Preparing a Book Proposal

Proposals should include, at a minimum, the following information:

1. An overview of the book including:
   
   • A summary of the book’s main argument, themes, and goals
   • A comparison of your book to others
   • A description of the target audience for your book
2. An annotated table of contents
3. Sample chapters, preferably including the introduction and at least one substantive chapter
4. Current curriculum vitae or biographical information
5. Manuscript specifics, including estimated length, delivery date, and any special requirements (e.g., artwork, tables, photographs, film stills)
6. Contact information for you, including mailing address, phone, and e-mail address

We make every effort to respond to inquiries promptly, but please expect an average response time of four weeks. Email inquiries only. Please do not phone the office to discuss proposals or submissions, and please do not mail hard copies of your proposal or manuscript.

Resources for Authors and Writers:

Alfred Fortunato and Susan Rabiner, Thinking Like Your Editor: How to Write Great Serious Nonfiction and Get It Published (WW Norton, 2003)

William Germano, From Dissertation to Book (University of Chicago Press, 2005)

William Germano, Getting It Published, 2nd Edition: A Guide for Scholars and Anyone Else Serious about Serious Books (University of Chicago Press, 2008)

Beth Luey, Handbook for Academic Authors (Cambridge University Press, 2002)
 
Beth Luey, Revising Your Dissertation: Advice from Leading Editors (University of California Press, 2007)