Glossary

We’ve curated a glossary of terms regarding all things writing and publishing related. From commonly-used terms to abbreviations, our glossary will guide writers and people starting out in publishing, to cut through the jargon and gain a better understanding. 

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Auction
An auction, usually arranged by a literary agent, takes place when multiple publishing houses are interested in acquiring a manuscript and bid against one another to secure the domestic or territorial rights.
B format
A medium sized paperback (129mm x 198mm), smaller than a trade paperback.
C format
A term most often used to describe a paperback edition published simultaneously with, and in the same format as, the hardback original.
CMYK
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is the colour space for printed materials.
Crossover fiction
This is normally a YA (Young Adult) book which has potential for an adult readership, or vice versa. Recent examples include The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, Turtles All The Way Down by John Green, and How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff.