Our history
Since it was first published in 1906, the Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook has grown to become an indispensable compendium with over two million sales worldwide. Unsurprisingly, it is firmly placed as the bestselling book of its kind.
For over a century, the Yearbook has been a goldmine of factual, unbiased information and practical advice, giving its readers a first-hand insight into the publishing industry and the art world. It has continuously attracted correspondence from aspiring, disgruntled and successful writers, and played its part in reminding publishers of the ethics of the trade and their obligations to their contributors.
The Early Days
The Yearbook began humbly in 1906 as a small 80-page booklet, modestly priced at one shilling and containing a mere seven literary agents and 89 publishers. It was geared solely towards writers and was endorsed by the press. An early review in the Standard (1910) declared:
‘Professional and amateur dabblers in ink no longer have any excuse for sending the offspring of their brains on the wrong road to public admiration and emolument.’
Lists of markets for illustrators’ work were soon added to the listings and, later, for photographers. By 1914 the first expert articles were included and, within a few decades, the Yearbook had grown into a 400-page hardback.
World War II and beyond
The Yearbook was published throughout both World Wars (the 1940 edition contained a special supplement outlining 
emergency and evacuation details), and 1978 saw the introduction of the present paperback version with the distinctive – and now trademark – bright red cover. The content and language of each edition are a litmus test for the changing face of publishing and the media, charting the transition from silent movies and hot metal presses to ebooks and iPods.
The foreword first appeared in 1998, with Michael Ridpath providing the debut piece. It has since been penned by some of the Yearbook’s famous fans – including Doris Lessing, Fay Weldon, J.K. Rowling, Maeve Binchy, Terry Pratchett and Ian Rankin.
Success and the Yearbook
Many citations from successful authors reveal how the Yearbook has played a significant role in their path to fame and fortune. So many say they are ‘pleased and honoured’ to contribute – what bigger compliment could a book have?
The Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook has over 100 years of success to celebrate. We hope that it helps, inspires and encourages you on your creative journey. Order your copy today.
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Buy the 2010 Yearbook
The Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2010 is now available from our online bookshop. Get all the facts, figures and advice you need to develop your creative career.
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On camera: Julie Myerson
The novelist and journalist Julie Myerson tells us how she writes, what inspires her, and how she got that all-important lucky break. Click here to view the video » 