Writing is no longer only something authors do. It is also something sold back to them through courses, critiques, webinars, mentoring, self-publishing advice and promises of access. This essay asks when publishing stopped merely selling books to readers and began selling the dream of authorship to writers.

Unlike many careers in publishing, the path to becoming a literary agent is rarely linear, and seldom advertised. It’s a role more often grown into than applied for, shaped by instinct, connections, and a passion for reading and for books. Entry routes vary widely: some agents started as agency assistants, others moved across from editorial, bookselling, or publicity. But all develop a finely honed sense of what sells, and a deep familiarity with the publishing marketplace.

Self publish?ow do you get your story into the hands of readers? Should you go down the traditional publishing route?

How do children’s picture books really get published? Scottish publisher and creator David Salariya explores the reality of modern picture book publishing — from ideas, illustration and typography to submissions, printing, sustainability and production. A practical insider guide for writers, illustrators and aspiring children’s book creators.