Hi Reader,

Looking back over the summit interviews I've done over the years, it's interesting how many of the authors, when I asked what got them across the finish line, said something like, "I had to call the book done. My publisher was waiting for it."

Someone was waiting for the book, and that's what got it finished.

You've probably heard me and others talk about how a book takes a village. Beta readers who can tell you whether they're hearing what you're trying to say. A coach who helps you create a plan and encourages you to follow it. An editor who helps you shape your voice. A publisher who is waiting for the finished manuscript belongs in that village too.

A publisher that believes in your work and knows how to reach the people you're writing for can be a great partner. Many like to be involved early in the process. And they're good at handing out deadlines and hard requirements, which do more for a manuscript than most of us want to admit.

The big 5 publishing houses are as unapproachable as ever, but there are hundreds of small presses out there, and plenty of them are glad to take a chance on a new author. I've helped two authors place their books with small presses I respect this year.

Most small publishing houses don't require a finished manuscript before you approach them. A standard book proposal has two or three sample chapters and an outline. That means you can have someone waiting for your book long before it's done.

If you're looking for a publisher to partner with, Open Spiral is the imprint I started to publish books by healers, coaches, and teachers with a vision for a better way to live on this Earth. I would love to hear what you're working on.

Warmly,
Laura