Gill Books welcomes unsolicited proposals from first time and experienced authors alike. Please note that we only accept proposals for works of non-fiction and children’s; we do not publish adult fiction, poetry, short stories or plays. In general we focus on books of Irish interest.
Proposals should comprise the following:
- A descriptive outline or synopsis of the work highlighting any unique features (not more than 500 words)
- A table of contents or chapter outline
- Two sample chapters
- A brief biography of you the author, with reference to your qualifications for writing the book and the connection to your potential audience
- Phone and email contact information
All proposals are given careful consideration by our editors as soon as possible. Due to the volume of submissions we receive please allow at least three months for a response.
We prefer proposals to be submitted by email to our Editorial Assistant, Deborah Marsh.
Proposals may also be posted to:
General Submissions
Gill Books
Hume Avenue
Park West
Dublin
D12 YV96
If you wish to have your manuscript returned, please include an appropriately sized and priced stamped self-addressed envelope. Gill Books cannot accept responsibility for the loss of submissions. Correspondence regarding feedback on manuscripts will not be entered into at submission stage.
At Gill Books, publishing is a team activity - coordinating and optimising the talents not just of authors and editors, but also of marketing personnel, sales people, and those involved in production, distribution, and support services. Consequently, this collaborative effort results in the published product’s success in the Irish marketplace.
You can find out more about the team you will be working with here however, here’s a summary of key responsibilities of our staff.
Commissioning Editor
The Commissioning Editor is the author’s main contact, from the very first discussion of the project through to publication and beyond. Gill Books editors work closely with the author to discuss project ideas, assess the viability of proposals, and to develop manuscripts. Personal contact with the author is maintained throughout the life of a project, as the editor is always available to deal with queries.
Production and Editorial
The team will take your manuscript through all stages of editing, page make-up, proofing, indexing and finally, printing or digital production. The very experienced designers, copy-editors, typesetters, proofreaders and print buyers are committed to producing the best possible books on time.
Marketing, Sales & Distribution
Our sales and communications division is responsible for the promotion and marketing of your book, employing a number of creative methods to ensure complete and effective market penetration. You will meet the team at a very early stage in the process and remain in close contact through publication and beyond.
Gill Books is part of a much larger company and there are many more people behind the scenes who contribute to your book. From warehouse staff, customer services, the finance department and ICT, we’re all committed to high standards, attention to detail, a collaborative atmosphere -- all accompanied by a healthy dose of good humour.
in Dublin