The Hollow Half, forthcoming from Catapult in spring 2025)
An acclaimed author will share stories about their literary careers—how they got started and their experience in the publishing world—and offer advice for aspiring and early-career writers.

A special thank you to our partner:

For over 30 years, the Asian American Writers’ Workshop has been dedicated to publishing and amplifying Asian American literary culture. Operating from a radically inclusive ethos, AAWW expands the definition not only of who is a writer, but also of who is Asian American. Through a robust and diverse lineup of programming, AAWW serves as a vital sanctuary space for writers and readers alike. In cultivating and curating the next generation of Asian American storytellers, AAWW works to mobilize the literary community toward a more just future.

Mapping the Maze for Narrative Nonfiction Writers: Chart Your Path to Publication