Finding the right publisher for you and the right project for LifeStories can be difficult and challenging, and not all memoirs will be chosen by Stephens Press for publication. Those that are accepted into the LifeStories program require financial participation by the author. This is not, however, “self-publishing,” with ala carte costs and fees. Each book with Stephens Press LifeStories receives a contract complete with all services and support.
The exact cost depends on a variety of factors, and because each project is completely customized and crafted to exacting standards, a considerable investment is usually required. The book’s size, cover design, choice of hard or soft cover, and use of photos ― whether black-and-white or color ― will influence the overall cost for publication, as well as the length and condition of the manuscript; that is, how much editing and rewriting will be needed. An initial conference with one of our editors, either in person, or by phone, will flesh out the details we’ll need in order to assess your book’s suitability. If accepted, we’ll prepare a Book Sponsorship Agreement that outlines the responsibilities and costs.