Scholars are frequently called upon to share their expertise with a diverse range of publics outside academia—and this kind of engagement often begins with the publication of a book with a “trade press” (i.e., a commercial, non-university/academic publisher, with a powerful marketing and publicity apparatus). Not all academics want to do this kind of work. However, for those who do, there is often confusion about where to begin, and a lack of resources to help with the process. This info session is designed to demystify the process of finding an agent, landing a commercial book deal, writing more accessibly, and other skills related to making the transition into writing for the general public.

Scholars to Storytellers helps academics bridge the gap between university presses and commercial publishing, turning specialized knowledge into books that reach mainstream audiences and transform careers. In February 2026, Scholars to Storytellers will be leading a three-day retreat here in Santa Cruz to help senior academics write a trade book. This retreat will bring together scholars from across the country for a focused, immersive experience designed to cultivate mastery of all aspects of trade publishing and turbo-charge the transition to writing for popular audiences.

John Ghazvinian is a historian and author of “America and Iran: A History” (Knopf) named among the New York Times “100 Notable Books of 2021.” His work has appeared in Newsweek, the Washington Post, and The Nation. He is the founding director of Scholars to Storytellers — an initiative aimed at coaching senior scholars to reach wider readerships for their work.