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2. Journalism and Political Communication Unbound seeks to be a high-profile book series that reaches beyond the academy to an
interested public of policy-makers, journalists, public intellectuals, and citizens eager to make sense of contemporary politics and
media. “Unbound” in the series title has multiple meanings: it refers to the unbinding of borders between the fields of
communication, political communication, and journalism, as well as related disciplines such as political science, sociology, and
science and technology studies; it highlights the ways traditional frameworks for scholarship have disintegrated in the wake of
changing digital technologies and new social, political, economic, and cultural dynamics; and it reflects the unbinding of media in a
hybrid world of flows across mediums.
4. Competition
• Consider the most relevant books in this field and discuss their strengths and weaknesses. Describe how
your book will be similar to, as well as different from, competing works.
This is an important section because it shows that you understand where you are situated in the field – this can be a bulleted
list or paragraphs, but either way it’s a powerful chance to make your argument.
Consider what aspects of topical coverage are similar to or different from the competition. What topics have been left out of
competing books and what topics have been left out of yours?
Be as frank as possible regarding your competition. Give credit where credit is due, and show how you can do it better.
5. Market Considerations and Publishing Model
• What is the major market for the book? (Scholarly/professional, textbook, reference, academic/trade
crossover, trade)
Who would find this book interesting? Which disciplines does the work engage?
Who would be a key back of the book blurb who might emerge as a champion of your efforts?
Is there a particular publishing model that matters to you? If you are interested in an Open Access model, explain what you’d
like to see and if there are potential institutional funds to provide open access support.
Are there publications or outlets you can imagine covering the launch of your book?
6. Status of the Work
• Do you have a timetable for completing the book?
• What portion or percentage of the material is now complete? Are sample chapters available (if not
submitted)?
• When do you expect to have a complete manuscript?
• What do you estimate to be the size of the completed book, in words? Are you anticipating any images?
7. About the Author
• Please include a brief paragraph introducing yourself, outlining your background, and offering a brief
synopsis of your publishing history. Please include a recent CV.