Rising Action Publishing

Women have long been underrepresented in the publishing industry, both as authors and as members of the workforce. In recent years, however, there has been a growing movement to address this imbalance and amplify women’s voices in publishing. Publishers have played a vital role in this effort, using their platform to spotlight female authors and champion diversity within the industry. In doing so, they have not only helped to level the playing field for women in publishing but also given them a much-needed boost in visibility and influence.

There is a long history of book publishers championing women authors and helping to give them a platform to reach new readers. For example, many leading publishing houses were founded or run by women, including Virago Press and Persephone Books. Rising Action is happy to join thrilled to be a part of these women-owned, women-run presses! These imprints are explicitly dedicated to publishing works by women writers, many of whom had been previously overlooked by the male-dominated publishing industry.

Many women face significant barriers to entry when it comes to publishing due to a lack of resources and networks. Publishers can help by offering financial assistance to cover costs such as manuscript development or marketing.

Publishers need to evaluate how they’re marketing. If a publisher only ever features male authors on their website or in their social media posts, it sends a signal that they don’t value or respect female authors. But if they make an effort to promote a wide range of authors, including women, it sends a very different message.

Women authors have also benefited from having access to mentors who can offer advice and guidance on navigating the publishing industry. Publishers can connect female authors with seasoned professionals who can provide valuable insights and advice. A mentorship program like We Support Diverse authors is one of the most important things a publisher can recommend to authors from all backgrounds. 

Today, there are still many barriers facing women authors trying to break into the publishing world. But thanks to the efforts of forward-thinking publishers, these barriers are slowly being dismantled. Many publishers now have specific programs and initiatives aimed at supporting women writers, such as Penguin Random House’s Write Now scheme, which offers free mentoring and advice to underrepresented writers.

As gatekeepers of the literary world, publishers have the power to make a real difference in promoting diversity. By actively seeking out underrepresented authors and amplifying their voices, publishers can help to create a more inclusive and representative literary landscape. In doing so, they not only play a vital role in promoting diversity but also in helping to ensure that all voices are heard.

Rising Action Publishing is a traditional independent publishing house that is women-owned and women-run. We are committed to diverse stories and are passionate about literature. We are committed to sharing our authors’ stories with the world. Our commitment extends to readers, and our carefully curated collection of books includes unputdownable page-turners across many genres, delivery surprise and delight.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RISING ACTION PUBLISHING HERE

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Alexandria Brown has ten years of experience in marketing and creative writing. Alex has a Bachelor’s in Communications with a major in Public Relations, a Master of Fine Arts – Creative Writing from the University of Gloucestershire, and is a Creative Writing Ph.D. Candidate currently at the University of Gloucestershire. She has two traditionally published nonfiction books. She’s a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Alex’s primary role is acquisitions and marketing as well as working with sub-agents on subsidiary rights.

Tags: featured, women writers

Category: On Writing