Introduction
Oklahoma is quietly becoming a hub for writers who want to see their work reach readers without getting lost in the noise of larger markets.
The state has a mix of well-established university presses, independent houses, and niche publishers that specialize in everything from poetry to children’s books.
Whether you are writing your first book or adding to a growing portfolio, Oklahoma offers diverse publishing partners that can match your vision.
Below, we highlight 37 of the best publishing companies for authors in 2025—starting with Ghostwriting LLC, a leader in professional publishing support.
Reasons to Publish in Oklahoma
Oklahoma may not be the first state people think of when it comes to publishing, but it has quietly built a strong literary identity. For authors, the state offers something rare: a balance of professional publishing opportunities with a personal, community-driven touch. Writers don’t just release books here — they join a network of supportive presses, festivals, and readers who value storytelling in all its forms.
Here are some reasons why publishing in Oklahoma is worth considering:
- Rich Literary Heritage: From Native American voices to contemporary writers, Oklahoma has a deep tradition of storytelling.
- Diverse Publishers: The state has presses ranging from university-backed to indie houses, covering fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and niche markets.
- Community Support: Local bookstores, book festivals, and literary nonprofits actively promote regional authors, giving books more visibility.
- Cost-Effective Options: Compared to larger publishing hubs, Oklahoma’s smaller presses often provide affordable publishing services without compromising quality.
- Regional & National Reach: Many Oklahoma publishers distribute nationally, ensuring local authors can break beyond state lines.
For authors who want a professional platform but also value authentic connections with their readers, Oklahoma offers a publishing environment where both are possible. Instead of getting lost in crowded markets like New York or California, writers here often find more attention, support, and room for their work to shine.
37 Best Oklahoma Book Publishing Companies for Authors
1. Ghostwriting LLC (Oklahoma City)
- Background: Ghostwriting LLC has built a strong reputation in Oklahoma for guiding authors through every stage of the publishing journey.
- Specialties: Biographies, memoirs, business books, and thought-leadership titles crafted with professional ghostwriters and editors.
- What Authors Gain: Writers appreciate the one-on-one support, polished manuscripts, and distribution strategies that help books succeed beyond local markets.
2. Mongrel Empire Press (Norman)
- Background: Founded in 2008, Mongrel Empire Press champions literature rooted in Oklahoma and the Southwest.
- Specialties: Poetry, fiction, and nonfiction that highlight regional culture and diverse voices.
- What Authors Gain: Authors benefit from close collaboration, creative freedom, and a press committed to authentic storytelling.
3. RoadRunner Press (Oklahoma City)
- Background: An independent publisher known for its hands-on approach to working with writers.
- Specialties: Children’s literature, young adult novels, and nonfiction with cultural and educational themes.
- What Authors Gain: RoadRunner gives authors access to nationwide distribution, professional editing, and eye-catching design, making it a strong choice for debut writers.
4. Tate Publishing Legacy (Independent Projects)
- Background: Although Tate Publishing closed in 2017, many professionals from the company continue to support Oklahoma authors independently.
- Specialties: Editing, cover design, and self-publishing assistance.
- What Authors Gain: Authors can still tap into the experience of former Tate staff for professional-level publishing services.
5. University of Oklahoma Press (Norman)
- Background: Established in 1929, OU Press is one of the most respected university presses in the U.S.
- Specialties: History, Native American studies, and regional nonfiction.
- What Authors Gain: Publishing here gives writers credibility, academic recognition, and global distribution networks.
6. Oklahoma State University Press (Stillwater)
- Background: Linked to Oklahoma State University, this press focuses on scholarly contributions.
- Specialties: Research-driven nonfiction, academic essays, and regional studies.
- What Authors Gain: Authors gain prestige in academic circles and benefit from the press’s strong distribution within libraries and universities.
7. New Forums Press (Stillwater)
- Background: Founded in 1978, New Forums Press is known for supporting both academics and general readers.
- Specialties: Educational texts, professional development books, and creative works.
- What Authors Gain: Writers enjoy a balance of editorial guidance and flexible publishing options, making it a reliable partner.
8. Mongrel Empire Young Voices (Norman)
- Background: An imprint of Mongrel Empire, this division was created to spotlight younger audiences.
- Specialties: Children’s literature and middle-grade fiction.
- What Authors Gain: Authors can expect enthusiastic editorial support and opportunities to reach classrooms, libraries, and family readers.
9. Literati Press (Oklahoma City)
- Background: A community-driven publisher that doubles as a bookstore and creative hub.
- Specialties: Graphic novels, speculative fiction, and literary works.
- What Authors Gain: Writers value the press’s grassroots approach, mentorship, and dedication to promoting local talent alongside national voices.
10. Crossroads Press (Tulsa)
- Background: Based in Tulsa, Crossroads Press has steadily grown as a regional independent publisher.
- Specialties: Fiction, memoirs, and inspirational works.
- What Authors Gain: Authors receive professional editing, thoughtful marketing support, and a chance to connect with Oklahoma’s literary community.
11. Pen-L Publishing (Fayetteville/Active in Oklahoma)
- Background: Though based in Arkansas, Pen-L Publishing has a strong connection with Oklahoma authors, making it a respected partner in the region.
- Specialties: They publish a wide variety of genres, including mystery, fantasy, nonfiction, and memoir.
- What Authors Gain: Writers value Pen-L’s personal approach, professional editing, and flexible publishing opportunities, especially for authors seeking a supportive environment outside mainstream publishing.
12. Dorrance Publishing (Oklahoma Division)
- Background: Dorrance is one of the oldest self-publishing service companies in the U.S., with a presence that extends into Oklahoma.
- Specialties: Assisting authors across all genres, from fiction and nonfiction to poetry and children’s books.
- What Authors Gain: Authors benefit from comprehensive services including editing, cover design, and distribution, giving them control of their publishing journey while still enjoying professional support.
13. New Readers Press (Educational)
- Background: A publishing arm of ProLiteracy, New Readers Press has a presence in Oklahoma through educational programs and partnerships.
- Specialties: Adult education materials, literacy development books, and ESL resources.
- What Authors Gain: Educators and writers in this field value their reach into classrooms and literacy programs, ensuring educational materials are both impactful and widely used.
14. Verdant Press (Regional and Poetry)
- Background: Verdant Press is a small, independent press rooted in Oklahoma’s creative community.
- Specialties: Poetry collections, short stories, and regional nonfiction with strong cultural ties.
- What Authors Gain: Writers find a nurturing environment where their creative voices are prioritized, alongside small-scale but passionate distribution efforts that focus on connecting with readers who value unique storytelling.
15. H.H. Publishing (Faith-Based)
- Background: H.H. Publishing has built its name by supporting Oklahoma’s faith-based writing community.
- Specialties: Religious nonfiction, inspirational titles, and devotional works.
- What Authors Gain: Authors gain a publisher that understands the faith-driven market, with editing and marketing tailored to reach congregations, bookstores, and audiences looking for uplifting works.
16. Oklahoma Heritage Press
- Background: Oklahoma Heritage Press focuses on preserving the state’s history and cultural identity through publishing.
- Specialties: Local history, biographies, and books highlighting Oklahoma’s heritage.
- What Authors Gain: Writers who want to tell Oklahoma’s stories find a dedicated partner, ensuring their work reaches readers passionate about preserving the state’s legacy and traditions.
17. Red Dirt Press (Norman)
- Background: Named after Oklahoma’s famous red earth, Red Dirt Press embodies the state’s creative spirit.
- Specialties: Literary fiction, poetry, and works exploring cultural identity.
- What Authors Gain: Authors enjoy a collaborative editorial approach, regional recognition, and the opportunity to connect with a community of readers deeply rooted in Oklahoma’s literary culture.
18. Buckskin Books
- Background: Buckskin Books is a small independent publisher with a focus on Western literature.
- Specialties: Historical fiction, cowboy poetry, and stories reflecting life in the American West.
- What Authors Gain: Writers gain a platform that values traditional storytelling and provides access to niche audiences who love Western narratives and regional history.
19. Cimarron Press
- Background: Cimarron Press is inspired by Oklahoma’s Cimarron region, bringing local flavor to its catalog.
- Specialties: Fiction, regional nonfiction, and children’s literature.
- What Authors Gain: Authors benefit from personalized editorial feedback and a strong regional readership that values books grounded in Oklahoma’s landscapes and heritage.
20. Plains Writers Press
- Background: Dedicated to celebrating Great Plains literature, Plains Writers Press uplifts voices from across the region.
- Specialties: Poetry, short fiction, and essays rooted in rural and small-town experiences.
- What Authors Gain: Writers appreciate its commitment to community-focused publishing, where local authors are given the chance to shine in print and share their work at regional literary events.
21. Bell Books Oklahoma
- Background: Bell Books Oklahoma is a locally focused press with an eye on emerging writers.
- Specialties: Contemporary fiction, memoirs, and general nonfiction.
- What Authors Gain: Authors benefit from approachable editors, regional marketing support, and opportunities to have their work showcased at state fairs and book festivals. The company provides a personal publishing experience that helps new voices step confidently into the literary world.
22. FaithWorks Publishing
- Background: FaithWorks Publishing is rooted in Oklahoma’s strong spiritual community.
- Specialties: Christian living, inspirational titles, devotionals, and church-focused nonfiction.
- What Authors Gain: Writers gain a publishing partner that understands the faith-based audience, with tailored marketing strategies to reach bookstores, ministries, and online faith readers. The supportive editorial team ensures every manuscript is aligned with the uplifting message the author envisions.
23. Green Country Press
- Background: Named after Oklahoma’s “Green Country” region, this press highlights local stories and fresh voices.
- Specialties: Regional nonfiction, children’s books, and community-based literature.
- What Authors Gain: Authors enjoy direct collaboration with editors, chances for local promotion, and a publisher that prioritizes storytelling tied to Oklahoma culture. It’s an excellent fit for writers who want to connect deeply with regional audiences.
24. Chickasaw Press (Ada)
- Background: Founded in 2006, Chickasaw Press is the official publishing arm of the Chickasaw Nation.
- Specialties: Tribal history, cultural works, biographies, and children’s books celebrating Chickasaw heritage.
- What Authors Gain: Authors gain the opportunity to preserve Native voices and share stories with both community members and global readers. The press provides strong editorial support and ensures works remain culturally authentic and historically accurate.
25. Muscogee (Creek) Nation Press
- Background: This press is dedicated to publishing works by and about the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
- Specialties: Tribal history, language preservation, and cultural texts.
- What Authors Gain: Writers working with this press help preserve heritage for future generations. They benefit from a supportive publishing environment and the assurance that their works will reach readers who value Indigenous perspectives.
26. Cherokee Heritage Press
- Background: Cherokee Heritage Press is operated by the Cherokee Nation to highlight Indigenous culture.
- Specialties: History, cultural preservation, children’s books, and language resources.
- What Authors Gain: Authors gain a chance to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of Cherokee identity. The press also offers access to readers across tribal communities and educational institutions nationwide.
27. Choctaw Nation Press
- Background: Choctaw Nation Press publishes works that promote and protect Choctaw heritage.
- Specialties: Cultural nonfiction, language-learning resources, and tribal stories.
- What Authors Gain: Authors are empowered to share narratives that strengthen cultural pride. The press ensures these works reach libraries, schools, and tribal communities, giving them enduring influence in cultural preservation.
28. University of Tulsa Press
- Background: Affiliated with the University of Tulsa, this press adds academic rigor to Oklahoma’s publishing scene.
- Specialties: Scholarly works, regional history, and literary studies.
- What Authors Gain: Authors receive credibility in academic circles and enjoy wide distribution in both print and digital formats, strengthening their professional reputations.
29. Tulsa Book Company
- Background: Tulsa Book Company has been serving Oklahoma for decades as a reliable publisher and distributor.
- Specialties: Educational books, children’s literature, and nonfiction.
- What Authors Gain: Writers value the press’s balance of publishing and distribution, giving them both a polished product and access to schools, libraries, and bookstores statewide.
30. Prairie Books Press
- Background: Prairie Books Press is a small independent publisher inspired by the storytelling traditions of the Great Plains.
- Specialties: Fiction, essays, and works rooted in rural life.
- What Authors Gain: Authors appreciate the chance to publish in an environment that emphasizes authenticity. The press offers close editorial feedback and access to a loyal base of readers interested in prairie culture and narratives.
31. Sandstone Publishing
- Background: Sandstone Publishing is a boutique press that takes pride in its selective, high-quality catalog.
- Specialties: Literary fiction, poetry, and memoirs with strong voices.
- What Authors Gain: Writers enjoy personalized editorial attention, professional design, and a publisher dedicated to producing books that stand out for their artistry. Sandstone offers regional promotion and carefully curated distribution, giving authors both credibility and visibility.
32. Quail Ridge Press (Regional Branch)
- Background: While Quail Ridge Press is best known nationally for cookbooks and lifestyle titles, its regional branch actively partners with Oklahoma writers.
- Specialties: Cookbooks, regional nonfiction, and community-based projects.
- What Authors Gain: Authors appreciate the opportunity to see their regional recipes and cultural works preserved in print, with wide distribution in both niche and mainstream markets. It’s a strong choice for lifestyle and culinary writers.
33. Southwest Publishing Group
- Background: Southwest Publishing Group supports authors across Oklahoma and the broader Southwest.
- Specialties: General fiction, business books, and nonfiction works.
- What Authors Gain: Writers benefit from a broad distribution network, experienced editorial teams, and marketing efforts tailored to fit both regional and national audiences. This press bridges local storytelling with larger markets.
34. Route 66 Publishing House
- Background: Inspired by the legendary Route 66, this Oklahoma-based press celebrates stories tied to travel and Americana.
- Specialties: Historical fiction, memoirs, and regional nonfiction.
- What Authors Gain: Authors gain access to readers who love heritage-driven storytelling. The press emphasizes quality design and cultural resonance, making it ideal for works that celebrate history and adventure.
35. Centennial Press
- Background: Centennial Press is dedicated to projects that mark important cultural and historical milestones.
- Specialties: History, biographies, and commemorative works.
- What Authors Gain: Authors working with Centennial Press enjoy thorough editorial collaboration and the prestige of publishing books that often become reference works in regional history. It’s a publisher for those wanting their stories to last.
36. Sunbelt Publishing
- Background: Sunbelt Publishing operates with a focus on the American South and Southwest, including Oklahoma.
- Specialties: Regional nonfiction, travel guides, and local-interest books.
- What Authors Gain: Writers gain a platform with strong distribution channels for tourism and cultural titles, ensuring their works are available in bookstores, gift shops, and visitor centers.
37. Great Plains Press
- Background: Great Plains Press celebrates the voices and stories of the prairie states.
- Specialties: Essays, poetry, and fiction tied to rural life and landscape.
- What Authors Gain: Authors find a supportive editorial process and connection to a readership that values authentic prairie storytelling. The press ensures works are showcased at literary events and regional festivals.
Conclusion
Oklahoma may not be the biggest publishing hub in the United States, but it has carved out a unique space where writers can truly thrive. The state’s blend of traditional university presses, innovative indie publishers, and culturally rooted organizations gives authors a wide range of options to bring their stories to life.
Whether you’re writing a novel, a poetry collection, children’s literature, or academic work, there’s a publisher in Oklahoma ready to help.
So, if you’ve been searching for a place where your words will matter — not just in print, but in the hearts of a community — Oklahoma could be the perfect publishing destination.
