Seeking narrative nonfiction on Pittsburgh by Pittsburghers
Call for proposal submissions. PROPOSAL DEADLINE: Feb. 28, 2004 Separate call for artists to follow. See link below for complete guidelines.
A book project about Pittsburgh people, by Pittsburgh writers for Pittsburgh readers…
What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?
The three rivers and the topography they produce, which has been favorably compared to San Francisco? The Steelers, Pirates and Penguins? The bridges, tunnels and traffic? How about [insert name of your favorite neighborhood here]? The steel-making heritage and the region’s two-decade efforts to remake its economy?
Well, yes, all of that and so much more.
P.O.P.: Pittsburghers On Pittsburgh is the working title for this yet unnamed project, which is based loosely on the 1991 book Pittsburgh Characters: As Told By Pittsburgh Characters (it’s out of print but you can find copies at the Carnegie Library or on Amazon.com). The goal of the project is to produce a book of narrative nonfiction that will document the people, places and things that make Pittsburgh unique, as well as showcasing some of the region’s many talented writers and artists.
With luck, the final product will be produced by a who’s who of Pittsburgh writers and artists, as well as some fresh voices. It is envisioned that one editor, 10-12 writers and one to six artists will produce the book. Each writer will produce a story on a person, place or thing that is distinctly Pittsburgh. Artists would produce cover and perhaps other art to illustrate the book.
If grant funding or a publisher’s commitment is obtained, writers and artists whose work is selected for the project would receive small, upfront stipends. Additionally, proceeds and royalties from the book would be split equally among the people participating in the project.
Without a publisher’s commitment, we’ll use the wonders of on-demand publishing to maximize profits for everyone involved, and sweat equity to promote the book through a series of readings, parties and in-store promotions. This is a paying gig – it’s only a question of how much or how little it will pay. Don’t put a down payment on a new car with your anticipated proceeds from your contribution just yet, but please consider being a part of this exciting project by requesting the complete guidelines by sending an email to the address above.
Guidelines: http://www.davecopeland.com/popguidelines.doc
(Posted 12/15/04)
