Campus Celebrity: Alexandra Simon-Lewis

This week we had the privilege of speaking to the Digital Director of Penryn Press, Alexandra Simon-Lewis!

Alexandra has recently adopted the role of Digital Director at Penryn Press, a brand new student-led publishing house in Penryn, Cornwall. When asked what the company’s aims for the year were Alex told us that that they are dedicated to “publishing fresh and innovative literature that reflects the vibrant imaginations of the South West”. Penryn Press have recently published their latest book titled ‘Did You Know There Are Dragons In Cornwall’. The book is an anthology of children’s stories showcasing Cornish mythology. Alex also added that they are currently “looking to explore avenues outside children’s literature”, and that the team are encouraging budding writers to submit new works, including poety, plays, short stories or novels. “Since Penryn Press is still a new company, we’re always thinking of ways to evolve, particularly in terms of digital media and eBooks”. By the end of 2014 they are hoping to produce another print book for release and a high quality eBook. 

As Digital Director of the company Alex is responsible for working closely with her fellow directors to ensure “smooth working of the company” as well as “producing any digital media”. Additionally, she is also in charge of overseeing the production and design of the upcoming eBook and figuring out the “most financially sustainable way to market the product”.  Penryn Press is currently run by a strong team of students, this includes six directors who are in charge of overseeing the “finance, production, marketing, and other sectors of the business”. Alexandra believes that the team work closely so as to “maintain united aims for the business and ensure any plans are carried out successfully”. But Penryn Press is not all work and no play. The team are currently organising a dragon egg hunt through the local area with the aim of “encouraging children to engage with our literature in an interactive environment”.    

When asked how she got involved with Penryn Press Alex responded: “I first applied last year and spent some time shadowing the previous directors, who set up the company in October 2013. It was such a different experience than any work I had ever done before but I’m really glad I have the opportunity to work with people who are so dedicated and commited to their work”. She also added, “I’ve always been interested in literature, so having the opportunity to be at the forefront of actually creating publications that we’re passionate about is an incredible experience”. 

As a fellow Literature undergraduate I was intrigued to find out how the skills Alex has attained from studying a BA in English came in handy for her role in the publishing industry. What I was glad to hear was that “a love of literature helps when working in publishing because you’re already so invested in what you do”. In addition to this she also stated that her fellow English students have commented on how their degree means “they have prior experience analysing texts and reading over manuscripts”. 

To conclude our interview, Alex expressed her gratitude at being part of such a great company and exclaimed: “This experience with Penryn Press is really unique in the fact that not only are we working in publishing and getting hands on experience, but we are also responsible for the company as a whole. It’s a great opportunity, especially in this industry”. I shall close with a quote which I found particuarly endearing, “…there are so many opportunities available…the only limitations are what you can imagine for your work”. 

If you’re interested in getting involved with Penryn Press, or just have a question about publishing/the company itself, then visit their website at www.penrynpress.co.uk! If you would like to submit a piece of work you can also do this via the website or email it to submissions@penrynpress.co.uk. 

• publishing