Submission Guidelines
The first step in the submission process is to contact the ESL acquisition editor David Coombes (david.coombes@oup.com or 541-246-9853) to discuss the book idea. This is best done in a one page introductory letter that contains information about the book, and about the author’s training.
If both Oxford and the author decide that they would like to proceed forward then a prospectus must be submitted that includes the following sections, along with any other relevant information pertaining to the project.
The Book
- A synopsis and description of the book
- A detailed table of contents, including all headings and subheadings
- A brief outline of the book's distinctive or innovative features, with a more detailed description of the two or three most important ones
- A brief outline of the characteristics of the book (i.e. end-of-chapter summaries, checklists, exercises, etc.)
- The length and format of the book
- A description of the look of the book (i.e. pictures, inserts, charts, etc.)
- The pedagogical approach the book takes and the reasoning behind it
- Supplements that are intended to go with the book (i.e. instructor's manual, exercise book, etc.)
- Report on how much of the book is currently completed
- Estimate of the time required to complete the manuscript
The Author(s)
- An explanation of why the author(s) is writing the book
- Resume from the author(s)
- A note about any other experience that qualifies the author(s) in the field
- A note about any sales avenues that the author may have access to
- Other interesting facts about the author that may be influential in the selling or marketing of the book
The Market
- Is the book for the classroom or independent learners?
- Is there a specific program, class, or level for which it is intended?
- What is the approximate size of the market for this book? How was this number reached?
- What books would be in competition with this book?
- How this book will set itself apart from the competition?
Sample Chapter
Please provide sample chapters that highlight the writing style, pedagogical approach, and prominent features of the book.