Kansas may be best known for its wide prairies, agricultural roots, and Midwestern traditions, but it also carries a vibrant literary and publishing scene. Over the years, the state has nurtured a strong network of publishers, ranging from university presses and regional imprints to independent and hybrid publishers. Together, they provide writers with platforms to share their stories while preserving Kansas’s rich cultural heritage.
In 2025, the publishing industry in Kansas reflects both tradition and innovation. Some publishers focus on regional history and nonfiction, while others embrace fiction, poetry, children’s books, or hybrid publishing opportunities. This diversity allows authors of all genres to find a home for their work.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting is well known for its professional ghostwriting services, but it also functions as a publishing company. It provides writers with the full publishing package, from manuscript creation to printing.
- Publishes both fiction and nonfiction
- Offers editing, cover design, and formatting
- Works with first-time authors as well as professionals
2. University Press of Kansas
A consortium press representing multiple state universities, the University Press of Kansas is one of the region’s most respected academic publishers.
- Specializes in political science, history, and cultural studies
- Known for peer-reviewed, scholarly publications
- Trusted resource for academics, libraries, and researchers
3. Mennonite Press
Located in Newton, Mennonite Press has been part of Kansas’s publishing tradition for decades.
- Publishes regional history and religious works
- Provides custom publishing services
- Strong focus on preserving community stories
4. Meadowlark Press
An independent press, Meadowlark emphasizes Midwestern voices and literary quality.
- Publishes poetry, fiction, and memoir
- Supports emerging writers with personalized guidance
- Known for carefully crafted, small-run titles
5. Flint Hills Publishing
Named after Kansas’s scenic Flint Hills, this publisher blends traditional and hybrid publishing models.
- Produces fiction, nonfiction, and regional works
- Offers editing, design, and marketing support
- Encourages stories tied to Kansas landscapes
6. Kansas Heritage Press
Kansas Heritage Press dedicates itself to nonfiction and history titles.
- Emphasizes biographies and regional studies
- Preserves Kansas culture through books
- Appeals to historians, educators, and local readers
7. Blue Cedar Press
A small, literary press known for publishing creative voices.
- Focuses on poetry and creative nonfiction
- Strong support for Kansas-based authors
- Small-scale but impactful publications
8. New Plains Press
New Plains Press seeks to capture the identity of the Midwest through literature.
- Publishes poetry, essays, and fiction
- Encourages diverse voices
- Offers thoughtful and reflective works
9. Prairie Dog Press
This press focuses on younger readers and schools.
- Specializes in children’s picture books
- Partners with educators to support learning
- Works with Kansas-based illustrators
10. Sunflower Press
Named after Kansas’s state flower, this press covers multiple genres.
- Publishes fiction, nonfiction, and memoirs
- Promotes Kansas identity through stories
- Welcomes independent writers
11. Cottonwood Press
With origins tied to the Cottonwood literary magazine, this press has a strong creative tradition.
- Focuses on poetry and fiction
- Connected with creative writing communities
- Highlights literary excellence
12. Kansas City Voices Press
Linked to the literary magazine Kansas City Voices, this press publishes anthologies and independent works.
- Produces poetry, short stories, and essays
- Diverse author representation
- Encourages Midwestern literary talent
13. Prairie Hill Books
Prairie Hill Books is a small press specializing in memoir and nonfiction.
- Focus on biographies and personal storytelling
- Regional orientation
- Accessible hybrid model
14. Wichita State University Press
The academic publishing branch of Wichita State University.
- Scholarly and educational titles
- Strong research-based catalog
- Supports regional academics
15. Little Fig Books
Little Fig Books is dedicated to publishing children’s literature.
- Emphasis on illustrated picture books
- Educational and values-based content
- Appeals to families and schools
16. Victory House Press
Victory House Press specializes in motivational and inspirational books.
- Focus on Christian and self-help writing
- Encourages uplifting storytelling
- Offers full-service publishing
17. Topeka Press
A small but meaningful press dedicated to local authors.
- Regional nonfiction and memoirs
- Hybrid publishing opportunities
- Promotes Kansas heritage
18. Tallgrass Press
Named after Kansas’s tallgrass prairies, this press focuses on literary works.
- Poetry, fiction, and memoir
- Ties to Kansas landscapes and culture
- Encourages both new and established authors
19. Emporia Publishing House
Located in Emporia, this house offers a variety of publishing opportunities.
- Works in fiction and nonfiction
- Supports regional and national voices
- Offers hybrid publishing services
20. Kansas Writers Press
A cooperative press formed by Kansas writers.
- Publishes anthologies and solo works
- Writers collectively share resources
- Strong focus on community publishing
21. Pioneer Country Press
This press highlights Kansas history and cultural storytelling.
- Nonfiction orientation
- Strong ties to Kansas traditions
- Supports local historians
22. Wichita Publishing Company
A versatile press based in Wichita.
- Fiction, nonfiction, and educational texts
- Community-centered publishing approach
- Works with independent authors
23. Redbud Press
Redbud Press is recognized for romance and inspirational fiction.
- Publishes Christian romance titles
- Works with niche audiences
- Provides accessible publishing options
24. Prairie Sky Publishing
Prairie Sky Publishing works with authors across genres.
- Memoir, fiction, and nonfiction
- Hybrid publishing support
- Dedicated to personal storytelling
25. Kansas Regional Press
Focused on history and biography, Kansas Regional Press highlights local heritage.
- Works with museums and cultural institutions
- Publishes nonfiction and regional studies
- Strong emphasis on historical preservation
26. Midwestern Voices Press
This press showcases the diverse voices of the Midwest.
- Publishes poetry, essays, and fiction
- Encourages underrepresented perspectives
- Focuses on cultural diversity
27. River City Press
Based in Wichita, River City Press specializes in regional works.
- Fiction and nonfiction titles
- Kansas themes in literature
- Works with Midwestern authors
28. Jayhawk Publishing
Named after the Kansas Jayhawk, this publisher embraces a wide range of genres.
- Fiction and nonfiction focus
- Emphasis on Kansas authorship
- Accessible publishing process
29. High Plains Press (Kansas Branch)
An extension of a Wyoming-based publisher.
- Western history and nonfiction
- Kansas contributions to regional catalog
- Focus on Great Plains culture
30. Kansas Heartland Press
This press highlights Kansas’s cultural and literary identity.
- Publishes biographies, nonfiction, and memoirs
- Strong Midwestern emphasis
- Preserves local heritage
31. Storm Shelter Publishing
Storm Shelter works with fiction and poetry authors.
- Contemporary creative works
- Independent press structure
- Encourages fresh voices
32. Rural Voices Press
Focused on rural life, agriculture, and small-town experiences.
- Memoirs and nonfiction stories
- Regional storytelling approach
- Strong Kansas orientation
33. Wheatfield Press
Wheatfield Press supports diverse genres.
- Children’s books, fiction, and memoirs
- Hybrid publishing services
- Emphasis on Kansas values
34. Lawrence Literary Press
A press rooted in the creative community of Lawrence.
- Publishes poetry chapbooks
- Focus on literary arts
- Supports new writers
35. Kansas Spirit Press
This publisher focuses on inspirational works.
- Memoirs and self-help books
- Emphasis on uplifting content
- Supports emerging authors
36. Crossroads Publishing (Kansas)
Crossroads highlights contemporary and regional writing.
- Publishes both fiction and nonfiction
- Works with Kansas voices
- Offers hybrid publishing support
37. Prairie Tales Publishing
A small press dedicated to authentic Kansas storytelling.
- Memoirs and regional fiction
- Focus on lived experiences
- Accessible publishing model
38. Flintlock Press
Specialized in genre fiction.
- Mystery, thrillers, and westerns
- Popular fiction titles
- Focus on storytelling appeal
39. Golden Wheat Publishing
A children’s and educational publisher.
- Illustrated stories for young readers
- Values-based learning content
- Works with schools
40. Plains Horizon Press
Dedicated to research-based nonfiction.
- Academic and regional studies
- Works with scholars and educators
- Cultural preservation mission
41. Topeka Writers Collective Press
A cooperative run by local authors.
- Anthologies and collaborative projects
- Focus on community publishing
- Nurtures first-time writers
42. Mid-America Press
Mid-America Press extends across the Midwest.
- Publishes cultural and historical books
- Works with libraries and institutions
- Strong nonfiction catalog
43. Homestead Publishing
Homestead emphasizes Kansas roots and family traditions.
- Memoirs and family histories
- Historical fiction
- Close ties to communities
44. Salina Press
Located in Salina, this press supports both literary and general interest works.
- Publishes fiction, poetry, and essays
- Regional orientation
- Hybrid publishing available
45. Wichita Literary Press
This press highlights literary fiction and poetry.
- Works with Kansas-based authors
- Strong support for writing groups
- Small independent model
46. Great Plains Publications
Covers the entire Great Plains region.
- Nonfiction and cultural studies
- Appeals to regional readers
- Focus on history and heritage
47. Windmill Press
A family-focused publisher specializing in children’s books.
- Illustrated fiction and picture books
- Works with Kansas illustrators
- Emphasis on creativity and imagination
48. Heart of Kansas Publishing
A community-driven press that supports local talent.
- Works across fiction, nonfiction, and poetry
- Focus on Kansas voices
- Encourages new and emerging authors
How to Choose the Right Kansas Publisher
- Genre fit: Authors should look at whether a press specializes in fiction, poetry, academic, or children’s books.
- Editorial approach: Some presses are highly selective, while others offer hybrid opportunities.
- Distribution reach: Consider whether a publisher focuses on local markets or national distribution.
Future Trends in Kansas Publishing
- Growth of hybrid publishing models blending traditional and self-publishing.
- Expansion of digital platforms alongside print.
- Greater emphasis on regional voices in a globalized market.
Conclusion
The publishing industry in Kansas is diverse, dynamic, and deeply rooted in the state’s cultural and literary traditions. From the academic prestige of the University Press of Kansas to the community-driven ethos of Meadowlark Press and smaller collectives, the state provides countless opportunities for authors. Whether you are looking to publish historical nonfiction, children’s literature, or poetry, Kansas has a publisher to help you share your story.
