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 Publishing 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 Publishing continues to support authors at every stage of the journey, honoring a legacy of accessibility, innovation, and commitment to storytelling.
The Dorrance Publishing 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 Publishing, 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 Publishing’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 mission is to empower writers and strengthen a community built on storytelling, human connection, and the shared belief in the value of creative expression.
Our Goals
- Continue evolving with the future of publishing, embracing new technologies, formats, and opportunities for authors.
- Uphold the highest standards of editorial and production quality, ensuring every book reflects professional craftsmanship.
- Preserve and strengthen our century-long legacy as an accessible, author-focused publishing company.
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.
What to Look for in a Publisher as a New Author
Choosing the right publisher is an important step in your author journey. When comparing publishing companies for new authors, consider:
- Experience: First time authors should look for established book publishers with a history of supporting writers.
- Professional Support: Compare editorial, design, production, and distribution services.
- Creative Control: Consider how independent publishers involve authors in decisions about their books.
Every author’s journey is unique, and finding the right publisher can make all the difference. At Dorrance Publishing, we believe publishing should be a collaborative experience that celebrates your creativity while providing the professional guidance and support your book deserves. After all, your story is what makes it special.
Why First-Time Authors Choose Dorrance Publishing
For over 100 years, Dorrance Publishing has provided authors with a personalized, collaborative path to publication.
- Publishing Expertise: Our experienced team guides authors through editing, design, production, promotion, and distribution.
- Author Involvement: Writers remain engaged throughout the process by reviewing materials and providing feedback along the way.
- Flexible Services: We offer customizable publishing options to suit different manuscripts and goals.
- A Century of Experience: Authors researching the best publishers for new authors or best self-publishing companies can explore Dorrance’s longstanding history and approach to publishing.
At Dorrance Publishing, we know that publishing a book is a meaningful milestone. Our team takes pride in getting to know each author’s goals, celebrating their creativity, and working together to turn their manuscript into a professionally published book. After more than a century, our passion for stories and the people behind them remains at the heart of everything we do.
An Independent Publisher Where You Keep Your Rights
When Gordon Dorrance founded our company in 1920, he believed that authors deserved a more accessible path to publication. More than 100 years later, that vision continues to guide our approach to publishing. At Dorrance Publishing, authors retain 100% ownership of their work and creative rights. Our goal is simple: to give authors the professional support they need to publish with confidence, while keeping ownership and creative control where they belong—with the author.