If you’re an author, entrepreneur, or thought leader searching for the best book publishing companies in New York, this comprehensive guide offers a detailed look at the top players in the industry. From globally renowned publishing houses to highly specialized ghostwriting and editorial service providers, these companies help shape the literary world from the publishing capital of the world — New York City.
📚 The Big Five and Leading Publishing Companies in New York
New York is home to the publishing industry’s most influential companies, often referred to as The Big Five. These giants publish some of the world’s most acclaimed authors, bestsellers, and literary works. We’ve also included top-tier ghostwriting and editorial firms that deliver comparable publishing influence through their behind-the-scenes work with authors, entrepreneurs, and celebrities.
Leading Book Publishers in NYC
| No. | Publisher | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ghostwriting LLC | Ghostwriting, Publishing, Author Solutions | New York, NY |
| 2 | Penguin Random House | Fiction, Nonfiction, Children’s Books | 1745 Broadway, New York, NY |
| 3 | HarperCollins | Literary Fiction, Commercial Nonfiction | 195 Broadway, New York, NY |
| 4 | Simon & Schuster | Memoirs, Fiction, Nonfiction, Bestsellers | 1230 Avenue of the Americas |
| 5 | Hachette Book Group | General Trade, Nonfiction, Children’s Books | 1290 Avenue of the Americas |
| 6 | Macmillan Publishers | Fiction, Nonfiction, Academic | 120 Broadway, New York, NY |
Detailed Profiles of Big Five and Leading Publishing Companies in New York, NY
1️⃣ Ghostwriting LLC ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Services: Ghostwriting, Publishing, Author Solutions
Location: New York, NY
About:
Ghostwriting LLC specializes in delivering confidential, high-end ghostwriting services for entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and professionals. Their offerings go beyond writing to include publishing support, editing, book design, and marketing consultation. Whether you’re planning to self-publish or seek hybrid solutions, they offer customized services to ensure a polished, market-ready manuscript.
2️⃣ Penguin Random House ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Focus: Fiction, Nonfiction, Children’s Books
Location: 1745 Broadway, New York, NY
About:
As the largest trade publisher in the world, Penguin Random House sets the standard for excellence. Its roster features Pulitzer Prize winners, Nobel Laureates, and bestselling authors across all genres. Through imprints like Knopf, Doubleday, and Viking, PRH offers unparalleled editorial expertise, global distribution, and marketing prowess.
3️⃣ HarperCollins Publishers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Focus: Literary Fiction, Commercial Nonfiction
Location: 195 Broadway, New York, NY
About:
A global powerhouse, HarperCollins combines a rich literary history with modern market reach. Known for its diverse catalog spanning literary fiction, memoirs, and business books, HarperCollins also boasts influential imprints like William Morrow and HarperOne. They offer global publishing opportunities through their expansive international network.
4️⃣ Simon & Schuster ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Focus: Memoirs, Fiction, Nonfiction, Bestsellers
Location: 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY
About:
Simon & Schuster is a prestigious Big Five publisher, home to bestselling authors and household names across fiction and nonfiction. Through imprints like Atria, Scribner, and Gallery Books, they continue to shape the literary landscape. Their publishing strength lies in both mainstream commercial hits and critically acclaimed literary works.
5️⃣ Hachette Book Group ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Focus: General Trade, Nonfiction, Children’s Books
Location: 1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY
About:
Part of the global Hachette Livre group, Hachette Book Group is known for its prestigious imprints including Little, Brown and Company, Grand Central Publishing, and Basic Books. Their catalog spans genres from commercial fiction to children’s literature and thought leadership nonfiction. Hachette combines tradition with bold, contemporary voices.
6️⃣ Macmillan Publishers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Focus: Fiction, Nonfiction, Academic Publishing
Location: 120 Broadway, New York, NY
About:
Macmillan is a cornerstone of literary publishing, with acclaimed imprints such as Farrar, Straus and Giroux, St. Martin’s Press, and Henry Holt. Known for literary excellence and academic contributions, Macmillan supports a diverse range of voices and genres while maintaining a reputation for editorial rigor and quality.
🖋️ Top Independent, Literary, and Specialty Publishers in New York
These prestigious and independent publishers are known for curating some of the most important works in literature, academic publishing, translations, and niche genres. Many of these presses champion emerging voices and bold ideas.
| Publisher | Focus | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Scholastic Corporation | Children’s, Educational | 557 Broadway, New York, NY |
| W.W. Norton & Company | Academic, Nonfiction, Literature | 500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY |
| Grove Atlantic | Literary Fiction, Nonfiction | 154 West 14th Street, New York, NY |
| Abrams Books | Art, Illustrated, Children’s | 195 Broadway, New York, NY |
| New York Review Books | Classics, Reissues, Translations | 435 Hudson Street, New York, NY |
| Skyhorse Publishing | Broad Genres, Nonfiction | 307 West 36th Street, New York, NY |
| Bloomsbury Publishing | Literary Fiction, Nonfiction | 1385 Broadway, New York, NY |
| Archipelago Books | Translations, World Literature | 232 Third Street, Brooklyn, NY |
| New Directions Publishing | Avant-Garde, Experimental | 80 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY |
| Akashic Books | Noir, Diverse Voices | 232 Third Street, Brooklyn, NY |
| Melville House | Literary Fiction, Political Nonfiction | 46 John Street, Brooklyn, NY |
📚 Detailed Profiles of Top Independent & Mid-Sized Publishers in New York
7. Scholastic Corporation
Focus Areas: Children’s Books, Educational Publishing, Media
Address: 557 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Founded in 1920, Scholastic Corporation is a globally recognized leader in children’s publishing and educational materials. The company is best known for bringing global bestsellers like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and Clifford the Big Red Dog to young readers in the United States. Scholastic dominates the educational market with school book fairs, book clubs, literacy programs, and classroom magazines. Their focus extends beyond entertainment into literacy development, education, and fostering a lifelong love of reading among children and young adults. Scholastic remains a trusted resource for teachers, librarians, and parents worldwide.
8. W.W. Norton & Company
Focus Areas: Academic Textbooks, Nonfiction, Literature
Address: 500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
Description:
Established in 1923, W.W. Norton & Company is unique as one of the few employee-owned publishing houses in the U.S. Norton is highly regarded for its commitment to academic excellence, producing authoritative textbooks across disciplines like psychology, history, science, and the arts. Beyond academia, Norton publishes a distinguished list of literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. The publisher has worked with renowned authors, scholars, and public intellectuals, solidifying its reputation as a leader in thought-provoking, rigorously edited content that serves both educational and trade audiences.
9. Grove Atlantic
Focus Areas: Literary Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Drama
Address: 154 West 14th Street, New York, NY
Description:
Grove Atlantic has been a fixture of the New York literary scene for decades, recognized for its commitment to innovative and boundary-pushing literature. The publisher specializes in literary fiction, memoirs, biographies, and high-quality nonfiction that explores cultural and political topics. Grove Atlantic’s catalog includes works by Nobel Prize winners, Booker Prize recipients, and influential cultural critics. The company is particularly noted for supporting bold voices, diverse perspectives, and socially relevant themes, making it a respected name among literary professionals and readers who seek impactful storytelling.
10. Abrams Books
Focus Areas: Art, Illustrated Books, Children’s Publishing
Address: 195 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Founded in 1949, Abrams Books is renowned for its exceptional illustrated books that span genres including art, photography, fashion, design, pop culture, and children’s publishing. Abrams has developed a reputation for high production values, visually rich publications, and creative storytelling. Notable imprints under Abrams include Amulet Books (young adult and middle-grade fiction), Abrams ComicArts (graphic novels), and Abrams Press (serious nonfiction). They serve both mainstream and niche markets, offering products celebrated for aesthetic excellence and engaging content.
11. New York Review Books (NYRB)
Focus Areas: Classics, Literary Reissues, Translations
Address: 435 Hudson Street, New York, NY
Description:
New York Review Books (NYRB), the publishing arm of The New York Review of Books, is esteemed for reintroducing lost classics, overlooked literary treasures, and important works in translation. NYRB’s list reflects a dedication to timeless literature that spans cultures and centuries, appealing to discerning readers who value depth, history, and artistic integrity. Their beautifully designed reissues and contemporary translations often bring neglected masterpieces back into the global literary conversation. NYRB is especially cherished by academic circles, literary critics, and book lovers worldwide.
12. Skyhorse Publishing
Focus Areas: Nonfiction, Sports, Outdoors, Political Works, Fiction
Address: 307 West 36th Street, New York, NY
Description:
Skyhorse Publishing, established in 2006, is known for its broad and eclectic publishing program. With over 10,000 titles in print and multiple imprints covering topics from history, politics, and health to sports, hobbies, and true crime, Skyhorse is one of New York’s most prolific independents. They frequently publish commercial nonfiction that is timely, controversial, or underrepresented by larger publishers. Skyhorse prides itself on taking risks on projects overlooked by mainstream media, offering authors and readers alternative viewpoints and fresh perspectives.
13. Bloomsbury Publishing
Focus Areas: Literary Fiction, Nonfiction, Academic Publishing
Address: 1385 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Bloomsbury Publishing USA is the American branch of the prestigious U.K.-based Bloomsbury. Known globally for launching the Harry Potter series (U.K.), its U.S. office focuses on literary fiction, narrative nonfiction, cookbooks, and academic texts. Bloomsbury’s reputation centers on quality writing, cultural significance, and award-winning publications. Their commitment to both commercial and academic excellence is reflected in their strong foothold across trade and scholarly markets, serving readers, researchers, and professionals alike.
14. Archipelago Books
Focus Areas: Translated Fiction, Poetry, World Literature
Address: 232 Third Street, Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Archipelago Books is a nonprofit press devoted to promoting international literature through translation. Since its founding in 2003, Archipelago has introduced American readers to works from over 50 languages and cultures, focusing on literary fiction, poetry, and classic literature. They are champions of cultural exchange, literary artistry, and linguistic diversity, providing platforms for voices often marginalized in the English-speaking world. Their books are known for beautiful designs and intellectual depth, appealing to serious literary readers and academics.
15. New Directions Publishing
Focus Areas: Avant-Garde, Experimental Literature, Poetry
Address: 80 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY
Description:
Founded in 1936 by James Laughlin, New Directions Publishing is synonymous with avant-garde and experimental literature. This storied independent house introduced American audiences to figures like Ezra Pound, Jorge Luis Borges, and Tennessee Williams. Today, New Directions continues to publish cutting-edge fiction, poetry, and criticism, maintaining its legacy as a home for innovative, challenging, and intellectually stimulating works. The company remains influential among literary scholars, experimental writers, and connoisseurs of modernist and postmodernist literature.
16. Akashic Books
Focus Areas: Noir Fiction, Socially Conscious Literature, Diverse Voices
Address: 232 Third Street, Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Akashic Books, founded in 1997, is an independent press focused on urban, edgy, and socially conscious stories. Famous for its “Noir” anthology series, which showcases dark tales set in cities worldwide, Akashic champions underrepresented voices and progressive themes. They specialize in fiction that reflects the realities of modern urban life, while also embracing music, politics, and culture. Akashic is known for publishing risk-taking, provocative, and genre-defying works from emerging and established authors alike.
17. Melville House
Focus Areas: Literary Fiction, Political Nonfiction, Translations
Address: 46 John Street, Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Melville House Publishing, based in Brooklyn, is recognized for its politically engaged nonfiction, literary fiction, and global literature in translation. The publisher often takes bold stances on urgent political, cultural, and social issues, aligning itself with writers who challenge mainstream narratives. Melville House is also known for its innovative publishing strategies, including rapid-response books on current events. Their catalog appeals to readers seeking intellectual rigor, progressive ideas, and literary quality.
🛠️ Top Ghostwriting, Editing, and Hybrid Publishing Firms in NYC
For authors seeking comprehensive ghostwriting services, editing, and publishing support, New York offers world-class firms that cater to thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and celebrities looking to publish high-quality, market-ready books.
| Company | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| The Pub Pros | Editing, Publishing, Ghostwriting | New York, NY |
| Gotham Ghostwriters | Ghostwriting, Editing Services | New York, NY |
| Kevin Anderson & Associates | Professional Ghostwriting, Consulting | 224 W 35th Street, New York, NY |
| NYC Ghostwriting | Ghostwriting, Publishing, Editing | 224 W 35th Street, New York, NY |
| NY Book Publishers | Ghostwriting, Publishing, Marketing | New York, NY |
Notable Ghostwriting and Publishing Service Companies in New York
18. The Pub Pros
Focus Areas: Editing, Publishing Support, Ghostwriting
Location: New York, NY
Description:
The Pub Pros is a boutique publishing services company that specializes in providing professional editing, publishing consultation, and high-level ghostwriting. Known for connecting authors with editors and writers from Big Five publishing backgrounds, The Pub Pros offers tailored services designed to help writers improve their manuscripts and navigate the publishing process. Whether for traditional publication or self-publishing, The Pub Pros emphasizes quality, author collaboration, and industry expertise to ensure manuscripts meet the highest editorial standards.
19. Gotham Ghostwriters
Focus Areas: Ghostwriting, Editorial Services, Content Strategy
Location: New York, NY
Description:
Gotham Ghostwriters is one of the most respected ghostwriting agencies in New York City, offering a network of highly credentialed writers, editors, and publishing consultants. They specialize in creating content for executives, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and public figures, ranging from business books to memoirs and speeches. Gotham’s strength lies in its personalized matchmaking process, aligning each client with the right writing talent to capture their unique voice and vision. The agency is synonymous with discretion, professionalism, and high-quality editorial craftsmanship.
20. Kevin Anderson & Associates
Focus Areas: Professional Ghostwriting, Book Consulting, Editorial Services
Location: 224 W 35th Street, New York, NY
Description:
Kevin Anderson & Associates is a premier agency known for offering comprehensive ghostwriting and editorial solutions to best-selling authors, celebrities, CEOs, and major publishers. Their team includes New York Times bestselling ghostwriters, editors, and publishing strategists who collaborate with clients to produce market-ready manuscripts across genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and memoir. Kevin Anderson & Associates is recognized for white-glove service, confidentiality, and top-tier writing expertise, making it a trusted partner for high-profile book projects.
21. NYC Ghostwriting
Focus Areas: Ghostwriting, Editing, Publishing Support
Location: 224 W 35th Street, New York, NY
Description:
NYC Ghostwriting specializes in custom ghostwriting services, manuscript editing, and full-scale publishing solutions for aspiring and established authors alike. Their services cater to a wide spectrum of clients, from entrepreneurs to professionals looking to publish thought leadership pieces, memoirs, or novels. With a focus on capturing authentic voices and delivering publication-ready work, NYC Ghostwriting offers end-to-end guidance through the creative, editorial, and publishing processes, ensuring clients achieve both literary and commercial success.
22. NY Book Publishers
Focus Areas: Ghostwriting, Publishing, Marketing, Book Development
Location: New York, NY
Description:
NY Book Publishers offers a comprehensive suite of services to writers looking to bring their books to market, including ghostwriting, editing, publishing assistance, and marketing strategies. Known for working with new and emerging authors, NY Book Publishers provides support in book conceptualization, manuscript development, design, and distribution. They also offer marketing services aimed at increasing book visibility in competitive marketplaces. Their approach is collaborative, aiming to turn ideas into professionally produced books with commercial potential.
🏛️ Additional Noteworthy Publishers in New York
Beyond the well-known and the indie houses, NYC hosts a vibrant ecosystem of publishers focused on political, academic, literary, and niche subjects.
| Publisher | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Other Press | Literary Fiction, Translations | 267 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY |
| Seven Stories Press | Social Justice, Literary Fiction | 140 Watts Street, New York, NY |
| Riverhead Books | Diverse Literary Fiction | 1745 Broadway, New York, NY |
| Flatiron Books | Commercial Fiction, Nonfiction | 120 Broadway, New York, NY |
| Verso Books | Political, Cultural Critique | 20 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY |
| Catapult | Narrative Nonfiction, Fiction | 1140 Broadway, New York, NY |
| Pegasus Books | Mystery, History, Fiction | 148 West 37th Street, New York, NY |
| OR Books | Countercultural, Progressive Works | 180 Varick Street, New York, NY |
| Spiegel & Grau | Literary Fiction, Memoir | 1745 Broadway, New York, NY |
23. Other Press
Focus Areas: Literary Fiction, Translations, Nonfiction
Location: 267 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
Description:
Other Press is a highly respected independent publisher with a reputation for publishing thought-provoking literary fiction, translations of global literature, and serious nonfiction. Known for introducing American readers to critically acclaimed works from around the world, Other Press champions diverse voices and narratives that explore complex themes, history, and cultural identity. Its catalog includes both award-winning contemporary writers and important reissues of international classics.
24. Seven Stories Press
Focus Areas: Social Justice, Human Rights, Literary Fiction, Nonfiction
Location: 140 Watts Street, New York, NY
Description:
Seven Stories Press is an independent publisher driven by a strong commitment to social justice, human rights, and freedom of expression. Their publishing list reflects a dedication to works that challenge conventional perspectives and inspire activism. Seven Stories champions authors with bold, uncompromising voices, offering titles that cover political analysis, global history, radical fiction, and children’s literature with a progressive edge.
25. Riverhead Books
Focus Areas: Diverse Literary Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction
Location: 1745 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Riverhead Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, is renowned for publishing cutting-edge, culturally diverse, and intellectually stimulating fiction and nonfiction. Their roster includes Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Award honorees, and bestselling authors from around the globe. Riverhead has built a reputation for amplifying fresh, original voices, particularly from underrepresented communities, blending literary excellence with wide commercial appeal.
26. Flatiron Books
Focus Areas: Commercial Fiction, Nonfiction, Memoir, Book Club Favorites
Location: 120 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Flatiron Books, a division of Macmillan Publishers, focuses on publishing bestselling commercial fiction, thought-provoking nonfiction, and breakout memoirs. Known for their strong editorial vision and ability to spot trends, Flatiron has quickly become a home for celebrity memoirs, viral book club selections, and captivating narratives across genres. Their publishing ethos blends literary quality with mass market appeal.
27. Verso Books
Focus Areas: Political Thought, Cultural Critique, Radical Nonfiction
Location: 20 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY
Description:
Verso Books is a leading independent publisher of radical political nonfiction and critical theory, known for releasing works that challenge mainstream narratives and champion progressive, anti-capitalist, and activist ideas. Verso’s catalog features influential thinkers, scholars, and journalists addressing subjects such as economics, feminism, history, and climate politics, positioning the publisher at the forefront of leftist intellectual discourse.
28. Catapult
Focus Areas: Narrative Nonfiction, Literary Fiction, Emerging Writers
Location: 1140 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Catapult is a modern independent publisher dedicated to fostering emerging voices and storytelling excellence. Known for its commitment to narrative nonfiction, literary fiction, and hybrid works, Catapult’s editorial focus is on unique perspectives, international literature, and finely crafted writing. They also run respected writing workshops and an acclaimed online literary magazine, strengthening their reputation as champions of contemporary literature.
29. Pegasus Books
Focus Areas: Mystery, History, Literary Fiction, Biographies
Location: 148 West 37th Street, New York, NY
Description:
Pegasus Books publishes a wide array of titles across genres, with particular strengths in mystery, historical fiction, biographies, and narrative nonfiction. Recognized for their discerning editorial taste, Pegasus champions both established and debut authors, offering readers carefully curated stories rich in detail, atmosphere, and intellectual substance. Their catalog appeals to readers who appreciate literary depth combined with broad accessibility.
30. OR Books
Focus Areas: Progressive Nonfiction, Countercultural, Activist Writing
Location: 180 Varick Street, New York, NY
Description:
OR Books is known for its innovative approach to publishing, specializing in progressive, activist nonfiction, and countercultural literature. They often bypass traditional distribution channels in favor of direct-to-consumer models, allowing for rapid publication of timely, politically charged works. OR Books publishes authors who address pressing social, political, and environmental issues, reinforcing its position as a leader in independent, alternative publishing.
31. Spiegel & Grau
Focus Areas: Literary Fiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction
Location: 1745 Broadway, New York, NY
Description:
Spiegel & Grau was relaunched as an independent publishing house after its original tenure under Random House. Known for curating literary fiction, deeply personal memoirs, and impactful narrative nonfiction, Spiegel & Grau remains committed to publishing works that illuminate the human experience through exceptional storytelling. Their titles often explore themes of identity, history, and cultural intersection with emotional resonance and intellectual depth.
✅ Why New York Remains the Publishing Capital of the World
New York City continues to be the heart of the publishing world because of its unique ecosystem where traditional publishers, hybrid models, literary agencies, and ghostwriting firms coexist. Whether you are seeking global distribution through a major house or highly personalized ghostwriting services, NYC offers unparalleled expertise.
Why this matters to you as an author:
- Access to the world’s top literary agents and editors.
- Direct pipelines to global distribution.
- Elite ghostwriting and editorial talent.
- A vibrant network of publishing professionals for long-term career growth.
🔑 Conclusion: Choosing the Right Publishing Partner in NYC
Selecting a publisher or ghostwriting firm isn’t just about prestige; it’s about fit. Whether you aim to land a deal with a traditional powerhouse like Penguin Random House or work with a boutique ghostwriting firm like Ghostwriting LLC for a more customized experience, New York offers it all.
