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Independent publishing3 open opportunities listed

About the press

Heyday is an independent nonprofit publisher founded in 1974 by Malcolm Margolin, dedicated to illuminating California's diverse cultures, histories, and natural landscapes. From its Berkeley base, Heyday has built a distinguished list that blends rigorous scholarship with literary grace, publishing works that range from Native American oral histories to contemporary environmental essays. Its mission is to foster a deeper understanding of the region by giving voice to underrepresented stories and perspectives, often in collaboration with community scholars and tribal elders.

Publishing focus

Heyday is an independent, nonprofit publisher with a focus on California and the American West. They publish nonfiction books that explore history, celebrate Native cultural renewal, fight injustice, and honor nature. Take a look at their list of books ( www.heydaybooks.com/books ) to learn more about their areas of interest.

Creative Nonfiction

Selected authors
Obi Kaufmann, John Muir Laws, Deborah A. Miranda

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31
Reading feeNo
Response timeLess than 3 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Heyday accepts submissions primarily through its website and occasionally via open calls. They seek manuscripts that align with their mission of exploring California's cultures, history, and environment. Writers should familiarize themselves with Heyday's catalog to understand their editorial focus, which favors narrative nonfiction, poetry, and works that amplify marginalized voices. A well-crafted proposal with a clear audience and a strong sense of place is essential. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify them promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Response times can be lengthy, so patience is advised.

For information on submitting a proposal to us, go to www.heydaybooks.com/contact and click on Submission Guidelines. Please include the following in your submission: A cover letter introducing yourself and your qualifications A brief description of your project and why it aligns with Heyday’s work An annotated table of contents and list of illustrations (if any) Notes on the audiences you are trying to reach and why your book will appeal to them A list of comparable titles and a brief description of the ways your book adds to the existing literature Estimates of your book’s expected length and your timeline for completing the writing A sample chapter

Read official guidelines