Coming September 13, 2025 to a computer near you!
Take your writing to the next level with real-time feedback, expert guidance, and a supportive writing community.
The Way-Word Writers’ Elevation Summit is a one-day virtual retreat featuring publishing professionals:
Editor Lisa Mangum - Shadow Mountain Publishing
Senior Agent Heather Cashman - Storm Literary Agency
Editor Vanessa Aguirre - St. Martin’s Press/Macmillan
Associate Agent Shannon Lechon – Azantian Literary Agency
Through small-group critiques, hands-on workshops, and candid Q&A sessions, you'll gain the tools, insights, and connections to elevate your craft—and your career.
| 🎯 Critique Track – $289 | 📚 Workshop-Only Track – $189 |
|---|---|
| ✅ Two Small-Group Critique Sessions
• Query or Synopsis Critique (Group A) • 10-Page or Full PB Critique (Group B) Led by an agent or editor | ❌ No Critique Sessions
Perfect for writers who want all the learning without the pressure of submitting pages |
| ✅ Written Professional Feedback from your assigned agent and editor | ✅ Lisa Mangum’s Revision Workshop (Write Fearless, Edit Smart) |
| ✅ Lisa Mangum’s Revision Workshop (Write Fearless, Edit Smart) | ✅ Heather Cashman’s Craft Workshop (Standout Stories) |
| ✅ Heather Cashman’s Craft Workshop (Standout Stories) | ✅ Faculty Q&A Sessions(Live Ask-Anything with each publishing pro) |
| ✅ Faculty Q&A Sessions (Live Ask-Anything with each publishing pro) | ✅ First Pages Panel Access (Live feedback from full faculty) |
| ✅ First Pages Panel Access (Live feedback from full faculty) | ✅ Post-Event Submission Opportunity |
| ✅ Post-Event Submission Opportunity | ✅ Genre-Based Community Sessions (breakout rooms to meet your writing people) |
| ✅ Genre-Based Community Sessions (build critique circles, accountability, friendships) | ✅ Access to the Elevation Summit Community |
| ✅ Access to the Elevation Summit Community |
THE DETAILS
The Way-Word Writers’ Elevation Summit is a one-day virtual retreat designed to help writers grow in craft, community, and career. Whether you're preparing to query or deep in revision, this summit offers targeted support, interactive learning, and insider access to the publishing world—all from the comfort of home.
This features live workshops, Q&A sessions with industry professionals, and opportunities to connect with fellow writers through genre-based breakout groups. All participants will attend Lisa Mangum’s 90-minute Revision Workshop and Heather Cashman’s 60-minute Craft Workshop, where you’ll gain actionable strategies for elevating your story. You’ll also get to ask your most pressing questions during a live Q&A session with all faculty members—including agents and editors actively acquiring new work.
Participants in the Critique Track will be placed in small groups (6 writers max) for two live critique sessions: one focused on a query or synopsis and the other on 10 pages or a full picture book manuscript. Each session is led by an agent or editor and includes both live feedback and written notes. It’s a chance to receive thoughtful, professional insight—and to build meaningful connections with peers.
Everyone is invited to submit a first page for the First Pages Panel, where a random selection will be read aloud and critiqued by the full faculty during a live session. Even if your page isn’t chosen, the panel offers invaluable perspective on what hooks readers—and what doesn't.
In between sessions, you’ll have chances to connect with other writers in genre-specific breakout rooms, swap contact info, and even build critique circles that last long after the event ends. The weekend wraps up with a submission strategy session and a special giveaway to keep your momentum going.
Spots are limited, especially for the Critique Track. If you’re ready to level up your writing with professional guidance and a powerful community—this is your moment.
Meet the Faculty
Lisa Mangum – Managing Editor, Shadow Mountain Publishing
Lisa is a seasoned editor and author of four bestselling YA novels, as well as the craft book Write Fearless Edit Smart. Get Published. Known for her insightful and encouraging approach, she brings years of editorial expertise to help authors craft standout manuscripts.
- Oversees the acquisition of select YA/Adult fantasy, romance, and speculative fiction
Heather Cashman – Senior Literary Agent, Storm Literary Agency
Heather is a respected literary agent who represents award-winning and New York Times bestselling authors. She combines a deep love of story with years of publishing experience to help writers strengthen their craft and reach their goals. Her thoughtful guidance and sharp instincts make her a trusted partner for authors at every stage.
- Looking for MG/YA (all genres with strong voice), picture books (non-didactic, humorous), plus adult commercial/literary, rom-com, sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, magical realism
Vanessa Aguirre – Editor, St. Martin’s Press / Macmillan
Vanessa brings a sharp editorial eye and deep commitment to championing underrepresented voices. She co-directs the Latinx in Publishing Writers Mentorship Program and previously edited fiction for the Hugo-nominated magazine Strange Horizons.
- Acquires ~10 books yearly across YA/Adult: SFFH, fantasy, sci-fi, horror, magical realism, mysteries, thrillers, romances
Shannon LeChon – Associate Agent, Azantian Literary Agency
Shannon brings a strong editorial background and a sharp eye for compelling stories. With agency experience at P.S. Literary and Cake Creative and a publishing internship at Penguin Random House, she blends industry insight with a deep passion for books. She holds a master’s in publishing from NYU and dual bachelor's degrees in criminology and English.
Actively representing titles across MG/YA/Adult in fantasy (urban/magical realism), gothic, horror, mystery/thriller, speculative fiction & graphic novels
Ready to sign up?
It’s easy! Email us at waywordwriters@gmail.com. Give us your name, preferred email, the track you want, and your writing genre(s). We only accept payment through Zelle. It is the most secure payment method. Complete instructions for Zelle are listed below. Once we have received your email, we’ll send you a registration confirmation. We will process the registrations on a first-come, first-served basis.
Zelle Payment Instructions
How to Pay Way-Word Writers with Zelle
Step 1: Access Zelle
- Log into your bank's mobile app or online banking
- Look for "Zelle" or "Send Money" (most major banks have Zelle built-in)
- If your bank doesn't offer Zelle, download the standalone Zelle app
Step 2: Add Way-Word Writers as a Recipient
- Select "Send Money" or "Send"
- Choose "Add New Recipient"
- Enter Way-Word Writers' email address : waywordwriters@gmail.com
- Enter "Way-Word Writers" as the recipient name
Step 3: Send Payment
- Enter the payment amount
- Add a memo with your name and invoice/project number (if applicable)
- Review all details carefully
- Select "Send"
Step 4: Confirmation
- You'll receive a confirmation that the payment was sent
- Payments typically arrive within minutes
- Way-Word Writers will be notified of the payment
Important Notes:
- Zelle payments cannot be canceled once sent, so double-check all details
- There's typically no fee for Zelle payments
- Keep your confirmation for your records