Scholarly Communication

Back in 2021, John and Elizabeth sat down with Brandeis string theorist Albion Lawrence to discuss cooperation versus solitary study across disciplines. They sink their teeth into the question, “Why do scientists seem to do collaboration and teamwork better than other kinds of scholars and academics?”The conversation ranges from the merits of collective biography to the influence of place and geographic location in scientific collaboration to mountaineering traditions in the sciences. As a Recallable Book, Elizabeth champions The People of Puerto Rico, an experiment in ethnography of a nation (in this case under colonial rule) from 1956, including a chapter by Robert Manners, founding chair of the Brandeis Department of Anthropology. Albion sings the praises of a collective biography of the Art Ensemble of Chicago, A Message to Our Folks. But John stays true to his Victorianist roots by praising the contrasting images of the withered humanist Casaubon and the dashing young scientist Lydgate in George Eliot’s own take on collective biography, Middlemarch.Discussed in this episode: Richard Rhodes Making of the Atomic Bomb Ann Finkbeiner, The Jasons: The Secret History of Science’s Postwar Elite James Gleick, The Information Jon Gertner, The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation Black Hole photographs win giant prize Adam Jaffe, “Geographic Localization of Knowledge Spillovers as Evidenced by Patent Citations“ Jamie Cohen-Cole, The Open Mind Julian Steward et al., The People of Puerto Rico Paul Steinbeck, Message to Our Folks Jenny Uglow, Lunar Men George Eliot, Middlemarch Listen to and Read the episode here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What makes one sentence easy to read and another a slog that demands re-reading? Where do you put information you want readers to recall? Drawing on cognitive neuroscience, psychology and psycholinguistics, Writing for the Reader’s Brain (Cambridge University Press, 2025) provides a practical, how-to guide on how to write for your reader. It introduces the five 'Cs' of writing - clarity, continuity, coherence, concision, and cadence - and demonstrates how to use these to bring your writing to life.Dr. Yellowlees Douglas is the founder of ReadersBrain Academy and has spent over twenty-five years teaching writing to everyone from professors to freshmen.This interview was conducted by Renee Hale, who holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and works in R&D for the food and beverage industry. She is the author of The Nightstorm Files, a voracious reader, and enjoys sharing the joy of new perspectives with listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do academic books get published? How do scholars turn dissertations and articles into the books we love? How does academic publishing compare to the world of trade publishing?This week, we speak with Robert Dreesen, a seasoned publishing professional with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Dreesen has worked in trade publishing at Penguin and Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, and for nearly two decades at Cambridge University Press, where he served as a publisher of economics and political science.In this episode, we explore the world of academic publishing—offering guidance for young scholars looking to transform their ideas, dissertations, and articles into published books. Dreesen shares the biggest pitfalls scholars encounter when approaching this challenge and walks us through the entire process, from formulating a proposal to securing a book deal. We also discuss how external factors can influence publishing decisions.Additionally, Dreesen reflects on the differences between academic and trade publishing, offering unique insights from his long career. As someone who has worked with countless books, he also reveals the written works he returns to time and again for both enjoyment and intellectual stimulation.Madison’s Notes is the podcast of Princeton University’s James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions.Contributions to and/or sponsorship of any speaker does not constitute departmental or institutional endorsement of the specific program, speakers or views presented. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Shiri Noy, an Associate Professor of Sociology at Denison University, shares insights from her upcoming book on project management for researchers. She discusses the significance of tailored strategies to enhance productivity and organization in academic research. The conversation explores combating anxiety and burnout through structured workflows and practical worksheets. Noy emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, selecting the right tools, like Trello and Asana, and connecting personal goals with research commitments for a successful academic experience.

In this episode of Publish My Book, we break down the key components of a strong book proposal. We discuss essential elements like a well-structured table of contents, a compelling cover letter, a carefully chosen sample chapter, and a narrative author bio that connects emotionally with acquisitions editors. We also explore the importance of a persuasive prospectus that highlights your book's novelty, market relevance, and target audience. Whether you're approaching an editor at a conference or via email, being prepared with these components will boost your chances of success.Relevant linksWatch the recording: Interview with Laura Portwood Stacer, “Crafting a Winning Book Proposal” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Publish My Book, we explore the peer review process for book manuscripts. We discuss how securing an acquisitions editor’s support is the first critical step before entering peer review, where feedback can vary in depth and rigor. We share tips on suggesting reviewers, managing the often lengthy review timeline, and effectively addressing critiques—whether agreeing, disagreeing, or clarifying misunderstandings. While revisions may feel daunting, they’re essential for refining your manuscript.Relevant LinksWatch the interview recording: “Conquering the Peer Review Process” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Publish My Book, we dive into how to approach acquisitions editors with confidence and clarity. We discuss their role in the publishing process, what they're looking for in a manuscript, and how to make a strong first impression—whether at conferences or via email. We share practical tips on tailoring your pitch, respecting their time, and navigating feedback. Acquisitions editors are key partners in your publishing journey, and understanding their perspective can make all the difference.Relevant linksHear personal insights and recommendations from acquisitions editors and publishing leaders on navigating the publishing journey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transforming a dissertation into a book is a unique journey. Discover the differences between academic and trade writing as you adapt dense research into engaging prose. Learn strategies for refining arguments and simplifying language to captivate a broader audience. The podcast also dives into essential audience awareness and ethical considerations, like permissions for borrowed materials. Gain valuable tips on seeking feedback and enhancing your manuscript for publication. It's an essential guide for aspiring authors looking to share their work!

In this episode of Publish My Book, we explore the essential role of a well-crafted book index in academic publishing. A good index helps readers easily locate specific topics, names, or places, making your book more accessible and impactful. Avi discusses different types of indexes—such as subject, author, and sources indexes—and provides guidance on creating one. We emphasize starting the process early, choosing relevant terms, and ensuring accuracy. While some authors prefer to create their own index, outsourcing to experts is also an option.Relevant linksTo learn more about ALE’s indexing services: Indexing Process Indexing Services Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Publish My Book, we explore open-access publishing, a model designed to make publicly funded research freely available to everyone. Unlike traditional publishing, where readers or libraries pay for access, open access requires authors or their institutions to cover upfront fees—often $4,000 to $6,000—to make their books freely accessible.We discuss the benefits of open access, such as broader readership, higher citation rates, and increased impact. We also brought up the challenges, particularly the financial burden, and offer practical tips for authors, including applying for grants, adding open-access fees to funding proposals, and exploring models like Subscribe to Open, where libraries pool resources to support open-access titles.Relevant linksResources for securing OA funding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices