12 Willows Press
An indie publisher of books highlighting the importance of ecological balance, sustainability, and the natural world.
Steven Long (publisher) responded to the following questions:
What stories are you most interested in telling and representing?
At 12 Willows Press, I'm drawn to stories that connect us to the natural world, particularly those set in the outdoors or featuring animals. I also love narratives that explore personal growth and resilience, especially when characters overcome challenges or discover their inner strength. My goal is to publish works that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, leaving readers with a sense of wonder and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
On your website under your staff, there are four adorable cats! Could you tell us the story behind these wonderful additions to the team?
Our four feline “staff” members are not just mascots—they each hold a unique position at 12 Willows. Kohl and Kora, our eldest, were adopted from a local shelter. Kohl, calm and observant, is a natural fit for production management. Kora, ever judgy and meticulous, keeps a tight grip on contracts and marketing. Jaxx came to us through a friend and is very vocal about his needs—perfect for handling communications and social media. Odin, the youngest, was found with his siblings in a pile of old tires behind a garage. He's incredibly energetic and curious—qualities that make him an excellent assistant editor. However, his curiosity, combined with his "brown paw," has led to a few casualties among our indoor plants, so he's also our dedicated staff gardener.
With over 30 years of experience, what is the most valuable thing you have learned about the publishing business?
Publishing is deeply rewarding, constantly evolving, and not for the faint of heart. The competition is fierce—not just among publishers, but for readers’ limited attention in a world overflowing with digital distractions. Still, one truth has held steady: well-written books matter. They endure. The key is persistence—staying nimble, listening closely, and always finding new ways to connect readers with the stories that speak to them.
How does your location in Maine inform your goals and missions at 12 Willows Press?
Maine’s landscape is central to who we are. As the most forested state in the U.S., it’s a daily reminder of why environmental stories matter. My first love was books; my second, trees—so it’s fitting that 12 Willows took root here. This state’s rugged coastlines, deep woods, and strong sense of place inspire many of the books we publish. From promoting local authors to publishing books that reflect our ecological values, Maine isn’t just our home—it’s our compass.
Is there an event, publication, or any kind of change happening in the next year that you are particularly excited about and would like to share?
There's always something new brewing at 12 Willows! I'm especially thrilled to be forging partnerships with outdoor and forest programs across the country—initiatives that get kids outside to connect with nature and learn about themselves. These collaborations align beautifully with our mission and values. I'm also incredibly excited about my next charity anthology, Echoes in the Fog: Literary Reflections on the Liminal Spaces of Maine's Coast. Unlike my previous anthologies, this one will feature black and white illustrations, adding another layer to the reflections on Maine's mysterious coastline.
12 Willows Press
Steven Long
33 Blueberry Hill Road
Winterport, ME 04496
207-505-1569