Authors who would like West Virginia University Press to consider their work for publication should contact submissions@wvupress.com

General guidelines for proposals are below. 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. We will not return mailed submissions. 

Guidelines for literary short fiction, fiction, and creative nonfiction submissions are here. 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.

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.