Your complete guide to Arizona's publishing scene. Compare traditional publishers, hybrid services, and self-publishing companies.
Arizona's publishing landscape reflects the state's southwestern heritage, natural beauty, and growing urban centers. Phoenix and Tucson anchor publishing activity, with focus on southwestern culture, Native American literature, desert ecology, and Western history.
From university presses to independent publishers, Arizona serves regional and specialized national markets. The state's unique cultural position at the intersection of American West, Mexican border, and Native American heritage creates distinctive publishing opportunities.
Comprehensive directory of Arizona's top publishing companies
Combined output from Arizona publishers each year
From fiction to academic, covering all publishing needs
Editing, design, marketing, distribution, and more
Browse our comprehensive list of Arizona publishing companies.
Major academic publisher specializing in Southwest studies and Latin America.
Academic publisher focusing on Southwest and innovation.
Scottsdale mystery publisher, now imprint of Sourcebooks.
Tucson publisher of Southwest regional books.
Tucson self-publishing and book production services.
Tucson publisher of Arizona history.
Flagstaff publisher of Southwest and Native American books.
Phoenix Native American music and book publisher.
Phoenix publisher of Southwest cookbooks and regional titles.
Phoenix publisher of photography and travel books.
Arizona State University press for Latino literature.
Publisher of Grand Canyon books.
Phoenix publisher of Native American art and culture.
Flagstaff publisher of Colorado Plateau studies.
Publisher of Southwest park guides.
Santa Fe publisher with Arizona distribution.
Tucson publisher of desert ecology.
Tucson book design and publishing services.
Tucson publisher of gold mining and Western lore.
Publisher of national park guides.
Choose the publishing model that best fits your goals and budget
Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to a publishing house for consideration. If accepted, the publisher covers all costs and provides an advance against royalties.
Best for: Authors seeking prestige, established authors, genre fiction
Hybrid publishing combines elements of traditional and self-publishing. Authors share costs with the publisher while maintaining creative control and receiving professional services.
Best for: Authors wanting professional quality, first-time authors, niche markets
Self-publishing gives authors complete control over every aspect of the publishing process. Authors handle all aspects from editing to marketing, or hire freelancers for specific services.
Best for: Authors with budget and time, established authors, entrepreneurs
Key factors to consider when selecting a publisher for your book
Before choosing a publisher, clarify what you want to achieve with your book. Are you looking for prestige and credibility? Do you want to maximize profits? Are you publishing for personal fulfillment or business purposes? Your goals will determine the best publishing path for you.
Not all publishers are created equal. Research each publisher's reputation, read author reviews, and check for any red flags. Look for publishers with a track record of quality work and satisfied authors.
Always read and understand the publishing contract before signing. Pay attention to rights ownership, royalty rates, termination clauses, and any hidden fees. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek legal advice if needed.
Compare what each publisher offers and at what price. Look beyond the base price to understand what's included in the package. Consider the value of services like editing, design, marketing, and distribution support.
A good publisher should provide ongoing support throughout the publishing process and beyond. Look for publishers who offer guidance, answer questions promptly, and provide resources to help you succeed.
Ask for sample books published by the company and contact references from previous authors. Seeing the quality of their work and hearing from other authors can give you valuable insights into what to expect.