Having Your Memoir Published by a Standard Publisher

You’ve written an amazing memoir, and are looking forward to seeing the published version in the bookstores!

Unfortunately, you have no idea how to get a standard publisher, such as Simon & Schuster, to purchase and publish it.

Here’s an overview of the steps you’ll need to take.

1. Write an Irresistible Book Proposal

When considering whether to purchase a memoir, the first thing a standard publisher wants to see is the book proposal. Not the memoir itself, but the proposal, a document that describes the work and its author, and demonstrates how popular, and hence profitable, the book will be. If the publisher likes your book proposal, they will ask to see your finished manuscript.

To learn how to write a winning book proposal for a memoir, go to the library, the bookstore, or online; there are many books and blogs on the topic.

As you work on your proposal, remember that what intrigues a publisher—first, last, and always—is the possibility of making a lot of money. So make sure the sections detailing your marketing platform (how you plan to help market the book) and other sales elements are strong.

2. Find an Agent

You’ve got a polished manuscript and a book proposal. Now you need a literary agent, for most larger standard publishing houses won’t accept work that is not submitted by an agent.

You can find prospective agents by searching online and/or purchasing a guide to literary agents in the bookstore. Look for agents who handle the type of memoir you’ve written. You can also find a list of agents who represent memoirs in our “Agents Who Represent Memoirs and Biographies.”

The best way to contact an agent is via a query letter. That’s a single page that introduces yourself and your book, and asks if the agent is interested in seeing more. If your letter sparks some interest, the agent will either call you or ask you to submit your manuscript.

If the agent likes it, he or she will agree to represent you and begin contacting publishers about your fantastic memoir.

For more about agents, see the agent Nathan Bransford’s article on “What Literary Agents Do.”

3. Finish Your Manuscript—Really Finish It

Before submitting your manuscript to an agent, be sure it is absolutely finished and in tip-top condition.

Many enthusiastic—or weary—memoir writers complete a first draft and then stop. They figure that down the line, a publisher will assign one of their own editors to polish the manuscript. If you happen to be a celebrity, famous politician, or some other well-known person, maybe you can get away with a rough manuscript at this stage.

But if you’re an average Jill or Joe, any agent or publisher will expect you to submit a manuscript that has already been polished to perfection. Anything less will practically guarantee rejection.

To learn more about memoir writing, see “How to Write a Memoir.”

4. Understand What Publishers Look For

Most memoir submissions are rejected not because the writing is bad, but because the story doesn’t feel marketable. Standard publishers look for:

• A strong hook — a central question or emotional journey that sets your story apart.
• A defined audience — who will buy this book, and why.
• A compelling voice — authenticity, emotional truth, and readability.

A memoir that combines a unique life experience with a universal takeaway is far more likely to attract a traditional publisher’s attention.

5. Strengthen Your Author Platform

Your platform is the sum of your reach: your speaking, media appearances, newsletter, podcast interviews, social media, professional network, etcetera.

If you’re writing about overcoming cancer, for example, you’ll have a much better chance of landing a deal if you already blog or speak about wellness. Publishers want to know you have access to the audience who will buy your book.

For more, see “How To Build Your Author Platform.”

6. Be Prepared for Revisions

Even after an agent or publisher accepts your book, expect to revise. Traditional publishers often assign developmental editors to strengthen a manuscript’s structure, tone, or pacing.

That’s not a sign that your writing isn’t good enough. It’s part of the collaborative process that shapes a rough diamond into a publishable gem.

7. Understand the Business Side

Traditional publishing isn’t only about art; it’s also about business. Authors should understand:

• Advances and royalties: Advances are paid upfront but earned back through book sales.
• Rights: Contracts may cover print, digital, audio, or film rights. Know what you’re signing.
• Timeline: From acquisition to bookstore shelves can take 12–24 months.

Knowing this side of the process helps you set realistic expectations and make informed choices.

8. Consider Hybrid or Small Press Options

If the big publishers don’t bite, that doesn’t mean your story is over. Many hybrid and independent presses produce beautifully designed memoirs. They often allow more creative input and have quicker publication schedules.

You may receive a smaller advance with a hybrid publisher or small press, or none at all. But you’ll have greater control and a faster path to your readers.

9. Be Ready to Market Your Book

Even if you land a contract with a major house, you’ll still be expected to promote your memoir. That might mean building a website, giving podcast interviews, posting thoughtful excerpts online, or arranging local bookstore events.

Think of marketing not as self-promotion but as story extension. It’s a way of continuing the conversation your book begins.

10. Stay Resilient

Rejection is part of every writer’s life. Even seasoned authors collect plenty of “no’s” before they get a “yes.”

Each submission teaches you something about your book, your pitch, and your persistence. Keep refining your proposal, strengthening your platform, and believing that your story has a place in the world.