What publishers look for in a cookbook proposal

If you have ever thought about writing a cookbook (or if friends have encouraged you to do so), you probably have a lot of questions about what it takes to get published in today’s social-media drenched world. Eater’s Aimee Levitt recently had a conversation about this with Jenn Sit, the Executive Editor at Clarkson Potter, one of the heavyweights in cookbook imprints. Sit explained what publishers look for in a proposal.

Being able to connect with readers is vital, as is having a strong voice and being an authority on a subject. Occupying a niche can be helpful because single-subject cookbooks are the bread-and-butter of the industry, says Sit. These “might not get as much attention through the media or through influencers, but they are so important to our business,” she explains.

In Sit’s experience, even when potential authors make a pitch with a well-developed concept, the book’s focus might shift after consultation with the publisher. For example, a bartender might want to showcase his or her bar, but broadening the premise to make the book about more than just the recipes for drinks served there can help expand the reach of the book.

While esoteric chef driven books with avant-garde recipes were all the rage a few years ago, the trend today steps back from the meticulous and technical. “What we’re seeing in the landscape is people wanting more approachable, home cook-friendly recipes,” notes Sit.