Deadline: December 4, 2020
Applications are open for the Graywolf Press Citizen Literary Fellowship 2021. The Citizen Literary Fellowship is a paid, comprehensive ten-month fellowship designed to support a person who is interested in learning more about the publishing industry through an introductory, hands-on experience.
Through substantial project-based work in the editorial and marketing/publicity departments, the fellow will gain a broad base in publishing and be prepared to launch or further a career in the field. They are flexible regarding the educational background of the candidate, but this position is not intended for those attending school full time.
This fellowship is grounded in Graywolf’s belief that while diversity in the books and authors they publish is vital, it is equally important that the people publishing these books reflect that diversity. As a result, the Fellowship is intended to attract candidates who otherwise would not have access to publishing, and to therefore increase the diversity and inclusivity of the industry. Throughout the year, the fellow will receive active coaching and encouragement from the whole Graywolf team. Their hope is that this fellowship will serve as a doorway to a successful career in publishing or a related literary field.
Responsibilities
The fellow will work closely with senior staff in both the editorial and the marketing/publicity departments as they follow new and forthcoming books through every stage of the publication cycle. In addition to attending virtual events and participating in remote meetings as a member of the staff, the fellow will also have an active role in Graywolf’s outreach efforts. When appropriate, they will tailor activities to align with a fellow’s particular interests and skills.
Key editorial responsibilities may include:
- Reading and writing reports on manuscripts under consideration.
- Working with our editors to provide feedback to authors on manuscripts that are in development.
- Soliciting endorsements and drafting catalog copy for forthcoming books.
- Reading print and online magazines to discover emerging writers.
- Researching other publishers’ titles to find market comparisons for Graywolf books.
- Attending literary events and reporting on new and interesting writers.
Key marketing responsibilities may include:
- Researching and contacting new sales, media, and advertising outlets, including those that reach diverse communities.
- Assisting with author events and tour publicity/promotion.
- Assisting with the development of backlist marketing.
- Assisting with creation, production, and distribution of seasonal Graywolf catalogs.
- Assisting with the Graywolf website, as needed.
Benefits
Compensation includes:
- $25,000 (paid twice monthly as regular wages)
- Paid time off, and
- Health and dental insurance.
Eligibility
- Applicant should have strong interest in book publishing, contemporary literature, and the literary community.
- A commitment to increasing diversity in and access to literature, and experience working with diverse and minority communities.
- Prior experience that will help the candidate participate in the publishing process. Relevant experience is not exclusive to publishing or academia.
- Strong writing skills.
- Ability to work both independently and cooperatively with a small staff.
- Ability to take the initiative in proposing and identifying additional tasks and projects.
- Tell them if you have any special—non-required—additional skills, such as design experience or familiarity with databases and/or web sites.
Application
Applicants should have the following materials:
- Cover letter that answers the following questions:
- Why are you interested in publishing, and what areas of publishing are you curious about pursuing?
- Which books or authors have most influenced your taste in or thoughts on literature?
- What support would help you move forward in your career, and what are your long-term career ambitions?
- Résumé.
- One-page, single-spaced discussion of a contemporary book that focuses on one or more of the following items: critique, personal response, cultural context, marketing/positioning, or why you would recommend this book to a friend.
For more information, visit Citizen Literary Fellowship.
