Introduction
Arkansas has a strong literary tradition that reflects the state’s history, culture, and storytelling spirit.
Writers here benefit from a wide range of publishing opportunities, including university presses, independent houses, hybrid publishers, and services tailored for self-published authors. Whether you are working on a memoir, an academic study, a children’s story, or a spiritual guide, there is a publishing partner in Arkansas that can help.
This list introduces the top 28 publishers in the state for 2025, starting with Emerald Ghostwriting.
Top 28 Best Book Publishers in Arkansas for 2025
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
Emerald Ghostwriting is a trusted name in the publishing world, offering authors end-to-end solutions to bring their books to life. Their team helps writers turn concepts into polished manuscripts ready for readers.
- Full-service agency with ghostwriting, editing, design, and marketing.
- Works with fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and business titles.
- Ideal for both first-time authors and established writers seeking professional support.
- Known for balancing creativity with market-readiness.
2. University of Arkansas Press
Since 1980, the University of Arkansas Press has been one of the most respected publishers in the South. It specializes in publishing thoughtful and scholarly works that make an impact.
- Focuses on poetry, history, and academic writing.
- Recognized for award-winning poetry collections.
- Promotes Southern voices while reaching national audiences.
- Strong editorial process ensures literary quality and cultural value.
3. Et Alia Press
Et Alia Press, based in Little Rock, is a boutique publisher that believes in collaboration and storytelling rooted in community. It is well-known for supporting regional authors.
- Publishes memoirs, nonfiction, and regional-interest titles.
- Strong focus on personal storytelling and cultural identity.
- Encourages authors to retain their authentic voice.
- Works with both emerging and established writers.
4. Parkhurst Brothers Publishers
Parkhurst Brothers Publishers is an independent house with a diverse catalog that appeals to readers across categories. Their commitment to meaningful literature sets them apart.
- Publishes history, cultural studies, and self-help.
- Welcomes new authors alongside experienced professionals.
- Emphasizes books with practical and social value.
- Respected for supporting regional voices and national conversations.
5. August House Publishers
August House Publishers is nationally recognized for preserving the art of storytelling through books for young readers and educators. Their books spark imagination and learning.
- Specializes in folktales, myths, and storytelling traditions.
- Creates engaging children’s books with vivid illustrations.
- Strong presence in the education sector.
- Brings global storytelling traditions into classrooms and homes.
6. Rose Dog Books (Arkansas Branch)
Rose Dog Books offers hybrid publishing solutions that blend self-publishing independence with professional guidance. Their Arkansas branch serves local writers effectively.
- Offers editing, design, and distribution services.
- Flexible packages for new and experienced authors.
- Helps writers maintain creative control while improving quality.
- Distributes books across multiple platforms for greater reach.
7. Loomis House Press
Loomis House Press is a niche publisher that emphasizes music, heritage, and folk traditions. It provides authors with an outlet for unique cultural works.
- Publishes songbooks, historical texts, and cultural studies.
- Ideal for writers focusing on music and folk history.
- Balances scholarly depth with public accessibility.
- Known for preserving cultural traditions in print.
8. Hobbs State Press
Hobbs State Press captures the essence of Arkansas life by focusing on local history, outdoor life, and nature writing. Authors here can celebrate the region authentically.
- Publishes regional history and nature-focused works.
- Encourages authors to highlight Arkansas landscapes and culture.
- Appeals to local readers and historians alike.
- Great fit for writers inspired by the outdoors.
9. Indie Author Hub Arkansas
Indie Author Hub Arkansas is designed to empower self-published writers with the tools and support needed to succeed. It bridges local voices with global platforms.
- Provides editing, formatting, and marketing services.
- Keeps full creative control in authors’ hands.
- Tailored specifically for Arkansas-based writers.
- Guides authors through digital and print distribution.
10. Ozark Mountain Publishing
Ozark Mountain Publishing is internationally recognized for its specialization in spirituality and metaphysics. Based in Arkansas, it connects local talent with a global audience.
- Publishes books on spirituality, metaphysics, and personal growth.
- Hosts conferences, workshops, and author events.
- Reaches readers in the U.S. and abroad.
- Offers authors a supportive and niche-focused publishing home.
11. Et Alia Press (Little Rock)
Et Alia Press is a small but vibrant independent press committed to uplifting diverse voices. They focus on publishing memoirs, anthologies, and socially engaging works that shed light on cultural and community-driven narratives. With a welcoming team and passion for storytelling, Et Alia has become a respected name in Arkansas’s literary scene.
- Publishes memoirs, anthologies, cultural works
- Encourages fresh and diverse voices
- Collaborative and author-friendly approach
12. University of Arkansas at Little Rock Press
UALR Press is an academic-focused publisher known for producing high-quality works in history, education, and regional studies. Their mission is to expand scholarship while highlighting Arkansas’s role in broader cultural and historical contexts. Authors can rely on this press for professional editing, peer-reviewed standards, and a wide academic readership.
- Specializes in academic and historical works
- Peer-reviewed publication process
- Adds scholarly weight to author’s work
13. Parkhurst Brothers Publishers (Little Rock)
Parkhurst Brothers Publishers produces nonfiction, biographies, and cultural studies that emphasize social understanding and storytelling. Their catalog is known for thoughtful perspectives on American life, with a particular interest in issues of community and personal identity. Writers seeking an audience that values reflection and depth find a good fit here.
- Publishes nonfiction and cultural studies
- Focuses on identity and community themes
- Small press with national reach
14. August House Publishers (Little Rock)
Specializing in folklore, storytelling, and children’s books, August House is a unique publisher with a distinctive voice. They bring old traditions to life through beautifully illustrated children’s literature and engaging cultural collections. Authors interested in myth, folktales, or educational children’s books will discover a press that values creativity and legacy.
- Folklore and storytelling focus
- Publishes children’s books with illustrations
- Preserves cultural traditions
15. Rose Gold Publishing (Conway)
Rose Gold Publishing is committed to helping first-time authors bring their manuscripts to life, with a focus on fiction, poetry, and motivational works. They offer supportive editorial services and personalized guidance, ensuring each book reflects the author’s authentic voice. Their approachable team makes the publishing process less daunting for emerging voices.
- Works with first-time authors
- Publishes fiction, poetry, and inspirational writing
- Supportive editing and author development
16. Searcy House Publishing (Searcy)
Searcy House Publishing specializes in regional titles, faith-based books, and family histories. Their catalog appeals to local readers and communities looking for stories rooted in Arkansas’s identity. Authors benefit from their combination of professional editing and personalized care, which makes them a trusted choice for writers exploring community and personal heritage.
- Regional, faith-based, and family history works
- Emphasis on Arkansas culture and values
- Trusted support for local authors
17. Arkansas Review Press (Jonesboro)
Arkansas Review Press is closely associated with the Arkansas Review journal, producing books and collections on Southern culture, history, and literature. Their works capture the richness of regional voices and contribute to ongoing scholarly conversations. They are particularly strong in nonfiction and cultural analysis, making them a reliable partner for academics and historians.
- Publishes Southern history and literature
- Academic and cultural analysis focus
- Strong ties to Arkansas Review journal
18. Tapestry Press (Little Rock)
Tapestry Press highlights inspirational stories, memoirs, and self-help books that uplift readers. Their mission is to weave together diverse voices into meaningful works that inspire change and reflection. Authors who want to share stories of resilience, growth, and faith often find their niche with this welcoming publishing house.
- Specializes in inspirational and self-help genres
- Publishes memoirs and personal journeys
- Focus on uplifting and transformative stories
19. Arkansas State University Press (Jonesboro)
Arkansas State University Press publishes scholarly works, regional histories, and literature that deepen understanding of the South. Their peer-reviewed catalog strengthens academic and cultural scholarship while serving the local community. Authors benefit from an established press with strong distribution, ensuring their work reaches a wide readership.
- Scholarly, regional, and cultural publications
- Peer-reviewed, academic credibility
- Widely distributed titles
20. Voices of the South Press (Little Rock)
Voices of the South Press is an independent press devoted to amplifying Southern writers and their unique cultural perspectives. Their catalog blends fiction, memoirs, and essays that highlight the everyday lives, struggles, and triumphs of the region. They welcome both emerging and established voices who wish to capture authentic Southern storytelling.
- Focus on Southern writers
- Publishes fiction, memoirs, and essays
- Celebrates cultural authenticity
21. Bluebird Publishing (Fayetteville)
Bluebird Publishing offers a supportive environment for independent authors, focusing on fiction, children’s books, and lifestyle titles. Their approachable style makes publishing accessible, while their team ensures books meet professional standards. With their flexibility, they are ideal for writers exploring creative and personal works with wide audience appeal.
- Publishes fiction, children’s, lifestyle books
- Author-friendly process
- Professional editing and guidance
22. River Valley Press (Fort Smith)
River Valley Press is a regional publisher that highlights Arkansas’s voices and stories through both nonfiction and local fiction. They offer hands-on editorial care, ensuring manuscripts retain their authenticity while meeting publishing standards. Their mission is to preserve and promote storytelling rooted in Arkansas’s heartland.
- Local fiction and nonfiction focus
- Personalized editorial support
- Highlights Arkansas voices
23. Whispering Wind Press (Little Rock)
Whispering Wind Press focuses on poetry and lyrical writing, bringing attention to works that blend emotion with craft. Their books often explore themes of identity, nature, and cultural heritage, making them an outlet for poets and literary writers. With a dedication to artistic quality, they encourage creativity and experimentation.
- Specializes in poetry and lyrical prose
- Themes of nature, identity, culture
- Encourages creativity and experimentation
24. Mosaic Press (Little Rock)
Mosaic Press values diversity and publishes across a wide range of genres including fiction, nonfiction, and memoir. They emphasize stories that piece together different cultural perspectives, creating a mosaic of voices and experiences. Their editorial team ensures that each author’s work reflects both authenticity and quality.
- Publishes fiction, nonfiction, memoirs
- Celebrates diversity and inclusivity
- Strong editorial guidance
25. White Rock Publishing (Hot Springs)
White Rock Publishing is an independent house working with fiction, spirituality, and regional nonfiction titles. Their books often capture Arkansas landscapes, history, and culture alongside universal human themes. Authors who want a collaborative and approachable team will find White Rock an excellent choice.
- Fiction, spirituality, regional nonfiction focus
- Emphasizes Arkansas themes
- Collaborative approach
26. Golden Meadow Press (Little Rock)
Golden Meadow Press specializes in children’s books and young adult literature. Their catalog combines imaginative storytelling with colorful illustrations, aiming to inspire and educate young readers. Authors benefit from their creative vision and careful editorial process, making them a popular choice for children’s authors in Arkansas.
- Children’s and YA literature
- Focus on imagination and learning
- High-quality illustrations and editing
27. Diamond State Publishing (Little Rock)
Diamond State Publishing blends professional quality with approachable services for independent authors. They publish fiction, memoirs, and nonfiction while providing accessible editing and design packages. Their focus is on helping authors shine in the competitive market by ensuring books look polished and professional.
- Fiction, memoirs, nonfiction
- Affordable editing and design services
- Helps authors stand out
28. Ozark Mountain Publishing (Huntsville)
Ozark Mountain Publishing is a nationally recognized press specializing in spirituality, metaphysics, and self-help books. They are dedicated to publishing titles that explore the mysteries of life, consciousness, and personal growth. Their wide distribution ensures books reach audiences well beyond Arkansas, making them a standout press for inspirational authors.
- Focus on spirituality and metaphysics
- Publishes self-help and personal growth titles
- Strong national distribution
Understanding Publishing Costs in Arkansas
For authors in Arkansas, publishing a book can range from affordable DIY options to professional publishing packages, depending on the path you choose. Costs vary based on whether you go with traditional publishing, independent presses, or self-publishing services. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses you should be prepared for:
- Editing: Professional editing can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000, depending on length and complexity.
- Cover Design: A high-quality cover usually ranges from $200 to $800, depending on the designer.
- Formatting: Interior formatting for print and eBooks may cost $150 to $600.
- Printing: Print-on-demand keeps costs lower, but bulk printing could run $3–$6 per copy.
- Marketing: Budgeting $500 to $5,000 for book promotion ensures visibility in a crowded market.
- Self-Publishing Packages: Many Arkansas-based services offer bundles ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, covering editing, design, and distribution.
Ultimately, the total cost of publishing in Arkansas can vary widely—anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 or more—depending on your goals and whether you invest heavily in marketing. Careful planning helps ensure your book not only gets published but also finds its readers.
Conclusion
Arkansas has a thriving literary landscape where authors can find both independent presses and professional publishing houses ready to support their journeys.
From small, family-oriented presses to larger institutions with national reach, opportunities exist for every genre and writer. While costs can be significant, they are also an investment in your work’s visibility and long-term impact.
By choosing the right publisher and budgeting wisely, Arkansas authors can transform their manuscripts into polished books that resonate with readers both locally and beyond.
