Navigating the world of publishing can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unsure where your work belongs. Should you submit to a traditional publisher, or is self-publishing the right choice? If you're leaning toward traditional publishing, understanding the process and choosing the right publisher are key steps to ensure your manuscript finds the perfect home.
Traditional publishing offers access to a professional team of editors, designers, and marketers, but it also requires understanding the submission process, knowing whether you need a literary agent, and carefully crafting your manuscript or proposal to match the publisher's needs.
Below, we break down the top publishers in the U.S., separated by genre, and provide insights into the submission process for each.
Table of Contents
- Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?
- How to Submit to Traditional Publishers
- Nonfiction Publishers in the US
- Literary Fiction Publishers in the US
- Genre Fiction Publishers in the US
- Children’s and Young Adult Publishers
- Poetry Publishers in the US
- Academic and University Presses in the US
- Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work
Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?
One of the first decisions an author needs to make is whether traditional publishing is the right fit. Traditional publishing offers several benefits, including wider distribution, professional production, and industry connections. However, it can also be a longer, more competitive process, with some authors waiting months or even years to see their books in print.
If you’re uncertain whether traditional publishing is for you, read The Truth About Traditional Publishing for a breakdown of how it compares to self-publishing. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision before diving into the submission process.
How to Submit to Traditional Publishers
Once you've decided that traditional publishing is the right path, your next step is to prepare your submission. For fiction writers, this typically means sending a polished manuscript, but nonfiction writers often need to create a book proposal. A strong proposal outlines your book’s concept, target audience, and why it stands out in the market.
If you're writing nonfiction and need guidance on crafting a compelling book proposal, check out How to Write a Book Proposal to Get Published Traditionally. This article will walk you through the essential elements of a proposal and increase your chances of catching a publisher’s attention.
With that in mind, let’s dive into the list of top U.S. publishers, organized by genre. Make sure to research each one and follow their specific submission guidelines.
Nonfiction Publishers in the US
Nonfiction is a broad and diverse category that covers everything from memoirs to self-help books, from academic works to true crime.
Below is a detailed list of notable nonfiction publishers in the U.S., including both large, established houses and smaller independent presses. Each publisher has a specific focus, so it’s essential to find one that aligns with your work.
HarperCollins
Who it’s for: Authors of memoir, narrative nonfiction, history, business, politics, and self-help.
About: HarperCollins is one of the "Big Five" publishing houses, and their nonfiction list is as prestigious as it is varied. They publish works by well-known figures, journalists, historians, and thought leaders across a wide range of nonfiction genres. Some of their bestselling nonfiction includes memoirs, political commentaries, and self-help guides.
Submission requirements: HarperCollins does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit through an agent.
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Simon & Schuster
Who it’s for: Writers of memoirs, biographies, political books, history, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Another of the "Big Five" publishers, Simon & Schuster is known for its extensive nonfiction catalog. Their nonfiction imprints include Atria, Gallery, and Scribner, which publish everything from celebrity memoirs to serious political and historical analysis.
Submission requirements: Submissions are typically accepted via literary agents.
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Penguin Random House
Who it’s for: Authors with a wide range of nonfiction interests, including self-help, history, science, biography, and current affairs.
About: As the world’s largest trade book publisher, Penguin Random House has a vast array of nonfiction imprints such as Crown, Random House, and Viking, which specialize in different genres of nonfiction. They are known for high-profile releases, from memoirs to deep-dive investigative journalism.
Submission requirements: They do not accept unsolicited manuscripts, and submissions must be made through agents.
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Hachette Book Group
Who it’s for: Writers of memoirs, business books, biographies, lifestyle, and self-help.
About: Hachette Book Group is another one of the "Big Five" publishers, and they have a strong nonfiction division. Imprints like Little, Brown and Company and Grand Central Publishing release a wide variety of nonfiction titles, from memoirs by public figures to investigative reporting and lifestyle guides.
Submission requirements: Submissions are generally only accepted via agents.
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Beacon Press
Who it’s for: Writers focused on social justice, human rights, race relations, and environmental issues.
About: Beacon Press is a mission-driven publisher with a focus on progressive social change. They publish books that tackle major societal issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, feminism, and the environment. Beacon Press is well-regarded for publishing works that have a deep, lasting social impact.
Submission requirements: Beacon accepts unsolicited submissions and proposals, especially if your work aligns with their mission of addressing pressing social concerns.
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Hay House
Who it’s for: Authors of self-help, spirituality, health, and personal development books.
About: Hay House is one of the largest publishers of self-help, spiritual, and wellness books. Their titles often focus on holistic health, mental well-being, and personal growth. Hay House has published bestselling authors like Louise Hay, Dr. Wayne Dyer, and Esther Hicks.
Submission requirements: They accept unsolicited submissions via their online portal but are selective about what they publish. Make sure your work fits within the self-help or spiritual genre before submitting.
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Chicago Review Press
Who it’s for: Writers of history, pop culture, science, and education.
About: Chicago Review Press is an independent publisher known for publishing high-quality nonfiction across a range of subjects. They are particularly strong in biography, history, and popular science. They’re also open to innovative, creative nonfiction that might not find a home with larger, more commercial publishers.
Submission requirements: They accept unsolicited proposals for nonfiction. A query letter should be sent first, followed by a proposal if requested.
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Norton
Who it’s for: Writers of history, science, economics, and literary nonfiction.
About: W.W. Norton & Company is a highly respected independent publisher, known for its emphasis on serious nonfiction. They publish works that tackle everything from economic theory to groundbreaking science, often by experts in the field. Their nonfiction list is intellectually rigorous and widely regarded.
Submission requirements: Norton accepts submissions through agents or directly from authors with a strong academic or professional background.
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Farrar, Straus and Giroux (FSG)
Who it’s for: Writers of high-quality narrative nonfiction, history, and cultural commentary.
About: FSG is a division of Macmillan Publishers and has a prestigious history of publishing literary and narrative nonfiction. They publish books that blend great storytelling with research and insights into various aspects of history, culture, and society.
Submission requirements: They do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through an agent.
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PublicAffairs
Who it’s for: Authors writing about politics, history, current affairs, and business.
About: PublicAffairs, an imprint of the Hachette Book Group, focuses on publishing nonfiction titles that offer critical insights into political and economic issues. They are known for books that shape public discourse, written by journalists, thought leaders, and experts.
Submission requirements: PublicAffairs generally accepts submissions via literary agents.
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Milkweed Editions
Who it’s for: Writers of creative nonfiction, environmental writing, and nature essays.
About: Milkweed Editions is an independent publisher that focuses on environmentally conscious works, creative nonfiction, and literary works that push boundaries. They are known for championing environmental stewardship and have published many acclaimed writers in this space.
Submission requirements: They accept unsolicited submissions during designated open reading periods.
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Skyhorse Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of practical nonfiction, including cooking, self-help, survival, and outdoor guides.
About: Skyhorse Publishing is one of the largest independent publishers in the U.S. They have an extensive catalog of nonfiction books across a variety of niches such as outdoor adventures, how-to guides, and pop culture. They are a good option for niche nonfiction authors looking to publish practical guides.
Submission requirements: Skyhorse accepts unsolicited proposals for nonfiction. A formal proposal with a clear market focus is recommended.
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Algonquin Books
Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, narrative nonfiction, and essays.
About: Algonquin Books is an independent publisher with a strong emphasis on narrative-driven nonfiction, including memoirs and cultural commentary. They publish books that bridge the gap between literary nonfiction and broader commercial appeal.
Submission requirements: Algonquin does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through an agent.
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University of California Press
Who it’s for: Academics, scholars, and writers of nonfiction in history, sociology, science, and social issues.
About: As one of the leading university presses, UC Press publishes scholarly and academic nonfiction as well as books aimed at the general reader. Their catalog focuses on critical issues in the humanities and social sciences, and they are known for publishing books that contribute to societal debates.
Submission requirements: UC Press accepts proposals for scholarly nonfiction and academic works. A full proposal is required.
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MIT Press
Who it’s for: Writers of science, technology, and design nonfiction.
About: MIT Press is a renowned academic publisher specializing in cutting-edge works on science, technology, and the arts. Their books are respected worldwide for their rigor and insight. MIT Press also publishes nonfiction that explores the intersection of technology and society.
Submission requirements: MIT Press prefers proposal submissions, which should include an overview, table of contents, and sample chapter.
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Literary Fiction Publishers in the US
For authors of literary fiction, it’s essential to find a publisher that appreciates deep storytelling, character development, and stylistic prose. Below are some of the top literary fiction publishers in the U.S., each with its own submission guidelines and focus.
Penguin Random House
Who it’s for: Authors of literary fiction, from emerging voices to established writers.
About: Penguin Random House is the world’s largest publisher, known for its literary imprints such as Knopf and Riverhead. They publish a wide range of literary fiction, including contemporary, historical, and experimental works.
Submission requirements: Penguin Random House does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit via a literary agent.
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Graywolf Press
Who it’s for: Writers of experimental, boundary-pushing literary fiction.
About: Graywolf Press is an independent nonprofit publisher dedicated to distinctive literary fiction. Known for discovering new voices and publishing works that explore innovative narrative styles, Graywolf is highly regarded for its commitment to quality storytelling.
Submission requirements: Graywolf does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through an agent or by invitation. They also offer an annual prize for debut books.
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Farrar, Straus and Giroux (FSG)
Who it’s for: Authors of high-quality literary fiction with intellectual depth.
About: FSG, an imprint of Macmillan Publishers, is known for its legacy of publishing some of the most critically acclaimed literary fiction. Their books often explore profound themes and complex characters, making them a top choice for authors of literary fiction.
Submission requirements: FSG does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must have representation through a literary agent.
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Grove Atlantic
Who it’s for: Writers of bold and provocative literary fiction.
About: Grove Atlantic is an independent publisher with a reputation for publishing works that challenge the status quo. Their literary fiction list includes many critically acclaimed and award-winning authors known for taking creative risks.
Submission requirements: Grove Atlantic does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions should be made via an agent.
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Algonquin Books
Who it’s for: Authors of literary fiction with a strong narrative voice and compelling characters.
About: Algonquin Books is a respected independent publisher known for nurturing debut authors and publishing literary fiction that appeals to both literary and commercial audiences. They focus on storytelling that is both accessible and artful.
Submission requirements: Algonquin Books does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Coffee House Press
Who it’s for: Writers of innovative and experimental literary fiction.
About: Coffee House Press is a nonprofit, independent publisher with a commitment to publishing avant-garde and inventive fiction. They are known for pushing the boundaries of literary form and supporting voices from underrepresented communities.
Submission requirements: Coffee House Press accepts unsolicited submissions during specific reading periods. Check their website for submission guidelines.
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Catapult
Who it’s for: Authors of contemporary literary fiction with a fresh perspective.
About: Catapult is an independent publisher that focuses on literary fiction, including debut authors and international voices. Their mission is to publish books that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
Submission requirements: Catapult accepts unsolicited submissions during designated open reading periods, usually announced on their website.
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Soho Press
Who it’s for: Authors of literary fiction with global perspectives or unique voices.
About: Soho Press is an independent publisher known for publishing literary fiction that often explores cultural diversity and international themes. They are committed to publishing works that challenge readers intellectually and emotionally.
Submission requirements: Soho Press accepts unsolicited submissions but only during certain open reading periods. Follow their website for updates on submission windows.
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Two Dollar Radio
Who it’s for: Writers of unconventional, offbeat, and daring literary fiction.
About: Two Dollar Radio is a small, independent publisher that prides itself on publishing edgy, unconventional literary fiction. They seek stories that defy traditional structures and embrace new forms of storytelling.
Submission requirements: Two Dollar Radio accepts unsolicited submissions year-round, typically through their online submission platform.
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Dzanc Books
Who it’s for: Authors of literary fiction with a focus on experimental and socially relevant themes.
About: Dzanc Books is a nonprofit independent publisher that seeks to publish innovative literary fiction. They focus on works that push creative boundaries and engage with important social issues.
Submission requirements: Dzanc accepts unsolicited submissions during designated open reading periods. They also offer various contests for literary fiction.
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Genre Fiction Publishers in the US
For writers of genre fiction—whether it's science fiction, fantasy, romance, mystery, or thriller—finding the right publisher that specializes in your genre is key to connecting with the right audience. Below are some of the top genre fiction publishers in the U.S., along with their submission guidelines.
Tor Books
Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
About: Tor Books is one of the largest and most respected publishers of speculative fiction in the world. Known for publishing top authors like Brandon Sanderson and V.E. Schwab, Tor is the go-to for writers of epic fantasy, space operas, and other speculative subgenres.
Submission requirements: Tor accepts unagented submissions, but only through open submission periods, which are announced on their website.
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Harlequin
Who it’s for: Romance authors, especially those writing contemporary, historical, or suspenseful romance.
About: Harlequin is synonymous with romance publishing and offers a wide array of imprints catering to various romance sub-genres, from sweet contemporary romances to dark romantic thrillers. They have been a leading name in romance for decades.
Submission requirements: Harlequin accepts unagented submissions through their specific imprints. They have detailed guidelines on what each imprint is looking for, which can be found on their website.
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Baen Books
Who it’s for: Writers of military science fiction and fantasy.
About: Baen Books specializes in publishing military science fiction, space opera, and fantasy. They are known for their loyal reader base and for publishing both new and established voices in the genre.
Submission requirements: Baen Books accepts unsolicited manuscripts in the science fiction and fantasy genres. Submissions must follow their guidelines and be submitted via email.
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Kensington Publishing
Who it’s for: Authors of romance, mystery, thriller, and horror.
About: Kensington is one of the largest independent publishers in the U.S. and has a strong genre fiction list, particularly in romance, mystery, and thrillers. Their romance imprints include everything from historical to contemporary, while their mystery and thriller titles range from cozy mysteries to gripping suspense.
Submission requirements: Kensington accepts unsolicited manuscripts for many of its imprints, including romance, horror, and mystery. They prefer digital submissions.
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DAW Books
Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction and fantasy.
About: DAW Books is a long-standing publisher focused entirely on science fiction and fantasy. They have published renowned authors like Mercedes Lackey and Tad Williams, and they are known for giving new writers a chance.
Submission requirements: DAW Books accepts unsolicited manuscripts for science fiction and fantasy novels. Submissions must be sent via mail and follow their detailed submission guidelines.
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Angry Robot
Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror with a twist.
About: Angry Robot is an independent publisher that focuses on genre fiction with a unique or experimental angle. They specialize in publishing bold and inventive science fiction, fantasy, and horror with an emphasis on crossover appeal.
Submission requirements: Angry Robot periodically opens to unsolicited submissions. They announce open submission windows on their website and social media channels.
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Midnight Ink
Who it’s for: Writers of mystery, suspense, and thriller novels.
About: Midnight Ink, an imprint of Llewellyn Worldwide, focuses exclusively on mystery and suspense fiction. Their catalog includes everything from cozy mysteries to psychological thrillers.
Submission requirements: Midnight Ink typically requires submissions through a literary agent, but they occasionally open to unsolicited submissions. Check their website for current submission guidelines.
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Entangled Publishing
Who it’s for: Romance writers, particularly in contemporary and paranormal subgenres.
About: Entangled Publishing is a well-known independent publisher of romance. Their books cover a wide variety of subgenres including contemporary, paranormal, historical, and erotic romance. They’re known for their reader-friendly approach and author-focused publishing model.
Submission requirements: Entangled accepts unagented submissions and has detailed guidelines by imprint. Manuscripts can be submitted through their website.
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Orbit Books
Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction.
About: Orbit Books is a leading publisher of science fiction and fantasy, particularly known for publishing epic fantasy and dark speculative fiction. They’ve published award-winning authors like N.K. Jemisin and Ann Leckie.
Submission requirements: Orbit does not accept unsolicited submissions, so writers need to be represented by a literary agent.
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Sourcebooks Casablanca
Who it’s for: Romance authors, particularly in contemporary and paranormal subgenres.
About: Sourcebooks Casablanca is a division of Sourcebooks that focuses on publishing romance. They have a strong presence in contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance, with best-selling authors across various romance sub-genres.
Submission requirements: Sourcebooks accepts unagented submissions and has detailed guidelines available on their website for each subgenre of romance.
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Carina Press
Who it’s for: Authors of romance, especially LGBTQ+ and diverse romance.
About: Carina Press is a digital-first imprint of Harlequin, focusing on a wide range of romance subgenres, including LGBTQ+, contemporary, romantic suspense, and erotic romance. They are particularly open to diverse voices and unique storylines.
Submission requirements: Carina Press accepts unagented submissions and is open year-round for digital submissions.
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Children’s and Young Adult Publishers
Children’s and Young Adult (YA) literature is a vibrant and growing field, with many publishers specializing in everything from picture books to middle-grade adventures to YA fantasy and contemporary fiction. Below is a list of top publishers in the U.S. for children’s and YA books, along with their submission guidelines.
Scholastic
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s literature, including picture books, middle grade, and young adult fiction.
About: Scholastic is the largest publisher of children’s books in the world, known for major series like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and Goosebumps. They publish a wide range of children's and YA literature, including educational materials.
Submission requirements: Scholastic does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made via a literary agent.
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Candlewick Press
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s picture books, middle grade novels, and YA fiction.
About: Candlewick Press is a highly respected independent publisher focused on producing high-quality children’s books. They have published numerous award-winning books and are known for their commitment to both literary and artistic quality.
Submission requirements: Candlewick accepts unsolicited manuscripts for children’s picture books and middle-grade fiction but not YA. They prefer submissions via mail.
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HarperCollins Children’s Books
Who it’s for: Authors of picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and young adult fiction.
About: HarperCollins is one of the "Big Five" publishers with a dedicated children's division that includes several imprints like Greenwillow and Balzer + Bray. They publish a wide variety of children's books, from picture books to YA fantasy and contemporary novels.
Submission requirements: HarperCollins does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors need to be represented by an agent.
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Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s and young adult fiction and nonfiction.
About: Simon & Schuster’s children’s division publishes a wide range of children’s and YA books across many genres, including picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction. Their imprints like Atheneum and Aladdin are well-regarded in the industry.
Submission requirements: Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Penguin Young Readers
Who it’s for: Authors of picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction.
About: Penguin Young Readers is part of Penguin Random House and includes many beloved imprints like Puffin, Razorbill, and Viking Children’s Books. They publish books for children of all ages, from early readers to young adults.
Submission requirements: Penguin Young Readers does not accept unsolicited submissions. Submissions must go through a literary agent.
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Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Who it’s for: Authors of picture books, middle grade, and young adult fiction.
About: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, part of Hachette Book Group, is a major player in children’s and YA publishing. They publish high-quality, award-winning books across all age groups, including picture books, middle grade, and YA novels.
Submission requirements: Little, Brown does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must go through a literary agent.
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Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH Books for Young Readers)
Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction.
About: HMH Books for Young Readers publishes a wide array of children’s literature, from classic picture books to middle grade and YA novels. They are known for publishing award-winning authors and maintaining a strong literary tradition.
Submission requirements: HMH does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit via an agent.
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Chronicle Books
Who it’s for: Writers and illustrators of children’s picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction.
About: Chronicle Books is an independent publisher known for their visually stunning and creative children’s books. They focus on high-quality illustrated picture books, but they also publish middle-grade fiction and YA novels.
Submission requirements: Chronicle Books accepts unsolicited submissions for children’s books and picture books. They prefer submissions via email.
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Bloomsbury Children’s Books
Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, middle grade, and young adult fiction.
About: Bloomsbury is a global independent publisher known for its strong children’s division, which includes notable YA and middle-grade titles. They are well-known for having published Harry Potter in the UK and continue to produce high-quality children's literature.
Submission requirements: Bloomsbury does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit through an agent.
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Albert Whitman & Company
Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and young adult fiction.
About: Albert Whitman & Company is an independent publisher focusing on children's books, especially picture books and middle-grade novels. They are known for their longstanding Boxcar Children series and publishing educational and socially relevant children’s stories.
Submission requirements: Albert Whitman accepts unsolicited submissions for picture books, middle grade, and YA novels. They prefer submissions via email.
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Entangled Teen
Who it’s for: Authors of YA romance, fantasy, and paranormal fiction.
About: Entangled Teen is an imprint of Entangled Publishing, focusing on young adult fiction with a strong emphasis on romance, fantasy, and paranormal themes. Their books often appeal to readers looking for emotional intensity and imaginative storytelling.
Submission requirements: Entangled Teen accepts unagented submissions and has open submission periods. Check their website for specific guidelines.
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Lee & Low Books
Who it’s for: Authors of children’s picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction, with a focus on diversity.
About: Lee & Low Books is an independent publisher committed to publishing diverse children’s literature. They focus on books that reflect the diversity of society and publish work by writers of color and underrepresented groups.
Submission requirements: Lee & Low accepts unsolicited submissions and runs several writing contests aimed at discovering new authors from underrepresented communities.
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Poetry Publishers in the US
For poets, finding a publisher that appreciates and champions their unique voice is key. The U.S. has a rich landscape of independent presses and university presses that specialize in poetry, each with its own focus and submission guidelines. Below is a list of top poetry publishers in the U.S. to help you find the right fit for your work.
Copper Canyon Press
Who it’s for: Poets, particularly those writing lyric or narrative poetry.
About: Copper Canyon Press is one of the most respected independent publishers of poetry in the U.S. They focus on publishing works that showcase both established poets and emerging voices. Known for their dedication to the craft of poetry, Copper Canyon publishes books that push the boundaries of form and content.
Submission requirements: Copper Canyon accepts unsolicited submissions during designated reading periods, typically through their online Submittable platform.
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Graywolf Press
Who it’s for: Poets with a focus on innovative and experimental poetry.
About: Graywolf Press is a nonprofit literary press known for publishing boundary-pushing works of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. They champion voices that challenge the conventions of language and form, making them a leading publisher of contemporary poetry.
Submission requirements: Graywolf accepts poetry submissions primarily through agents or by invitation. They occasionally open submission windows or offer contests.
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Alice James Books
Who it’s for: Poets, especially those with a focus on socially relevant themes.
About: Alice James Books is a cooperative press with a mission to support poets from diverse backgrounds and voices. They publish works that engage with social issues and contribute to contemporary conversations on race, gender, and class.
Submission requirements: Alice James accepts submissions during open reading periods, including for their annual book award. A reading fee is usually required.
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BOA Editions
Who it’s for: Poets interested in publishing high-quality, innovative work.
About: BOA Editions is a nonprofit press that has been publishing poetry since 1976. They are committed to producing books that highlight diversity in voices and styles. BOA publishes both new and established poets, and they focus on work that has artistic and emotional depth.
Submission requirements: BOA accepts submissions for its American Poets Continuum Series and the Poulin Prize for First Books. Submissions are accepted during reading periods through Submittable.
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Four Way Books
Who it’s for: Poets seeking to publish full-length collections.
About: Four Way Books is an independent literary press that publishes poetry and short fiction. Known for its strong poetry catalog, the press is dedicated to publishing writers at all stages of their careers, including debut poets.
Submission requirements: Four Way Books accepts submissions through contests or open reading periods, often with a reading fee.
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The American Poetry Review (APR)
Who it’s for: Poets looking to be featured in a leading literary journal.
About: While not a book publisher, The American Poetry Review is one of the most influential poetry magazines in the U.S., publishing new work by emerging and established poets. It offers excellent exposure for poets looking to establish a name for themselves.
Submission requirements: APR accepts poetry submissions year-round, but only via postal mail. They do not accept electronic submissions.
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Wesleyan University Press
Who it’s for: Poets writing literary and academic-oriented poetry.
About: Wesleyan University Press has been publishing poetry since the 1950s and is known for its rigorous and thoughtful approach to the genre. They publish works that blend academic, literary, and avant-garde styles.
Submission requirements: Wesleyan University Press accepts submissions via literary agents or through specific poetry prizes. They do not accept unsolicited submissions.
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University of Pittsburgh Press (Pitt Poetry Series)
Who it’s for: Poets of all levels, especially those focused on lyric poetry.
About: The Pitt Poetry Series is a renowned imprint of the University of Pittsburgh Press, known for publishing both new and established poets. They focus on contemporary poetry that reflects a wide range of voices and themes.
Submission requirements: The Pitt Poetry Series does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Poets are generally published through their annual contests or by invitation.
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Milkweed Editions
Who it’s for: Poets with an interest in environmental and social themes.
About: Milkweed Editions is a nonprofit literary press that publishes poetry with a focus on work that engages with environmental, cultural, and social issues. They are committed to supporting poets whose work makes an impact on the world.
Submission requirements: Milkweed Editions accepts unsolicited submissions through Submittable during specific open reading periods.
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New Directions
Who it’s for: Poets interested in innovative, avant-garde, or international poetry.
About: New Directions has a long history of publishing groundbreaking poetry, including work by major international poets. They are known for publishing avant-garde and experimental poetry alongside literary classics.
Submission requirements: New Directions typically accepts submissions through literary agents or by invitation only.
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Tupelo Press
Who it’s for: Poets, especially emerging voices and poets of color.
About: Tupelo Press is an independent, nonprofit literary press known for publishing high-quality poetry collections. They are committed to discovering new voices through various contests and initiatives, particularly focusing on underrepresented communities.
Submission requirements: Tupelo Press offers several submission opportunities through contests, including their Dorset Prize and Snowbound Chapbook Award.
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Academic and University Presses in the US
Academic and university presses are vital institutions for scholars, researchers, and authors looking to publish works with intellectual rigor and in-depth analysis. These presses often specialize in nonfiction, scholarly texts, and research-driven books across disciplines such as history, social sciences, literature, and science. Below is a list of prominent academic and university presses in the U.S., along with their submission guidelines.
University of Chicago Press
Who it’s for: Academics and scholars in fields like history, sociology, economics, and the humanities.
About: The University of Chicago Press is one of the largest and most prestigious academic presses in the world. They publish scholarly works that shape academic fields and influence public debate, including everything from dense research books to accessible works for general audiences.
Submission requirements: Authors should submit a proposal, including an outline, sample chapters, and CV, to the relevant editorial department. Proposals must be geared toward academic or scholarly audiences.
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MIT Press
Who it’s for: Writers of scholarly and research-driven works in science, technology, design, and economics.
About: MIT Press is a leader in publishing cutting-edge works in science, technology, and the arts. Their catalog ranges from academic textbooks to trade nonfiction for general readers, with a focus on innovation and interdisciplinary research.
Submission requirements: MIT Press accepts submissions via proposals. A full proposal with an overview, sample chapter, and table of contents is required.
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Harvard University Press
Who it’s for: Academics and researchers writing on topics such as history, philosophy, social sciences, and natural sciences.
About: Harvard University Press is known for publishing influential books in the academic world, as well as crossover nonfiction for general readers. Their catalog covers a wide range of disciplines and focuses on research-driven, authoritative works.
Submission requirements: Submissions should include a detailed proposal, sample chapters, and an academic CV. Harvard prefers submissions from established scholars or through agents.
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Princeton University Press
Who it’s for: Scholars and researchers in disciplines including economics, politics, history, science, and philosophy.
About: Princeton University Press is one of the most prestigious academic publishers in the U.S. They focus on high-quality scholarly publications as well as books for general readers that contribute to important academic and societal debates.
Submission requirements: Submissions must include a proposal, sample chapters, and a CV. Proposals should be sent directly to the editor who specializes in the relevant field.
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Yale University Press
Who it’s for: Academics, researchers, and nonfiction authors writing on art, history, politics, and more.
About: Yale University Press is known for its rigorous scholarly works and beautifully designed art books. They publish in a wide range of academic fields and also produce nonfiction that appeals to a broader audience.
Submission requirements: Yale University Press accepts proposals, including a CV, table of contents, sample chapters, and a detailed description of the project.
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Stanford University Press
Who it’s for: Scholars and academics in fields such as history, political science, and anthropology.
About: Stanford University Press publishes cutting-edge scholarly works that advance academic debates. Their books often focus on research that explores complex social, political, and historical issues.
Submission requirements: Stanford accepts proposals for academic works, which must include a detailed description, table of contents, sample chapters, and author background.
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Columbia University Press
Who it’s for: Writers of scholarly works in areas such as film studies, political science, history, and Asian studies.
About: Columbia University Press is known for its focus on research in the humanities, social sciences, and international affairs. They publish works that are both academically rigorous and accessible to broader audiences.
Submission requirements: Authors should submit a detailed proposal with a sample chapter, table of contents, and CV. Proposals should align with the press’s academic focus.
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Duke University Press
Who it’s for: Scholars of cultural studies, critical theory, social sciences, and humanities.
About: Duke University Press is a renowned publisher of academic books and journals, especially in critical theory, cultural studies, and social justice. They are known for pushing the boundaries of traditional academic publishing with their forward-thinking approach.
Submission requirements: Duke requires a proposal, including a description of the work, sample chapters, and a CV. Submissions should be aimed at scholarly audiences.
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University of California Press
Who it’s for: Academics, scholars, and writers of nonfiction in history, sociology, science, and social issues.
About: The University of California Press publishes scholarly and academic works, as well as books aimed at the general reader, in a variety of fields including the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Their focus is often on works that contribute to social and environmental justice.
Submission requirements: UC Press accepts full proposals for scholarly nonfiction. The proposal should include an outline, sample chapters, and the author’s academic CV.
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Johns Hopkins University Press
Who it’s for: Academics writing in fields like medicine, health, history, and social sciences.
About: Johns Hopkins University Press is the oldest university press in the U.S. and a leader in scholarly publishing, especially in health, medicine, and education. They publish high-quality academic works and journals.
Submission requirements: Authors should submit a proposal, including a CV, table of contents, and sample chapters. Proposals should be tailored to the academic focus of the press.
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New York University Press
Who it’s for: Scholars and researchers in cultural studies, media studies, law, and social justice.
About: NYU Press is known for its focus on social justice, law, media studies, and cultural critique. They publish academic books that engage with contemporary social issues and are widely used in both academia and activism.
Submission requirements: NYU Press accepts proposals, including a CV, detailed description, and sample chapters. Proposals should align with the press’s mission of addressing societal challenges.
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Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work
Choosing the right publisher, especially within the specialized world of academic and genre-specific publishing, can make a significant difference in your book's success.
Whether you’re submitting poetry, literary fiction, genre fiction, nonfiction, or scholarly works, knowing where your manuscript fits best is crucial. Each publisher on this list offers unique opportunities for writers, and many have specific submission guidelines that should be followed carefully.
Before submitting, it’s essential to research each press thoroughly, ensuring your work aligns with their catalog and mission. Many publishers require literary agents for submissions, particularly the larger ones, while smaller presses may accept unsolicited manuscripts or have contests for new writers. Getting these details right is key to ensuring your work gets the attention it deserves.
Feeling unsure about where to begin or need guidance on preparing your submission? Book a consultation with me, and I will help you navigate the publishing process, craft a compelling submission, and find the best fit for your manuscript.
Let’s get your work in front of the right publishers—schedule your consultation today!
Article by Leandre Larouche
Leandre Larouche is a writer, coach, and the founder of Trivium Writing.
