Introduction
In 2025, the state continues cultivating its literary voice through a wide range of publishers embracing tradition and innovation.
Mississippi offers authors a wealth of opportunities to bring their work to life, from university presses and independent houses to regional imprints and niche publishers. This list highlights 32 of the best book publishers in Mississippi, giving writers a clear sense of who they are, what they publish, and which paths might be the best fit for their work.
Whether you are an aspiring novelist, a poet, or someone looking to publish non-fiction rooted in Southern history, Mississippi has a publisher ready to support your vision.
Top 32 Best Book Publishers in Mississippi
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
Emerald Ghostwriting provides full-service support for authors, including ghostwriting, editing, and publishing assistance. Known for tailoring services to each writer, they ensure manuscripts maintain the author’s unique voice while meeting professional publishing standards. With both local and international reach, Emerald Ghostwriting bridges Mississippi’s storytelling tradition with modern publishing opportunities.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, memoirs, business books, non-fiction
- Ideal For: Authors seeking complete, professional publishing guidance
2. University Press of Mississippi
As Mississippi’s leading academic press, the University Press of Mississippi is recognized for its scholarly contributions and strong cultural focus. It emphasizes quality publications that showcase the state’s history and traditions while also expanding into broader humanities subjects. This publisher holds an esteemed reputation nationwide.
- Founded: 1970
- Genres: History, African American studies, film studies, cultural works
- Ideal For: Scholars, researchers, and non-fiction authors
3. Nautilus Publishing
Nautilus Publishing, based in Oxford, is celebrated for spotlighting Southern stories and culture. Known for their beautifully produced titles, they have published works on history, sports, and biographies that resonate with readers across the South and beyond. Nautilus pairs authors with strong editorial support.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Biographies, memoirs, history, Southern culture
- Ideal For: Writers of regional non-fiction or biographies
4. Dogwood Press
Dogwood Press is a respected independent publisher that takes pride in promoting Mississippi voices. Their focus lies in fiction and memoirs that embody Southern identity, traditions, and everyday life. They provide personal attention to their authors, ensuring stories remain authentic to the region.
- Founded: 2000
- Genres: Fiction, memoir, regional literature
- Ideal For: Authors exploring Mississippi’s cultural narratives
5. Yoknapatawpha Press
Yoknapatawpha Press, inspired by Faulkner’s fictional county, celebrates Mississippi’s rich literary history. This press focuses on works related to Southern heritage and culture, providing a platform for both established and new voices. Their catalog reflects Mississippi’s enduring contribution to literature.
- Founded: 1975
- Genres: Literature, Southern history, regional culture
- Ideal For: Authors of literary and historical works
6. Quail Ridge Press
Quail Ridge Press is nationally recognized for its cookbook series and lifestyle publications. Based in Mississippi, the press embraces Southern living through food, traditions, and community-focused writing. Their titles have reached wide audiences, making them a household name in regional publishing.
- Founded: 1978
- Genres: Cookbooks, lifestyle, Southern culture
- Ideal For: Authors of food writing or lifestyle-focused books
7. Sartoris Literary Group
Sartoris Literary Group offers both traditional and hybrid publishing pathways, giving authors flexible options. They are known for providing high-quality production while supporting diverse voices. Their services cover every stage, from manuscript development to distribution, making them versatile for different needs.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, poetry, memoirs
- Ideal For: Writers seeking adaptable publishing options
8. Mississippi Writers Guild Press
Closely tied to the Mississippi Writers Guild, this press uplifts local authors and fosters a strong community of creatives. By publishing anthologies, collections, and individual works, they provide emerging writers with meaningful opportunities to share their voices across the state.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Poetry, fiction, anthologies, short stories
- Ideal For: Mississippi-based writers and guild members
9. NewSouth Books (Mississippi Presence)
Although headquartered in Alabama, NewSouth Books maintains a presence in Mississippi through collaborations and distribution. Known for its progressive focus, the press publishes titles that examine history, social justice, and the Southern experience, appealing to readers across the region.
- Founded: 2000
- Genres: History, literature, social issues
- Ideal For: Authors addressing bold or contemporary Southern themes
10. Franklin Publishing
Franklin Publishing provides professional publishing solutions that include editing, cover design, and distribution. They support a wide range of genres, making them a flexible choice for many authors. Their dedication to accessibility and quality ensures that both emerging and established writers can find success.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, regional titles
- Ideal For: Authors wanting personalized yet professional publishing services
11. Cold Tree Press (Regional Branch)
Cold Tree Press maintains a regional presence in Mississippi, offering professional publishing services while supporting independent voices. They focus on helping authors polish their manuscripts and reach audiences through quality production and design. Their regional branch emphasizes Southern themes and local writers.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, memoir, non-fiction
- Ideal For: Authors looking for professional services with a regional connection
12. Lemuria Press
Linked with the iconic Lemuria Bookstore in Jackson, Lemuria Press fosters connections between local authors and readers. They support independent voices and regional themes, giving writers access to Mississippi’s literary community. Their focus lies in thoughtful works that resonate locally.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, memoir, regional titles
- Ideal For: Authors seeking strong ties to Mississippi’s literary culture
13. Pelican Publishing (Regional Imprint)
Pelican Publishing, with a longstanding Southern presence, maintains strong connections in Mississippi. Known for cultural and historical works, they continue to support authors who explore Southern traditions. Their catalog includes regional histories, cookbooks, and literary titles.
- Founded: 1926
- Genres: Southern culture, history, cookbooks
- Ideal For: Writers highlighting Southern traditions and heritage
14. Southwind Publishing
Southwind Publishing is an independent press dedicated to capturing Southern perspectives. They focus on emerging writers and original stories that reflect Mississippi’s cultural identity. Their catalog is diverse, balancing creative fiction with regional non-fiction.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, cultural works
- Ideal For: Authors seeking opportunities with a locally rooted press
15. Pecan Grove Press
Pecan Grove Press, while small, has made its mark by championing poetry and literary voices. They emphasize works that reflect Southern sensibilities while appealing to broader audiences. Their dedication to poetry makes them an important niche player.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Poetry, literary works
- Ideal For: Poets and literary authors seeking a focused press
16. Cotton Row Publishing
Cotton Row Publishing highlights Mississippi’s heritage through history and memoirs. Their titles capture personal and cultural narratives that define the South. By prioritizing authenticity and strong storytelling, they remain a trusted partner for regional writers.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: History, memoirs, cultural non-fiction
- Ideal For: Authors documenting Mississippi’s history or traditions
17. Lantern Publishing (Regional Titles)
Lantern Publishing specializes in regional books that emphasize community and culture. Their catalog includes memoirs, essays, and stories rooted in Mississippi life. They support emerging voices while ensuring professional presentation.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Regional non-fiction, memoirs, essays
- Ideal For: Authors with locally focused projects
18. Legacy Publishing Group
Legacy Publishing Group provides authors with comprehensive publishing services, including editing, design, and distribution. Their mission is to help writers leave a lasting impact, and they work across multiple genres to support this vision.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, memoirs
- Ideal For: Authors seeking professional full-service publishing
19. Magnolia Press
Magnolia Press celebrates Mississippi’s cultural and literary roots through its publications. They publish both creative and scholarly works, aiming to amplify voices that reflect the Southern experience. Their titles embody pride in Mississippi’s literary traditions.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Literature, cultural works, history
- Ideal For: Writers exploring Mississippi’s heritage and culture
20. Horizon Books Mississippi
Horizon Books offers flexible publishing solutions for authors looking to blend traditional and modern approaches. They publish across genres while keeping an emphasis on professional editing and design. Their local focus makes them a solid option for Mississippi-based writers.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, memoirs
- Ideal For: Authors seeking quality support with regional awareness
21. Kudzu House Press
Kudzu House Press is known for its environmental and literary focus, often publishing works that highlight ecology, sustainability, and Southern landscapes. They value fresh, thought-provoking writing that brings regional and global issues together. Their reputation as a literary press makes them stand out.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Environmental literature, poetry, essays
- Ideal For: Writers exploring nature, ecology, or place-based themes
22. River Road Press (Regional Focus)
River Road Press supports Southern authors by focusing on cultural and historical works. Their catalog includes titles that emphasize storytelling rooted in community and family. They are respected for producing books that celebrate Mississippi’s traditions and voices.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: History, cultural non-fiction, memoirs
- Ideal For: Authors passionate about preserving Southern culture
23. Southern Heritage Press
Southern Heritage Press highlights Mississippi’s history and culture through carefully curated titles. They aim to preserve the stories and traditions of the South for future generations. Their emphasis on heritage makes them a valuable outlet for local authors.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: History, cultural studies, memoirs
- Ideal For: Authors writing Southern historical or cultural narratives
24. Golden Triangle Publishing
Based in Mississippi’s Golden Triangle region, this press champions local writers with diverse backgrounds. They focus on fiction and non-fiction that reflects community values and stories. Their supportive editorial approach gives emerging authors a platform.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, memoirs, regional non-fiction
- Ideal For: Local writers wanting to share authentic community stories
25. Delta Blues Press
Delta Blues Press celebrates Mississippi’s most iconic cultural export: the blues. They publish books that explore music history, culture, and biographies of artists tied to the Mississippi Delta. Their focus on this niche makes them a unique regional press.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Music history, biographies, cultural studies
- Ideal For: Authors writing about music, especially blues culture
26. Black Magnolia Books
Black Magnolia Books is dedicated to amplifying diverse voices within Mississippi literature. They publish works that reflect contemporary issues alongside Southern traditions. Their catalog includes both creative and critical works, making them versatile and socially engaged.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, poetry, social issues
- Ideal For: Authors bringing diverse or underrepresented perspectives
27. Pine Belt Publishing
Serving Mississippi’s Pine Belt region, this press emphasizes regional storytelling through fiction and non-fiction. They support local authors while ensuring quality editing and design. Their mission is to preserve voices unique to this part of the state.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, memoirs, regional non-fiction
- Ideal For: Writers from the Pine Belt area or those with regional stories
28. Cypress House Press
Cypress House Press is a boutique publisher focusing on creative works that embody Mississippi’s character. They offer individualized support to authors, ensuring manuscripts are professionally polished while retaining authentic voices. Their catalog remains small but impactful.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, memoirs, cultural non-fiction
- Ideal For: Authors looking for personalized publishing experiences
29. Oxford Publishing Group
Based in the literary town of Oxford, Oxford Publishing Group draws inspiration from Mississippi’s deep literary roots. They focus on both contemporary and classic-style works, offering authors a respected platform in a culturally rich community.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Literature, fiction, non-fiction
- Ideal For: Writers seeking to connect with Oxford’s literary tradition
30. Red Magnolia Press
Red Magnolia Press celebrates Mississippi’s creative spirit by publishing innovative works. They look for fresh voices in fiction, poetry, and memoirs, emphasizing originality and cultural connection. Their editorial process encourages collaboration with authors.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, poetry, memoirs
- Ideal For: Authors offering bold, fresh perspectives
31. Jackson Hill Publishing
Jackson Hill Publishing serves Mississippi authors with a focus on professional development. Their services span editing, design, and marketing, making them a strong partner for authors who want a polished product. They balance creativity with business expertise.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, business books, memoirs
- Ideal For: Authors seeking full-service publishing with marketing support
32. Gulf Coast Press
Gulf Coast Press emphasizes stories tied to Mississippi’s coastal communities. They publish regional history, memoirs, and fiction that reflect coastal culture and traditions. Their work highlights an important but sometimes overlooked part of the state’s identity.
- Founded: N/A
- Genres: Coastal history, memoirs, regional fiction
- Ideal For: Authors writing about Mississippi’s Gulf Coast life
Tips for Publishing in Mississippi’s Literary Landscape
Publishing in Mississippi means stepping into a state with a strong cultural identity and a history of powerful storytelling. Authors considering publishers here should take note of a few important factors:
- Emphasize Regional Relevance: Many Mississippi publishers value works tied to Southern culture, history, or community. Aligning your manuscript with these themes can strengthen its appeal.
- Engage with Literary Networks: Mississippi hosts book festivals, writing workshops, and events that provide connections with publishers, editors, and fellow authors. Networking often leads to publishing opportunities.
- Know the Scale of the Press: Some publishers focus on national reach, while others prioritize local markets. Choosing the right one depends on whether your book aims for regional impact or wider distribution.
- Be Prepared for Collaboration: Small and mid-sized presses in Mississippi often provide hands-on guidance. Authors should be open to working closely with editors for the best results.
By blending respect for tradition with modern publishing strategies, Mississippi presses create a space where new voices can thrive while honoring the state’s literary legacy.
Conclusion
Mississippi’s publishing world reflects its rich literary history and evolving modern identity. The state offers opportunities for nearly every type of author, from academic presses like the University Press of Mississippi to niche houses focusing on food, music, or regional heritage.
What unites these publishers is their dedication to storytelling and preserving Mississippi’s cultural spirit. For writers, choosing the right publisher here means finding a partner who values both authenticity and craft. In 2025, Mississippi remains a vital hub for authors ready to share their voices with the world.
