Event Recap: Practical Insights from Book Publishing Workshop with Kristen Buckles and Elizabeth Ault
On February 27th, 2025, the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies (CLLAS) hosted a highly informative workshop for University of Oregon faculty and advanced PhD students at the Ford Alumni Center. The session brought together two expert editors in the field of academic publishing: Kristen Buckles, Editor-in-Chief at University of Arizona Press, and Elizabeth Ault, Senior Editor at Duke University Press. Both speakers provided valuable, actionable advice on the intricacies of the publishing process, offering critical insights for scholars eager to navigate the world of academic book publishing.
Key Takeaways and Practical Advice:
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Selecting the Right Press:
Kristen Buckles emphasized that choosing the right publisher is essential for academic success. She recommended thoroughly researching presses that specialize in your area of study. For example, at the University of Arizona Press, Buckles looks for works that engage with Latinx studies, Border Studies, and Native American/Indigenous studies. She advised attendees to look for publishers with a strong track record in their field, as they will understand the nuances of their subject matter and be more likely to advocate for the project. -
Crafting a Convincing Book Proposal:
Elizabeth Ault provided critical advice on creating a book proposal that stands out. She emphasized that a proposal should clearly outline the why behind your project, including its significance, audience, and contribution to the field. Ault suggested that authors also demonstrate how their work connects to larger academic conversations, and she urged authors to present a clear plan for how the book would reach its target audience. Importantly, she noted that proposals should be as concise and clear as possible, avoiding jargon while explaining the value of the work. -
Turning Your Dissertation into a Book:
One common topic of discussion was the transition from dissertation to book. Both Buckles and Ault noted that many dissertations are too focused on methodology or overly specialized for a general academic audience. Buckles stressed the importance of revisiting your dissertation with a broader lens—think about your book’s potential impact beyond the specifics of your research. She suggested reworking chapters, cutting redundant sections, and focusing on making the narrative more accessible to a wider audience. -
Understanding Contracts and Timelines:
When it comes to contracts, Buckles stressed the importance of understanding the terms before signing, especially regarding royalties, copyright, and revisions. She recommended speaking with other authors who have worked with the press to get a clear idea of what to expect. Ault advised authors to clarify the timeline of the publishing process upfront. It can take a year or more from submitting a manuscript to final publication, so it’s crucial to have realistic expectations about the time investment and the amount of feedback you will receive along the way. -
Navigating the Peer Review Process:
Both editors discussed the significance of peer review in the publishing process. Ault emphasized that while peer reviews can be tough, they are meant to strengthen the manuscript. She recommended authors approach feedback with an open mind, viewing it as an opportunity to refine their work. Buckles added that being responsive to feedback—especially when a reviewer has pointed out weaknesses in the argument or evidence—can make the difference in getting your manuscript accepted. -
Collaboration with Editors:
One important point that both speakers stressed was the collaborative nature of the editorial process. Ault shared that a good editor is there not only to improve the manuscript but to help the author shape the book into its best form. She recommended open communication with your editor throughout the process, whether it’s about conceptual changes or navigating the logistics of deadlines and revisions. Buckles echoed this, noting that editors want to help authors succeed and bring out the best in their work. -
Post-Publication Support and Promotion:
Lastly, Buckles and Ault discussed what happens after a book is published. Both emphasized that the author is a key player in promoting their work. Buckles advised authors to engage with their networks and to be proactive in reaching out to scholars and professionals in their field to spread the word about their book. Ault recommended participating in book events, academic conferences, and social media platforms to maintain visibility.
Q&A Session:
The workshop ended with an interactive Q&A session, where the speakers answered specific questions from attendees. They addressed challenges related to working with first-time authors, dealing with difficult peer reviewers, and understanding the increasingly complex landscape of academic publishing.
Conclusion:
The workshop was an invaluable opportunity for faculty and advanced PhD students to learn practical, hard-hitting advice from two experts in the publishing industry. The knowledge shared by Kristen Buckles and Elizabeth Ault gave attendees a clearer understanding of how to approach publishing a book—from selecting the right press to navigating contracts, and everything in between.
Special thanks to Kristen Buckles and Elizabeth Ault for their generous insights, and to the CLLAS for organizing such an informative event.
Original Event Post:
Feb. 27 / 10am / Ford Alumni Center
Join the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies (CLLAS) for a special book publishing workshop designed for University of Oregon faculty and advanced PhD students from all social science and humanities disciplines.
Meet with Kristen Buckles, Editor-in-Chief at University of Arizona Press, and Elizabeth Ault, Senior Editor at Duke University Press, to discuss options for book publishing and gain valuable insights into the world of academic publishing. This interactive workshop will cover essential topics, including:
- Selecting a press for your project
- Crafting a convincing book proposal
- Understanding contracts and timelines
- Navigating the publishing process
Our guest speakers will share their expertise and answer your questions, providing practical advice on:
- Navigating the publishing process
- Crafting a compelling book proposal
- Working with editors and publishers
Kristen Buckles oversees the editorial program at University of Arizona Press, acquiring scholarly titles across Latinx studies, border studies, and Native American and Indigenous studies. Elizabeth Ault, Senior Editor at Duke University Press, is interested in interdisciplinary projects that connect historical and emerging conditions, with a focus on race, gender, sexuality, and (dis)ability.
All UO faculty and advanced PhD students are welcome to attend this open event. No RSVP is necessary.