The Basics: How to Publish Your Prescriptive Nonfiction Book Traditionally

Welcome to the very first episode of Kind of a Big Book Deal! In this episode, host Meghan Stevenson kicks off a 10-part crash course on traditional publishing. 

Meghan explains the difference between publishers and imprints, showing how big companies like Penguin Random House own many smaller brands, which can be confusing for authors. She also breaks down the Big Five publishers—Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Hachette, and Macmillan—explaining their history, who owns them, and how many books they publish each year.

The key takeaway? Success in publishing isn’t about chasing a specific publisher—it’s about knowing what matters to you as an author. Whether you're aiming for a big deal or just learning how publishing works, this episode gives you the foundation to move forward with confidence. Stay tuned for future episodes where Megan will cover everything from book advances to getting an agent!