Writer's Tips and Guidelines

The P.I.L.L.A.R.S. of the Bible

Our company stands on the PILLARS of the Bible,
and we even evaluate titles on them.

P Plan of salvation (God's way of saving us)
I Incarnation of Jesus (came as a baby and was tempted as we are)
L Law of God (Ten Commandments)
L Lifestyle (temperance)
A Advent (first as a baby, second at His glorious return, third at His recreating this earth)
R Righteous by faith
S State of the dead

Seven Questions to Keep in Mind When Writing Your Book

  1. Can you tell someone in 50 words what your book is about?
  2. Who will be your audience, AND why will they want to read it?
  3. Is your book just another book on this topic, OR will it stand out and shout?
  4. Do you have the right amount of content (story)—too little, too much, or just right?
  5. Have you created plans for promoting your book after it is published?
  6. Will your biography promote confidence that you are an expert on this topic?
  7. Great authors build on their previous titles—what is your next one going to be about?

Book Topics

TEACH Services is interested in a variety of topics for adults and children, such as:

  • • Bible study topics*
  • • Biblical and Christian narratives**
  • • Biographies and Mission stories
  • • Books for sharing and gospel outreach*
  • • Children's stories***
  • • Christian Living topics*
  • • Church History*
  • • Cookbooks
  • • Doctrinal topics and issues*
  • • Ellen White
  • • Health and Nutrition
  • • Marriage and Parenting
  • • Story collections

Our main goal is to help our readers grow personally and spiritually. Through the books we publish, we want to inspire them and help them strengthen their relationship with Christ. We welcome the opportunity to talk to authors and review their manuscripts for free.

* Important: Books that discuss biblical ideas or insights must be reviewed and approved by at least two Adventist ministers, retired or currently serving. Likewise, books that recommend medical treatment, diet, or nutrition must be reviewed and approved by at least two medical doctors or dietitians. The author is responsible for securing such approval before the book goes to press. See imprint information

** Biblical and Christian Narratives Guidelines:

  • Biblical narratives must present accurate facts according to the Bible account and light from the Spirit of Prophecy
  • Characters must reflect Christian values and teachings in their language and actions
  • The story must be historically, geographically, and socially accurate
  • Romantic relationships must portray true love and commitment, not mere emotions or physical attraction
  • We do not accept manuscripts with science fiction, fantasy, graphic violence, sexual scenes, or foul language
  • Content must follow principles outlined in Philippians 4:8
  • Using actual names or photos without consent can lead to legal issues

*** Children’s Book Categories

As you plan your children's book, make sure you are writing for your targeted audience in terms of imagery, length of the book, and subject matter.

Book Styles Age Group Avg Pages Avg Word Count Pictures
Read to Me/Toddler Picture Books 1–3 8–16 Under 500 Every page
Easy Reader/Picture Books 4–6 16–48 500–5,000 Every page or second page
Early Reader/Chapter Books 7–12 48–120 5,000–35,000 Some pictures or drawings
Young Adult Books 13 and up 120 and up Varies by Topic Varies by Topic

Editing Tips

The most common topics for editing your manuscript are in our Style Guidelines (PDF). This includes:

  • • Organization of Front and Back Matter
  • • Capitalization and Spelling
  • • Grammar and Style
  • • Punctuation
  • • References

Manuscript Setup Tips:

  • Use the centering function for all chapter titles. Do not use the space bar or tabs
  • Indent with the tab key. Do not hit the space bar five times
  • Save your manuscript in one computer file with each chapter starting on a new page
  • Use Times New Roman and 12-point font
  • Submit in Microsoft Word “DOCX” or “RTF” format
  • Do not attempt to layout or format the book within Word
  • Please avoid using complex or unusual formatting in your manuscript
  • Only insert a single space at the end of each sentence
  • Do not use a double space between sentences
  • Separate paragraphs with one single hard return

Bible Version Usage Limits

If you are quoting Bible texts in your book, you must clearly indicate which version you are using. You can only use a certain number of Bible texts from versions other than the King James Version without receiving permission.

Versions Requiring Permission:

  • Modern English Version — Up to 500 verses, less than 50% of a Bible book, less than 50% of the total work
  • NIV, TNIV, NIrV — Up to 500 verses, not a complete book, less than 25% of total work
  • New King James Version® — Up to 1,000 verses, less than 50% of a Bible book, less than 50% of total work
  • New Living Translation — Up to 500 verses, not a complete book, less than 25% of total work
  • The Message — Up to 500 verses, not a complete book, less than 25% of total work
  • The Clear Word — Up to 500 verses, less than 25% of work, not a complete book

Public Domain Versions (No Restrictions):

English:

French:

Spanish:

Note: Additional versions exist but may have theological biases. Authors are responsible for conducting due diligence before making a final selection.

Use of Copyrighted Material

Frequently Asked Questions:

Whom do I ask for permission?

Obtain written permission from the copyright holder (usually the publisher) before providing us with the file. For illustrations or photos, you may also need permission from the artist or photographer.

Is it enough to credit the original author and publisher?

No. If you don’t get permission to use their material, you’re violating their copyright.

What about “Fair Use”?

“Fair use” allows limited copying for transformative purposes, but has many grey areas. Copyright owners may disagree with your interpretation of fair use, potentially leading to legal issues.

Do I need permission for web content?

Yes. Consider everything on the Web as copyrighted material.

Do I need permission for photos of people?

If people are recognizable in your photographs, get written permission to use their likeness. Download Model Release Form

Do I need permission from TEACH Services publications?

Yes. We may have permission only for specific use. Submit Rights Request Form

Where do I find more information?

For more information about various aspects of copyright law, see

For more information about various aspects of copyright law, see the U.S. Copyright Office.

Do I need permission from TEACH Services publications?

Yes. We may have permission only for specific use. Submit Rights Request Form

For more information: U.S. Copyright Office | Sample Permission Letter

Special Copyright Considerations

Copyrights for Recipes in Cookbooks

Recipe ingredient lists cannot be copyrighted, but accompanying text, photos, and videos can be. While you can freely reuse ingredients, the creative expression surrounding them may be protected. An entire cookbook compilation is eligible for copyright protection. Learn More

Collective Work Copyrights

A collective work is a compilation of separate works (periodical, anthology, encyclopedia). Copyright covers the arrangement and may cover individual works if owned by the same party, previously unpublished, and not in the public domain. Learn More

Using Song Titles and Lyrics

Song Titles:

  • • Cannot be copyrighted, only trademarked
  • • Can be used in literary works
  • • Avoid using as your own book/song title

Song Lyrics:

  • • Protected by copyright
  • • Require licensing from the rights holder
  • • Only public domain (pre-1925 US) lyrics are free to use

More Information

Web References in Your Book

TEACH Services shortens all web references using our URL shortener service at “1ref.us”. This makes it easier for readers and allows us to update links if they change.

Benefits of 1ref.us:

  • Readers type short addresses instead of long, complex URLs
  • We can update broken links without reprinting your book
  • Your web references stay current and accessible

Note: Personal website addresses or blogs will be included without shortening. We do not list personal contact information in books—please include that on your website instead.