Hi! I'm Matthew and
I have been independently publishing books since 2009.
I co-founded the independent publishing house, Reflection Press, with my partner Maya Gonzalez and bring the design and management strength to Maya’s award-winning illustration and writing.
Our indie press has been pushing the boundaries of publishing since our inception. Our books challenge the status quo, change and propel the conversation forward and center POC, queer, and trans communities. In fact, our ABC book even made the list for most banned picture books in 2021-22 school year. The only one on the list by a small indie publisher.
Our children’s books are regularly used in schools and libraries across the country and have received starred reviews from School Library Journal, won awards such as International Latino Book Award and Skipping Stones Honor Award, and included on notable lists such as the ALA Rainbow List and Américas Award Commended Titles.
A few of the books we've published...
A large portion of our work is focused on children’s books, however we have also published YA books, curriculum, anthologies, and coloring books.
I enjoy helping folks reach their self-publishing goals.
I’ve learned a lot through the years and share the knowledge any chance I get in the hopes of making other’s self-publishing journeys just a little bit easier! (Take a look at my Docs from the Doc page for some free resources I’ve created.)
I know what it’s like to be just starting out and overwhelmed with where to begin.
With so much self-publishing information out there to drown in, it can be hard to know where to start or even what questions to ask.
Not only can self-publishing feel like such a huge confusing labyrinth of a task….it’s also very personal and vulnerable as you prepare to share your creativity with the world.
The trick is…becoming an indie publisher is actually quite manageable once you filter out all the noise. Being able to clearly weigh the different options available, to fully understand what your book goals are and have the foresight to know how your decisions support those goals makes self-publishing a rewarding and empowering experience. Having an ally supporting you on the journey makes it even more manageable. And that’s where I can help.
I can help you make informed decisions that best support your publishing goals and empower you to tackle the task at hand!
Testimonials
from folks I’ve supported over the years
“…when I have questions, Matthew is more than generous with his time answering my inquiries. Many nights, I’ve said to my family, “Oh my God! I could not have figured this out myself.”
On track to self-publish our book because of the support!
— Sandra Gonzalez, Skillful and Soulful Press
“The proof has just arrived and we’ve opened it. Eeeee! Super exciting….Your help was a total game-changer. Honestly I’m so grateful for your support and encouragement…. It makes it all feel a lot more do-able having someone there I can pose questions to. Love and blessings!”
It makes it all feel a lot more do-able
— C. L., United Kingdom