For Authors - The Publication Process
Submit the Manuscript
You can submit a manuscript to be considered for publication by emailing us on info@al-Buraq.org.
Please send a book proposal which includes a short description of the book, table of contents, the first chapter of the book and a short author biography.
Review
We carefully review each submission and check for quality of the work, accuracy of historical facts and whether the work fits well with other titles on our list.
The Meeting
Once a manuscript passes the review stage, we like to meet our authors in person, (or if this is not possible, then virtually). This gives both parties an opportunity to discuss the work and any changes that need to be made. We can also discuss what to expect for your work from the next stages of the publication process. A timeline and launch date can also be proposed.
At this point we also discuss and sign the author contract. This is a contract between al-Burāq and the author. Here, the author grants the publisher the rights to the book, (including the right to publish, print and distribute the book) and the publisher officially agrees to publish the book.
Editing
An experienced, professional copy-editor will be assigned to the book. The level of editing we request varies according to the needs of the project. It is usual for the copy editor to:Correct grammar, spelling and syntaxCheck references and bibliographies for omissions and inconsistencies of styleBring any suspected errors, omissions or duplications to attention.Queries will be sent to the author by the copy editor and it is the author's responsibility to supply answers by the requested deadline. All changes are then incorporated into the electronic text.
Illustrations & Commissions
If illustrations, maps or other diagrams need to be commission they shall be done so at this point by the publisher.
Design & Layout
Once the text and illustrations (if any) are complete, high-quality cover and interior page design is created specifically tailored to the target audience. The typeset document is produced in a special program and your manuscript will start to look like a book!
Proofreading
The typeset manuscript is then carefully read by several proof-readers as well as the author for any final corrections.
Printing
Once revised proofs have been approved, we can then send the electronic files to the printers.
Ebook Conversion
Ebook Conversion - All our books are available as ebooks on all major platforms, such as Kindle, iBookstore, Kobo, Nook and Andriod. We send the completed interior and cover files to an ebook convertor who prepares the files ready for ebook distribution. al-Burāq work with an ebook distributor who then ensures the ebooks are distributed to hundreds of ebook providers.
Points to Consider While Writing Your Book
House Style Guidelines - A generic version is available for reference. Please email info@al-buraq.org to be sent a copy. For some, specific guidelines may also be required so please consult the editor.
We recommend that our house style is implemented from the outset, since the task of re-editing your manuscript to comply at the last stage can be very laborious.
If you have translated a text, al-Burāq will require written proof from the original author (or his/her estate) to publish the work.