LIVE: Putting Your Best Query Forward: A Submissions Workshop 

Wednesday, August 12, 2026
4-7 p.m. Pacific Time, via Zoom

$95

Getting noticed — or simply not getting rejected! — by agents and editors is ever more challenging these days. This unique workshop for writers will offer feedback on your submissions materials so you can put your very best foot forward. 

We will invite a limited number of writers at a time to join us for a deep dive into creating an effective submissions package, including a query letter with book summary and author bio, and a synopsis. In the 3-hour Zoom workshop, we will evaluate the query letters as a group, and writers will leave with feedback on their own work and tips for all aspects of a good submission. All writers will receive independent feedback from the instructors on their synopses.

Here’s how it works: A week before the workshop, you will submit a query letter (including a book summary and author bio) to the entire group for in-class feedback on the day of the workshop; you’ll also receive your fellow writers’ queries in progress. On the day of the workshop, you’ll get feedback on your work from the instructors and other writers, as well as offer helpful tips on your fellow writers’ work. You’ll also receive detailed written feedback on your synopsis from the instructors. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the tools you need for making your own submissions package the best it can be.

Note: This class will not be recorded, and in-class participation is mandatory due to the participatory nature of the session.

About the instructors
Midge and John have worked in publishing for nearly three decades and co-founded Ashland Creek Press in 2011. As published authors themselves, their books have entered the world in every possible way, from Big Five books to small press titles to self-published works. This class will include ample time to answer all of your questions about publishing and getting your work into the world.