Unicorn Writers' Conference

Black Hawk Literary Agency is pleased to publish this article written by our client, Eric burns, an Emmy Award-winning journalist, playwright, and author. Enjoy!

A Brief History of Dirty Tricks by Eric Burns We are in the midst of a halcyon period in the American electoral process. The last federal election was held a few months ago; the next will not begin to disrupt our frayed hopes for national decency until early next year.

Some Random “Firsts” in the History of Advertising by Eric Burns The First Ad If prostitution is the world’s oldest profession, advertising seems to be a close second. In A Natural History of Love, author Diane Ackerman tells us that one sandal worn by a Greek pr******te has somehow managed to survive the millennia, and “On its sole, studded so that it would ...

YOU WROTE A BOOK, NOW WHAT? Getting Published Today
Jan Kardys, Black Hawk Literary Agency. Jan is passionate about teaching writers how to get published. Over 50 handouts & Powerpoint presentations. You Wrote a Book, Now What? Huntington Public Library, 7 East Main Street, Huntington, MA 01050
Phone: 413-512-5206 Registration required: https://huntingtonpubliclibrary.org/events
Calling all writers! Library invites you to learn about getting published and receive feedback on your work from a literary agent! Registration required. Thank you!
Session I: Publishing Tips – Saturday, March 8, 2025 - 2- 4 pm
Gain an insider’s view of book publishing with literary agent Jan Kardys from Black Hawk Literary Agency, Jan will share her 40 years of experience inside 10 major NYC book publishers on such topics as developing a concept, writing a manuscript, editing, finding a literary agent, book proposals, how to get the attention of a literary agent, components of a novel, self-publishing vs. traditional book publishing, subsidiary rights, marketing, utilizing the most cutting-edge technologies and social media services to increase visibility to literary agents, publishers and readers alike. blackhawkliteraryagency.com
Session II: Manuscript Feedback –March 29, 2025- 2-4- pm.
Interested in getting feedback on your manuscript? In this session, writers may submit their query letter along with the first 15 pages of their manuscripts for Black Hawk’s editorial comments and feedback. Instructions on how to write a query letter will be provided in the first session. We encourage you to bring your 15-page manuscript to the first session to allow time for editorial feedback in the second session. If you didn't attend session I, you can email your pages to [email protected] 3 days before March 26, 2025. Both sessions will take place in the library. https://www.instagram.com/unicorn4writers/?hl=en
https://www.meetup.com/book-publishing/

letters

Passion .. to teach writers how to get published and improve their writing. YOU WROTE A BOOK, NOW WHAT? May 4,11,18, 25, June 1, 2024, Saturdays, 1-3 pm, First Congregational Church of Bethel, 46 Main Street, Bethel, CT 06801, Fee:$250
PART I (First hour) Gain an insider's view of book publishing at this program with literary agent Jan Kardys/Black Hawk Literary Agency, Chairman of Unicorn Writers' Conference and (President) Unicorn for Writers. Jan will share her 40 years of experience inside 10 major NYC book publishers on such topics as developing a concept, writing a manuscript, editing, finding a literary agent, query letters, book proposals, how to get the attention of a literary agent, publishing agreements, opening first pages, components of a novel, getting known before the book deal, various departments within a publishing company, self publishing vs. traditional book publishing, subsidiary rights, marketing, utilizing the most cutting-edge technologies and social media services to increase visibility to literary agents, publishers and readers alike.

PART II (Second hour) Second hour involves you reading your first 5 - 10 pages of your manuscript and making enough copies for each member of the group. With kindness and gentleness, we discuss the strong points of your writing piece, and offer suggestions and comments to help improve your manuscript. Additional writing assignments,
Elevate Your Manuscript: Workshops for Fiction and Nonfiction Writers
Ready to take your writing to the next level? Our workshops offer a supportive and inspiring environment for both fiction and nonfiction writers to hone their craft and transform their manuscripts.
For Fiction Writers:
Plot & Pacing Masterclass: Learn to build a captivating plot with strong structure, suspenseful pacing, and unforgettable character arcs.
Dialogue that Sizzles: Craft natural-sounding dialogue that reveals character personalities and drives your story forward.
Description that Dazzles: Master the art of evocative description to immerse your readers in your fictional world.
From Spark to Novel: Develop your initial story idea into a compelling novel.
Character Development Deep Dive: Create characters that leap off the page with depth, complexity, and believable motivations.
For Nonfiction Writers:
The Art of Storytelling in Nonfiction: Learn how to weave narrative elements into factual content to engage your readers and make your message memorable.
Structure & Organization for Clarity: Organize your nonfiction manuscript for maximum impact, leading your readers through logical steps and arguments.
Research & Fact-Checking Fundamentals: Develop strong research skills and learn effective fact-checking techniques to ensure your writing is accurate and credible.
Finding Your Authorial Voice: Discover/refine your unique voice to establish yourself as a trusted authority in your field.
Crafting a Compelling Book Proposal: Learn essential elements of a winning book proposal.