AFSA NEWS 54 MARCH 2025 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL Publishing Panel and Book Market Continued from page 50 the William Morris Agency; Don Jacobs, senior acquisitions editor at Georgetown University Press; and Michael Kerns, senior publisher at Bloomsbury USA. Panelists provided insights into the publishing landscape, from the difference between university presses and trade publishers to the role of editing coaches and literary agents. Epstein discussed the role of editing coaches, explaining how they help writers overcome creative roadblocks and keep projects on track. She likened the writing process to a journey, where coaches help navigate the Editor in Chief and moderator Shawn Dorman with AFSA publishing panelists, from left: Kate Epstein, Dara Kaye, Don Jacobs, and Michael Kerns. Attendees connect with authors at AFSA headquarters. AFSA/HANNAH HARARI COURTESY OF ALICIA FORD twists and turns, ensuring writers stay motivated and productive. For those ready to pitch their manuscripts, literary agent Dara Kaye described her role as part advocate, part editor, and part negotiator. She emphasized the importance of clarity and a strong voice in proposals, as well as understanding market dynamics. Don Jacobs and Michael Kerns explored the differences between university presses and trade publishers. University presses, often tied to academic institutions, focus on scholarly rigor and niche markets. In contrast, trade publishers aim for broader audiences, prioritizing marketable ideas and authors with strong platforms. Both cited the importance of crafting proposals that align with a publisher’s mission and showcase the book’s unique angle. Authors were encouraged to consider their goals and audience when deciding between publishing models. For those aiming to self-publish or work with smaller presses, panelists highlighted the trade-offs. While these paths offer more control and personalized attention, they also require authors to take the lead in marketing and distribution. Whether working with a publicist or leveraging social media, authors were reminded that their proactive involvement can significantly boost a book’s visibility. The conversation touched on specialized projects like anthologies and reissued works. Anthologies of original content can be viable, but reprinted collections often face high permissions costs. Similarly, previously published works—whether self-published or released in foreign markets—are challenging to pitch unless they’ve had limited circulation or significant revisions. The event concluded with practical advice: Persistence is essential in navigating rejections, and understanding the market is key to success. Before the panel began, AFSA hosted a book market with a dozen Foreign Service authors, most of whom were featured in the November FSJ’s “In Their Own Write” collection. Guests were able to meet the authors and purchase autographed copies of their books ahead of the holidays. The Foreign Service community has meaningful stories to share, and with the right guidance, those stories can reach audiences far and wide. n
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