PRESS RELEASE
Ignite Your Imagination at the #InspiringIndies Zone - YALC 2024
Author Appearance Programme Confirmed
Author meet-and-greets, panel events, workshops... plus
lots and lots of giveaways!
Celebrate Indie Talent at the 10th Anniversary of the UK's Biggest YA Book Event
Fans of YA books are invited to join an incredible line-up of indie authors in the new #InspiringIndies zone at next month's Young Adult Literature Convention (YALC) in Olympia, London, on 16-17 November 2024.
An industry and event first, this fun, creative and inclusive zone will be a wonderful opportunity for readers to connect with diverse, original voices in YA literature, discover their next favourite books, pick up a load of gorgeous merch, enter giveaways, and find out more about indie publishing. For aspiring authors attending YALC, there will be plenty on offer; from panel discussions busting open the myths surrounding indie publishing to workshops, a warm and welcome Q&A corner, and an indie bookshop table!
The UK's is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new #InspiringIndies zone, hosted by LitPR, during its 10th anniversary edition at Olympia, London on 16-17 November 2024. This dedicated space is set to shine a spotlight on the vibrant world of indie publishing, showcasing the creativity and talent of self-published authors and small presses!
A Celebration of Indie Publishing at YALC's Milestone Event
For the first time ever, YALC - the UK's premier Young Adult Literature Convention - is giving indie authors a platform to showcase their work in the heart of one of the most exciting YA events of the year. Celebrating 10 years of bringing together the best in YA literature, YALC is making room for the trailblazers of indie publishing with this innovative new zone.
The #InspiringIndies zone, hosted by LitPR, the leading specialists in indie author branding and book marketing, is your chance to dive into the world of independent publishing. Discover self-published debuts, small indie presses, and everything in between, with plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and be inspired.
Zoe Finch at YALC said:"YALC's aim has always been to champion YA Books in all forms and by opening up the programme to include indie authors this means that we can provide our audience even more content and support this growing area of the publishing world. We are proud to have partnered with LitPR on this and hope that both the indie authors and attendees who visit the #InspiringIndies zone have an amazing experience."
Helen Lewis, Director at LitPR, said:"We have been proudly championing indie authors for over a decade and are constantly exploring ways we can level the playing field in terms of opportunities for indies versus the traditionally published authors. For too long and completely unjustifiably, self-publishing has been viewed as a ‘runner-up' to traditional publishing deals, but people are starting to see sense: there is a freedom in indie publishing that sparks creativity in a unique way. There are so many incredible YA novels out there that need more attention, so many talented YA writers who deserve more love, and YALC is just the place for that to happen. This is the best, most inclusive, fun, friendly and joyous publishing event of the year and I cannot wait to introduce more indie authors to the wonderful world of YALC."
Meet Your New Favourite Authors & Grab Exclusive Goodies
Over the two-day event, the #InspiringIndies zone will be buzzing with activity. Expect book signings, exclusive merchandise, giveaways, and competitions, plus the chance to meet and chat with the talented authors behind the stories. Whether you're a reader looking to discover the next big thing or an aspiring writer curious about the indie publishing path, this is the place to be!
Confirmed authors appearing for signings and meet-and-greets so far include:
- L. S. Delorme - Author of the Limerent series including Bright Midnights and The Ghosting Academy (launching October 2024). Appearing on Saturday, 16 and Sunday, 17 November.
- Kshamta Purohit - Author of Karma Sagas - The Sangam. Appearing on Saturday, 16 November.
- Roxan Burley - Author of the Equal Rise series: Bond of Eternity and Bloodstream of Moonlight (shortlisted for the Ink Book Prize - YA - 2024). Appearing on Saturday, 16 November and Sunday, 17November.
- John Tarrow - Author ofThe Stranger's Guide to Talliston. Appearing on Sunday, 17 November 2024.
- Marie Voinson - Author ofUs Against The Likes. Appearing on Saturday 16, November 2024.
- April-Grace - Author ofSteel Princess (and upcoming release Songbird Heir).Appearing on Saturday 16, November 2024.
- Kiera Nixon - Author ofThe Dream Maker.Appearing on Sunday 17, November 2024.
- Roz MacLaren - Author of The Mirrordom Legends series, including Venom and Blaze, Fable and Legend (Autumn 2024) and City and Shadow (Summer 2025). Appearing on Saturday 16, November 2024.
What's New? Exclusive Raffles and Hourly Giveaways!
- Raffle Bonanza:Every visitor to the #InspiringIndies zone can enter a raffle to winnext level goodiesfrom the best up-and-coming indie authors. Raffle drawings will take place at the end of each day—so make sure you enter!
- Hourly Giveaways:Stay sharp! We'll be giving awayexclusive indie merchandiseon the hour, every hour. Expect prizes likebookmarks, stickers, and even free eBooksfrom some of the most exciting indie titles in YA.
- Meet the Authors & Snap a Selfie:Authors will be on-hand throughout the weekend to sign books, chat about their journeys, and even snap a selfie with fans. This is your chance to connect with the writers behind the stories in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Exclusive Indie Panels: Learn from the Best!
Join our panel discussions for behind-the-scenes insights into indie publishing, including topics like "Breaking into the YA Scene as an Indie Author" and "The Future of YA Publishing: Why Indie Is Taking Over." Whether you're a reader, writer, or aspiring author, you'll leave inspired and informed.
Be Part of the Indie Revolution
With indie publishing on the rise, now is the perfect time to explore the innovative, boundary-pushing stories coming from self-published authors.Be among the first to discover your next favourite book—only at the #InspiringIndies zone at YALC 2024!
For more information about YALC, visit: https://londoncomicconwinter.com/YALC/
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Media enquiries, author interview requests and press pass registration:helenlewis@literallypr.com/ @literallypr /yalc@showmastersevents.com@yalc_uk
MEDIA FOLDER:https://bit.ly/InspiringIndiesYALC
YALC takes place as part of London Comic Con Winter over the weekend of the 16th& 17thNovember 2024:https://londoncomicconwinter.com/YALC/
Young Adult Literature Convention (YALC) is a convention style event with guest authors, stage panels, workshops and retail exhibitors celebrating all things YA books. The first YALC took place at LFCC in 2014 as Malorie Blackman's major project as Waterstones Children's Laureate 2013-2015.
YALC is run in conjunction with the UK YA Publishers and Showmasters events who have over 20 years of event experience. https://www.showmastersevents.com/. Both are represented on the Working Group who put together the event programme.