I want to write a book, but I do not know where to start. Can you assist?’ 

Jonathan Ball Publishers does not offer publishing consulting services or writing courses; we advise you to reach out to a writing school.

I have an idea for a book/an important story to tell. Can Jonathan Ball Publishers (JBP) help me write my book or recommend a ghost writer who could write it for me?

If you need a ghost writer or another form of writing support, we suggest you contact The Professional Editors’ Group (www.editors.org.za) or the South African Freelancers Association (www.safrea.co.za), who will put you in touch with a freelance writer.
Note that if you wish to acquire such services, it will be your responsibility to cover their fee.

Can I meet with someone from your team to explain the concept behind my book before I submit it?

Due to the vast number of manuscripts and book concepts that are submitted to us on a weekly basis, we are unable to meet writers whose work has not yet been accepted for publication. Once you have submitted your manuscript according to the guidelines on our website (https://www.jonathanball.co.za/manuscript-submissions-faqs/), we will be in touch should we need further information or to request a meeting.

How much does it cost to print a book? Can you send me a quote?

Jonathan Ball Publishers does not offer printing or publishing services to private individuals. Please reach out to one of the companies that offer self-publishing services in South Africa.

I have self-published a book/an ebook. Will JBP distribute it for me?

JBP does not offer distribution services to private individuals.

How does the publishing process work?

For more information visit the following link on the website of the Publishers Association of South Africa: https://publishsa.co.za/how-to-get-published/

How long does it take before I will get feedback on my manuscript submission?

See the following link on our website regarding manuscript submissions: https://www.jonathanball.co.za/manuscript-submissions-faqs/ and allow at least 3 months for feedback.

I have written a manuscript and would like feedback on my work. Can someone on your team review it?

Unless we intend to publish your work, we do not review and provide feedback on manuscripts. For a professional manuscript assessment, please reach out to The Professional Editors’ Group (www.editors.org.za).

I need help editing my book. Can you assist?

Jonathan Ball Publishers does not offer editing or proofreading services to authors whose work have not yet been accepted for publication. For professional editing and proofreading services, please contact The Professional Editors’ Group (www.editors.org.za) or the South African Freelancers Association (www.safrea.co.za).

Can you sell my book internationally?

Many authors believe there will be international interest in their book. However, it is only in rare instances that overseas rights are sold, since competition is fierce in the global publishing industry. However, should your manuscript be accepted for publication, the e-book will be made available on international e-tailers such as Amazon. A print-on-demand physical copy of the book can also be made available on Amazon.

How long will it take JBP to publish my book?

If your manuscript is accepted for publication, it can take anything from 8 months to three years before your book is published. It depends on several factors, including how much development work the manuscript requires and whether we have space on our production schedule.

What are the criteria according to which JBP decides to publish a manuscript?

We evaluate each new submission according to the quality of the writing and the commercial viability of the work. Please also see the manuscript submissions guidelines on our website and the request to indicate who the market for the book is.

Can I sign up to be an author for Jonathan Ball Publishers?

Unless an author’s work has been accepted for publication by JBP, we do not recruit, represent, nor act as an agent for writers.

Do you offer internships?

Each year we employ at least one intern thanks to the Publishers Association of South Africa’s internship programme. Please submit your application to them and not directly to us: https://publishsa.co.za/internship-programme/.