If you have questions regarding our Open House event, please have a look below to find an answer to our frequently asked questions. If your question is not answered below, please contact us here.
If I’m not a member, can I book in?
Our Open House events are exclusive to Writing NSW members. However, you can become a member easily via our website. Being a Writing NSW member will not only allow you to attend Open House, but will also give you discounts to our courses, special access to writing groups and our writers’ spaces at our Callan Park building, exclusive access to our First Friday events and many other benefits which you can read about here>>
How do I make a booking?
On Monday 19 August 2024, we will open up for Expressions of Interest. You will submit a form with your contact details and the genre of your manuscript. We will be in touch within 48 hours to let you know whether you have been successful in securing a place. In order to secure your place, you will need to pay the $55 invoice within 48 hours.
How do I submit my work?
If successful in securing a place, we will notify you and ask for your submission. You will need to submit the first 6,500 words of a completed manuscript, as well as a one-page synopsis of your work, to us by Monday 26 August 2024, 11am. The editors at Penguin Random House will read the manuscript in preparation for the Open House day on Friday 27 September 2024. Detailed formatting guidelines will be sent to successful applicants.
What genre can my manuscript submission be?
You can submit the first 6,500 words of a manuscript in the following genres:
- Literary and commercial fiction
- Narrative and commercial non-fiction
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Fantasy
- Romance
- Crime and thrillers
- Historical fiction
- Memoir and biography
- Young adult fiction
- Middle grade fiction
- Picture books
How much time will I have with the editor?
You will have ten minutes in a one-on-one session with a member of the Penguin Random House editorial team. You will receive feedback, and can make notes and ask questions. Please note, you will receive verbal feedback only.
Why are the consultations ten minutes?
We want to ensure as many writers can benefit from this opportunity as possible. If you are seeking more feedback on your manuscript, consider booking into one of our manuscript assessments or undertaking a mentorship.
What kind of feedback can I expect?
Feedback may cover topics such as plot, structure, character development, dialogue, pace, point of view, voice, tone, style and/or readership.
Will this event sell out?
Our past Open House events have sold out extremely quickly. It’s always best to book in as soon as you are certain you can attend. Please note that all bookings are non-refundable and ineligible for credit and one-on-one times with publishers are not transferable.
Who is Penguin Random House?
Penguin Random House is the world’s largest trade book publisher and is dedicated to its mission of nourishing a universal passion for reading by connecting authors and their writing with readers everywhere. With nearly 250 independent imprints and brands on five continents, Penguin Random House comprises adult and children’s fiction and nonfiction print and digital trade book publishing businesses in more than 20 countries worldwide.
Will there be food and drinks on the day?
Please bring your own lunch as there are no cafes within short walking distance. Feel free to use our communal kitchen’s fridge and microwave. Cafes are located on Balmain Rd, walking towards Victoria Rd, however, they are a 10-minute + walk. We have a kitchen with tea and coffee making facilities which you are welcome to use.
What if I have accessibility requirements?
Parts of this event may take place upstairs, so please let us know when sending your submission if you are unable to use stairs so we can make alternative arrangements.
I can’t make this date, will you run this event again?
We usually run an Open House event at least once a year with a variety of publishers.
Can I attend via Zoom or phone?
This is an in-person event only, held at Writing NSW in Callan Park, Lilyfield.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Unfortunately we cannot offer refunds or credits for Open House events.