The book publishing industry in Massachusetts is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging companies focusing on innovative literature. Encompassing various genres such as educational resources, commercial fiction, and children's literature, these companies contribute to both print and digital formats. The industry is adapting to changing consumer preferences while embracing technology like e-books and personalized publishing. Notably, Massachusetts hosts a blend of niche and generalist publishers, showing resilience even as self-publishing gains traction. The emphasis on quality content and community engagement continues to shape its trajectory, positioning these firms at the forefront of storytelling.

This list features 24 prominent book publishing companies headquartered in Massachusetts, ranging in size from small startups to established firms. Founded between 1901 and 2023, these businesses specialize in various areas, including educational materials, children's literature, and niche fiction. Most companies maintain a strong local presence while extending their reach into broader markets. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in the types of products they offer and the partnerships they forge, fostering a community around literature.

Read on to discover more about Massachusetts' top book publishing companies.

Top 24 Book Publishing Companies in Massachusetts

1. Adams Media

• Website: simonandschusterpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stoughton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: adams-media-simon-and-schuster

Adams Media, based in Stoughton, Massachusetts, is a private publishing company that specializes in producing books across various genres, including humor, self-help, and lifestyle. Founded in 1980, the company has established a solid reputation for its engaging and accessible titles. As part of Simon & Schuster, Adams Media benefits from the larger company's extensive distribution network and marketing resources, allowing it to reach a wide audience. The company focuses on creating content that entertains and informs, catering to consumers, educators, and booksellers alike. Its portfolio includes several bestselling series and titles that have gained popularity over the years, reflecting its ability to connect with readers and adapt to market trends.

2. Page Street Publishing

• Website: pagestreetpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Essex, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, $445,000, April 2023
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: page-street-publishing

Page Street Publishing Co. is a publishing company based in Essex, Massachusetts, that specializes in high-quality non-fiction, young adult fiction, and picture books. Founded in 2012, the company has carved out a niche by producing literature that resonates with contemporary themes and appeals to a wide audience, including educational institutions. Page Street is committed to sustainability, using environmentally-friendly practices in its operations, such as sourcing sustainable paper and using soy-based inks. The company publishes approximately 150 titles each year, with a strong focus on cooking, crafts, and children's activity books. Their titles have received positive reviews from notable sources, indicating a solid reputation in the market. Recently, Page Street secured $445,000 in seed funding in April 2023, which underscores investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. Their distribution is handled by Macmillan, providing them with access to a broad market and enhancing their visibility in the competitive publishing landscape.

3. Bloodhound Books

• Website: bloodhoundbooks.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2021
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: bloodhound-books

Bloodhound Books, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a publishing house that specializes in commercial fiction. Established in 2014, the company has made significant strides in the industry by publishing a wide array of titles, including eBooks, physical books, and audiobooks. They pride themselves on their collaborative approach, working closely with authors and agents to ensure that each title receives the attention it deserves. With over 700 titles published and more than 10 million copies sold worldwide, Bloodhound Books has built a strong portfolio that includes both debut authors and established names. Their marketing strategies are tailored to each book, utilizing professional design, editorial expertise, and targeted advertising to reach a global audience. Bloodhound Books is also a member of the Independent Publishers Guild and the Crime Writers’ Association, further solidifying their presence in the publishing community.

4. Barefoot Books

• Website: barefootbooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Concord, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Canada 13%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: barefoot-books

Barefoot Books, established in 1992 and based in Concord, Massachusetts, is a private publisher specializing in children's literature. The company offers a wide array of engaging books and educational resources aimed at parents and educators. Their catalog features stories that celebrate cultural richness and promote literacy, making them a valuable resource in the educational landscape. Barefoot Books operates an online store, allowing direct sales to consumers, and actively engages with communities through events and initiatives that support literacy and education. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model. Their focus on storytelling and community involvement positions them as a significant entity in the children's publishing industry.

5. Charlesbridge Publishing

• Website: charlesbridge.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Watertown, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: charlesbridge-publishing

Charlesbridge Publishing, based in Watertown, Massachusetts, is a private book publisher that specializes in literature for children, teens, and adults. Since its inception in 1989, the company has focused on creating engaging and educational content, including a range of children's books, cookbooks, and educational resources. Charlesbridge is dedicated to fostering a love of reading among young audiences and provides materials that support educators and families alike. Their catalog includes award-winning titles and they actively promote their books through online sales, social media, and community engagement initiatives. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a stable operational model that relies on its publishing activities.

6. Godine

• Website: godine.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: david-r.-godine-publisher

Godine is a private book publisher and online bookstore located in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1970, the company has carved out a niche in the publishing industry by focusing on quality literature across multiple genres, including fiction, cooking, and history. Godine operates primarily through its online platform, allowing customers to browse and purchase books directly. The company is dedicated to providing literature that appeals to readers looking for personal enjoyment or thoughtful gifts. In addition to its main catalog, Godine also manages several imprints, such as Black Sparrow Press and Nonpareil Books, which further showcase its commitment to literary excellence. Godine engages with its audience through author events and promotions, reinforcing its presence in the literary community.

7. Red Wheel/Weiser LLC

• Website: redwheelweiser.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: red-wheel-weiser-llc

Red Wheel/Weiser LLC, founded in 2001 and based in Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a private publishing company that specializes in books related to spirituality, personal growth, and esoteric subjects. With a workforce of approximately 26 employees, the company operates primarily as an online bookstore, offering a wide range of titles and card decks that appeal to consumers interested in these themes. Their catalog features various subjects, including astrology, divination, and personal development, indicating a strong commitment to their niche market. Red Wheel/Weiser also collaborates with several imprints, such as Weiser Books and Hampton Roads Publishing, further expanding their reach within the industry. The absence of reported funding suggests a self-sustaining business model, allowing them to focus on their specialized offerings without external financial pressures.

8. Hackett Publishing Company, Inc.

• Website: hackettpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hackett-publishing-co

Hackett Publishing Company, Inc., based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a private publishing firm founded in 1972. The company specializes in academic and educational books, focusing on subjects such as philosophy, history, literature, and language studies. Hackett serves a dedicated audience of students, educators, and academic institutions, providing high-quality resources essential for learning and teaching. They offer a range of formats, including print and eBooks, and provide desk and exam copies for instructors, which enhances their appeal in the educational market. The company has maintained a consistent presence in the academic publishing sector, regularly releasing new titles across various disciplines, thus reinforcing its relevance in the industry.

9. BookBub

• Website: bookbub.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: Series B, $7.0M, May 2015
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bookbub

BookBub, founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, operates as an ebook distribution platform. It specializes in offering readers access to a wide array of ebook deals and free ebooks across multiple genres. The company caters to avid readers seeking budget-friendly reading options while simultaneously promoting books from various publishers and independent authors. BookBub has received $7 million in funding, with its last funding round occurring in May 2015. This financial backing has likely supported its growth and technological advancements, allowing it to enhance its services and reach within the ebook market.

10. Academic Studies Press

• Website: academicstudiespress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Canada 8%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: academic-studies-press

Academic Studies Press, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private academic publisher founded in 2007. The company specializes in scholarly literature, offering a wide array of books and journals that cater to the needs of academic institutions, libraries, and individual scholars. With a focus on high-quality research materials, Academic Studies Press publishes works across various subjects, including literature, history, and cultural studies. They have a notable presence in the fields of Russian and Ukrainian studies, providing resources that are essential for education and research. The company operates without reported funding, indicating a self-sustaining model that relies on its publishing activities. Their catalog includes both English-language titles and works in Russian and Ukrainian, reflecting their commitment to serving a global academic audience.

11. NetGalley

• Website: netgalley.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 55%, United Kingdom (UK) 18%, India 9%, Other 18%
• Latest funding: February 2021
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: netgalley

NetGalley is a digital publishing platform based in Newburyport, Massachusetts, established in 2009. The company connects publishers and authors with a community of book advocates, including booksellers, librarians, educators, and reviewers. Through its platform, NetGalley allows these professionals to access and review digital copies of upcoming titles and audiobooks, facilitating early feedback and promotional efforts. The service is utilized by over 300 publishers across North America, the UK, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan, making it an integral part of the book marketing process. NetGalley operates without charging its member community, while publishers pay a setup fee and a subscription rate based on their active titles. This model enables publishers to build anticipation and gather valuable insights from early readers, enhancing their marketing strategies. NetGalley is part of Firebrand Technologies, which provides additional software and services to support publishers in achieving their goals.

12. The Horn Book, Inc.

• Website: hbook.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2009
• Founded year: 1924
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-horn-book-inc.

The Horn Book, Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a publishing company that specializes in children's literature. Established in 1924, it has built a reputation for providing insightful book reviews, articles, and educational resources tailored for educators, librarians, and parents. The company operates primarily through its website, offering a wealth of information about children's books, including a guide and reviews database. The Horn Book also hosts the Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards, which recognize excellence in children's literature. Its commitment to fostering a love for reading among children and supporting those who guide them in their literary journeys underscores its importance in the publishing industry.

13. Cheng & Tsui

• Website: cheng-tsui.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cheng-%26-tsui-company

Cheng & Tsui is an educational publisher based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializing in materials for Asian language learning. Since its inception in 1979, the company has dedicated itself to providing high-quality textbooks, workbooks, and curricula for languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Arabic. Their primary audience includes educators and students seeking effective resources for language instruction. Cheng & Tsui has developed notable series like 'Integrated Chinese,' which is recognized as one of the most popular Chinese language textbooks in the United States. The company also offers professional development resources for educators, enhancing their engagement with the teaching community. With a workforce of around 49 employees, Cheng & Tsui operates solely within the United States, focusing on the educational sector without reported external funding, which reflects a stable, self-sustaining business model.

14. Bharat Babies

• Website: bharatbabies.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bharat-babies

Bharat Babies, also known as Mango and Marigold Press, is a private publishing house based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2014. The company specializes in children's literature that highlights South Asian culture and experiences. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, Bharat Babies produces a variety of products, including board books, illustrated books, and early readers. Their offerings are designed to meet the needs of parents and educators looking for culturally relevant literature for young readers. The company operates an online store, allowing direct access to their publications. Notably, their books have garnered several awards, showcasing their commitment to quality and cultural representation in children's literature.

15. King Printing Company, Inc.

• Website: kingprinting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lowell, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: king-printing-company-inc-

King Printing Company, Inc., founded in 1977 and based in Lowell, Massachusetts, is a private book printing company that specializes in short-run printing and binding services. With a workforce of approximately 34 employees, the company has built a reputation for catering to self-published authors, individuals, small businesses, and traditional book publishers. Their offerings include digital printing, assembly, and inventory management, all performed under one roof. King Printing emphasizes quality and customer satisfaction, aiming to foster long-term relationships with clients. The company has invested in advanced printing technology over the years, ensuring they remain competitive in the evolving printing landscape. They are also a member of the Printing Industries of New England, which highlights their commitment to industry standards and practices.

16. School Publishing Group

• Website: spgr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hingham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 52%, Argentina 48%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: school-publishing-group

School Publishing Group, founded in 2002 and based in Hingham, Massachusetts, is a private company that specializes in educational publishing and consulting services. With a workforce of around 102 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the K-12 educational sector. They offer a variety of services, including content development, translation, and professional development aimed at enhancing educational materials for multilingual learners. Their clients range from educational publishers to school districts, reflecting their commitment to providing high-quality educational resources. The company prides itself on meeting challenging deadlines and maintaining stringent quality control throughout the project lifecycle. SPG's leadership team, comprised of experienced professionals in various educational disciplines, drives innovation and ensures that their offerings align with both national and state-specific educational standards. They also have a significant presence in digital publishing, adapting their content for both print and online formats, which is increasingly important in today's educational environment.

17. Hooray Studios

• Website: hoorayheroes.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Salem, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Slovenia 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hooray-studios

Hooray Studios, known for its brand Hooray Heroes, is a personalized book publisher based in Salem, Massachusetts. Founded in 2013, the company has carved out a niche in the publishing industry by offering customized books tailored for children, adults, and even pets. Their product range includes unique storytelling options that allow customers to celebrate special occasions and relationships through personalized narratives. Hooray Studios operates primarily through an online store, making it accessible to a broad audience. With over 3 million books sold, the company has demonstrated significant engagement in the market, appealing to individuals seeking heartfelt gifts. Their commitment to quality is evident in the high-end materials and skilled artistry that go into each book, ensuring a memorable experience for both the giver and the recipient.

18. Doubleink

• Website: doubleinkpub.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Poland 11%, Ireland 11%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: doubleink-publishing-services

Doubleink, founded in 1998 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is an educational publishing company that specializes in creating engaging content for K-12 education. With a team of writers, editors, designers, and project managers, Doubleink collaborates with publishers and educational institutions to develop high-quality materials that enhance learning experiences. Their services include content creation, design, and project management, primarily targeting the educational sector. The company has successfully completed over 1,000 projects, showcasing their expertise in various disciplines. They also provide services in both English and Spanish, reflecting their commitment to accessibility in education. Doubleink's focus on innovation and creativity in educational content positions them as a significant contributor to the field of educational publishing.

19. National Geographic Learning ELT

• Website: eltngl.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 33%, Brazil 12%, Mexico 11%, Other 44%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: eltngl

National Geographic Learning ELT, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private educational publisher established in 1999. The company specializes in creating resources for English language teaching, offering a wide array of programs tailored for learners of all ages, including very young learners, teens, and adults. Their materials are designed to improve language skills and assist educators in delivering effective English instruction. National Geographic Learning ELT is known for integrating engaging content that reflects real-world contexts, enhancing the learning experience. The company has a global presence, with employees distributed across several countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and Singapore, indicating its international reach in the educational sector. They have not reported any recent funding, suggesting a stable operational model without external financial backing.

20. FlatWorld

• Website: flatworld.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: flat-world-knowledge-inc-

FlatWorld, founded in 2007 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private textbook publisher dedicated to providing affordable educational resources for both instructors and students. The company offers a range of products, including textbooks available in various formats such as online eReader access and printed versions. Their innovative FlatWorld Homework system is included with every textbook, allowing instructors to assign and autograde homework efficiently. This system has received positive feedback from educators, who report significant time savings in managing coursework. FlatWorld's catalog features over 145 titles across multiple disciplines, and they actively collaborate with authors to ensure high-quality content. Their commitment to accessibility is reflected in their efforts to comply with web content accessibility guidelines, ensuring that all students can benefit from their resources. With a focus on affordability and a strong presence in the academic community, FlatWorld continues to play a significant role in the educational publishing sector.

21. Superior Packaging and Finishing

• Website: superiorpackagingandfinishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Braintree, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, South Africa 4%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: superior-packaging-and-finishing

Superior Packaging and Finishing, based in Braintree, Massachusetts, is a private company founded in 1990. With a workforce of approximately 67 employees, the company specializes in printing and packaging solutions, particularly in the area of book manufacturing. They offer a comprehensive suite of services that includes custom packaging, finishing solutions, and various printing options. Superior Packaging works closely with publishers, providing essential services such as on-demand printing, binding, and fulfillment. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their use of advanced technology to meet the unique needs of their clients. The company has established itself as a reliable partner for publishers, helping them navigate the complexities of book production and distribution. Superior Packaging's expertise in the industry is further highlighted by their ability to assist in creating personalized and high-quality printed materials, making them a significant player in the book manufacturing sector.

22. Pioneer Valley Books

• Website: pioneervalleybooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Northampton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $150,000, May 2015
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pioneer-valley-books

Pioneer Valley Books, founded in 1998 and based in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a private company dedicated to providing educational resources that enhance literacy for students and support educators. With a workforce of approximately 55 employees, the company specializes in a range of products including reading programs, decodable books, and professional development seminars. Their offerings are designed to meet the needs of schools and educators, focusing on effective tools that promote student learning. Pioneer Valley Books has also received funding, including a grant of $150,000 in 2015, which underscores their commitment to developing high-quality literacy resources. Their products, such as the Literacy Footprints Guided Reading system, are tailored to assist teachers in fostering reading skills among students, making them a significant contributor to the educational publishing sector.

23. Davis Publications

• Website: davisart.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Worcester, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%
• Founded year: 1901
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: davis-publications

Davis Publications, based in Worcester, Massachusetts, has been a family-owned educational publisher since its founding in 1901. The company specializes in K-12 art education resources, offering a wide array of curriculum materials, professional development courses, and digital platforms tailored to support art educators. Their products include comprehensive programs for elementary, middle, and high school levels, such as 'Explorations in Art' and 'Experience Art.' In addition to print resources, they provide digital solutions through their Davis Digital platform, which allows for remote and hybrid learning environments. The company also publishes 'SchoolArts,' a magazine dedicated to art educators, fostering a community of practice and sharing innovative teaching strategies. Davis Publications is committed to enhancing art education and student engagement, making it a significant contributor to the educational publishing sector.

24. Carlat Publishing

• Website: thecarlatreport.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: the-carlat-report

Carlat Publishing, founded in 2002 and based in Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a private educational publisher dedicated to psychiatric resources. The company specializes in producing newsletters, books, and continuing medical education (CME) courses aimed at clinicians and healthcare professionals. Their publications are designed to provide practical, unbiased information that enhances psychiatric practice and improves patient care. Carlat Publishing is known for its newsletters, such as The Carlat Psychiatry Report and The Carlat Child Psychiatry Report, which deliver concise, clinically relevant updates. Additionally, they offer a range of books that serve as quick reference guides for medication and treatment methods. The company is also accredited to provide CME, ensuring that their educational offerings meet the professional development needs of healthcare providers. With a small team of dedicated professionals, Carlat Publishing continues to play a significant role in the field of psychiatric education, making valuable contributions to the ongoing education of mental health practitioners.

Book Publishing Insights: Key Companies in Massachusetts

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