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From manuscript to graphic novel

Inked case study

The children’s graphic novel market is booming in Australia, with publishers actively seeking out local authors and illustrators working in the space. Graphic novels are a unique format with a complex acquisitions and editorial process, and the genre can be opaque to creators looking for new ways to engage with readers and appeal to publishers and literary agents.

In this one-hour panel discussion, author Karen Wasson, illustrator Jake A. Minton and publisher Marisa Pintado will provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at their recent publication, Inked. Inked is the first book published under Hardie Grant’s new Figment imprint, which launched this year and is dedicated to the publication of graphic novels. 

The trio will discuss how they worked – independently and collaboratively – to develop Inked from manuscript to illustration, and eventually publication. They will address questions such as:

  • How crafting a graphic novel manuscript and pitch differs from children’s fiction and picture books.
  • What makes a graphic novel submission stand out to acquiring publishers.
  • How the acquisitions and publishing process operates for graphic novels.
  • How and when the illustrator is brought onto the project, and what kind of creative freedom they are afforded.
  • How a team of creators can successfully navigate the editorial challenges of a graphic novel.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into the publication of a graphic novel, or what you could expect from this process as a creator, Karen, Jake, and Marisa will give you a first-hand view of the process from start to finish. Their experience can help you learn how to capitalise on the growth of graphic novels in Australia.

There will be time for questions.

Who is this for?

  • Authors and illustrators eager to learn about the graphic novel development and production process
  • Authors and illustrators curious about how they can capitalise on the growing local graphic novel market
  • Authors and illustrators interested in how to prepare and pitch a graphic novel manuscript
  • Authors and illustrators seeking inspiration from a real-life publication success story

About the Presenters

Jake A. Minton
Jake A. Minton
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Karen Wasson
Karen Wasson
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Marisa Pintado
Marisa Pintado
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Can't make it to the live session?

No problem! Everyone booked in to this event will be emailed a link and passcode to access the recording afterwards. This recording will be available to view for 10 days after the live session. This also means that if you wish to revisit the session after attending it live to take further notes, you can do so!

After 10 days, the link will expire and the recording will no longer be available to view.