What is Modern Myth Press?

Modern Myth Press, LLC (or MMP) is a comics and graphic novels publisher formed in 2005 by three friends from the tri-state area of Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia.  Since that time, MMP has undergone several shuffles in partnership and format, resulting in the web-based efforts currently offered. 2007 is a time of relaunch for MMP, and by 2008, print copies and convention circuits are on tap as MMP strives to achieve a name in the burgeoning webcomic and small press market.

Who are the MMP founders?

Modern Myth Press was originally founded by Jeff Ratliff, Rob Queen, and Steve Sierer. After a short time, Queen resigned from his position and the LLC was joined by Ron Rader. Due to schedule constraints, Rader also eventually bowed out of the picture. The current ownership of MMP is comprised solely of longtime friends and collaborators Jeff Ratliff and Steve Sierer.

What's a miniseries?

A miniseries, sometimes referred to as a finite or limited series, is essentially a finite comic book series, generally running between two to eight issues.

What's the difference between a comic book and a graphic novel?

Comic books are typically 22 to 32-page periodicals. Graphic novels are published in book form and are generally much longer than a standard comic book. Some graphic novels differ in the form and content, often varying wildly from one project to the next.

What kind of comics and graphic novels does MMP publish?

MMP comics and graphic novels will eventually cover nearly every genre, sub-genre and style imaginable. MMP offers super heroes and mythology, crime fiction and more. You name it; MMP will probably have it.

Where can I buy MMP comics and graphic novels?

MMP comics are primarily sold online in our in-house shop. Plans are to expand to all fine comic book specialty shops. To find a comic book shop near you, we recommend using Diamond Comics Distributors' free Comic Book Locator. MMP graphic novels will also be sold at bookstores and possibly find their way into the library system. Check your local Yellow Pages for a listing of bookstores and libraries near you.

Are MMP comics and graphic novels distributed outside the United States?

Yes. Currently, MMP comics are available and enjoying modest popularity in the Philippines, and we hope to see that number grow much larger in the near future.

How often is the MMP Website updated?

Nearly daily! There's always something new on the site, ranging from the latest news to updates of our previews or additions to our shop. And both Jeff (aka Ffej) and Steve (aka Blacklist) drop in on The Island forum on a daily basis, regularly interacting with friends and fans, chatting them up and answering their questions.

Does MMP hire writers and artists to produce its comics?

Yes. The majority of MMP titles will likely be written by either Jeff or Steve, but there is certainly room for the “right” writer to step on board, flex his or her creative muscle, and get themselves some good, solid exposure. Artists are always welcome, and even if we do not have a title ready to be drawn by you upon hire, we’re always producing pin-ups, “who’s who” pages, and promotional materials that could benefit from your talented hands. If you are interested, please follow our Submission Guidelines listed below.

Does MMP accept proposals for new comics and graphic novels?

Yes. Again, please read our Submission Guidelines for more information.

Okay, what are your Submission Guidelines?

We would like to receive a submission package that includes a little bit about yourself, appropriate samples, and a proposal if you are pitching something original. Here’s what we want in the package, depending on what you are looking to do.

• Pencillers – Submission should be 4-6 pages of sequential artwork only. No pinups! If you have the ability to ink your own work either traditionally or digitally, please exhibit this in your samples.

• Inkers – Both before and after images must be sent for comparison. 4-6 pages of sequential artwork only. No pinups!

• Colorists – Your work should be 4-6 pages done in Adobe Photoshop.

• Letterers/Finishers – Your submission should be 2 or more pages of dialogue created traditionally, or in Adobe Illustrator or a comparable product. Please include examples of sound effects as well as regular dialogue.

• Writers – Your work should be either a complete comic book story/script or at least 2 chapters of novelized prose.

• Original Proposals – All proposals should contain the following:

  • A typewritten cover letter with all contact information (name, e-mail address, address, phone and fax numbers) clearly printed at the TOP of the page. You don't need to ramble on or anything, just introduce yourself and get on with it. If you've had published work you could let us know about it (or even include it) but we don't need your resumé.

  • A typed, ONE PAGE, synopsis of the overall STORY. We DO NOT want a single-issue synopsis, we want a synopsis of the ENTIRE series or story arc. As concisely and as succinctly as you are able, TELL US THE STORY, make us interested. Please avoid hyperbole; avoid questions as plot points ("What will Barney do when confronted with...?"), etc. We are the PUBLISHER, not the audience. TELL US WHAT HAPPENS! Explain why we (or anyone else) would be interested in this series.

  • Send copies of any/all fully INKED and LETTERED pages (any size). DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL ART! Color is OPTIONAL. We'd like to see AT LEAST four pages that are fully inked and lettered.

  • If you prefer, hard copies of all submissions or proposals can be mailed to: Submissions - c/o Modern Myth Press - 204 Depot St. - Coal Grove, OH. – 45638

  • We are not looking for any specific genre or type of style or comic book. We are looking for comics that are well written and well drawn, by people who are dedicated and can meet deadlines. Finally, Modern Myth Press assures you, accepted or not, your proposals will remain your property.

Who decides which submissions get approved?

EiC Steve Sierer and Creative Director Jeff Ratliff personally review every proposal. When they find ones they like, they review it in a weekly meeting and respond to every submission or proposal within 2 weeks time.

Soooo, anything else we should know?

No, that’s about it. We’ll be sure to keep you updated daily on the Home page though. Thanks for reading, and enjoy “the POWER of imagination,” as brought to you by Modern Myth Press!