Literary agent Elizabeth Wales spoke today at an EPIC workshop on the publishing world. Wales told the writers in the crowded room at the Frances Anderson Center that the independent bookstore is still the most powerful catalyst for book purchases, with word-of-mouth second in importance. In addition, paperbacks and hardcovers still trump e-books for reader preference.

During the workshop, Elizabeth Wales worked with the writers on their book pitches. Manuscripts ranged from stories about our country’s Puritanical past and present, to fantastical novels. “You are all above average,” she joked, invoking Garrison Keillor.

Elizabeth Wales’ clients include Dan Savage, Jean Heglund, author of ‘Into the Forest,’ and Priscilla Long, writer of ‘Where the Sun Never Shines: A History of America’s Bloody Coal Industry.’ For more information on her client list, see the Wales Literary Agency website. And for more about EPIC Group Writers and local literary events, see here.