Submission Guidelines

  

What kinds of books and services does Loyola Press offer?

We specialize in two areas: one, providing resources for readers of all ages interested in Ignatian spirituality and prayer, and two, supporting parish ministry leaders and catechists in fostering and passing on a living faith.

What kinds of authors write for Loyola Press?

Loyola Press seeks fresh, inspiring voices that celebrate and uphold the rich traditions of our 2,000-year-old Catholic faith. We are looking for authors who can address the needs of catechists and faith formation ministers, as well as those who bring new perspectives to Ignatian spirituality. Our work is guided by St. Ignatius's vision of “finding God in all things,” and we seek partners who see “the world charged with the grandeur of God.”

What types of manuscripts are of interest to Loyola Press?

We are interested in two main types of books:

  1. Works that help people of all ages experience God more directly, introduce the Spiritual Exercises, Ignatian discernment, and decision-making, and explore Scripture as a way of encountering Jesus
  2. Works that explain Catholic tradition, the significance of rituals and practices, and encourage dialogue about our beliefs, while helping individuals find their place within the Church where their gifts can thrive

What are some recent titles published by Loyola Press?

  • The Catholic Parents' Survival Guide by Julianne Stanz
  • The Life of Jesus by Andrea Tornielli
  • First Belong to God by Austen Ivereigh
  • Cannonball Moments by Eric Clayton
  • Seven Clues by Scott Hahn and Maura Roan McKeegan
  • Considering Jesus by Joseph Tetlow, SJ
  • Praying through Pain by Barbara Lee
  • Sacred Space: Retreats and Reflections

How many submissions does Loyola Press receive each year? How many new books do you accept?

Loyola Press receives more than a thousand submissions each year. From these, we select 8–10 new titles annually, with many coming from agented authors.

Do I need to have an agent to submit to Loyola Press?

No, we accept unagented queries; however, please consider that we have limited slots for publication, and only a few are chosen.

What types of books does Loyola Press not publish?

We do not publish poetry, fiction, dissertations, apologetics, or works that are argumentative or ideologically driven.

How do I interest Loyola Press in my manuscript?

  1. Submit a clear, compelling one-page query letter via email or regular mail. If emailing, include a one-sentence description of your book in the subject line.
  2. In the first paragraph, explain why this subject is worthy of a book.
  3. In the second paragraph, state your proposed title, subtitle, and word count.
  4. Address the following in your query letter:
    • How is your book unique in its category?
    • What problem does it address?
    • What benefit will readers gain?
    • Why are you the right person to write this book? Include your qualifications and platform for marketing the book.

Please do not send a completed manuscript until we request it. A query letter is sufficient to start a discussion.

When can I expect a reply from Loyola Press?

Due to the volume of submissions, please allow 8–10 weeks for a response.

What is the most common reason for Loyola Press rejecting a query?

The most common reason for rejection is that the query does not align with what we’re looking for.

Will Loyola Press return my materials?

We prefer to receive queries by email. If you submit materials via mail and want them returned, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) or a prepaid mailer. Email submissions do not require this.

How can I query Loyola Press about my submission?

You can e-mail us at submissions@loyolapress.com.

Or send your query to:
Submissions NPD
Executive Editor/Trade Acquisitions
Loyola Press
8770 W Bryn Mawr Ave
Suite 1125
Chicago, IL 60631