Every book begins with a conversation.

Whether you’re writing the story of your life, dreaming up a children’s picture book, or simply wondering what publishing actually looks like behind the scenes, we’d love to meet you.

This September, Pownal Street Press is offering for two free online Open Houses designed to answer your questions, introduce you to our hybrid publishing process, and help you know that we’re the right publisher for your book.

During our hour together, we’ll take you behind the scenes and answer the questions we hear most often. We’ll discuss:

• The type of books Pownal Street Press chooses to publish
• The difference between our traditional and hybrid publishing streams
• How to know when your manuscript is ready
• What it’s like to work with an editor
• Book design, illustration, and production
• Timelines and investment
• Marketing, sales, and distribution
• Small publishing projects and consulting services
• Plenty of time for live Q&A

If you’ve ever wondered what the next publishing step might be, this is the perfect place to start.

Bring your questions, your curiosity, and enthusiasm. We can’t wait to hear about the stories you’re bringing into the world.

There are two Sessions to Choose From.

Non fiction Open House
Wednesday, September 23
12:00–1:00 p.m. EST

If you’re writing a memoir, family history, personal essays, poetry collection, or another work of nonfiction, this session is for you. We’ll explore what makes a compelling manuscript, what we are looking for in the books we publish, and the steps in going from manuscript to finished book.

Children’s Book Open House
Thursday, September 24
12:00–1:00 p.m. EST

Whether you have a finished manuscript or just the spark of an idea, we’ll walk through the unique publishing journey for children’s books—from story development and illustration to design, printing, and distribution.

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Our publishing list focuses on nonfiction and children’s literature.

We are a social purpose publisher.  We exist to give rise to brave stories, and to be a light for community and connection.

In nonfiction, we’re especially passionate about memoir, narrative nonfiction, poetry, essays, leadership, health and wellness, guidebooks, photography books, and art books.

For children’s literature, we publish picture books and board books that celebrate meaningful stories, relationships, curiosity, and connection.

We’re always looking for books that make readers think, feel, and see the world a little differently.

One of the reasons we love the hybrid publishing model is that it allows us to work alongside an incredible range of authors.

Some writers are publishing their very first book. Others are established professionals creating resources for their communities or expanding their businesses. Many simply have a story they feel called to share.

Every project is different, and we believe every author deserves thoughtful guidance that’s tailored to their goals.

Publishing is a Partnership

A great book doesn’t happen overnight.

From developmental editing and copy editing to cover design, typesetting, printing, marketing, and distribution, publishing is a collaborative process. Our role is to help you make informed decisions while creating a book that reflects both your vision and professional publishing standards.

Whether you’re seeking full publishing support or help with a specific stage of your project, we’re happy to meet you where you are.

We’re Genevieve Loughlin and Mo Duffy, publishers and editors at Pownal Street Press.

Like many great partnerships, ours began with friendship.

When we founded Pownal Street Press, we discovered that our strengths complemented one another perfectly. Mo brings a background in writing, teaching, and an MFA in Creative Nonfiction, with a passion for storytelling, craft, and helping writers uncover the heart of their work. Gen holds a Master’s in Publishing and brings expertise in book production, design, distribution, and marketing.

Together, we’ve built a publishing house that supports authors from their very first draft to the moment they hold their finished book in their hands.