What is the best publisher for first time authors?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

When it comes to finding the best publisher for first-time authors, there are several reputable options to consider. These publishers have a track record of working with new authors and helping them launch their writing careers. Here are 19 top publishers that are known to be supportive of first-time authors:

1. Turner Publishing: Turner Publishing is an independent publisher that welcomes submissions from debut authors across various genres. They provide personalized attention to authors and offer marketing support.

2. Tin House: Tin House is a respected literary publisher that has a reputation for discovering and promoting new voices in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. They accept unsolicited submissions and have published many first-time authors.

3. Epicenter Press: Epicenter Press specializes in publishing non-fiction works, particularly those focused on Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. They have a history of working with debut authors and offer editorial and marketing support.

4. The MIT Press: The MIT Press is a prestigious academic publisher that covers a wide range of subjects, including science, technology, and the arts. They are open to submissions from new authors and have a thorough review process.

5. Unnamed Press: Unnamed Press is an independent publisher that champions diverse voices and unique storytelling. They have published several debut authors and are open to submissions in various genres.

6. Chronicle Books: Chronicle Books publishes a diverse range of titles, including children’s books, cookbooks, and lifestyle books. They have a reputation for nurturing new talent and offer guidance throughout the publishing process.

7. Tilbury House: Tilbury House is a small independent publisher that focuses on children’s books and non-fiction works for adults. They actively seek out debut authors and offer editorial support to help refine manuscripts.

8. Holiday House: Holiday House is a respected children’s book publisher that accepts submissions from new authors. They have a dedicated editorial team that works closely with authors to develop their manuscripts.

9. Skyhorse Publishing: Skyhorse Publishing is an independent publisher that covers a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and memoir. They have published several debut authors and offer both traditional and hybrid publishing options.

10. Sourcebooks: Sourcebooks is a well-established publisher that welcomes submissions from first-time authors. They have a range of imprints covering various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and young adult.

11. Red Hen Press: Red Hen Press is an independent literary publisher that has a commitment to promoting emerging writers. They have published numerous debut authors and accept submissions in poetry, fiction, and non-fiction.

12. Coffee House Press: Coffee House Press is a nonprofit publisher that focuses on literary fiction, poetry, and essay collections. They actively seek out new voices and have published several debut authors.

13. Akashic Books: Akashic Books is known for its Noir series and its commitment to publishing diverse voices. They accept submissions from new authors and have published many debut works.

14. Two Dollar Radio: Two Dollar Radio is an independent publisher that publishes bold and innovative works of fiction and non-fiction. They have a history of working with debut authors and offer editorial and marketing support.

15. Graywolf Press: Graywolf Press is a well-respected literary publisher that has published numerous award-winning debut authors. They accept submissions in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.

16. Bellevue Literary Press: Bellevue Literary Press focuses on publishing literary works that explore the intersection of art and science. They actively seek out debut authors and offer editorial support.

17. Catapult: Catapult is a publisher that focuses on literary fiction and non-fiction. They have published several debut authors and offer a range of editorial and marketing services.

18. Soft Skull Press: Soft Skull Press is an independent publisher that focuses on edgy and unconventional works of fiction and non-fiction. They actively seek out debut authors and offer support throughout the publishing process.

19. Europa Editions: Europa Editions is known for publishing international fiction and translations. They have published several debut authors and offer editorial guidance to help authors refine their manuscripts.

Remember, finding the right publisher for your specific book will depend on the genre, style, and target audience of your work. It’s essential to research each publisher’s submission guidelines and track record to find the best fit for your debut novel.