Rooted in story. Made to stay.
Why 12 Willows?
When we moved into our current home in Maine, we discovered a quiet row of willows along the edge of the property. We hadn’t planted them. They were just there—tangled, windblown, doing their own thing.
12 Willows Press was named after those initial willows because they reminded me of the kind of stories I care most about: the ones that grow unexpectedly, take root in unlikely places, and stay with you long after the wind dies down.
(And yes—for the curious—there are more than twelve now. Willows don’t ask permission. They just keep growing.)
At 12 Willows, we publish books that linger. The ones you pass along, keep beside your bed, or pull off the shelf when someone you love needs the right words.
We work with both emerging and experienced authors—those who write with heart, clarity, and depth—and we make sure they earn more per book than they likely would with a traditional publisher. That’s not just business. That’s our belief.
When you buy directly from our site, you’re helping support our writers, sustain ethical publishing, and invest in stories that matter—not just stories that sell.
We’re not trying to change the whole world. Just our little corner of it.
August back-to-school reading sale
Special pricing through August 31
To mark the season of fresh starts, we’re offering every title in our catalog at a special discounted price for the month of August.
From early readers and middle-grade adventures to literary fiction and poetry—these are books that stay with you.
Available on Amazon and right here on our site.
We hope you’ll consider buying direct—your support goes further here.
For the young & wonder-filled
We believe stories are one of the first ways we teach children to love the Earth.
Our environmentally focused titles help readers of all ages slow down, look closer, and connect with the world around them. These books are honest, gentle, and crafted to plant something lasting.
Perfect for classrooms, quiet reading time, or as thoughtful gifts.
From the woods & coast of Maine
Each of our anthologies is a tribute to life in Maine—its woods, its waters, its wide-open quiet. Every volume brings together a thoughtful mix of experienced writers and fresh voices, all united by one thing: the power of story.
To honor their work, we partner with libraries across the state to host live readings—real gatherings in real places, where neighbors come together to listen, reflect, and celebrate the writers who bring these collections to life.
And because we believe books should give back, $1 from every anthology sale supports Maine-based nonprofits working to protect the land and water.
These aren’t just collections. They’re conversations. And we’re honored to share them.
Our partners
