Aspiring authors get motoring at Porter Press

Would-be motoring authors were informed and inspired at a unique workshop on 29 March organised by leading motoring book publisher Porter Press International.
 
The 18 aspiring authors ranged from experienced writers and journalists to unpublished enthusiasts with book ideas they were keen to develop.
 
The day was led by Porter Press founder Philip Porter and Coventry University assistant professor Andrew Noakes. Between them, they have written more than 50 motoring books and been involved in publishing dozens more.
 
The workshop explored the publishing process, use of sources, writing techniques, image research, overcoming writer’s block and much more.
 
Video clips of Porter Press authors and editors, shown throughout the workshop, added practical hints and tips on subjects such as working with archives, writing to length and deadline, the author/editor partnership, and the legal details of copyright.
 
All the budding authors agreed that the day was useful and interesting, describing it as ‘an unqualified success’, ‘a fantastic day’, ‘excellent practical advice and knowledge’, ‘way beyond my expectations’ and ‘a wonderful experience’.
 
The workshop provided a welcome opportunity to share views and experiences with liked-minded people, attendees said. They praised the Porter/Noakes double act as offering ‘unrivalled’ knowledge and experience, along with the odd humorous anecdote to add to what they described as a ‘convivial atmosphere’.
 
One author said: ‘I feel enthused to have a go at fleshing out a synopsis for my book.’
 
With more potential authors already lined up on a waiting list, Porter Press is now exploring the options for future workshops in between readying for publication Ultimate Ferrari Daytona, Ultimate Ford GT40 Volume 2, a book on the Ferrari 250P/275P that was the only Ferrari to win Le Mans twice, and much more.

Author Workshop Testimonials

Dear Philip,
Saturday, I would suggest, was an unqualified success. I liked all the wannabe and accomplished writers. Of note, I was most intrigued by the ex-JLR lifer who’d been involved with so many prototypes and  their testing in extremes.

Iain S. 

Dear Andrew,
I just wanted to say what an amazing day it was yesterday and how much I enjoyed the whole experience. I must compliment Porter Press for the organisation and hospitality which was superb.

My only ‘negative’ would be that it would have been useful to have handouts of the slides or copies of the presentation, although I did take my own notes for future reference. [A PDF version of the slides was sent to participants on the following Monday]

Once again, thank you for a wonderful day!

Regards

John B.

Hi Louise,
Just a quick word to say…. Well done!  I thought the event worked really well and the quality of the sandwiches was just as high as that of Porter Press books.

Seriously, as a long-suffering magazine journo that has had to attend many seminars, ‘workshops’ and other PR-related events over er, quite a number of years, it all slotted together nicely. And this isn’t just from me as conversation with other attendees as we left confirmed my view, as well.

Not bad for a first attempt then, eh?

All the best

Malcolm B.

Hello Louise,

Thanks for organising the excellent workshop on Saturday. It was very interesting and in a great setting, too.

My son and his girlfriend are interested in attending the next one: please add them to the waiting list and advise me when it's available. 

Regards, 

Pete G.