Interview with Val McDermid at the Harrogate Crime Writing Festival

The video discusses the New Blood Panel's role in helping debut writers gain exposure and confidence. It highlights the ongoing relevance of traditional publishing alongside the rise of self-publishing and independent publishers. The importance of the editorial process and networking opportunities at events like Creative Thursday and Dragons Pen is emphasized, showcasing how these platforms can lead to successful publishing careers.

What is the primary purpose of the New Blood Panel?

• To organize writing competitions

• To critique established authors

• To publish books directly

• To provide debut writers with a large audience

How has self-publishing changed the landscape for new writers?

• It has made traditional publishing obsolete

• It has provided an alternative path to getting published

• It has eliminated the need for editors

• It has decreased the number of published books

What is a notable trend in the current publishing industry?

• The disappearance of traditional publishing

• The decline of small independent publishers

• The dominance of self-publishing

• The rise of small independent publishers

What is the Dragons' Pen event?

• A writing workshop

• A panel discussion

• A book signing session

• A novel pitching event

What outcome has been observed from the Dragons' Pen event?

• Writers are critiqued harshly

• Writers receive immediate publishing deals

• Writers gain feedback but no deals

• Many writers secure publishing deals