Proposal Information
New Project Review
Process
Submission Guidelines for New Projects
The following are key elements that prospective authors
should include in project proposals submitted to Howard University Press
for consideration:
Thesis & Scope
First, state your thesis clearly and present the parameters
of your topic, describing the context(s) pertinent to your study —
historical, literary, political, sociological, psychological, etc. Be
sure to explain what you do not intend to address, and why, because
individuals with differing expectations will examine your material. You
should also discuss the significant works that have been written on the
topic and briefly state their theses. Finally, discuss how your proposed
work compares with the existing literature.
Theoretical Framework
The second element of your proposal should be a discussion
of your theoretical framework — its definition, validity, and utility.
How does your approach compare with approaches, if any, that have
predominated in the past? Please discuss the sources that have guided
your selection of this theoretical framework.
Outline
Chapter summaries that will allow the Press to fully
consider the parameters of each unit of text and how those units work
together should comprise the third element. Please include descriptions
of the introduction and conclusion in this section. You should also
delineate your scholarly apparatus, as far as you have currently conceived
it, including tables, illustrations, photographs, bibliography,
appendices, previously published documents, public and government
documents, private letters, and other elements.
Market Analysis
The fourth section of your proposal should position your
project in the marketplace. Please describe the primary and secondary
audiences you believe will be interested in your work. Also, if you have
planned specific chapters or discussions that you know will be of special
significance to a particular audience, you should call our attention to
these. Overall, this part of your proposal should enable the Press to
envision your project’s potential beyond what may be obvious.
In addition to your proposal, please submit your curriculum
vita or resume. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope to be
used for any manuscript materials you would like returned. Address all
materials to:
Editorial Department
Howard University Press
2225 Georgia Avenue, NW, Suite 720
Washington, DC 20059
Tel: (202) 238-2570
Fax: (202) 588-9849
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