Who We Are

Big Bear Press was founded on the combined strengths of Sandy’s love of writing and her deep history in the publishing industry and Jimmy’s passion for business. Together, they are building a press that supports writers who create meaningful, well-crafted work. The focus is on good writing first: well-developed characters, strong prose, and fantastic storytelling.

The mission is simple: to publish stories that reflect truth, integrity, and purpose, and to champion writers who approach their craft with both excellence and humility.

Sandy Smith - Editor
With over thirty years of experience as an editor and author, Sandy has shaped stories for some of the world’s most respected publishers, including Bloomsbury USA; Little, Brown; Random House BFYR; Macmillan; and Chicago Review Press along with a host of independent authors. She brings a lifelong love of literature, a deep understanding of story, and a teacher’s heart to every project. In addition to her editorial work, she teaches creative writing, English, and editing at the university level, mentoring the next generation of writers.

At Big Bear Press, Sandy leads the editorial process from acquisition through publication, working alongside Jimmy to identify the right voices for the press and bringing the same care and rigor to every manuscript that has defined her career.

Jimmy Gabany - Publisher
Jimmy has spent more than two decades building and leading operations across industries, including managing global portfolios, founding ventures, and turning strategy into execution. He knows how to build things that last.

He also grew up reading science fiction and fantasy and never stopped. The sense of wonder, the world-building, the characters who face impossible odds and find a way through. These shaped how he thinks about leadership, resilience, and what it means to do hard things well.

At Big Bear Press, Jimmy leads acquisitions, operations, and the business foundation that gives great authors a real home. His job is to ensure the press runs well enough for Sandy to focus on the work that matters most: helping exceptional writers tell their best stories.