The crossover book: writing research for the general public

In an age of misinformation and fake news, more and more readers are turning to experts for reliable information, while academia is increasingly committing to engage with society and to publish research excellence that impacts on the general public. But how do you make expert knowledge accessible to a lay audience? What makes a good crossover book? Join us on 23 February for an engaging conversation with established authors and industry professionals.

The first panel will see a publisher, two authors and a bookseller discuss what makes a good crossover book and how to turn research into content that is accessible to the wider audience. Panel two will focus on the challenges and practicalities of producing a crossover book, drawing on the experience of a commissioning editor, a picture researcher and a publishing operations director.

This seminar will be of interest to potential writers, editorial and production staff and freelancers already working on/interested in working on non-fiction, as well as anybody with an interest in the publishing industry.

This event is funded by Laura Houghton-Hunter and organised by the Royal Irish Academy in partnership with Publishing Ireland.

Schedule:

14.30: Welcome: Ruth Hegarty, Managing Editor, Royal Irish Academy

14.40: Panel 1 | What makes a good crossover book?
Chair: Ronan Colgan (Wordwell)
Speakers: Mark Richards (Swift Press), Rose Anne Kenny (TCD), David McCullagh (RTÉ), Aoife Roantree (Dubray)

15.40: Coffee break

16.00: Panel 2 | Production challenges and keys to success
Chair: Ruth Hegarty (RIA)
Speakers: Sarah Liddy (Gill Books), Neil Burkey (freelance editor), Joanna Smyth (Hachette Ireland)

17.00: Closing remarks: Caoimhe Fox, President, Publishing Ireland

17.15-19.00: Wine reception