Dorrance Publishing has been helping authors share their stories for more than a century, continuing a legacy that began in 1920 with our founder, Gordon Dorrance. As one of the nation’s oldest publishing companies, Dorrance was built on the belief that every writer deserves the opportunity to see their work in print, an idea that was bold and unconventional for its time.
Gordon Dorrance championed authors whose voices were often overlooked, and that mission remains at the heart of the company today. Over the decades, Dorrance Publishing has grown into a trusted, full-service hybrid publishing company, offering editorial, design, production, and promotion expertise to writers across every genre. With more than 100 years of experience, Dorrance continues to support authors at every stage of the journey, honoring a legacy of accessibility, innovation, and commitment to storytelling.
The Dorrance Legacy
- Over 100 years of hybrid publishing experience guiding authors.
- Founded in 1920 by Gordon Dorrance, a pioneer who believed every writer deserved a path to publication.
- A legacy built on accessibility, expertise, and personalized support throughout the publishing journey.
1920: Gordon Dorrance publishes "The Pocket Chesterfield"
Originally published in 1920 by our company founder, Gordon Dorrance, this reprint of The Pocket Chesterfield presents his study of Lord Chesterfield’s letters, adapted to make their lessons accessible to young readers of the time. The letters focus on manners, etiquette, social conduct, and personal character, offering practical guidance for navigating society with confidence and respect. A 1921 issue of The Independent reviewed the book, describing it as a small volume of “gentlemanly wisdom.”
1954: "Lucy Writes a Novel"
In 1954, Dorrance Publishing made its way into classic American pop culture, appearing in an episode of the iconic television show I Love Lucy. In the episode “Lucy Writes a Novel,” Lucy Ricardo excitedly receives a letter from Dorrance, believing it means her manuscript is finally being recognized — only to discover that the “publisher” (played humorously by actor Pierre Watkin) is actually using her writing as an example of how not to structure a book. The moment becomes a memorable gag, blending Lucy’s endless ambition with Dorrance’s well-known reputation in the publishing world.
2005: A Powerful Publication
In 2005, Dorrance Publishing released a powerful firsthand account from one of the original Navajo Code Talkers, an elite group of Marines whose unbreakable code helped turn the tide in the Pacific during World War II. The book, The Navajo Code Talkers, offered rare insight into the creation of the code, the challenges of wartime secrecy, and the lasting legacy of these heroes. This work would later help inspire greater public attention to the Code Talkers’ story, contributing to the growing recognition that eventually led to major motion picture portrayals and broader national awareness of their extraordinary contributions.
Our Values
- Community: We create an environment where writers feel supported and connected.
- Empathy: We listen with understanding and respect for each writer’s experience.
- Integrity: We build trust through honesty, transparency, and ethical decision-making
- Collaboration: We work together to help writers develop and share their ideas.
- Commitment to Growth: We continually learn, improve, and encourage development—for writers and for ourselves.
- Inclusiveness: We believe that every person’s voice holds value and that all writers—regardless of background or experience—deserve the opportunity to share their work without barriers.