Journey to Publication

Break into traditional, royalty-paying publishing — Get feedback, guidance, and introductions from an experienced book publisher specialized in your genre

Our flagship 10-week mentorship program is for authors ready to break into the publishing mainstream

You will work in close collaboration with a senior publisher from Exisle Publishing or EK Books to bring your manuscript to a publishable standard and learn how commercial publishing works.

You will apply the learnings to hone your manuscript, prepare a submission package, finalise your manuscript and submission letter with your mentor and launch yourself for a publishing contract this year.

See program schedule

Schedule

Your schedule as an Exisle Academy author begins Monday, June 10

Embark on a journey to become a published author, guided every step of the way by an expert from Exisle Publishing / EK Books. This comprehensive program ensures you'll end with a finished manuscript, a supportive pitch, and a publishing contract.

June

Week One: Welcome! When you signed up, you will have been sent a detailed questionnaire. Now, you'll meet with a publisher to discuss your answers, chat about your book, and begin to make a plan based on your unique goals.

Week Two: Initial feedback and plan for success: Based on your mentor's exposure to your work and your goal, you'll make a plan to move forward to develop your book and brand and achieve your publishing goals.

Week Three: Video lesson on Getting Accepted – Learn about publishing options and how to strategically go about getting your book accepted by a major traditional publishing house.

Week Four: Manuscript review – Join your mentor for another 40-minute call to receive in-depth personalized feedback on your manuscript, interpret the progress you have made so far, and get guidance on the next steps.

July

With renewed clarity and confidence, edit your manuscript and apply your learnings.

Week Five: Receive a self-paced video lesson on Book Sales – Understand how the sales department works and how to become a champion author

Week Six: Group Q&A session – Join a small group Q&A session with your mentor and special guest, fostering discussion and shared experiences.

Week Seven: Video lesson on Book Production – Gain insights into the process of producing a high-quality book.

Week Eight: Progress review – Success is in sight! Your mentor will review any changes made and provide further feedback.

August

Week Nine: Video lesson on Finding Your Audience – Learn from industry experts how to garner media attention and build your book's following.

Week Ten: Final review and next steps – Celebrate your achievements with a summary and guidance on future actions from your mentor. Based on your goals and our assessment of your compatibility with Exisle/EK, receive either a traditional or hybrid publishing contract!

Additional informal communication such as emails and phone calls are part of Exisle Academy’s approach, making your success our #1 priority. Become part of our family and take the decisive step toward your publishing dreams.

Start your journey today

Apply Now to Secure Your Place in Journey to Publication

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We want to facilitate your success and only take on authors for the program with serious prospects of publication with Exisle, EK Books, or other top-tier publishers. The program begins with an assessment to pair you with a senior publisher from our team specialized in your genre. Application is free. If accepted, you will hear from us within fourteen days.

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If you are accepted and choose to proceed, your full investment in the 10 week publishing program is $1995 USD. This includes significant amounts of direct feedback on your manuscript, access to your mentor and training materials, and introductions to publishers, authors and others who can help your book succeed. Payment plans available on request.

Apply Now

Attending the Children's Publishing Seminar?

The Assessment fee is waived for attendees of the Children's Publishing Seminar on April 8. After attending the seminar, you will be invited to share your manuscript with your instructor, and, should it be ready, you will be invited to join Journey to Publication directly.

Attend

Have questions?

Have questions about the program or want to speak with a publisher first? Email [email protected] and tell us about your book.

Testimonials

Here's what writers we work with say

“I particularly appreciate the specific examples you made in regard to what works and what doesn't. This gives me a solid base to work from and increases my confidence to revisit and rewrite the book. Thank you also for beginning with a positive comment about my abilities, which helped me to view the rest of your commentary in a positive light and not feel defeated!”

— Raine

“Last, but not the least, I wanted to express my great appreciation and respect to Exisle for being respectful, structured, and open to offer options and ways for new writers and illustrators to get insights and guidance on how to enter the world of publishing.  That is truly advanced of you, guys, and deserves admiration.”

— Maria

“Working with you is the best thing I have ever done for my writing.”

— Rebecca

“I just wanted to thank your editor for the recommended changes. I have found these extremely helpful!”

— Leigh

“You've really helped me re-focus and have renewed purpose and passion.”

— Suchita