We keep being asked how to make a well-designed book without losing your shirt, your sanity, or your soul. So we’re starting a small experiment we’re calling book shepherding.

Book shepherding is offered as a supported program of Press Pause for writers and artists who plan to self-publish their books and are seeking careful editorial and design guidance as they move toward a print-ready final object. This work is relationship-based and time-limited, grounded in respect for each book and the pace it requires, and draws on the editorial and design knowledge we’ve developed through our own publishing work

Authors who participate are not purchasing services in a commercial sense, cuz well, that ain’t us. Book shepherding is sustained through charitable support of Press Pause. Support typically takes the form of a negotiated, sliding-scale contribution from the author/artist—either as a one-time gift or as monthly support over a defined period. Suggested contributions generally fall between $350–$2,000, or the equivalent in monthly support over a period of roughly 3-9 months, depending on the scope and needs of the project.

We’re always open to talking with authors about their budget and the scope of support that might be appropriate before any donation commitments are made. We want to help as many authors and artists as we can!

These contributions make it possible for Press Pause to fairly compensate editors and collaborators involved while keeping the program sustainable. 

The goal of book shepherding is straightforward and tangible: that a book leaves the process thoughtfully edited, meaningfully designed (by the Press Pause team or author/artist in consultative collaboration), and ready to be printed with confidence. 

This program is not a publishing imprint or a submission pathway, and books we shepherd will not be categorized as Press Pause titles.

Availability is limited, and inquiries are open. Email info@presspausepress.org.