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motinabooks.com

Motina Books Publishing

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Independent publishing3 open opportunities listed

About the press

Motina Books Publishing is an independent press founded with a commitment to literary fiction and narrative nonfiction that prioritizes craft and emotional resonance over market trends. The press emerged from a small collective of writers and editors seeking to create a sustainable home for voices that might otherwise be overlooked by commercial publishers, emphasizing a collaborative editorial process that respects the author's vision while refining the work for its intended audience. Its core mission is to publish books that contribute to contemporary literary discourse, often focusing on themes of identity, memory, and the intersections of personal and political life.

Publishing focus

Motina Books is a traditionally-modeled small press that focuses on publishing books that are of interest to women and mothers. It’s commonly known that the author, no matter how they are published, needs to work hard to help market their books. As a publisher, Motina Books does their best to educate and assist their authors with marketing efforts. The most creative marketing ideas are often the most successful!

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionNovellaShort Story CollectionsEssay CollectionsNovelMemoirPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Ronit Plank, Parris Afton Bonds, Rosalie Mastaler, Gordon Bonnet, KD McCrite, Becky Aud-Jennison, Jasmine Shouse, Chef Julia Dunaway, Julie Samrick, Kara Tatelbaum, L.L. Kirchner, Ron Wallace

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

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

Writers should approach Motina Books with a clear understanding of its literary focus; genre fiction, unless it transcends conventions, is generally not a fit. Submit a polished manuscript that reflects a strong command of language and a compelling narrative arc. Familiarize yourself with the press's catalog to ensure alignment with its aesthetic and thematic interests. Include a concise cover letter that articulates the work's core idea and its relevance to contemporary conversations, avoiding hyperbole. Patience is advised, as the editorial team prioritizes careful reading over rapid responses.

Even though we’re a small press, we love to see a well-thought-out book proposal. Please take the time to let us know who your target reader is, and how you plan to help market your book. You can find a book proposal guide on the Submissions page of our website.

Read official guidelines