publishing book in canada

Ready to publish your first book? Here's how to find a publisher

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Have you written a book — or just have the seeds of an idea? CBC Books ' new Publishing 101 series will help emerging writers navigate the publishing industry. We will take you through the whole process — from approaching an agent to getting your work on bookshelves — with answers from Canadian pros.

We begin with how to find a publisher with Leigh Nash, the publisher of Invisible Publishing. She also serves as chair for eBOUND Canada and sits on the board of directors for the Association of Canadian Publishers. Invisible published Michelle Winters's debut novel  I Am a Truck , which made the 2017 Scotiabank Giller Prize shortlist .

1. Find publishing houses that are a good fit

Nash says working with the right team to publish your book is critical. Do you think your book is like the work of a favourite author? Look up their publisher. Think your work is comparable with a number of bestselling books in your genre? Find the publisher behind those successes.

While the internet is a good starting place, Nash suggests getting out to meet and network with publishers.

"Go to book events and festivals like the Word On the Street  where you can meet with publishers or people that work there. Ask them about their books and buy a copy. That's really the best way to get a sense of what a publisher does."

Nash also says that social media is a good tool to get insight into a company's philosophy and culture. "It's just as important for authors to consider the personality of a publisher as well. What are they tweeting? What are they interested in? Do their values align with yours?"

Get to know the right connections in the publishing world and identify the best ones to pitch.

• Find a Canadian literary festival near you

2. Know what to submit

You can find the submission guidelines for most publishing houses on their websites. That's where you can confirm whether they accept unsolicited material and the genres they accept.

While every publisher has unique requirements, the most common materials you'll be asked for are a summary of your story, an updated CV and a query letter.

Do your research and submit exactly what is requested of each publishing house you are interested in. It's a tough market out there so don't waste your time — or theirs — by failing to review and follow the guidelines.

• 9 mistakes to avoid when submitting to the CBC Literary Prize

3. Write a good query letter

A query letter is your first chance to get an agent or publisher excited about your work. Your letter should not only describe what your book is about, it should — particularly in the case of nonfiction — explain why you're the right person to write about the subject. For the synopsis part of your letter, stick to the main highlights. No one expects you to condense hundreds of pages into a paragraph, so think about the main theme or a central event in your story.

"It's always interesting to see people be able to talk about their work. I think that it's really helpful from a marketing perspective when people can really articulate what they're doing," Nash said.

Know your strengths and show publishers why they should invest time and money in you. For example, mentioning that you have a large social media following can also be helpful in your pitch. 

Your letter is your big audition. Get it right. Check your spelling. Convince them you're the one.

• Join our Canada Writes Facebook group to get support and feedback from writers

4. Be patient

It could take as long as two and a half years to get your book published — and in that time your work might sit undiscovered from six months to a year. Michelle Winters's book I Am a Truck , which went on to become a finalist for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, sat in a slush pile for six months before it was unearthed. (A slush pile is where unsolicited manuscripts go until they have time to be reviewed.) Nash says that there are exceptions, but that duration is fairly common. 

"I always try to leave a couple of slots [in our publishing calendar] open so if something fun comes up I can slot it in. But it's getting harder and harder to do now with the long lead times we need for good promotion."

• From slush pile to shortlist: Michelle Winters reveals the gory details of the publishing process

5. Be open to feedback even before you sign

Even before you sign on the dotted line, you should be prepared to receive some feedback. Whether you pitch to an agent or publisher, both will offer you advice on how they think your first draft can be improved.

"I try to get a sense of writers when I'm seriously considering their manuscript. I'll often speak with them in advance of giving a contract and offer them editorial suggestions just to get a sense of how we might work together and how that editorial experience might go. My feeling is that when I take on a book for Invisible I'm accepting it, but the author still has final say on all changes — because it's their manuscript, it's their work," Nash says.

• 14 famous Canadian writers you'd be surprised to learn won CBC Literary Prizes

6. Don't take it personally

If a publisher doesn't make you an offer, don't take it personally. Every publishing house might have an informal checklist of things they are looking for like a hook or originality, but it really comes down to whether they feel like you're a good fit.

You might have written a great story, but according to Nash there's no magic formula.

"It's really a gut instinct, which is terrifying to say out loud. I have editors and people that help read manuscripts. They offer feedback and help point me in the right direction since I can't read everything on my own. It's a careful balance of what we think would work with our list and our mandate of publishing first-time writers or projects that might not find homes elsewhere. We have that mandate and we do try and stick with it, but it's totally about what I like to read," she says.

• Get inspired by this new crop of Canadian nonfiction

CBC Books' Publishing 101 series features interviews with Canadian publishing professionals to help writers become published authors. Next up: How to find an agent .

Related Stories

• Join our Canada Writes Facebook group for writers!
• A guide to Canadian literary magazines and journals open to submissions
• A guide to Canadian writing groups
• A guide to writing prizes for Canadians

How to Publish a Book in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Arthur Dubois | Updated on 21 Aug 2023

Writing a book is a significant accomplishment, but turning it into a published work can be a challenging process. Not only is publishing a book rewarding, but you can turn it into a side hustle , earning a bit of extra income along the way. If you’re an aspiring author looking to publish your book in Canada, this comprehensive guide is for you. In this guide, we discuss everything you need to know to get your book published in Canada, from traditional publishing to self-publishing. So, let’s get started!

Understanding the Canadian Publishing Industry

If you want to publish your book in Canada, it’s crucial to first understand the landscape of the Canadian publishing industry. While Canadian publishing might share some similarities with those in the States or the UK, there are some uniquely Canadian characteristics and nuances that are essential to know.

Canada has a rich literary history, and the country’s publishing industry has played a vital role in promoting Canadian authors and their work. The industry has evolved over the years, but it remains an essential part of the country’s cultural fabric.

Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing

The Canadian publishing industry is made up of two primary publishing methods: traditional publishing and self-publishing. Traditional publishing is when you submit your manuscript to a publisher, who handles all aspects of production, distribution, and marketing. This method is preferred by many authors as it provides them with the support and resources they need to bring their work to a wider audience.

Self-publishing, on the other hand, requires you to take on all responsibility for your book, from editing to distribution. Not only self-publishing is the more expensive option, but it requires a lot of work and dedication from the author. Self-publishing can also limit the reach of your book, as it can be challenging to get your work noticed without the backing of a reputable publisher.

Key Players in the Canadian Publishing Scene

Canada has a thriving publishing industry with many key players. Companies like Penguin Random House Canada, HarperCollins Canada, and Simon & Schuster Canada are among the most prominent publishers in the country with a long history. Some of Canada’s most celebrated authors are published by these companies, known for their high-quality production values and marketing expertise.

Additionally, there are many independent publishers and university presses that might be interested in your work. These publishers often specialize in niche genres or topics and can provide authors with a more personalized publishing experience.

It’s essential to research potential publishers carefully to ensure your work aligns with their publishing goals and interests. Submitting your manuscript to the right publisher can significantly increase your chance of getting published and reaching a broader audience.

Preparing Your Manuscript for Publication

Self-publishing can be a lucrative side hustle, but before you send your manuscript out into the world, you’ll need to take some important steps to ensure it’s ready for publication. Here are a few crucial things to consider:

Editing and Proofreading

No matter which publishing path you choose, your book must be edited and proofread by a professional. A well-edited book will have a much better chance of succeeding, and you’ll avoid unprofessional mistakes that could tarnish your reputation as an author.

Editing involves going through your manuscript with a fine-tooth comb to ensure it flows well, is free of grammatical errors, and is easy to read. A professional editor can help you tighten up your writing, making it more concise and engaging. 

Proofreading is the final check for errors before your book goes to print. It’s a vital step that can catch any last-minute typos or mistakes that might have been missed during the editing process. You can find editors on freelance marketplaces such as Upwork . Be sure to thoroughly vet editors before offering them the job. Feel free to ask for a short sample edit of around 1,000 words before deciding upon which one to hire. 

Formatting Your Manuscript

Once your manuscript is complete, you’ll need to format it according to industry standards, which can vary slightly between traditional and self-publishing. Make sure you research and follow the specific manuscript guidelines for your chosen path to avoid formatting issues.

Formatting includes elements such as font size, spacing, margins, and page numbering. These may seem like small details, but they can make a big difference in how your book looks and reads. A well-formatted manuscript makes it easier for readers to follow along and enjoy your story. Many online distribution sites like KDP/Amazon provide paperback and hardcover manuscript templates, while IngramSpark has a free book building tool . By using these and other similar resources, you can make sure your manuscript will be accepted by the platform’s software, and the result will be a professional-looking well-formatted book.  

Creating a Compelling Book Cover

Your book cover is the first thing potential readers see, so it’s essential to make it as compelling as possible. Hire a professional book cover designer to create a cover that accurately represents your book and catches the reader’s attention.

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A great book cover should be visually appealing, eye-catching, and relevant to the story. It should give readers an idea of what to expect when they open the book. A professional designer can help you achieve this by creating a cover that is both beautiful and effective.

By taking the time to edit and proofread your manuscript, format it correctly, and create a compelling book cover, you’ll be well on your way to publishing success. Remember that the publishing process can be long and challenging, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals as an author.

Traditional Publishing in Canada

Traditional publishing is a long and arduous process, but it is often worth it if you’re looking to build a career as an author. Here are some essential steps to consider:

Finding a Literary Agent

Most traditional publishers in Canada require authors to submit their work through a literary agent. Finding the right agent can be challenging, but it’s crucial to take the time to find an agent who is passionate about your work and has the connections to help you succeed.

When searching for an agent, it’s essential to do your research. Look for agents who have represented authors in your genre with a track record of success. You can find agents through online directories (such as Manuscript Wish List ), writer’s organizations webpages (such as the literary agents page of the Writers’ Union of Canada ), writing conferences, and networking events.

Once you have settled on an agent to query, be sure to read the agency’s requirements for submissions, as this can make or break your chance at representation. Fiction books usually require a cover letter and a sample of your writing (anywhere from five pages to the entire manuscript). Potential agents might also ask for a detailed synopsis, author bio, and/or marketing plan. Non-fiction books usually require a book proposal, synopsis, and/or marketing plan along with your query letter

After you’ve found an agent, it’s important to make sure they are the right fit for you. Schedule a meeting or phone call to discuss your goals and expectations, and make sure your agent shares your vision for your work.

Submitting Your Manuscript to Publishers

Once you have an agent, they will submit your manuscript to publishers on your behalf. The process can be slow, sometimes taking several months or even years to hear back from prospective publishers. Be patient and keep working on your writing while you wait for a response.

It’s important to remember that rejection is a common part of the publishing process. Don’t be discouraged if your manuscript is rejected by multiple publishers. Keep revising and improving your work, and above all else, be patient.

Navigating Publishing Contracts

If a publisher decides to publish your work, you’ll need to sign a publishing contract. These contracts can be challenging to navigate, so it’s crucial to have an agent or a lawyer to help you understand what you’re signing. Book publishing agreements in Canada generally cover how much money will be paid in advance of publication, the percentage of royalties you will receive, and if any amounts will be kept in reserve. These amounts will vary based on the genre and format of the book (e.g., eBook, audio book, paperback, or hardcover). Royalties for first-time authors are usually in the range of 7-12% of the book’s cover price, according to an FAQ on the Canadian Authors website . Publishing contracts will also stipulate how to handle dramatization rights, publicity, timelines for delivery of manuscript and publication, and how the contract will end. 

Make sure to read the contract carefully and ask questions if there’s anything you don’t understand. Pay attention to royalty rates, length of the contract, and any clauses related to marketing and promotion.

It’s also important to negotiate the terms of the contract. Don’t be afraid to ask for changes or to walk away if the terms aren’t favourable to you.

Working with a Canadian Publisher

If you sign a traditional publishing deal, you’ll work with a publisher to edit, design, and distribute your book. Make sure you choose a publisher that will support your book and work with you.

When working with a publisher, communication is key. Make sure you understand the editing and design process and provide feedback when necessary. Work with your publisher to develop a marketing and promotion plan for your book, and be open to their suggestions and ideas.

Remember that publishing is a collaborative process, and it’s important to build a strong relationship with your publisher. By working together, you can create a book you’re proud of that will be successful in the Canadian market.

Self-Publishing in Canada

Self-publishing has become an increasingly popular way for authors to get their books out into the world. With the rise of digital publishing, it’s now easier than ever for authors to bypass traditional publishing houses, take control of their work, and build it into a successful side hustle. While self-publishing can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to understand the process and do your research before diving in. Here are some essential steps to consider:

Choosing a Self-Publishing Platform

There are many self-publishing platforms available, such as Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing , Rakuten Kobo’s Writing Life , Draft2Digital , and IngramSpark . Each platform specializes in a variety of book formats with a unique set of distribution channels. Uploading a book for distribution is free, but authors must pay for hard copies of their books. Authors must also pay a percentage of their royalties to the platform. 

It is important to research each platform to know their distribution channels so you can post to a select number of platforms to cast your widest distribution net.  For example, though you can post your book directly to Rakuten Kobo, posting to Draft2Digital will get your book in Rakuten Kobo’s catalogue in addition to other sites, like Barnes and Noble, Apple, and even Amazon. When choosing a self-publishing platform, it is also important to consider the interface’s ease of use and control over your book’s production and distribution. Be sure to consider your goals and priorities when choosing a platform.

It’s also important to understand your rights as an author and the terms and conditions of the self-publishing platform you choose. Read the fine print carefully and make sure you’re comfortable with the terms before signing up.

Understanding ISBNs and Legal Requirements

When self-publishing, you’re responsible for many legal requirements, such as obtaining an ISBN number and copyrighting your work. An ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a unique identifier for your book that helps book sellers and libraries track inventory and sales. In Canada, ISBNs are issued by Library and Archives Canada (LAC). After applying for an ISBN account, you can log in to assign ISBN numbers to your books. ISBN numbers are free for self-publishers residing in Canada, but you must provide a copy to the LAC for their collections under the Legal Deposit requirements of the Library and Archives of Canada Act . Paperback and hardcover books can be mailed to them. Each book should be accompanied by a Publication Submitted to Legal Deposit form for monographs. Ebooks can be uploaded to the Book Deposit website. 

Marketing Your Self-Published Book

Once your book is available for purchase, it’s up to you to market it effectively. While self-publishing platforms may offer some marketing tools, such as Amazon’s Kindle Select program, it’s important to have a plan in place to promote your book. Social media can be a powerful tool for reaching potential readers as can book signings and other events. Consider reaching out to book bloggers and reviewers on sites like GoodReads or The Book Blogger List to help spread the word about your book.

It’s also important to have a professional-looking cover and book description that will catch your readers’ attention. Consider hiring a graphic designer or copywriter to help you create a compelling book cover and blurb. Sites used by freelancers, such as Upwork , can help you find everyone from graphic designers and copywriters to marketing specialists and website programmers to help you market your book.  

Building an author platform is a great way to establish your online presence and introduce yourself to the world as an author. There are many great point and click website builder platforms available in Canada , both free and paid (paid sites offer more features and functionality). It is important that you do a bit of research before deciding which platform you will use. Consider ease of use, cost, and the company’s reputation for customer service before settling on any given platform.  

Distribution Channels for Self-Published Books

When you self-publish, you’ll need to ensure that your book is available to readers. Self-publishing platforms like Amazon make this process relatively easy, but you can also distribute your book through brick-and-mortar bookstores and libraries. Some bookstores and libraries may be hesitant to carry self-published books, so it’s important to do your research and reach out to them directly. Consider offering a discount or other incentives to encourage them to stock your book. Some libraries may have a central vetting process for self-published books, while others require you to approach the librarian in charge of book purchases at a branch location. Some Chapters-Indigo locations will carry your book on consignment and may even host an author signing. Speak to the manager of your local store branch to explore the possibilities.   

Publishing a book in Canada: The Bottom Line

Overall, self-publishing can be a rewarding way to share your work with the world while earning a bit of extra money as a side hustle. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a high-quality book that readers will love. Traditional and self-publishing both have their pros and cons, and it’s up to you to decide which path is best for you. Whichever one you choose, make sure you take the time to prepare your manuscript correctly, and be persistent and creative in your publishing and marketing efforts. With hard work and perseverance, you can turn your writing into a published book your readers will enjoy.

Arthur Dubois

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Writing Tips Oasis

21 Top Canadian Publishers Accepting Unsolicited Manuscripts

By Tony Franklin

Are you a writer in Canada who has just written a book and are now looking for a Canadian book publisher ?

Do you want to send in your manuscript directly to the publishing house, rather than through a book agent ?

If so, take a look at our list of 21 top Canadian publishers accepting unsolicited manuscripts below!

1. Talon Books

With more than  600 books in print and over 300 awards, Talon is one of the most diverse publishers in Canada. They publish more drama than anyone in the nation and their translations from Quebec  are equally noteworthy.

Over the last 10 years, Talon has expanded its literary non-fiction titles to include international works on the Balkans, the Middle East, Aboriginal rights and history, and on Canadian political issues. While they do accept unsolicited submissions for drama, fiction, and non-fiction, they do not accept unsolicited manuscripts for poetry. They do not accept submissions for self-help, Young Adult books, children’s books, cookbooks, memoirs, short story collections, how-to books, or genre work. You can find their submission guidelines here .

2. Turnstone Press

A literary publisher dedicated to providing Canadian authors with the deserved visibility, Turnstone Press is located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They are particularly interested in working with new authors and with writers from underrepresented communities (such as LGBTQ+ members), as well as with immigrants living in Canada.

Poetry, literary fiction, and literary non-fiction are their genres of choice. If you want to get an idea about what they like, you should look up “King Jerry”, by David Arnason, “The Family Romance”, by Eli Mandel, and “Dancers in a Web”, by Andrew Parkin.

To learn about their submission guidelines, click here . However, keep in mind that Turnstone Press does not publish cookbooks, self-help, business, children’s books, romance, horror, YA/young reader, personal memoirs, or family histories.

3. Douglas & McIntyre

Located in Madeira Park, British Columbia, this publisher was founded in 1970 and reorganized in 2013 under the name of Douglas and McIntyre Ltd. Their books have won numerous prizes, such as the Governor General’s Literary Award or the Scotiabank Giller Prize, thus managing to become one of the top Canadian publishers of our time.

Fiction, non-fiction, cooking, history, young adult, and art/photography are just a few of their favorite genres. If you’re looking for their most successful titles, you might want to check out “Field Notes from an Unintentional Birder: A Memoir”, by Julia Zarankin, “Embers: One Ojibway’s Meditations”, by Richard Wagamese, and “The Lesser Blessed”, by Richard Van Camp.

They are interested in working mostly with Canadian authors, especially when it comes to people of color, LGBTQ+ members, or any other members of underrepresented communities. To send a manuscript, keep in mind that only those received via Submittable will be considered – any questions you may have should be sent at [email protected] .

4. At Bay Press

At Bay Press is an independent publishing house located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The company was established over 10 years ago, and since their very inception, they’ve been driven to represent the new works of undiscovered authors. Over the last decade, At Bay Press has published original, thought-provoking, and exceptionally crafted titles in fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, science fiction, fantasy, and in many other genres. Some of their titles are “What Fox Knew”, by Mary Barnes , “Place Into Being”, by Robert Pasternak , and “Put on the Armour of Light”, by Catherine Macdonald. If you’re looking to join their growing list of authors, check out their submission guidelines on this page .

5. Coach House Books

Innovation is the undercurrent of new growth. Coach House strives to be a beacon of innovation in Canada by publishing high-quality  poetry, fiction, drama & film, and select non-fiction. They are not interested in average works, as they are looking to move past the margins and to pioneer new paths. Coach House Books was established in 1965 by Stan Bevington and is based in Toronto, Ontario. To learn more about what they like, you should check out “Neighbourhood Watch”, by Anais Barbeau-Lavalette, “Swivelmount”, by Ken Babstock, and “Word Problems”, by Ian Williams.. Are you a Canadian writer that pushes through the boundaries of tradition? Find out how to submit your work to Coach House here .

6. Orca Book Publishers

If you’re fond of writing children’s titles, Orca Book Publishers is one of the best options for you. Based in Victoria, this publishing house has been operating for almost four decades. During this time, Orca has rolled out thousands of exceptionally written children’s fiction, picture books, and educational titles, to name a few genres. ‘Nightwalker’ by K.V Johansen and ‘Drawn Away’ by Holly Bennet are just two of their best-selling titles. Right now, Orca is open for submissions, but they’ll only accept your work if it meets their submission guidelines. For more details about the submission process, visit this page .

7. Broadview Press

Are you a writer for academic humanities? Do you need a respected publisher to put you toe-to-toe with some of the world’s greatest minds today? In either case, Broadview Press can help you. Operating as an independent publisher since 1985, the company is looking to acquire publications on the subjects of philosophy, English studies, politics, writing & composition, and more. They are also interested in academic works on environmental and feminist issues. They have an outstanding list of respected authors, such as Margaret Cavendish or Julius Bailey, and are large enough to distribute their books around the world. You can find out  how to submit your manuscript or proposal here .

8. Boulder Publications

Boulder Publications is a leading publisher of field guides, fiction, and historical works. They are home to award-winning books such as “Newfoundland in the First World War” and “Perished: The 1914 Newfoundland Sealing Disaster”, both by Jenny Higgins, as well as to “Birds of Newfoundland: Field Guide” by Ian Warkentin and Sandy Newton. Boulder maintains a high standard for editing and book design. They publish on subjects such as children’s books, cooking, fiction, hobbies & crafts, history, nature, photography, plays, and trivia. You can send your submissions to Boulder on this page .

9. Between the Lines Books

If you are looking for a publisher of non-fiction titles, Between the Lines Books may be just the right platform for you. An independent publisher for over 40 years, the company published their own history book called “Books without Bosses: 40 Years of Reading Between the Lines”. Over the last few decades, the company has also represented authors like Christopher Samuel, Ian McKay, Lesley J. Wood, and Michael Riordon, to name a few. The company is interested in publishing authors who focus on social justice and in being a voice for those who are often silenced. They are looking for books on politics, public policy, law, media, social work, development studies, environment, criminology, technology, and on many other topics. You can find the full submission guidelines here .

10. Red Deer Press

Red Deer Press is one of the leading Canadian publishers of children’s fiction. Starting out as an affiliate of Red Deer College, the publishing house became an independent publisher of children’s titles in 1985. Over the past couple of decades, they’ve published several fiction titles for kids and young adults. Now, their backlist includes adult titles as well – humor, poetry, drama, and fiction are just a few of their preferred genres. Owing to their significant contributions in the literary sphere, they and their authors have also won more than 300 awards. Luckily enough, Red Deer Press is currently open for submissions. You can reach out to them on this page .

11. Second Story Press

If you’re looking to publish your upcoming feminist title, Second Story Press is one of your top options. Established in 1988 by Margie Wolfe along with three other women, this publishing house has been focused in rolling out feminist-inspired titles for both young people and adults. Their books are sold throughout the globe and are also translated in multiple languages. What’s more, this publishing house has also won several awards for their outstanding contribution in feminist literature. If you would like to be published by them, take a close look at their submission guidelines here .

12. Arsenal Pulp Press

Arsenal Pulp Press is a five-time finalist of the Small Press Publisher of the Year Award from the Canadian Booksellers Association and a past winner of the Jim Douglas Publisher of the Year Award. They are interested in literary fiction, non-fiction, graphic novels, gender studies, regional history, alternative crafts, cooking, and more. . Over the last few years, the company has worked with authors like Joshua Whitehead of “Johnny Appleseed” and Kevin Chong of “The Plague”. Arsenal Pulp Press publishes their titles on a wide range of subjects, including humor, LGBTQ+ fiction & non-fiction, political studies, youth culture, biography & memoir, and social issues, to give some examples. Are you willing to push the boundaries? In case you are, check out their submission guidelines here .

13. Invisible Publishing

Tired of being unseen and unheard? Looking for creative diversity? In either case, ‘Invisible Publishing’ is a great option for you. This publisher is looking for non-genre fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. They are also committed to bringing more diversity to the publishing industry and to breaking traditional barriers. Unlike many other publishing platforms, Invisible Publishing encourages LGBTQ+ members, writers of color, and Indigenous writers to send in their work. So, if you are interested, check out their submission information here .

14. Dundurn Press

Dundurn Press is an independent Canadian publisher that focuses on a wide range of fiction and non-fiction. The company was established in 1972 by Kirk Howard, and since then they rolled out over 2,500 titles in print and around 1,700 eBooks. Their genres of choice are business & economics, young adult, literary fiction, paranormal, true crime, health & well-being, arts & culture, and memoir, to give some examples. They only accept email submissions at present – to learn more about the guidelines, click here .

15. Signature Editions

Signature Editions publishes 6-9 titles a year with a diverse list of poetry, drama, non-fiction, and fiction. Notable titles include “The Spanish Boy”, by C. S. Reardon, “Off the Ropes: My Story” by Roland Vandal, and “The Back Channels” by Jennifer House. They are based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and you can check out their submission guidelines here .

16. Flanker Press

Flanker Press is mainly interested in historical fiction and regional non-fiction trade books, with a focus on the burning issues of Newfoundland and Labrador. They have been in business since 1994, and also launched an imprint called Pennywell Books, in 2004. Pennywell publishes young adult fiction, short stories, literary fiction, and children’s books. Flanker Press, on the other hand, focuses on a wide range of subjects like architecture, crafts & hobbies, history, religion & spirituality, and even some more narrowly focused categories such as ghost stories, true crime, and sea stories.  You can find their submission guidelines here .

17. Mansfield Press

Are you a poet who’s looking for a good publisher? In that case, Mansfield Press is one of the best options for you. While most publishers focus on fiction or non-fiction books, Mansfield Press changes this equation by mainly publishing the poetry titles of Canadian writers. Starting in 2000 with four books of poems, their catalogue now includes fiction and non-fiction works as well – “The Art of Sufficient Conclusions”, by Sarah Dearing and “Imagining Toronto”, by Amy Lavender Harris are just two titles worth looking up.  Since they receive a large number of submissions, the chances of them working with unpublished writers are very low. You can click here for the full guidelines.

18. Ronsdale Press

Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Ronsdale Press was established in 1988 with the purpose of providing Canadians with new information about their culture. They have about 270 titles on their backlist and are enthusiastic about working with both new and experienced authors. Children’s books/young reader, fiction, non-fiction, and poetry are the four main genres featured on their website. Some of their most recent releases are “Gold, Grit, Guns”, by Alexander Globe, “Pandemic Poems”, by Philip Resnick, and “Solidarity”, by David Spaner. Before sending them your manuscript, keep in mind that they are highly interested in biographies, history, and in writings with social and political themes. To access the full guidelines, click here .

19. ECW Press

Based in Toronto, Ontario,  ECW Press already has more than 1,000 titles on their backlist. Pop culture, fiction, non-fiction, sports, and poetry are their genres of choice, and there are plenty of books you can check out to see if your style is similar to any of their previous publications – “The Unlocking Season”, by Gail Bowen, “’Membering”, by Austin Clarke, and “Smuggler’s Blues”, by Jay Carter Brown are just three examples. Before submitting your work, make sure to read their full guidelines .

20. Book*Hug

Formerly known as BookThug, Book*Hug is an independent publishing house that focuses on contemporary titles. Established in 2004, this company is driven by one goal: to publish innovative and thought-provoking titles in literary fiction and non-fiction, poetry and drama, as well as literature in translation. Book*Hug has represented both aspiring and established authors. Some of their titles include ‘Coconut Dreams’ by Derek Mascarenhas and ‘Before I was A Critic, I was a Human Being’ by Amy Fung. Currently, Book*Hug is actively seeking new titles. So, if you want your works to be published by them, check out their submission guidelines here .

21. Goose Lane Editions

Goose Lane Editions is the publisher of many  diverse authors in literary fiction, creative non-fiction, and poetry. Many of their authors also have been published in journals, magazines, and newspapers such as Fiddlehead , New Quarterly , Globe and Mail , and Reader’s Digest . A few titles worth checking out are “Daughters of Silence”, by Rebecca Fisseha and “The Death and Life of Strother Purcell”, by Ian Weir. So, are you ready to take your writing up to the next level? Click here to find their submission guidelines.

Do you know of any other Canadian book publishers that accept unsolicited manuscripts? Please tell is about them in the comments box below!

Need more publishers in Canada? Here are 17 in Alberta and 17 in Ontario .

Tony Franklin is a writer, pastor, and teacher from Illinois and Kentucky, United States, with a background in philosophy, psychology, and biblical studies. He is an advocate for and a student of multi-cultural ministries and has a passion for music of all types. He has been blogging inspirational reading for nearly ten years at www.myabishai.blog and www.myabishai.net and recently published a critical book at politics and religion called “ Jesus Politics ”.