Recently I heard about the Galley Club, an informal group of publishing professionals who meet once a month at the George pub in the Strand, opposite the Law Courts (update: now at the Water Rats in Kings Cross). I am old enough to remember galleys, so when I decided to visit I half expected to be welcomed by a group of fusty old printers. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
The evening started well when a glass of wine was thrust into my hand (always a good sign!). The people in the room ranged from young women to retired gents, and there was a good mix of design, editorial, production, sales and rights people. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. After half an hour or so of chat and nibbles, the very eloquent Isobel Dixon, literary agent and poet, talked about her career, with particular reference to the South African aspect of it. A Q&A session followed, and the evening ended with more drinks, food and chat.
I enjoyed my evening there, met some lovely people and have applied to become a member. If you live in London and work in publishing, why not come along and hear Richard Charkin of Bloomsbury Publishing speak at their next meeting on 9 March?
You can find out more about the Galley Club here.
Postscript May 2020: my application was accepted and I am still an enthusiastic member (also on the committee).
About the author
Annette Peppis leads the team at Peppis Designworks, a creative hub of established publishing industry experts who create books, branding, marketing material and design templates for leading publishers and businesses. Keep in touch by to her bi-monthly emails.
