Sell Your Story To An African American Publishing Company

By Karen Campbell


Most authors, whether aspiring or veteran, want to tell their story from a place of authenticity. Their words may be a recollection of the things they have experienced or a fantastic idea they feel will resonate with a certain audience. Normally when reaching a market that includes an urban demographic, an African American publishing company with a strong media connection is ideal.

Although some may think that the larger publishing houses are the best, there are some things to consider. The first is that few will take on a new author or anyone without agency representation. There may be exceptions, like those with a strong social media following or are a sudden media sensation. Those at the starting gate may find that going with a smaller publisher is the best choice for the moment.

Attention to words can say a lot because often many of the mainstream publishers may want to dilute certain aspects. Those who are part of a minority group, especially women, will often agree that censorship can kill authenticity. Most writers with a unique voice want to preserve as much of this as possible so that they can separate themselves from others in a similar genre.

Even those who may have a spiritual message to share may not care to take a traditional route that may include multiple biblical references. What some major publishing houses may not see is that new leaders have a different voice from those in the past. Some have been on the wrong side of the law, committed immoral acts, and led a life of sin before finding salvation.

Even lighthearted subjects like hair care and ethnic recipes may be better handled by those who understand the culture and their expectations. There are also pieces of history worthy of sharing to a certain audience. This also means capturing the right images and photographs, as well as sharing tidbits that can help a manuscript sell faster.

This theory applies to both fiction and nonfiction media. Another reason why it helps to go with a small company that is well rounded are the mediums offered. Audiobooks are growing in popularity and while some self publishing firms may offer this option, the author may have to put in most of the work in addition to upfront payment.

Urban publishers also ideal places for stories that embrace spirituality, even if it has nothing to do with religion. While the self help writing genre is one that has experienced a surge in the past couple of decades, readers want to hear positive messages from people they feel they can relate to. Although there may be some valuable lessons to be found with mainstream authors, hearing from someone rebounded after being falsely accused of a crime is sure to resonate with some readers.

Most publishers who want to retain a good reputation will make a fair deal to new and veteran authors. The best rule of thumb for the writer is for them to do their own research about each companies. Things that should be looked into are how often they have new releases, their current roster of authors, and whether they have utilized shady accounting practices. While this may not be easy, the effort will certainly pay off in the long run.




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