top of page
  • Writer's pictureThe Publishing Post

Virtual Events to Kickstart the New Year

The Shape of Darkness with Laura Purcell


When? 21 Jan 7 p.m.

Where? Online (£4)

A silhouette artist in Victorian Bath seeks out a renowned spirit medium in order to speak to the dead. What secrets lie hidden in the darkness? Join Laura Purcell as she discusses her new novel, The Shape of Darkness.


Breathtaking with Rachel Clarke


When? 28 Jan 7 p.m.

Where? Online (£5)


Dr Rachel Clarke is a palliative care doctor who has cared for some of the most gravely unwell patients on the Covid-19 wards of her hospital. Her new book, Breathtaking, is an unflinching insider's account of medicine in the time of coronavirus.


Raven Leilani in conversation with Bolu Babalola


When? 21 Jan 7:30 p.m.

Where? Online (£5+)


New York Times Bestselling debut author Raven Leilani sits down to talk about her novel Luster on its day of UK publication. From dead-end hook ups and crushed ambitions to a romantic liaison, it is a book not to be missed.


Dare To Be You: a family event with Matthew Syed


When? 19 Jan 6 p.m.

Where? Online (£5)


Matthew Syed – author, broadcaster and sportsperson – sits down to talk about Dare To Be You, his ground-breaking new book which will help kids develop their confidence. An event for the whole family to enjoy.


Mark Your Calendars: The New Events from BookMachine Coming in 2021…


Following on from the success of their packed programme of practical events for publishing hopefuls and professionals in 2020, BookMachine have just announced their schedule of events for the new year. The events focus on helping you to grow your publishing skill set and connect with others in the industry. This year’s virtual events schedule has been designed to put a spotlight on six different areas of publishing: production, editorial, tech, audio, marketing and design.


Speaking recently to The Publishing Post events team, Laura Summers from BookMachine gave us an insight into the new BookMachine Unplugged line-up, and what makes it such a brilliant resource for publishing hopefuls:


“BookMachine Unplugged events focus on what is happening in the publishing industry right now. We invite knowledgeable speakers to share their expertise to help us all keep abreast of the latest trends and success stories.

In large publishing houses people are often very focussed on one area of the business, whether that is marketing, editorial or something else. In smaller companies, employees tend to work across multiple departments and have a broader range of skills.


As you progress in your publishing career you need a deeper understanding of how different departments operate, and this is why we created BookMachine Unplugged. Each event zooms in on a vital area of the publishing industry. As publishing hopefuls, please do join us!”


Talking Production

When? 10 Feb 6 p.m.

Where? Online


Join a panel of experts across trade fiction, non-fiction and professional publishing houses as they discuss how the production department has had to adapt to new ways of working amongst the ongoing pandemic, such as navigating working from home, dispersed teams and other major operational challenges. Tickets cost £5 or are free for BookMachine members – buy yours here.


Talking Editorial

When? 31 March 6 p.m.

Where? Online


In this event, a panel of publishing experts will be discussing “Online Conversations and the Rise of Influence for Commissioning”. With social media and data conversations having more of an influence on the industry than ever, how are editors responding to reach new voices and markets? Sign-up here to find out (Tickets are £5 or free for BookMachine members).


Talking Tech

When? 12 May 6 p.m.

Where? Online


Publishing has always been a traditional industry, so how can publishers utilise the potential of emerging technology and fill-in gaps in the market? Industry analysts and tech experts will share insights into potential areas of tech, and they’ll be joined by the publishers already trialling new technology. Sign-up here (Tickets cost £5 or free for BookMachine members).


Talking Audio

When? 30 June 6 p.m.

Where? Online


Over the past decade, the audiobook market has seen continual growth, and it doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. This panel will consider the current audiobook market, looking especially at how consumer insights have changed as we are all faced with the reality that working from home is here to stay. Sign-up here (Tickets cost £5 or free for BookMachine members).


For more information, including the dates to add to your calendars for the Unplugged events taking place later in the year, visit BookMachine below:

Twitter: @BookMachine

Instagram: _bookmachine

Facebook: BookMachine

0 comments
bottom of page