Little, Brown Spark, in partnership with Psychotherapy Networker, is pleased to announce a new opportunity aimed at amplifying the work of underrepresented experts in the field of psychology.

We are inviting previously unpublished (with the exception of articles, academic papers, or self-published books) and unagented writers from underrepresented backgrounds to submit a non-fiction book proposal on any topic within any branch of psychology. The applicant with the most original and compelling proposal will receive an introduction to a literary agent; feedback and guidance from Little, Brown Spark’s editorial team on turning their proposal into a manuscript; the opportunity to enter a publishing contract with Little, Brown Spark with a $50,000 advance; and a ticket to attend the Psychotherapy Networker’s 2024 Symposium from March 21-24, 2024 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington D.C., where they will receive recognition on the main stage during the ceremony, plus a U.S. $500 travel stipend for transportation to and from the Symposium and hotel accommodations.

Identity impacts human psychology and behavior in fundamental ways, from how we perceive ourselves, to how we relate to others, to how we experience the world. The Little, Brown Spark New Voices Award is grounded in Little, Brown Spark’s commitment to publishing authors with a range of identities, backgrounds, and perspectives that reflects the diversity of the human experience.

Submission criteria:

We are accepting submissions for non-fiction proposals pertaining to any topic in the field of psychology.  Eligible proposals must be aimed at general readers; monographs and textbooks will not be considered.

Submissions should include:

• A brief description and overview of the proposed book  (~500 words);
• A detailed chapter outline (2-3 paragraphs per chapter);
• A full sample chapter (~4000-5000 words); and
• An author biography and/or resume.

The award:

Our judges will select a winner from a shortlist of up to six proposals. Each writer selected for the shortlist will be invited to attend a 1-hour virtual consultation with a senior-level editor on the Little, Brown Spark team, which will include general feedback on their shortlisted proposal and insight into the publishing process and industry.

In addition to the 1-hour virtual consultation, the winner will receive:

• A first-look window with agents. The winner will be provided a list of literary agents who have agreed to participate in this initiative. Introductions will be made at the winner’s request. Please note that Little, Brown Spark strongly recommends that the winner secures representation from an agent before proceeding with negotiations for a publishing contract with Little, Brown Spark.

• Additional editorial feedback and guidance in completing and revising the manuscript.

• The opportunity to enter a publishing contract with Little, Brown Spark with a $50,000 advance.

• A ticket to attend the Psychotherapy Networker’s 2024 Symposium from March 21-24, 2024 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington D.C., where they will receive recognition on the main stage during the ceremony, plus a U.S. $500 travel stipend for transportation to and from the Symposium and hotel accommodations.

Get more info on eligibility and apply here.