Roots & Figs: Manuscript Submission Guidelines

Welcome to Roots & Figs! We are an indie publishing platform dedicated to bringing fresh, unique voices and compelling stories to readers. We believe in the power of diverse narratives and are excited to discover your work. Please review these guidelines carefully before submitting your manuscript.

1. What We're Looking For

Roots & Figs is open to both fiction and non-fiction manuscripts. We are particularly interested in:

• Fiction: Literary fiction, speculative fiction (fantasy, sci-fi with strong character focus), contemporary, and historical fiction that offers a unique perspective or a deeply resonant story. We appreciate strong voice, compelling characters, and thoughtful themes.
• Non-Fiction: Narrative non-fiction, memoirs, accessible academic works, and practical guides that offer genuine insight, fresh perspectives, or practical value. We have a particular interest in innovative educational resources and thought-provoking analysis of contemporary issues.

We encourage authors who believe their work aligns with our ethos of fostering meaningful connections and enriching lives through storytelling and knowledge.

2. Submission Requirements

• Language: All submissions must be in English.
• Originality: Only original, unpublished work unless pre-approved for re-release.
• File Format: Manuscripts in .docx or .rtf. Synopsis and cover letter may be .pdf.
• Formatting:
  • Font: 12pt Times New Roman or Courier New
  • Double-spaced
  • 1-inch margins
  • Page numbers and optional header with last name & title
  • No fancy formatting or embedded images

3. Submission Package Components

• Cover Letter: (Max 1 page)
  • Full legal name and pen name (if applicable)
  • Contact information
  • Manuscript title and word count
  • Pitch/logline
  • Short author bio
  • Mention of simultaneous submission (if applicable)
  • Confirm manuscript is complete and original
• Synopsis: (Max 1–2 pages or detailed outline)
  • Fiction: Full plot summary, including resolution.
  • Non-Fiction: Structure, arguments, takeaways, audience.
• Manuscript: Complete with title page and (for non-fiction) table of contents.

4. Submission Process

• How to Submit: Use our secure online submission form:
  [LINK TO ONLINE SUBMISSION FORM HERE]
• Simultaneous Submissions: Allowed, but must be disclosed. Withdraw immediately if accepted elsewhere.
• One Submission at a Time: Wait for response before submitting another.
• No Revisions After Submission: Submit only finalized manuscripts.

5. What Happens After Submission

• Confirmation email upon receipt
• Review process may take 12–16 weeks due to volume of submissions
• Communication will be via email; we may request a call if interested
• If not accepted, a notification will be sent (no guaranteed feedback)
• Publishing offers will include partnership terms if we decide to move forward

6. Important Notes

• Plagiarism: Zero-tolerance policy. All work must be original.
• Copyright: Submitters must hold full copyright to their work.
• No Phone Calls: We do not offer phone updates on submission status.

Thank you for considering Roots & Figs as your publishing partner. We look forward to reading your story!

For technical issues with the submission form only, please contact: submission@rootsandfigs.com