Frequently Asked Questions

Basics

What is Pubslush?

Pubslush is a global, crowdfunding publishing platform and crowdsourced, social publishing imprint. Our platform allows authors to raise money and gauge the initial audience for new book ideas, and for readers to pledge their financial support to bring books to life. Our publishing imprint, powered by readers, acquires high potential books exclusively from this platform, and for every book sold, donates a children’s book to a child in need.

How does it work?

1. Authors build a book campaign, submitting a summary and sample of their work.
2. Readers financially support their favorite submissions, in exchange for a reward (like a first edition, digital preview, etc.).
3. Authors raise money and use supporter analytics to publish successfully via any publishing route they prefer.

Who uses Pubslush?

Visionary authors and trendsetting readers. Pubslush is a community of socially conscious literary tastemakers — a global book club with a cause.

So authors use the platform to raise money. What do they do with the money?

Publishing a book is like making a movie. A lot goes into it. Editing, design, formatting, digital conversion, marketing, publicity, registration, distribution, and more. Authors using Pubslush raise money to offset these costs to publish their book successfully.

How is Pubslush different from traditional publishing and self-publishing.

Well first and foremost, Pubslush is for books only. We offer flexible funding, we’re completely international, and we have the lowest fee in the industry. We’re also optimized for authors meaning we provide services tailored to publishing successfully. For a full list check out the Pubslush 101.

How does Pubslush affect publishing?

1. Mitigates uncertainty. By allowing authors to establish an audience in advance of publication (and to know who that audience is), much of the risk involved with book publishing is eliminated. This a major problem in the industry and why so many celebrities are published. Because publishers know there is a built in audience. Now everyone has a chance to prove their worth!
2. Improves the quality of self-published work. One of the biggest gripes of self- published content is the lack of quality. By providing access to capital and resources to navigate the industry, we hope to eliminate the stigma around self-publishing.

Is Pubslush for authors only?

No. Pubslush can be used by anyone representing or involved with an author, including publishers and agents.

Where did the idea come from?

The original idea for Pubslush was inspired by the struggles of authors like J.K. Rowling, whose bestselling Harry Potter series was "slushed", or passed over, by the 12 publishers to which it was initially sent.

Why should I use Pubslush for my book?

Check out the Pubslush 101 for all the highlights of Pubslush.

Who can submit?

Anyone with a great book idea. Unpublished or published, novice or professional. If you have what it takes, prove it!

What types of books are on Pubslush?

We accept every type of book across all genres.

FAQ question associated with side link goes here?

The same reason they vote on American Idol: they want to be involved. Imagine being able to say you discovered the next Harry Potter? People support because they're fed up with not having a say and want to shape the publishing revolution.

Community

What are teams?

Teams are factions of the Pubslush community. Teams compete against each other to see who will bring the most books to life.

How do I join a team?

Simply browse available teams on the Community page and join your favorites.

How do I create a team?

Click "Start a Team" on the Community page.

How can I share a team?

Click the Share button on individual team pages to share via social media and email and grow your team's presence.

How can I connect with team members?

You can chat with other team members via the Team Wall on each team page.

How can I get involved?

Become a Pubslush ambassador!

What is a Pubslush ambassador?

Share our vision for change and want to make a difference? Then the Ambassador Program is perfect for you! We currently have two programs: professional and campus. Being a Pubslush Ambassador is fun and easy, and great way to join our publishing revolution. Plus there are some fantastic perks for minimal time commitment. Learn more.

How do I become an ambassador?

Visit the Get Involved page to submit the appropriate form.

Does Pubslush sponsor or participate in any events?

Pubslush is an active member of the literary community. We take part in conferences and workshops around the country. Pubslush hosts many author-education events, as well as author readings. For current Pubslush-sponsored events, please join our group on meetup.com or sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on our exciting upcoming functions!

The Cause

What is the cause?

The cause is our commitment to literacy initiatives for children worldwide. Our one for one program is the cornerstone: for every book we sell, we donate a children's book to a child in need. We also allow authors using our platform to donate a portion of their proceeds to support children's literacy.

Is Pubslush a nonprofit?

Pubslush is structured as a hybrid for profit and nonprofit enterprise. All of our giving efforts are facilitated by the Pubslush Foundation, a registered 501c3.

What types of books does Pubslush donate?

Pubslush works with established giving partners to understand their literacy needs. We never donate our own books. We donate textbooks, story books, and even ereaders when appropriate.

What charities are Pubslush associated with?

Pubslush's first giving partner is Flying Kites, an orphanage in Kenya. To learn more about our giving partners click here.

How can I support the cause?

Readers can support the Pubslush cause in 2 ways: by purchasing a Pubslush Press book and by supporting authors on the site with a rainbow Pubslush Foundation banner. Authors with this banner have indicated a portion of their proceeds to be donated to support children's literacy.

Ereaders? What?

The benefits of using digital reading technology in the developing world are unparalleled. They provide access to a library of books, built in dictionary, light, text to speech features, and more. They're also extremely durable.