Iowa may be best known for its rich farmlands and friendly communities, but its literary culture is just as fertile. From award-winning university presses to thriving indie publishers, Iowa continues to nurture both established and emerging authors. Whether you’re writing your first novel, a memoir, or an academic work, the state offers a wide range of professional publishing options designed to turn your manuscript into a market-ready book.
In 2025, Iowa’s publishing landscape reflects a blend of tradition and innovation. Local publishers are combining editorial craftsmanship with digital platforms, giving authors more control and global reach than ever before. Whether you want full-service ghostwriting, literary prestige, or a personalized indie experience — Iowa has a publisher ready to make your story shine.
Highlights of the Iowa Book Publishing Market (2025)
Diverse Publishing Models: Iowa offers traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing options for every author type.
Literary Excellence: Home to respected institutions like the University of Iowa Press, known for nurturing world-class writers.
Regional Creativity: Independent presses promote stories rooted in Midwest culture, history, and community.
Affordability: Many Iowa publishers provide transparent pricing and flexible packages for authors with varying budgets.
Growth in Indie Publishing: A surge in small presses is giving more creative freedom to local and self-publishing authors.
Top Book Publishing Companies in Iowa (2025)
1. Full-Service & Ghostwriting Publishers
Companies like Vox Ghostwriting, Graham Publishing Group, and Waterbury Publications Inc offer end-to-end services — from ghostwriting to editing, marketing, and distribution — ideal for busy professionals and first-time authors.
2. Academic & Educational Publishers
Leading presses such as the University of Iowa Press and Kendall Hunt Publishing focus on research, textbooks, and scholarly works that uphold Iowa’s academic legacy.
3. Literary & Independent Presses
Independent houses like Ice Cube Press and Culicidae Press champion creativity, poetry, and thought-provoking literature rooted in regional and artistic identity.
4. Regional & Cultural Publishers
Imprints like Iowa Heritage Press and River Junction Press preserve local history, traditions, and biographical stories that celebrate the state’s Midwestern roots.
5. Children’s, Family & Inspirational Publishers
Publishers such as Silver Maple Press and Bluegrass Publishing House bring wholesome, educational, and faith-based books to young and family-oriented readers.
6. Regional Indie & Creative Publishers
Hybrid publishers like Rolling Hills Publishing, North Liberty Press, and Midwest Writing Center Press support self-publishing authors, poets, and artists with flexibility and creative control.
1. Vox Ghostwriting
Vox Ghostwriting stands as one of the most trusted full-service ghostwriting and publishing companies in the U.S., offering authors in Iowa and beyond expert guidance from concept to publication. Specializing in fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, and business books, it provides professional writing, editing, design, and marketing solutions. The company’s experienced team ensures every project reflects the author’s voice while maintaining the highest literary and publishing standards.
2. Graham Publishing Group (Des Moines)
Located in Des Moines, Graham Publishing Group provides top-tier ghostwriting, editing, design, and publishing support for authors of all genres. The firm works closely with clients to develop clear publishing strategies that align with their goals, whether creative or commercial. With an emphasis on collaboration and storytelling excellence, Graham Publishing Group has built a reputation for producing compelling, polished books that connect with readers worldwide.
3. Waterbury Publications Inc (Des Moines)
Waterbury Publications Inc is a boutique hybrid publisher headquartered in Des Moines, dedicated to helping authors bring their stories to market professionally. It offers ghostwriting, developmental editing, cover design, and marketing services within flexible publishing plans. Known for balancing creative freedom with industry expertise, Waterbury guides authors through each stage of the process—resulting in books that meet global standards and reflect each writer’s unique vision.
4. Sunrise Book Press
Sunrise Book Press focuses on empowering independent authors with comprehensive self-publishing and hybrid publishing options. Its team assists with editing, layout design, marketing, and distribution while maintaining transparency and creative freedom for the author. The press’s mission is to make publishing accessible and professional, ensuring every book receives individual care. Sunrise is ideal for writers seeking high-quality production without sacrificing ownership or artistic integrity.
Academic & Educational Publishers
Iowa has long been a hub of intellectual and academic excellence, and its publishing landscape reflects that reputation. Academic and educational presses in the state play a crucial role in advancing scholarship, research, and learning across disciplines.
These publishers focus on works that contribute to education, professional development, and the broader academic community, making them ideal for professors, researchers, and students.
5. University of Iowa Press (Iowa City)
The University of Iowa Press, established in 1969, is the state’s leading academic publisher and a cornerstone of scholarly publishing in the Midwest. It focuses on literature, history, cultural studies, and creative nonfiction, along with award-winning poetry and fiction series. The press also supports emerging authors and educators, emphasizing regional themes that reflect Iowa’s intellectual heritage and contribution to national and international academic discourse.
6. Kendall Hunt Publishing Company (Dubuque)
Based in Dubuque, Kendall Hunt Publishing Company is a nationally recognized educational publisher providing tailored academic content for schools, universities, and professional organizations. Known for its innovative custom publishing solutions, it allows educators to design materials specific to their courses. Kendall Hunt serves K–12, higher education, and corporate training markets, combining flexibility, digital integration, and quality content to empower educators and students nationwide.
7. Augustana College Press (Sioux City Region)
Augustana College Press supports academic publishing within the humanities, sciences, and cultural studies, with a focus on research that impacts the Midwest region. Operating under Augustana’s educational mission, the press promotes academic excellence and scholarly communication through journals, research compilations, and faculty-authored books. It stands as a vital platform for professors, graduate students, and historians seeking credible, peer-reviewed publishing opportunities in Iowa and beyond.
8. Great Plains Academic Books
Great Plains Academic Books is dedicated to producing high-quality scholarly works, focusing on Midwestern studies, social sciences, and educational research. The company collaborates with universities, scholars, and independent researchers to ensure every publication contributes to academic growth and cultural understanding. Its catalog often includes textbooks, dissertations, and regional studies that highlight Iowa’s intellectual landscape and the wider Great Plains’ historical and sociocultural development.
9. Ice Cube Press (North Liberty)
Ice Cube Press, based in North Liberty, is one of Iowa’s most respected literary publishers, focusing on works that explore the heart and spirit of the Midwest. It publishes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that celebrate nature, community, and regional identity. With over two decades of experience, Ice Cube Press supports authors who offer thoughtful, place-based storytelling that reflects the complexities and beauty of Midwestern life.
10. Penfield Books (Iowa City)
Penfield Books, located in Iowa City, specializes in cultural, historical, and educational titles with a strong emphasis on heritage and international understanding. The press is known for publishing books that connect readers with world cultures, traditions, and histories. Its catalog includes works on genealogy, travel, folklore, and language, making it a unique bridge between local authors and global readers passionate about cultural exploration.
11. Culicidae Press, LLC (Ames)
Culicidae Press, based in Ames, publishes thought-provoking works in art, architecture, design, and cultural studies. The press collaborates with academics, artists, and researchers to produce visually rich and intellectually engaging books. Known for its distinctive editorial approach, Culicidae champions interdisciplinary ideas and innovative formats, fostering critical dialogue between the arts, humanities, and social sciences within Iowa’s academic and creative communities.
12. Wildflower Literary Press
Wildflower Literary Press is an independent publisher devoted to discovering and promoting emerging voices in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. The press values originality and emotional depth, offering a home to writers exploring new perspectives and forms. Its mission is to cultivate literary talent across Iowa and the Midwest, providing opportunities for authors who want to bring authentic, imaginative storytelling to a wider audience.
13. Meadowlark Press
Meadowlark Press champions regional authors writing in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry, with a focus on Midwestern life and identity. It provides a platform for writers who blend artistry with truth, capturing the voices and experiences that define America’s heartland. Meadowlark emphasizes community, storytelling, and literary excellence, publishing books that are both artistically crafted and deeply connected to local culture.
14. StoryBarn Publishing
StoryBarn Publishing encourages narrative-driven fiction, short story collections, and anthologies that highlight creativity and originality. The company is passionate about storytelling in all forms—literary, speculative, and experimental. Based in Iowa, it nurtures both new and established authors through editorial mentorship and flexible publishing models. StoryBarn has become a creative hub for writers who value craftsmanship, voice, and emotional resonance in modern literature.
Regional & Cultural Publishers
Iowa’s literary heart beats strongest in the stories that honor its heritage, landscapes, and the people who define Midwestern life. Regional and cultural publishers play a vital role in preserving this identity, producing books that capture the essence of small towns, farming traditions, and local history.
These publishers don’t just print stories — they document the spirit of a place. Whether it’s a biography of a local legend, a collection of essays about life on the prairie, or a historical novel rooted in Iowa’s soil, these presses keep regional voices alive.
By focusing on authenticity, storytelling, and community, they ensure that Iowa’s legacy continues to inspire readers across generations.
15. Iowa Heritage Press
Iowa Heritage Press is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history and traditions of Iowa through books that explore its people, places, and culture. The press publishes biographies, local histories, and regional studies that highlight the state’s enduring character. By capturing authentic Midwestern experiences, Iowa Heritage Press ensures that the stories of Iowa’s past and present remain accessible to readers, educators, and researchers statewide.
16. Prairie Wind Publishing (Iowa Division)
Prairie Wind Publishing’s Iowa Division focuses on books that embody the landscapes, communities, and heritage of the Midwest. The press seeks manuscripts that celebrate the spirit of rural America through fiction, essays, and nonfiction rooted in place. Known for its supportive approach to authors, Prairie Wind emphasizes storytelling that connects readers to the environment, culture, and traditions that define Iowa and its surrounding regions.
17. River Junction Press
River Junction Press specializes in publishing historical and cultural works centered on Iowa and the Great Plains. Its catalog includes local histories, biographical narratives, and historical fiction that bring the past to life. The press values accuracy, research, and engaging storytelling, working closely with historians and writers to preserve regional voices. River Junction Press is recognized for keeping Midwestern stories alive through timeless, well-crafted books.
18. Red Barn Press
Red Barn Press celebrates the heart of small-town America through stories that capture the humor, struggles, and values of Midwestern life. Its catalog features memoirs, essays, and cultural nonfiction that reflect Iowa’s close-knit communities and agricultural roots. The press provides opportunities for both emerging and experienced authors, producing books that resonate with readers who appreciate authenticity, nostalgia, and the enduring charm of rural storytelling.
Children’s, Family & Inspirational Publishers
Iowa’s publishing landscape extends beyond academic and literary excellence — it also embraces the magic of childhood imagination and the warmth of family storytelling. These publishers create engaging, values-driven books that inspire, educate, and entertain. From colorful picture books to faith-based stories, they focus on enriching young minds and nurturing emotional connections within families. Each platform below contributes to Iowa’s growing reputation for meaningful, family-oriented literature.
19. Silver Maple Press
Silver Maple Press is a cherished Iowa-based publisher specializing in children’s picture books, early learning materials, and educational content. Known for its vibrant illustrations and heartwarming storytelling, the press helps young readers develop creativity and empathy. It collaborates closely with educators and authors to ensure every title encourages curiosity, literacy, and imagination. Silver Maple Press continues to enrich classrooms and homes with stories that blend fun and learning beautifully.
20. Walnut Grove Publishing
Walnut Grove Publishing focuses on wholesome, family-centered stories and youth fiction that celebrate moral values and community spirit. Based in Iowa, the company publishes works that promote kindness, family unity, and personal growth. Its catalog includes middle-grade adventures, uplifting novels, and heartwarming tales suitable for all ages. With a commitment to positivity and emotional depth, Walnut Grove Publishing has become a trusted name in family literature.
21. Silver Prairie Press
Silver Prairie Press is a creative Iowa publisher devoted to children’s adventure books, illustrated titles, and educational storytelling. Its mission is to inspire young readers to explore the world through exciting narratives and engaging visuals. The press works with emerging authors and illustrators to produce stories that balance entertainment and learning. Silver Prairie Press continues to nurture young imaginations while promoting reading as a joyful, lifelong habit.
22. Bluegrass Publishing House
Bluegrass Publishing House specializes in Christian, faith-based, and inspirational literature designed for families and individuals seeking encouragement. The publisher offers a range of devotionals, children’s books, and motivational titles that emphasize hope, love, and spiritual growth. Rooted in Midwestern values, Bluegrass strives to make a positive impact through its uplifting catalog. Its stories bring faith and family together, reflecting Iowa’s enduring spirit of compassion and belief.
Regional Indie & Creative Publishers
Iowa’s indie publishing scene is thriving, thanks to a wave of hybrid and creative-focused presses that empower authors with flexibility and artistic freedom. These publishers support self-publishing writers, poets, and storytellers seeking professional guidance without sacrificing control. By combining innovation with local collaboration, they produce diverse works — from modern fiction to travel and lifestyle books — while spotlighting the region’s creative talent and independent literary spirit.
1. Rolling Hills Publishing
Rolling Hills Publishing collaborates with independent authors to bring both print and digital books to life. Known for its flexible publishing packages, it assists with editing, design, distribution, and marketing while letting authors retain creative control. The company serves writers across Iowa and beyond, focusing on quality storytelling and visual appeal. Rolling Hills has become a go-to choice for self-published authors seeking a professional edge in the market.
23. Hawkeye Publishing (Waterloo)
Hawkeye Publishing, based in Waterloo, provides comprehensive author services for fiction, memoirs, and poetry. The company prides itself on offering a personal, collaborative publishing experience tailored to each writer’s goals. From manuscript evaluation to marketing strategy, Hawkeye Publishing helps local and regional voices find their audience. Its dedication to storytelling and accessible publishing options makes it a trusted name for emerging and established Iowa authors alike.
24. Inside Iowa Publishing
Inside Iowa Publishing is a small yet dynamic press centered around collaboration with local authors. The company publishes a range of works including short stories, memoirs, and community-driven projects that highlight Iowa’s literary diversity. With a mission to amplify local voices, it provides personalized publishing support and creative input. Inside Iowa Publishing serves as a platform for regional writers eager to share authentic stories from the Midwest heartland.
25. Maple Leaf Books
Maple Leaf Books is a creative Iowa publisher producing an eclectic mix of lifestyle, travel, and poetry titles. Its catalog reflects a love of storytelling that connects art, exploration, and human experience. The press encourages author individuality and innovative presentation styles, giving each book a distinct personality. Maple Leaf Books continues to attract creative writers who value artistic expression and meaningful narratives rooted in contemporary culture.
26. Horizon View Press
Horizon View Press is dedicated to publishing contemporary fiction and modern memoirs that explore personal growth, identity, and relationships. The press offers a boutique publishing experience, combining editorial craftsmanship with marketing expertise. Horizon View supports both new and experienced authors who seek to share transformative stories with emotional depth. Its titles often highlight fresh perspectives, making it a strong advocate for literary creativity in the Midwest.
27. North Liberty Press
North Liberty Press is an emerging small press championing regional fiction, poetry, and indie writers. Based in Iowa, it aims to create a supportive space for authors who want to publish unique, heartfelt stories without the restrictions of traditional publishing. With its focus on quality editing and design, North Liberty Press continues to grow as a vital hub for Iowa’s independent literary voices and creative storytelling.
29. Prairie Ink Publishing
Prairie Ink Publishing works at the intersection of art and literature, producing creative nonfiction and art-inspired titles that celebrate human imagination. The press collaborates with writers, visual artists, and photographers to develop innovative projects that defy conventional publishing boundaries. Its beautifully designed books capture emotion and artistry, making Prairie Ink Publishing an influential creative force within Iowa’s independent literary landscape.
30. Midwest Writing Center Press (Davenport)
Midwest Writing Center Press, based in Davenport, is a community-based publisher supporting emerging authors across Iowa and the Midwest. Operated through the Midwest Writing Center, it publishes poetry collections, short stories, and anthologies that highlight regional voices. The press fosters inclusivity and collaboration through workshops and contests, helping writers transition from manuscript to publication. It remains a cornerstone of Iowa’s grassroots literary movement.
Book Publishing Cost Breakdown in Iowa (2025)
| Service Type | Average Cost (USD) | Includes |
| Ghostwriting & Full-Service Publishing | $8,000 – $25,000 | Writing, editing, design, publishing, marketing, distribution |
| Traditional Publishing (Accepted Manuscripts) | $0 (publisher covers costs) | Royalties only; selective submission process |
| Hybrid Publishing | $3,000 – $10,000 | Shared investment; editing, layout, marketing support |
| Self-Publishing Assistance | $1,500 – $5,000 | Cover design, formatting, ISBN, digital upload |
| Children’s Book Publishing | $2,000 – $8,000 | Illustration, design, editing, layout, printing |
| Academic Publishing | $0 – $2,000 | Often funded by institutions; peer review and academic editing |
FAQs about Book Publishing in Iowa (2025)
What’s the best publishing company in Iowa for beginners?
Vox Ghostwriting and Ice Cube Press are excellent for first-time authors seeking professional guidance.
Are there hybrid publishers in Iowa?
Yes, presses like Rolling Hills Publishing and Waterbury Publications offer hybrid publishing models.
Can I self-publish my book with local support?
Absolutely! Many small presses and indie publishers provide personalized assistance for self-publishing authors.
How long does the publishing process take in Iowa?
Typically, 3–9 months, depending on editing, design, and marketing requirements.
Do Iowa publishers accept out-of-state authors?
Yes, most publishers in Iowa work with authors nationwide and even internationally.
Conclusion
Iowa’s publishing ecosystem is thriving — a balanced blend of tradition, innovation, and storytelling passion. From world-renowned academic presses to community-based indie publishers, every author can find a platform that aligns with their creative vision. Whether you dream of releasing a scholarly study, a children’s picture book, or a memoir, Iowa’s publishers in 2025 offer professional quality, affordability, and heart.
For authors seeking a trusted partner to bring their stories to life, Vox Ghostwriting remains a top choice — blending creative excellence, publishing expertise, and personalized service that transforms ideas into beautifully published books.
