Motorbooks publishes books covering cars, motorcycles, racing, heavy equipment, and all the people, events, culture, and technology related to these subjects. These topics are covered from a variety of perspectives, including, but not limited to: histories, photo books, how-to manuals, restoration guides, references, biographies, and narratives.

Motorbooks titles are typically illustrated. For example, a 160-page book will often include 150-200 photos, and some histories and how-to books might include upwards of 600 photos. Prospective authors must submit a written proposal consisting of a cover letter, synopsis, and working table of contents. In your cover letter, tell us something about your background and qualifications to write the book you’re proposing. Also give us a sense of the market for the book, preferably backing your assertion with demographic numbers where possible. Note things like production numbers, the circulation of related enthusiast magazines, the numbers of clubs and their membership. The synopsis should include a description of the book (several paragraphs covering the scope of the subject, projected word and photo count, etc. If you’re an unpublished author, we will need at least one sample chapter as well.

Because nearly all Motorbooks titles are illustrated to some degree, sample photography will help us assess your proposal. It is best to send scans or duplicates with your proposal rather than originals. Electronic files are likely the best option; just ensure they are of sufficient quality to accurately represent the original work.

If you would like your sample material returned, you must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE). Your SASE MUST include sufficient postage to cover the cost of return shipping your submission. Though we will take care with your proposal while it is in our possession, we do not accept responsibility for any unsolicited material.

Please send proposals to:
Book Proposals—Motorbooks
MBI Publishing Company
Quayside Publishing Group
400 First Avenue North, Suite 300
Minneapolis, MN 55401 USA

After you send your proposal, please allow 6-8 weeks for us to review it. Thank you.