Introduction
New York has long been the epicenter of book publishing, offering authors both prestige and opportunity. With its mix of global publishing giants and smaller, innovative presses, the state provides countless avenues for writers to showcase their work.
From award-winning literary fiction to groundbreaking nonfiction, children’s literature, and academic publishing, New York continues to lead the way in shaping the literary world. For authors, choosing the right publisher can make the difference between a book that goes unnoticed and one that reaches its full potential.
This list of the top 35 best book publishers in New York for 2025 highlights the most trusted names in the industry.
Top 35 Best Book Publishers in New York
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
Location: New York City
Focus: Professional ghostwriting and publishing services across genres.
Why Authors Choose Them: Emerald Ghostwriting offers authors full-service support, from writing assistance to editing and publishing. With a team of skilled ghostwriters and publishing professionals, they focus on confidentiality, quality, and tailored solutions, ensuring that each client’s vision is carefully crafted and successfully positioned for readers.
2. Penguin Random House
Location: New York City
Focus: One of the world’s largest publishers, covering all genres.
Why Authors Choose Them: With unmatched global reach and brand recognition, Penguin Random House gives authors access to a massive distribution network and professional editorial support. Writers benefit from the prestige of being associated with a publishing leader and enjoy broad readership opportunities across nearly every market and genre.
3. Simon & Schuster
Location: New York City
Focus: Fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature.
Why Authors Choose Them: Simon & Schuster is renowned for its legacy of publishing bestselling authors and shaping literary trends. With strong marketing, international distribution, and a dedication to diverse voices, the company provides writers with an ideal platform to reach both national and global audiences across multiple formats and readerships.
4. HarperCollins Publishers
Location: New York City
Focus: Fiction, nonfiction, and academic titles.
Why Authors Choose Them: HarperCollins combines its historic presence in publishing with a commitment to global innovation. Authors benefit from robust editorial guidance, strong publicity support, and extensive worldwide distribution. The company offers opportunities across genres, helping writers of all backgrounds connect with readers and establish their place in the literary world.
5. Hachette Book Group
Location: New York City
Focus: Bestselling fiction and nonfiction publishing.
Why Authors Choose Them: Known for producing many bestselling titles, Hachette offers authors significant visibility and reach. With excellent editorial direction, broad distribution, and marketing strength, they give writers the tools to succeed in competitive markets while supporting diverse voices and stories that resonate with readers around the world.
6. W. W. Norton & Company
Location: New York City
Focus: Academic and general interest books.
Why Authors Choose Them: W. W. Norton is valued for being employee-owned, which allows it to prioritize quality and integrity. Authors appreciate its strong reputation in both academic and literary publishing, as well as the long-term commitment the company makes to carefully nurturing impactful nonfiction, scholarly works, and literary contributions.
7. Scholastic Inc.
Location: New York City
Focus: Children’s and young adult books, educational resources.
Why Authors Choose Them: Scholastic is a global leader in children’s publishing, known for creating beloved series and educational tools. Authors working with Scholastic benefit from access to schools, libraries, and families worldwide. The publisher’s reputation ensures that children’s authors gain visibility and credibility in an ever-growing youth literature market.
8. Farrar, Straus and Giroux (FSG)
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
Why Authors Choose Them: FSG is celebrated for publishing award-winning authors and maintaining high literary standards. Writers drawn to literary fiction and poetry value FSG’s dedication to craft and creativity. Their focus on excellence and their reputation for producing culturally significant works make them an ideal partner for serious authors.
9. Macmillan Publishers
Location: New York City
Focus: Fiction, nonfiction, academic, and scientific works.
Why Authors Choose Them: Macmillan combines international influence with a commitment to quality publishing across genres. Authors benefit from access to innovative publishing models, diverse imprints, and global reach. Their focus on developing voices across literature, science, and education provides opportunities for both mainstream and specialized writers to thrive.
10. The New Press
Location: New York City
Focus: Progressive nonfiction, social justice, and cultural issues.
Why Authors Choose Them: The New Press is mission-driven, supporting authors who tackle important social and cultural conversations. Writers passionate about advocacy and change find a home here, with the publisher’s dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering works that encourage meaningful dialogue in society.
11. Grove Atlantic
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, drama, and serious nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Grove Atlantic is known for championing bold, innovative voices in literature. Authors choose them for their strong reputation in publishing acclaimed literary works and for their commitment to quality storytelling. The company’s prestige offers writers credibility and access to discerning readers who value thought-provoking narratives.
12. Abrams Books
Location: New York City
Focus: Illustrated books, art, photography, and children’s literature.
Why Authors Choose Them: Abrams is celebrated for producing visually stunning books with exceptional design. Authors drawn to art, design, and illustrated storytelling benefit from Abrams’ unique focus. Their publishing approach combines creative innovation with strong distribution, ensuring that visually rich works reach global audiences and make a lasting impact.
13. Skyhorse Publishing
Location: New York City
Focus: General nonfiction, sports, politics, and memoirs.
Why Authors Choose Them: Skyhorse has built its reputation on publishing diverse and unconventional voices. Authors appreciate its willingness to take risks on unique stories that larger publishers might overlook. With broad distribution and supportive editorial teams, Skyhorse offers writers visibility and credibility in competitive nonfiction and lifestyle markets.
14. Soho Press
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, mystery, and international works.
Why Authors Choose Them: Soho Press stands out for its commitment to high-quality fiction, especially mysteries and international literature. Authors value its editorial dedication and reputation for supporting unique storytelling. The publisher’s focus on diverse voices allows writers to reach readers seeking compelling, culturally rich, and genre-defining works.
15. Melville House Publishing
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Focus: Political nonfiction and literary fiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Melville House is known for its bold, politically engaged books and strong literary catalog. Authors appreciate its dedication to publishing works that spark critical conversations. With a reputation for independence and courage, Melville House offers writers the chance to influence readers and engage with meaningful topics.
16. Seven Stories Press
Location: New York City
Focus: Progressive nonfiction, politics, and socially conscious fiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Seven Stories Press is highly respected for amplifying underrepresented voices and challenging mainstream narratives. Authors value its mission-driven approach and its role in promoting literature that sparks change. The publisher provides a platform for writers who want their words to make both cultural and political impact.
17. New Directions Publishing
Location: New York City
Focus: Experimental fiction, poetry, and translated works.
Why Authors Choose Them: New Directions is celebrated for its avant-garde catalog, often publishing groundbreaking and unconventional literature. Authors who push creative boundaries value their editorial support and reputation for literary excellence. The press provides a platform where innovative works can reach audiences who appreciate unique and daring storytelling.
18. Akashic Books
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Focus: Urban fiction, noir, and progressive nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Akashic Books is known for its “Noir Series” and focus on socially conscious literature. Authors value its dedication to highlighting voices that reflect diverse urban experiences. Its reputation for publishing daring, original stories attracts writers who want to connect with engaged and socially aware readers.
19. Archipelago Books
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Focus: International literature and translated works.
Why Authors Choose Them: Archipelago is committed to publishing global voices, specializing in translation. Authors benefit from its strong focus on cultural exchange and literary excellence. The press provides opportunities for international authors and translators to reach English-speaking readers, helping to bridge cultures and broaden literary appreciation worldwide.
20. Overlook Press
Location: New York City
Focus: Fiction, biography, and history.
Why Authors Choose Them: Overlook Press is recognized for its eclectic catalog that blends literary and commercial appeal. Authors value its strong editorial direction and support in developing impactful narratives. With a commitment to both contemporary and classic voices, Overlook offers writers opportunities to reach wide and diverse audiences.
21. Algonquin Books (NY Office)
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction and narrative nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Algonquin has a strong reputation for discovering emerging voices and nurturing them into literary successes. Authors appreciate its dedication to high-quality storytelling and its editorial team’s attention to detail. The New York office offers writers access to national distribution and valuable promotional opportunities across the U.S.
22. Little, Brown and Company (NY Division)
Location: New York City
Focus: Fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books.
Why Authors Choose Them: Little, Brown is a powerhouse with a legacy of publishing bestselling and award-winning titles. Authors value its industry influence, strong marketing reach, and editorial expertise. Writers benefit from the publisher’s commitment to excellence and ability to bring both debut and established authors to wide readerships worldwide.
23. Tor/Forge Books
Location: New York City
Focus: Science fiction and fantasy.
Why Authors Choose Them: Tor/Forge is a leading name in speculative fiction. Authors in sci-fi and fantasy appreciate its global reputation, dedicated fan base, and strong promotional platforms. Writers benefit from its focus on genre innovation and its ability to bring imaginative stories to passionate readers across international markets.
24. Kensington Publishing
Location: New York City
Focus: Romance, mystery, and commercial fiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Kensington is celebrated as America’s independent mass-market publisher. Authors value its wide reach in popular fiction genres, strong distribution in bookstores and supermarkets, and supportive editorial teams. The publisher’s openness to diverse and fresh voices makes it appealing to writers seeking visibility in mainstream markets.
25. DAW Books
Location: New York City
Focus: Science fiction and fantasy.
Why Authors Choose Them: DAW is a respected publisher with a long tradition in genre fiction. Authors value its dedicated focus on speculative storytelling, editorial expertise, and loyal readership. Writers working with DAW benefit from a publisher deeply rooted in science fiction and fantasy culture, ensuring strong visibility and recognition.
26. Verso Books
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Focus: Radical nonfiction, politics, and history.
Why Authors Choose Them: Verso is a leading publisher of left-leaning thought and critical essays. Authors value its dedication to political discourse and intellectual rigor. For writers passionate about history, activism, and progressive topics, Verso provides a respected platform to reach audiences eager for ideas that challenge conventional narratives.
27. Basic Books
Location: New York City
Focus: Serious nonfiction, history, and current affairs.
Why Authors Choose Them: Basic Books has a reputation for publishing accessible but authoritative nonfiction. Authors value its careful editorial support and strong academic roots. Writers focusing on history, politics, and public policy find Basic Books an ideal platform to bring their work to readers seeking clarity and intellectual engagement.
28. The New Press
Location: New York City
Focus: Social justice and progressive nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: The New Press is mission-driven, prioritizing works that inspire dialogue and reform. Authors value its commitment to social impact and its track record of publishing important cultural conversations. Writers with a passion for advocacy find the publisher a trusted ally in reaching socially conscious audiences.
29. OR Books
Location: New York City
Focus: Nonfiction, activism, and contemporary culture.
Why Authors Choose Them: OR Books is known for its innovative, print-on-demand publishing model and focus on timely works. Authors appreciate its flexibility and quick turnaround times, allowing urgent topics to reach readers fast. Writers committed to fresh, impactful perspectives benefit from OR’s ability to amplify unconventional and daring voices.
30. Bloomsbury USA
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, nonfiction, and academic titles.
Why Authors Choose Them: Bloomsbury combines its international reputation with a vibrant U.S. presence. Authors value its wide-ranging catalog, strong global distribution, and commitment to quality. Writers benefit from its ability to bridge U.S. and international audiences, making it a strong choice for authors seeking recognition in multiple markets.
31. Liveright Publishing
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction and nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: As an imprint of W.W. Norton, Liveright brings historic prestige combined with modern innovation. Authors value its reputation for literary excellence and its role in publishing influential works. Writers working with Liveright enjoy editorial depth and strong marketing support that elevate their work in literary circles.
32. Tin House Books (NY Operations)
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, memoir, and poetry.
Why Authors Choose Them: Tin House is admired for publishing bold, creative voices with a focus on originality. Authors value its dedication to experimental works and its supportive community. Writers in fiction and poetry find Tin House a nurturing publisher that prioritizes craft and unique perspectives in today’s competitive marketplace.
33. Catapult Books
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, memoir, and narrative nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Catapult is respected for fostering intimate, powerful storytelling. Authors value its hands-on editorial style and focus on personal narratives. The publisher’s supportive approach helps debut writers find their voice while giving established authors space to explore new directions, ensuring impactful books that resonate with thoughtful readers.
34. Henry Holt and Company
Location: New York City
Focus: Fiction, nonfiction, and politics.
Why Authors Choose Them: Henry Holt has a long-standing reputation for publishing quality titles across genres. Authors appreciate its combination of tradition and forward-thinking publishing practices. With strong distribution, experienced editorial guidance, and an ability to launch both commercial and literary successes, Holt offers writers a reliable and respected platform.
35. Grove Press
Location: New York City
Focus: Literary fiction, drama, and critical nonfiction.
Why Authors Choose Them: Grove Press is synonymous with boundary-pushing literature and cultural impact. Authors value its reputation for publishing groundbreaking works that challenge norms. With a legacy rooted in bold storytelling, Grove provides writers with the opportunity to join a tradition of authors whose works define entire literary movements.
Navigating Publishing Costs and Competition in New York
Publishing in New York is both a dream and a challenge for authors. As the global center of the publishing industry, opportunities abound, but so does the competition. Writers aiming to break into this market need to be prepared for the realities of costs, timelines, and expectations.
- Editorial and Design Costs: While major publishers cover these expenses, authors working with smaller presses or hybrid models may need to invest in professional editing, cover design, and formatting. These services in New York can range higher than regional markets due to the city’s premium industry standards.
- Marketing and Promotion: Authors often find that even with a traditional deal, self-promotion remains vital. Networking events, book fairs, and literary festivals are abundant in New York, but participating in them requires both time and financial commitment.
- The Role of Agents: Securing a literary agent is often essential for working with larger publishers. Agents negotiate contracts, advocate for better terms, and help authors position their work strategically in the crowded marketplace.
- Standing Out: Given the sheer number of submissions publishers receive, authors must refine their proposals, query letters, and manuscripts to the highest level before submission.
In short, publishing in New York offers unparalleled exposure but demands strategic planning. Authors who invest in their craft and understand the business side of publishing stand the best chance of success.
Conclusion
New York remains the beating heart of the global publishing industry in 2025. From the giants of the Big Five to independent presses committed to championing diverse voices, the city offers authors a spectrum of opportunities that few other places in the world can match.
Choosing the right publisher depends on an author’s goals, whether that means reaching millions with a mainstream bestseller or connecting deeply with a niche audience through a smaller, specialized press.
By aligning with the right publishing partner, authors can turn their creative vision into a book that leaves a lasting mark on readers everywhere. In 2025, New York continues to shape the stories that shape us all.
