Special to the
Opelika Observer
Summerfield Publishing, d.b.a. New Plains Press, has been around since 2007 in the extra bedroom of poet, fiction writer, editor, publisher, college writing instructor, workshop coordinator and tutor Johnny Summerfield.
The press has focused mostly on the works of Southeastern writers, but their latest offerings due out in September include a hybrid work (poetry/fiction collection) from Tony DePaul, and a poetry collection by Marion Deutsche Cohen, both from Philadelphia.
The press doesn’t charge a dime for editing or publishing one’s book, like so many publishers that want like $5,000 for 1,000 books. He says you’re welcome to do that, but said he feels like his is more traditional press in that he is qualified to edit one’s work since he has a master of fine arts in creative writing, and also because he has taught writing for more than a decade at the college level, and still does. He makes money when one’s book sells, and not before, and so does the writer (usually 20 to 25 percent of retail).
An exciting opportunity has recently presented where New Plains Press has its own office space at the Collaboration Station in Opelika. Not only does he have space, but writers have space in the conference room or the common area in the building to read from one’s work with critics and friends looking on, and one can even celebrate the kick off of your book with a nice send off party at the station. So, come by the Collaboration Station, located at 216 S. 8th St. and start a conversation that may lead to one’s book being published.
Summerfield said that everyone has a story to tell, whether through poetry, fiction, non- fiction, or drama, and Johnny says he can help one realize their dream of being published.
Summerfield’s office hours are noon – 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tueday and Thursday.
For mroe information, email publisher@newplainspress.com.
