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Imagine a Door: A Writer's Guide to Unlocking Your Story, Choosing a Publishing Path, and Honoring the Creative Journey
Foreword by Beth Kephart, author of
Handling the Truth
Imagine a Door intersperses craft insights, case studies, and checklists with personal stories about publishing and the emotional complexities of sending your work into the world. Is a writing routine worthwhile? How do you pinpoint the why behind your storytelling and use it to improve your manuscript? What makes a query letter stand out? What exactly is distribution? Does success mean selling a certain number of books or can we reframe our expectations in a less capitalistic way?
While prioritizing genuine community over platform building, Laura Stanfill, publisher of Forest Avenue Press and author of Singing Lessons for the Stylish Canary, explores these questions from both sides of the desk. She peppers her material with original interviews with authors Omar El Akkad, Fonda Lee, Amy Stewart, Wendy Chin-Tanner, Keith Rosson, Rosiee Thor, Kesha Ajose-Fisher, Emme Lund, and agents, editors, and publishers.
Imagine a Door intersperses craft insights, case studies, and checklists with personal stories about publishing and the emotional complexities of sending your work into the world. Is a writing routine worthwhile? How do you pinpoint the why behind your storytelling and use it to improve your manuscript? What makes a query letter stand out? What exactly is distribution? Does success mean selling a certain number of books or can we reframe our expectations in a less capitalistic way?
While prioritizing genuine community over platform building, Laura Stanfill, publisher of Forest Avenue Press and author of Singing Lessons for the Stylish Canary, explores these questions from both sides of the desk. She peppers her material with original interviews with authors Omar El Akkad, Fonda Lee, Amy Stewart, Wendy Chin-Tanner, Keith Rosson, Rosiee Thor, Kesha Ajose-Fisher, Emme Lund, and agents, editors, and publishers.
- GenresWriting
522 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2025
9 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Laura Stanfill
7 books47 followersOnce upon a time, Laura Stanfill lived in a New Jersey house filled with music boxes, street organs, and books. She grew up to become the publisher of Forest Avenue Press. SINGING LESSONS FOR THE STYLISH CANARY (Lanternfish) is her debut novel. Her essays have appeared in Shondaland, The Rumpus, Catapult, The Vincent Brothers Review, Santa Fe Writers Project, and several print anthologies. She believes in indie bookstores and wishes on them like stars from her home in Portland, Oregon, where she resides with her family and Waffles the dog. Learn more at laurastanfill.com.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 15, 2025
Sometimes a book comes into our lives just as we need it, and I found IMAGINE A DOOR just that kind of divinely-sent resource as I write my debut. Full of helpful tips and direction for making your book-publishing dream come true. Feeling more confident about reaching my goal of writing and publishing my first memoir. Thank you, Laura Stanfill!
March 25, 2025
In my career as a bookseller, editor, writer, and reader who just loves to know how things work, I have come across so many questions that Laura Stanfill answers so gracefully! Whether you are dreaming of writing, you’re working on your first (or third!) manuscript, or you’ve already made your debut (trad or self-published!) this book will be invaluable. Buy a copy for your own reference, gift copies to writer friends, and visit with Laura’s advice and anecdotes often. She has had a long journey as a writer and publisher and this book is her gift to all of us!!
October 31, 2025
I particularly appreciated that Laura Stanfill described the intricacies of distribution, a topic I haven’t seen in other books on writing and publishing. I also appreciated Laura’s practical advice and level-headed encouragement.
August 1, 2025
Imagine a Door by Laura Stanfill is the writing guide I didn’t know I needed. Warm, encouraging, and full of practical insight, it feels less like a how-to and more like a friend gently walking alongside you through the maze of storytelling, publishing, and creative self-doubt.
What I loved most is how holistic it is. Stanfill doesn’t just tell you how to write or pitch — she asks why you write. And for me, that hit hard. Her approach honours the process, not just the product. She gets what it’s like to wonder if your ideas are worth it, to second-guess yourself, to want to write and also want to hide. And instead of waving it away with toxic positivity, she meets that vulnerability with genuine care.
The chapters on publishing paths are some of the clearest I’ve read — no hierarchy, no bias, just real talk about the pros and cons of traditional, indie, and self-pub. I’ve always thought “real” writers had one path, but this opened my eyes to all the doors we can walk through.
Her personal anecdotes — about rejection, revision, imposter syndrome — made me feel seen. I underlined so many lines. And I really appreciated the discussions around sensitivity readers, cultural appropriation, even the hidden costs of award submissions — things new writers don’t always know they should know.
It’s not a niche craft guide, and it won’t give you a genre-specific roadmap — but if you’re looking for something that speaks to the heart and soul of being a writer, this is it.
I read this in the early days of my own writing journey, and it felt like permission. Permission to take my daydreams seriously. To try. To trust the process. And that, to me, is worth more than any checklist.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for the ARC to review. All thoughts are, as always, my own 💛
📝 A few standouts:
📚 Accessible, inclusive writing advice
🧠 Clear publishing breakdowns
💛 Emotional honesty about the writing life
🌱 Encouragement without pressure
✨ A guide that feels like a warm light on your creative path
This one’s staying close to my desk.
What I loved most is how holistic it is. Stanfill doesn’t just tell you how to write or pitch — she asks why you write. And for me, that hit hard. Her approach honours the process, not just the product. She gets what it’s like to wonder if your ideas are worth it, to second-guess yourself, to want to write and also want to hide. And instead of waving it away with toxic positivity, she meets that vulnerability with genuine care.
The chapters on publishing paths are some of the clearest I’ve read — no hierarchy, no bias, just real talk about the pros and cons of traditional, indie, and self-pub. I’ve always thought “real” writers had one path, but this opened my eyes to all the doors we can walk through.
Her personal anecdotes — about rejection, revision, imposter syndrome — made me feel seen. I underlined so many lines. And I really appreciated the discussions around sensitivity readers, cultural appropriation, even the hidden costs of award submissions — things new writers don’t always know they should know.
It’s not a niche craft guide, and it won’t give you a genre-specific roadmap — but if you’re looking for something that speaks to the heart and soul of being a writer, this is it.
I read this in the early days of my own writing journey, and it felt like permission. Permission to take my daydreams seriously. To try. To trust the process. And that, to me, is worth more than any checklist.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for the ARC to review. All thoughts are, as always, my own 💛
📝 A few standouts:
📚 Accessible, inclusive writing advice
🧠 Clear publishing breakdowns
💛 Emotional honesty about the writing life
🌱 Encouragement without pressure
✨ A guide that feels like a warm light on your creative path
This one’s staying close to my desk.
May 24, 2025
Book Review: Imagine a Door: A Writer’s Guide to Unlocking Your Story, Choosing a Publishing Path, and Honoring the Creative Journey by Laura Stanfill
As someone who has always been a prolific reader, I’ve often found myself lost in daydreams about what it would be like to write a book of my own. Yet, despite my love for stories, the practicalities of writing and publishing felt overwhelming—like standing at the edge of a dense forest with no map. Imagine a Door by Laura Stanfill is the compass I didn’t know I needed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for providing me with an advance review copy of this book. Stanfill’s guide is more than a technical manual; it’s a thoughtful exploration of the creative journey, blending practical advice with deep empathy for the emotional hurdles writers face. The book is structured to feel like a conversation with a mentor who understands both the craft and the courage required to share one’s work.
Key Strengths:
Holistic Approach to Storytelling:
Stanfill doesn’t just focus on mechanics like plot structure or query letters (though those are covered well). She delves into the why behind writing—helping readers uncover their personal motivations and emotional barriers. This resonated with me, as I’ve often wondered if my ideas were “worth” writing. Her emphasis on honoring creativity as a process, not just an outcome, is refreshing.
Publishing Paths Demystified:
The book’s standout feature is its balanced discussion of traditional publishing, small presses, and self-publishing. Stanfill avoids bias, presenting each path with clear pros and cons. As someone who assumed “real” writers only pursued traditional routes, this section was eye-opening. Her writing makes daunting decisions feel manageable.
Emotional Honesty:
Stanfill’s personal anecdotes about rejection, revision, and the vulnerability of sharing work add depth. She normalizes the fear and doubt that accompany creation, which I found comforting. It’s rare to see a guide acknowledge the emotional labor of writing as frankly as the logistical labor.
Areas for Consideration:
While the book excels in accessibility, writers seeking highly specialized advice (e.g., genre-specific tropes or advanced marketing tactics) may need supplemental resources. However, as a foundational guide, it’s exceptional. I appreciated the sections on appropriations, the use of sensitivity readers, as well as other things readers like me don't know we need to know about - such as paying for awards and using sensitivity readers.
Personal Reflection:
Reading Imagine a Door felt like permission to take my daydreams seriously. Stanfill’s tone is neither overly academic nor saccharine; it’s pragmatic yet encouraging. Whether I ever write a book or not, her lessons on creativity as a journey—not a destination—will stay with me.
Final Verdict:
A must-read for aspiring writers who need both practical direction and emotional reassurance. Stanfill doesn’t just open the door to publishing; she lights the path forward, one compassionate step at a time.
- Struggling to choose a publishing path? Stanfill’s guide is the compass you’ve been missing.
- A must-read for anyone who’s ever dreamed of writing a book—or wondered how to share it with the world.
- What’s behind your door? Laura Stanfill’s Imagine a Door helps writers turn knobs they didn’t know existed
Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for an ARC of this book.
As someone who has always been a prolific reader, I’ve often found myself lost in daydreams about what it would be like to write a book of my own. Yet, despite my love for stories, the practicalities of writing and publishing felt overwhelming—like standing at the edge of a dense forest with no map. Imagine a Door by Laura Stanfill is the compass I didn’t know I needed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for providing me with an advance review copy of this book. Stanfill’s guide is more than a technical manual; it’s a thoughtful exploration of the creative journey, blending practical advice with deep empathy for the emotional hurdles writers face. The book is structured to feel like a conversation with a mentor who understands both the craft and the courage required to share one’s work.
Key Strengths:
Holistic Approach to Storytelling:
Stanfill doesn’t just focus on mechanics like plot structure or query letters (though those are covered well). She delves into the why behind writing—helping readers uncover their personal motivations and emotional barriers. This resonated with me, as I’ve often wondered if my ideas were “worth” writing. Her emphasis on honoring creativity as a process, not just an outcome, is refreshing.
Publishing Paths Demystified:
The book’s standout feature is its balanced discussion of traditional publishing, small presses, and self-publishing. Stanfill avoids bias, presenting each path with clear pros and cons. As someone who assumed “real” writers only pursued traditional routes, this section was eye-opening. Her writing makes daunting decisions feel manageable.
Emotional Honesty:
Stanfill’s personal anecdotes about rejection, revision, and the vulnerability of sharing work add depth. She normalizes the fear and doubt that accompany creation, which I found comforting. It’s rare to see a guide acknowledge the emotional labor of writing as frankly as the logistical labor.
Areas for Consideration:
While the book excels in accessibility, writers seeking highly specialized advice (e.g., genre-specific tropes or advanced marketing tactics) may need supplemental resources. However, as a foundational guide, it’s exceptional. I appreciated the sections on appropriations, the use of sensitivity readers, as well as other things readers like me don't know we need to know about - such as paying for awards and using sensitivity readers.
Personal Reflection:
Reading Imagine a Door felt like permission to take my daydreams seriously. Stanfill’s tone is neither overly academic nor saccharine; it’s pragmatic yet encouraging. Whether I ever write a book or not, her lessons on creativity as a journey—not a destination—will stay with me.
Final Verdict:
A must-read for aspiring writers who need both practical direction and emotional reassurance. Stanfill doesn’t just open the door to publishing; she lights the path forward, one compassionate step at a time.
- Struggling to choose a publishing path? Stanfill’s guide is the compass you’ve been missing.
- A must-read for anyone who’s ever dreamed of writing a book—or wondered how to share it with the world.
- What’s behind your door? Laura Stanfill’s Imagine a Door helps writers turn knobs they didn’t know existed
Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for an ARC of this book.
July 26, 2025
I was expecting something more along the lines of a writing manual or a creativity guide, but this was really more of a memoir of the author about her struggles as an unpublished author and as the publisher of a small press. The book is mostly focused on traditional publishing; there's very little on self-publishing. There's lots in here about small press publishing, but I think it's more beneficial for someone who's looking to start a small press, rather than someone who might want to publish their book through one because they ultimately won't have much effect on the business decisions of their small press publisher.
Most of the information in here on getting published has been covered elsewhere before, which would be fine if there was some kind of throughline or thematic link or hook that put a new spin on it, but there wasn't, which was disappointing. I think this is a case of the expectations made by the cover and blurb not matching up with the inside.
Thanks to NetGalley and Forest Ave Press for the ARC.
Most of the information in here on getting published has been covered elsewhere before, which would be fine if there was some kind of throughline or thematic link or hook that put a new spin on it, but there wasn't, which was disappointing. I think this is a case of the expectations made by the cover and blurb not matching up with the inside.
Thanks to NetGalley and Forest Ave Press for the ARC.
August 28, 2025
A book that demystifies publishing, written with pragmatic clarity, humor, and heart. Compulsively readable, Stanfill offers advice and suggestions with the invaluable insights of a small press publisher and the honest warmth of an experienced writer friend. An excellent gift for anyone seeking to publish. A gift for the world of publishing, period.
June 13, 2025
Writers? The author defines us as imaginers and dreamers. Since I called my bookshop “The Dreamer’s Bookshop” I can only agree with this definition.
She appreciates working with other actors of the industry, because they see things in our books that we don’t.
That’s a nice reminder as often we may perceive their feedback as threatening or detrimental.
According to the author this book will recalibrate our sense of success, as writers, and feel less alone.
We ought to remind ourselves our why, as publishing isn’t the sole reason for writing. All kinds of writing counts, if it published or not.
All we have to do is start: practice, play, create, erase, not all in that order. Let the process of writing be its own journey.
When it comes to publishing, the author says therefore better way to understand it than by reading.
That will give us a clear perception of the books that get published, which publishers publish them, etc.
After explaining the different kinds of publishing methods, the author emphasized on another essential aspect of the journey which is to self-promote:
“Do what comes naturally. Do what you love.”
And always keep in mind that your book isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay.
You need to grow a thick skin to venture yourself in this world, but reading this book is a good way to prepare yourself both mentally as practically.
Being neurodivergent too, I can only advise to prepare as much as you can. It brings focus, and takes away some of your fears.
Whatever you do, just begin and don’t forget to be you.
She appreciates working with other actors of the industry, because they see things in our books that we don’t.
That’s a nice reminder as often we may perceive their feedback as threatening or detrimental.
According to the author this book will recalibrate our sense of success, as writers, and feel less alone.
We ought to remind ourselves our why, as publishing isn’t the sole reason for writing. All kinds of writing counts, if it published or not.
All we have to do is start: practice, play, create, erase, not all in that order. Let the process of writing be its own journey.
When it comes to publishing, the author says therefore better way to understand it than by reading.
That will give us a clear perception of the books that get published, which publishers publish them, etc.
After explaining the different kinds of publishing methods, the author emphasized on another essential aspect of the journey which is to self-promote:
“Do what comes naturally. Do what you love.”
And always keep in mind that your book isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay.
You need to grow a thick skin to venture yourself in this world, but reading this book is a good way to prepare yourself both mentally as practically.
Being neurodivergent too, I can only advise to prepare as much as you can. It brings focus, and takes away some of your fears.
Whatever you do, just begin and don’t forget to be you.
July 4, 2025
Imagine a Door by Laura Stanfell is the kind of book that quietly transforms you. It’s not just a guide for writers — it’s a companion, a spark, and a gentle push forward when you need it most.
Stanfell’s voice is warm, encouraging, and refreshingly honest. She doesn’t sugarcoat the creative process, but instead embraces its uncertainty and beauty with grace. Her reflections on writing, self-doubt, and the power of imagination feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. Every chapter feels like a door in itself, an invitation to step into your own creativity.
Whether you’re staring down a blank page, stuck in the middle of a manuscript, or simply dreaming of writing one day, this book will speak to you. It reminded me why I started writing in the first place, not for perfection, but for the joy of discovery and expression.
Beautifully written and full of heart, Imagine a Door is an inspirational gem. I closed the final page feeling more capable, more creative, and most of all — more willing to begin.
Highly recommend to any writer or dreamer in need of a little light.
Stanfell’s voice is warm, encouraging, and refreshingly honest. She doesn’t sugarcoat the creative process, but instead embraces its uncertainty and beauty with grace. Her reflections on writing, self-doubt, and the power of imagination feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. Every chapter feels like a door in itself, an invitation to step into your own creativity.
Whether you’re staring down a blank page, stuck in the middle of a manuscript, or simply dreaming of writing one day, this book will speak to you. It reminded me why I started writing in the first place, not for perfection, but for the joy of discovery and expression.
Beautifully written and full of heart, Imagine a Door is an inspirational gem. I closed the final page feeling more capable, more creative, and most of all — more willing to begin.
Highly recommend to any writer or dreamer in need of a little light.
April 20, 2025
Imagine a Door: A Writer’s Guide to Unlocking Your Story, Choosing a Publishing Path, and Honoring the Creative Journey by Laura Stanfill is a compassionate, grounding guide for writers seeking clarity in an often confusing landscape. With gentle authority and genuine care, Stanfill walks alongside writers, helping them reconnect with the heart of their work while offering real-world wisdom about the publishing process. Her voice is reassuring and sincere—less like an instruction manual, more like a thoughtful conversation with someone who’s been through the maze and wants to help others find their own way. Whether you're wrestling with doubt, unsure of your next steps, or just looking for a deeper sense of purpose in your writing, this book reminds you that your journey matters—and that there’s more than one door to walk through.
May 10, 2025
Sometimes, a book falls into your hands that you need to read at just that time. So if you need a cheerleader and a little hand holding before you query, I’d recommend this book.
This book is not for you if you’re looking for how to write - this is for you if you have:
-been living in revision purgatory
-felt like you weren’t really a writer because you (insert societal/self imposed checklist here —- “I’m not a bestseller” “I haven’t had a six figure book deal” “I haven’t gotten any reviews”)
I thought the insight provided here from the publishing angle was so helpful and went beyond “spell check your document” to particularly pet peeves that might keep your manuscript in a “no” pile
If you’re in the early stages of writing or figuring out your story , this might not be your best launchpad, but if you’ve contemplated getting it out there, this is your next step.
This book is not for you if you’re looking for how to write - this is for you if you have:
-been living in revision purgatory
-felt like you weren’t really a writer because you (insert societal/self imposed checklist here —- “I’m not a bestseller” “I haven’t had a six figure book deal” “I haven’t gotten any reviews”)
I thought the insight provided here from the publishing angle was so helpful and went beyond “spell check your document” to particularly pet peeves that might keep your manuscript in a “no” pile
If you’re in the early stages of writing or figuring out your story , this might not be your best launchpad, but if you’ve contemplated getting it out there, this is your next step.
June 12, 2025
This book isn’t a guide on the mechanics of writing—it’s a resource for writers who have already put pen to paper and now find themselves stuck in the trenches of revision or self-doubt. If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t a “real” writer because you haven’t landed a bestseller, secured a six-figure deal, or received critical acclaim, this book speaks directly to you.
While it may not be the ideal starting point for those just beginning to explore their story or voice, it’s a valuable next step for anyone seriously considering publication. If you're ready to move past hesitation and take your manuscript out into the world, this book is a smart and supportive companion.
While it may not be the ideal starting point for those just beginning to explore their story or voice, it’s a valuable next step for anyone seriously considering publication. If you're ready to move past hesitation and take your manuscript out into the world, this book is a smart and supportive companion.
August 17, 2025
Imagine a Door by Laura Stanfill exceeded my expectations. From vocabulary to introspective questions to case studies, Stanfill truly guides the reader (who is a writer) on what to consider when writing and seeking a publisher for their works. Less of a "how to" and more of a "choose your own adventure" the book's prompts allow you to consider what you want, as opposed to telling you how to move through the process with singular options.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forest Avenue Press for the gifted ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forest Avenue Press for the gifted ARC.
June 27, 2025
A no-frills, actionable, balanced guide to the publishing world with a pep in the author's step. Stanfill directly comments on what is controllable and what isn't, and what a burgeoning writer with publishing aspirations should do in the meantime. And most of all, she emphasises the most important thing of all: if you love doing something, do it for yourself.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forest Avenue Press for providing me with the e-ARC/DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forest Avenue Press for providing me with the e-ARC/DRC in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2025
I LOVE Imagine a Door: A Writer's Guide to Unlocking Your Story, Choosing a Publishing Path, and Honoring the Creative Journey. This book is the heartfelt hug every writer needs. It is nurturing, supportive, and extremely informative.
Thank you and bravo, Laura Stanfill!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you and bravo, Laura Stanfill!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 14, 2025
A THOROUGH, HELPFUL, ENCOURAGING RESOURCE FOR ANY WRITER -- WHETHER YOU'RE EARLY IN YOUR CAREER AND NEEDING INSPIRATION AND QUERY LETTER ADVICE, OR FURTHER ALONG AND WANT TO UNDERSTAND HOW TF DISTRIBUTION AND RETURNS WORK
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews