Journey to Publication

Break into mainstream publishing — Get an experienced book publisher to show you the path, give you feedback, and have you ready for a publishing contract this year!

We're accepting new authors into our 10-week mentorship program — Apply today!

As a children's or non-fiction writer, you will work in close collaboration with one of our senior publishers 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.

See program schedule

How it works

Step 1

Apply with an assessment to get quick feedback

Before you are enrolled, we will assess your manuscript and give you written expert feedback.

If accepted, you'll have confidence that, after the program, your book stands a serious chance of being published.
If we believe your manuscript is not yet at the required standard of this course, we will provide you clear feedback so you know where you stand and what action you need to take.

Photo: Exisle author Silva Mcleod with her book "From Island Girl to Airline Pilot" which has been promoted by Richard Branson.

Step 2

Begin your mentorship

Congratulations – you have now been selected to work with Exisle and EK Books! It is time to refine your manuscript to bring it to commercial publishing standards.

You will be invited to join a small group of fellow authors for our Journey to Publication program.

Part-time and customized to your schedule, availability and time zone, you will learn what it takes to become a successful published author.

Photo: Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, with one of our titles.

Step 3

Complete the program and receive a publishing contract

At the end of a successfully completed course, you will have the serious possibility of a standard traditional contract with Exisle or EK Books.

If your manuscript isn’t suitable for this, you will be offered a hybrid-publishing contract within our Starlight publishing program which, like Exisle and EK, pays royalties and provides a platform for international sales, distribution and marketing.

Produced with passion, our books win awards, readers, and acclaim worldwide.

Schedule

Your schedule as an Exisle Academy author begins Monday, April 15

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.

April

Week One: Meet your mentor – Once you're accepted into the program, you’ll be paired with a mentor whose experience aligns with your needs. Schedule a 40-minute call with your mentor to discuss your book and aspirations. We accommodate all time zones.

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.

May

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.

June

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

Begin your assessment. Qualify for Journey to Publication

Oxygen Icon Box

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, which is why we first conduct an assessment of your manuscript.

Oxygen Icon Box

Assessments cost $175 and include brief feedback on your work — If accepted, we'll let you know what you're doing right, if you're not ready, we'll tell you what you need to fix.

Oxygen Icon Box

We work with authors of children's picture books, middle-grade & young-adult fiction, and a broad range of non-fiction, especially memoir, self-help, philosophy, travel, and history.

Oxygen Icon Box

Should you be invited to move forward you will be able to deduct the $175 assessment free from the full investment in the 10-week program which is $1995 USD

Begin Your Assessment 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