Book Proposal Guidelines

These guidelines are designed to assist you in preparing your book proposal for review.

To enable us to thoroughly understand and evaluate your material, please address the following areas of concern in as much detail as possible. By providing this material you give us the opportunity to consider whether the subject is suitable for our publishing mission and to discuss its marketing potential.

Your material will be reviewed as quickly as possible. All possible care will be taken with your material; however, we cannot be responsible for loss or damage in transportation, by fire, or by any other accidental cause. Therefore, do not send original artwork that cannot be replaced, and please be sure to keep a copy of all written material submitted. If you wish to receive a written response to your submission, but do not care to have it returned, enclose a #10 self-addressed, stamped business envelope. Otherwise, submit an appropriate-sized self-addressed, stamped envelope to return your submission should it not be chosen for publication.

The following information will be very helpful in our evaluation of your book idea:

Brief Description. In one or two paragraphs, describe your book, its purpose, scope, approach, and content.

Outline. Provide a detailed outline of your book, including a table of contents. This will give reviewers an idea of what topics you are including and how your material is organized. Your outline needs to include section titles, chapter headings, subheadings, and appendices, with explanations as necessary. Sending one or two sample chapters is also acceptable.

Status of Your Work. Specify your timetable for completing the manuscript. Also include your estimate of the book's size and state whether the book will contain graphics and/or illustrations

Market Research. Describe the audience to which your book will be directed. Explain the general level of knowledge, experience, and skill required for the reader to use your book. Explain who would be the most likely candidate for purchasing your book and why.

Competition. List the existing books, if any, that are similar to your book; explain how your book will be different, better, and so forth. Describe what you consider to be the outstanding or unique features of your book and explain why.

Artwork. If your book is to be illustrated, specify what kinds of artwork (line drawing, photograph, table, computer screen dump, etc.) you would use to illustrate your book. Provide samples of each kind to show the quality and style of artwork you would submit with the final manuscript.

Biographical Information. Please provide a brief resume or explanation of your qualifications for writing this book; include a description or resume of your educational and professional background.