Submitting a Manuscript Proposal
Download a PDF version of RSF Manuscript Proposal Guidelines
Although priority is given to books that are based on projects funded by the foundation and on the work of visiting scholars, RSF welcomes proposals that are related to our core programs. For more information, please see www.russellsage.org.
Our publications are based on empirical research—whether quantitative or qualitative—and should be of interdisciplinary interest. The prose should be accessible to both a general audience as well as the academy.
All proposals should answer the following questions:
- What is the topic of your book and why is the subject important to a general reader?
- What is the unique contribution your work makes to the field?
- Who is your intended audience?
- What academic fields will be interested in your work?
- What courses would potentially adopt your book for classroom use?
- How does your work differ or expand on the competing research? Please discuss at least three competing or complementary titles.
Along with your proposal, please include an annotated Table of Contents, a timetable for completion of the manuscript, your CV, an estimated word count for the book, and information about the number of tables, figures, photographs, and appendices you plan on including. Please be sure your CV contains your most up-to-date contact information. Sample chapters are welcome as part of the proposal, but they must be actual chapters and not examples of your published articles.
Note, RSF no longer publishes edited volumes or enters into copublishing agreements.
Manuscript proposals should be sent by email or snail mail to:
Suzanne Nichols
Director of Publications
Russell Sage Foundation
112 East 64th Street
New York, NY 10065
Pubs@rsage.org