HOW TO SUBMIT A MANUSCRIPT

The Mountaineers Books and its lifestyle imprint Skipstone produce books that aim to explore, preserve, and celebrate the natural world. We publish titles on a variety of topics, including recreational guidebooks, adventure narratives, natural history, works on environmental conservation, humor and gift books about the outdoors, and books on green living and sustainable style.

Subject Matter: The Mountaineers Books publishes nonfiction material about the outdoors. This includes non-motorized, self-propelled sports such as mountain climbing, hiking, walking, skiing, snowshoeing, surfing, and more. We also publish works on environmental and conservation subjects, narratives of mountaineering expeditions and adventure travel, outdoor guidebooks to specific areas, mountaineering history, safety/first aid, and books on sporting skills and techniques.

Skipstone, launched in 2007, publishes nonfiction books on eco-conscious lifestyle topics including sustainable home care, food/cooking, pet care, gardening, crafts, humor, and entertaining with a green focus.

We do not publish fiction, general tourist guides, or guides dealing with hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, or team sports.

Submission Procedures: While we do accept unsolicited manuscripts, please allow up to three months for the review and approval process for your proposal. If you have something you think would fit in our line of books, we'd be happy to have a look and respond. If you aren’t sure whether the subject of your proposal matches our interests, please send a query letter and SASE. (Note that all submission queries are handled through the mail only.) If you feel your proposal or manuscript fits the criteria above, then please supply the following:

• A statement that explains the proposed project's purpose, focus, scope, and significance, including a brief summary of the text
• A detailed chapter/subject outline or a detailed table of contents
• Two sample chapters (not necessarily the first in the book) or, for guidebooks, two to three trip write-ups in the style and length of the proposed book
• Information about the number and type of photos, artwork, maps, or other illustrations proposed, along with samples (or good photocopies) of each type
• Information on your background and credentials to do this particular project
• Samples of other previously published writings, if any
• Data on the size and scope of the intended market/audience of the project
• Description of what you would do to promote and market your book
• Information on any competitive books now in print (list and comment on specific titles) and how the proposed book is different and better than each

Mechanics: All manuscript materials (reading text) must be double spaced print outs. (Please do not send disks or hand-written materials.) Do not send any original manuscript materials, art, or photos. When sending artwork, use UPS or Registered Mail to prevent loss in shipping. Include your name and address on all submitted materials.

Send query letters, manuscripts, and/or proposals to: Acquisitions, The Mountaineers Books, 1001 SW Klickitat Way, Suite 201, Seattle WA 98134 USA

Email submissions not accepted. No phone queries, please.