Introduction
Kansas may be known for its wide-open prairies, sunflower fields, and historic towns, but it also offers a vibrant publishing landscape.
Writers here benefit from a unique mix of university presses, heritage-focused publishers, and independent outfits that bring regional and national voices to life. Whether your work is rooted in local history, academic research, or contemporary storytelling, Kansas offers platforms that value both authenticity and creativity.
In 2025, the state’s publishers continue to champion authors by blending traditional quality with modern publishing innovation.
Top 31 Kansas Book Publishers to Watch in 2025
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
About the Publisher: Emerald Ghostwriting is a professional service dedicated to helping authors bring their ideas to life. From manuscripts and memoirs to business books, it provides personalized ghostwriting and editorial support. Its team of experienced writers ensures high-quality storytelling that resonates with readers while capturing each author’s unique vision.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- End-to-end ghostwriting and editing support
- Personalized publishing guidance
- Trusted creative partner for diverse genres
2. University Press of Kansas
About the Publisher: University Press of Kansas is a consortium representing six state universities. It is highly respected for academic publishing, especially in history, politics, and law. With decades of experience, it brings scholarly excellence to the forefront, producing books used by researchers, educators, and policymakers across the nation.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Prestigious academic reputation
- Rigorous editorial process
- Wide distribution and credibility
3. Mennonite Press (Newton)
About the Publisher: Mennonite Press combines traditional values with modern publishing practices. Known for its high-quality printing and design services, it produces religious works, memoirs, community histories, and educational resources. Its focus on careful craftsmanship ensures that every book reflects both professional standards and the meaningful stories of its authors.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong focus on heritage publishing
- Personalized author support
- Consistently high-quality design and printing
4. Flint Hills Publishing (Emporia)
About the Publisher: Flint Hills Publishing highlights Kansas’s landscapes, history, and culture through both fiction and nonfiction works. It is known for uplifting regional voices and providing professional services for authors across genres. Its approachable editorial process makes it a welcoming choice for both new and established writers seeking to share authentic stories.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Emphasis on Kansas culture and identity
- Support for multiple genres
- Accessible and supportive editorial process
5. Washburn University Press (Topeka)
About the Publisher: Washburn University Press publishes works that highlight regional history, academic scholarship, and creative writing. Backed by a respected institution, it offers credibility and professional standards while providing a supportive environment for authors. Its catalog reflects Kansas’s cultural and intellectual diversity, making it a strong partner for scholarly and literary voices.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Academic credibility and institutional backing
- Strong in regional history and creative writing
- Supportive for both established and emerging authors
6. Kansas Heritage Press (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: Kansas Heritage Press is dedicated to preserving the stories, traditions, and cultural richness of the state. From biographies of Kansas figures to detailed accounts of communities, its books capture local heritage with authenticity. Authors with a passion for history and culture find a meaningful home with this publisher.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Focus on heritage and cultural storytelling
- Strong interest in biographies and history
- Excellent platform for regional authors
7. Prairie Books (Salina)
About the Publisher: Prairie Books celebrates Kansas’s rural and prairie landscapes through literature, memoirs, and nonfiction. Its focus on environmental and regional themes connects deeply with readers who value storytelling tied to place. With professional editing and design, it ensures that each title reflects both literary quality and cultural authenticity.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Specializes in environmental and regional themes
- Strong appeal to memoirists and nonfiction writers
- High-quality editorial and design support
8. Cottonwood Press (Manhattan)
About the Publisher: Cottonwood Press supports creative writing across genres, with a particular focus on fiction and poetry. It has a long-standing tradition of championing Midwestern voices and helping writers connect with literary audiences. Known for its approachable process, it blends professional editing with a passion for local and regional literature.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong tradition of supporting fiction and poetry
- Welcomes Midwestern and regional voices
- Accessible editorial process for new authors
9. Kansas State University Press (Manhattan)
About the Publisher: Kansas State University Press provides a platform for scholarly research, educational resources, and regional studies. Its publications reflect academic rigor while being accessible to wider audiences. Authors benefit from professional editorial guidance, strong institutional credibility, and the ability to reach academic as well as general readerships.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Academic strength and credibility
- Wide range of subjects, from research to regional studies
- Professional and supportive editorial standards
10. Sunflower Publishing (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: Sunflower Publishing is known for producing books, magazines, and community-driven publications. With a focus on lifestyle, culture, and regional interest, it provides authors with opportunities to reach engaged Kansas audiences. Its high-quality design and marketing ensure that books are visually appealing and accessible to a broad readership.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong focus on Kansas lifestyle and culture
- High-quality design and marketing support
- Great for authors seeking community-based readership
11. Meadowlark Books (Emporia)
About the Publisher: Meadowlark Books is an independent press specializing in Kansas authors and themes that highlight Midwestern life. They embrace a wide array of genres, from memoirs and fiction to poetry and regional nonfiction. Known for personal attention to authors, Meadowlark creates strong connections between writers, readers, and local communities.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Dedicated to Kansas and Midwest authors
- Wide genre diversity
- Personalized support and community-focused publishing
12. Flint Hills Publishing (Manhattan)
About the Publisher: Flint Hills Publishing focuses on storytelling rooted in the heart of Kansas. Its books often celebrate rural life, family legacies, and regional landscapes. With a reputation for thoughtful editing and design, the press provides a meaningful outlet for writers eager to preserve Kansas’s culture and share it with broader audiences.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong focus on rural and family-centered narratives
- Quality editing and design
- Celebrates regional identity
13. University Press of Kansas (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: University Press of Kansas is a leading scholarly publisher with national recognition. It specializes in history, law, politics, and regional studies, publishing books that advance knowledge while appealing to general readers. With institutional backing and high standards, it’s an essential platform for academics and researchers across various disciplines.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong academic reputation
- Known for history, law, and politics titles
- National reach and credibility
14. Kansas City Star Books (Kansas City, KS)
About the Publisher: Kansas City Star Books extends the legacy of the iconic newspaper into publishing, focusing on regional history, cookbooks, and cultural collections. With deep ties to local communities, the press ensures wide visibility for authors. Its books are often celebrated for their readability, visual appeal, and lasting cultural significance.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong regional visibility
- Specializes in cookbooks and cultural works
- Trusted media-backed platform
15. Riverfront Publishing (Wichita)
About the Publisher: Riverfront Publishing emphasizes contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and memoirs that resonate with Kansas readers. Its catalog includes titles that celebrate personal storytelling and social themes. With an approachable team, the press supports both first-time and experienced authors, offering opportunities for regional distribution and visibility in Kansas’s growing literary market.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Focus on memoirs and contemporary themes
- Accessible for new authors
- Regional distribution and community engagement
16. Cottonwood Literary Press (Manhattan)
About the Publisher: Cottonwood Literary Press, linked to the Cottonwood literary magazine, nurtures voices in fiction and poetry. With a history of amplifying Midwestern literature, the press is recognized for its attention to literary craft. It continues to be a space for creative writers seeking thoughtful editorial guidance and regional exposure.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Long-standing literary tradition
- Focus on fiction and poetry
- Regional recognition and support
17. Haskell Indian Nations University Press (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: Haskell Indian Nations University Press preserves Native American history, culture, and voices. Publishing works by Indigenous authors and scholars, it promotes cultural understanding and heritage. This press is an important outlet for writers dedicated to amplifying Native perspectives and ensuring that Indigenous stories are heard and celebrated nationwide.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Focus on Native American voices
- Cultural preservation and storytelling
- Strong academic and community support
18. Kansas Historical Society Press (Topeka)
About the Publisher: Kansas Historical Society Press is dedicated to preserving and sharing the state’s history through detailed publications. From biographies to documentary works, its books highlight Kansas’s past while making history engaging for modern readers. Authors benefit from its established reputation and distribution through historical and cultural organizations statewide.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong historical focus
- Trusted statewide institution
- Engaged audience for Kansas history
19. Wichita State University Press (Wichita)
About the Publisher: Wichita State University Press publishes works that blend academic insight with cultural storytelling. Known for nonfiction and educational materials, it supports scholarship while remaining accessible. Authors gain credibility through their institutional association, and their publications often contribute significantly to Kansas’s literary, academic, and cultural conversations.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- University credibility and resources
- Wide range of nonfiction and academic titles
- Contribution to cultural and literary studies
20. Blue Cedar Press (Overland Park)
About the Publisher: Blue Cedar Press is a modern independent publisher highlighting regional voices, social themes, and literary fiction. With an emphasis on high-quality design and professional marketing, the press supports authors eager to share stories with both local and national audiences. It values creativity and impactful storytelling across genres.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Professional design and marketing support
- Strong literary and social focus
- Great for authors seeking regional-to-national reach
21. Ravenstone Press (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: Ravenstone Press champions experimental and boundary-pushing literature. Focused on fiction, poetry, and hybrid works, it gives a platform to authors unafraid of innovation. The press emphasizes literary quality and creative risk-taking, making it an attractive choice for writers exploring unique narratives and unconventional storytelling methods.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Emphasis on experimental and innovative works
- Strong literary standards
- Encourages bold, unconventional voices
22. Great Plains Press (Garden City)
About the Publisher: Great Plains Press captures stories rooted in Kansas and the broader Great Plains region. Its catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and historical accounts, always tied to the landscapes and people of the region. The press provides authors with the chance to reach readers who value authentic prairie storytelling.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong connection to Great Plains identity
- Publishes diverse genres tied to place
- Ideal for regional writers
23. Tallgrass Press (Emporia)
About the Publisher: Tallgrass Press focuses on poetry and literary works that highlight Kansas’s landscapes, traditions, and communities. By uplifting local voices and new poets, the press fosters creative expression while connecting authors with audiences who appreciate artful, place-based literature. Its mission supports both creativity and cultural preservation.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Poetry-focused with regional inspiration
- Supportive of emerging writers
- Commitment to Kansas traditions
24. Sunflower University Press (Manhattan)
About the Publisher: Sunflower University Press publishes educational and scholarly works, particularly in the humanities and regional studies. It provides opportunities for authors to share academic research while ensuring their work reaches both student and general audiences. Its reputation for quality scholarship makes it a respected outlet for researchers and educators.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Specializes in academic publishing
- Accessible for both scholarly and general audiences
- Strong reputation in the humanities
25. Golden Plains Press (Hays)
About the Publisher: Golden Plains Press offers opportunities for authors focused on Kansas heritage, memoirs, and general nonfiction. Its mission is to highlight stories that bring attention to the people and experiences shaping life in the Midwest. With a personal, author-centered approach, it helps writers tell stories with local impact.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Strong focus on memoirs and nonfiction
- Highlights Kansas and Midwest heritage
- Personalized support for authors
26. Pioneer Girl Press (Dodge City)
About the Publisher: Pioneer Girl Press specializes in narratives celebrating women’s voices, history, and pioneer legacies. Its books highlight personal stories, biographies, and regional experiences with an emphasis on empowerment and cultural preservation. Authors find a platform that values their unique voices while keeping historical and social storytelling alive.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Focus on women’s voices and history
- Specializes in biographies and pioneer legacies
- Strong community engagement
27. Ad Astra Publishing (Overland Park)
About the Publisher: Named after Kansas’s motto, Ad Astra Publishing emphasizes contemporary fiction, poetry, and nonfiction with a Kansas connection. Its goal is to uplift regional authors while making their work available to larger audiences. The press is known for creativity, community engagement, and giving voice to Midwestern writers.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Celebrates Kansas and Midwest authors
- Diverse range of genres
- Focus on creativity and community
28. Kansas Authors Press (Topeka)
About the Publisher: Kansas Authors Press is a collaborative press created by authors, for authors. It values partnership, creativity, and storytelling across genres. Writers benefit from its author-first approach, which emphasizes flexibility, shared knowledge, and community marketing. It offers a supportive environment for both new and established voices.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Author-first and collaborative approach
- Flexible across genres
- Strong emphasis on community marketing
29. Plainsong Press (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: Plainsong Press publishes works tied to spirituality, regional identity, and cultural storytelling. With titles ranging from reflective nonfiction to poetry, it nurtures authors who explore deeper connections to Kansas life and heritage. Its supportive editorial process makes it appealing for authors writing both literary and thoughtful nonfiction works.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Focus on spirituality and cultural storytelling
- Supports poetry and reflective nonfiction
- Strong editorial guidance
30. New Growth Press (Wichita)
About the Publisher: New Growth Press is an independent Christian publisher with a focus on faith-based works, devotionals, and inspirational nonfiction. Its catalog is designed to uplift readers while supporting authors with shared values. Writers benefit from professional editing, niche marketing, and an audience eager for inspirational and spiritual content.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Christian-focused publishing mission
- Niche audience for faith-based works
- Professional editorial and marketing support
31. Kaw Valley Press (Lawrence)
About the Publisher: Kaw Valley Press publishes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry reflecting Kansas’s unique landscapes and culture. With an emphasis on creative storytelling, it fosters voices that capture both rural and urban life in the state. Authors benefit from approachable publishing support and meaningful opportunities to connect with regional audiences.
Why Authors Choose Them:
- Emphasis on Kansas-inspired works
- Publishes across fiction, nonfiction, and poetry
- Accessible support for writers
Understanding Publishing Costs in Kansas
For authors planning to publish in Kansas, it’s essential to understand the financial aspects of bringing a book to life. Costs can vary based on the type of publishing—traditional, hybrid, or self-publishing—and the level of professional support an author seeks. Here are some common factors to consider:
- Editing Services – Professional editing is crucial for polishing a manuscript. Costs may range from $500 to $2,500 depending on length and complexity.
- Cover Design – A quality cover can make or break a book’s appeal. Expect to spend between $300 and $1,000 for professional design.
- Printing and Formatting – Print runs, binding, and interior design add to costs. Small print runs may start around $1,000.
- Marketing and Promotion – Building visibility through book launches, advertising, and social media campaigns may range from $500 to $3,000 or more.
- Publishing Path – Traditional publishers often absorb costs but require competitive submissions, while self-publishing offers flexibility but places expenses on the author.
By researching in advance and comparing publishers, Kansas authors can choose an approach that balances their creative goals with financial planning. Many presses in Kansas offer author-friendly packages, giving writers opportunities to see their work reach the shelves without overwhelming budgets.
Conclusion
Kansas is home to a thriving mix of university presses, regional publishers, and independent houses that welcome both new and established authors. From history-focused imprints to creative literary presses, writers can find supportive platforms that align with their work.
While publishing costs can feel daunting, understanding where expenses lie—editing, design, printing, and promotion—helps authors prepare wisely. With Kansas’s emphasis on storytelling and community, the state offers a nurturing environment for authors determined to share their voices.
For many, publishing in Kansas isn’t just about producing books—it’s about building connections that endure.
