Writing Trade History: an IHR - Curtis Brown Initiative

Course Details

Some of the most successful publications for general audiences are written by historians, and popular histories regularly top the non-fiction book charts. And yet it is not always clear how we might connect with trade publishers and how we should present our work to them - the world of trade history can be more than a little intimidating. The ongoing IHR-Curtis Brown initiative aims to de-mystify the process of writing for broader audiences, taking you through the steps of writing a proposal, getting an agent, and finding a publisher.

Elliot Prior of the Curtis Brown Literary Agency will explain the role of an agent, provide insider information about what editors are looking for in a trade book, and share his top tips for making a non-fiction proposal irresistible to agents and publishers alike. As Elliot says 'The process of communicating to a more general audience, getting an agent, or finding a publisher may fill an academic with dread, but it is an exciting and viable option.'

Following this event we will open-up applications for an all day and in-person session to be held at the IHR on 18th June 2025 which will offer an opportunity to workshop your projects and gain expert advice.

• Details of this application will be sent to all registered attendees when the workshop has finished.
• Please note that there are limited places available at the workshop in June 2025, and your application is not a guarantee of your place.
• Applications will be open from 12 March - 13 April 2025. Decisions will be communicated in May 2025.