How to Submit a Book Proposal
You don’t need a polished manuscript. You just need a strong idea.
For many PhD scholars, the leap from thesis to book feels daunting. You’ve spent years refining your research, defending your arguments, and formatting every footnote to perfection. But when it comes to publishing, especially with academic presses, the framework shifts and audience changes.
Here’s the truth: We aren’t looking for a finished manuscript— we’re looking for a compelling concept.
A strong book proposal does three things:
Clarifies your core idea – What’s the big insight or argument? Why does it matter now?
Translates your research for a broader audience – Who will read this book beyond your committee? What will they gain?
Shows the potential – How does your work contribute to ongoing conversations in your field, or even outside it?
Your thesis is the foundation, but your book is the structure built upon it. It’s okay to leave behind the dense lit reviews and methodological deep dives. Focus instead on narrative, clarity, and relevance.
So don’t wait until your manuscript is “perfect.” Start with your idea. Shape it into a simple proposal, and let us see the value you already know is there.
What are we looking for at Republish Academic Press?
Your thesis was the beginning. Your book is the next chapter. We are looking for engaging ideas and interesting topics, but most importantly, we are looking for you.
We aim to support and empower new and exciting scholars as they enter the academic or professional fields of their disciplines. We don’t require a polished proposal, but we do look for personality and a strong idea.
What we ask from you … fill out a simple proposal form today
Institution or Affiliation - we welcome applications from all institutions
Manuscript title
Field of Study - this helps us link you with the right editors
Thesis Summary - this can be an extension of your abstract but should include details of its central argument, methodology, and contribution to the field.
Word & Page Count
Thesis status - Completed and Defended, Awaiting Revisions, or In Progress? We welcome proposals at any stage
Previous publication? - e.g. have you already published a chapter as a journal article?
Have a chat with us today by emailing: info@republish.uk
What makes us different?
Other publishers ask for you to prepare alot of supporting materials when submitting a proposal to them. This can include…
An Overview – A 1–2 page summary of your book’s core idea and purpose.
Chapter Outline – A breakdown of each chapter’s content.
A Sample Chapter – A polished piece of your thesis (often the introduction or a central chapter)
Market Analysis – Who will read this book? What other titles is it in conversation with? You have to identify your target audience.
Author Bio – Why are you the right person to write this book? This can include an academic CV and other biographical evidence.
We want to simplify the process and work directly with you - rather than adding administrative tasks to your to-do list as you complete your PhD journey. This simplified proposal application is just one of the ways we are making academic publishing faster and fairer.